Kona’s Newest Whale Watch Vessel

Meet Artemis

Artemis

Introducing Artemis, a 46 foot aluminum catamaran custom built for mission focused wildlife adventures on the breathtaking Kona Coast of Hawaii.  Boasting two shaded viewing decks, easily accessible swim platform with dual swim ladders, forward facing bucket seating, spacious onboard restroom, hydraulic powered bow ramp, boat-wide sound system, and scientific quality hydrophones, Artemis is the only vessel of its kind in Hawaii. Equipped with two powerful Volvo D6-IPS650 engines, explore the dramatic coastline and unique offshore environment in style and comfort. Named after the formidable Pacific Northwest Killer Whale T65A ‘Artemis’ and the Greek goddess of the hunt, our state-of-the-art vessel certainly lives up to its namesake.

Custom Built For Kona

The long 46-foot waterline and dual catamaran hulls make for a smooth and stable ride whether exploring Kona’s dramatic coastlines and shallow reefs or venturing far offshore into Kona’s deep pelagic zone in search of Hawaii’s rare and elusive wildlife species. Equipped with twin Volvo D6-IPS650 engines enable a fast but quiet cruising speed of over 20 knots while maintaining the Environmental Protection Agencies’ Tier 3 compliance for emission standards. With this state-of-the-art, fast, and fuel-efficient propulsion system, Artemis explores the Kona Coast in style without any irritating engine fumes.

The most comfortable tour boat on the Big Island

The full walk-around main deck level, easily accessible elevated flybridge, and oversized water level swim platform give three unique vantage points for dedicated photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Across both decks comfortable and padded forward facing bucket seats ensure everyone is oriented in the right direction for the best wildlife viewing. Our water-level swim platform with custom rail enclosure allows you to get as close as physically possible to the ocean without actually going swimming. Our shaded and elevated flybridge with room for 15 people provides an excellent vantage point for spotting wildlife and getting that coveted birds eye perspective on the water. Our spacious main deck area provides a comfortable open-air ride, padded forward facing seats positioned at the optimal viewing angle for all passengers, ample shaded and full-sun seating options. Just astern of the main seating area you’ll find a spacious and clean marine head (private restroom), complimentary cold drinks, sunscreen application mirrors, and integrated trash receptacles. Across both decks and aft swim platform you’ll enjoy the soft SeaDek (EVA foam decking material) providing that luxurious barefoot feel to your adventure— shoes are optional! 

Main Deck

Second Deck

State-of-the-Art Controls

At the Helm our captains utilize the best Garmin electronics and navigation technologies on the market to better position our vessel along the dynamic Kona Coastline. Responsive electronic controls as well as advanced joystick control allow Artemis to be expertly maneuvered in the most technical water conditions. Boat-wide audio allows for clear public address announcements and a full surround sound hydrophone experience will keep you updated and informed at all points along our tour.

It’s time you experience the Hawaiian Adventures difference. 

Artemis holds a United States Coast Guard certification for 49 passengers with an extended range offshore route allowing us to access Kona’s deep waters up to 20 miles offshore. Highly experienced crew, modern life saving equipment, and brand new vessel construction standards make Artemis not only the best vessel to experience Kona’s expansive range of wildlife and rugged coastline—  but also the safest. When it comes to safety on the water Artemis just raised the bar. 

Whether you are exploring Kona’s historical coastline, deep offshore waters, snorkeling with mantas at night, or watching Humpback whales on their winter migration, Artemis is the only vessel intelligently designed and purposefully created for awe-inspiring wildlife adventures in comfort.

Book Now

Season: April - November
Duration: 3-4 Hours
Departure Time: 8:30 AM
Possible Whale Types: Beaked whales, false killer whales, melon-headed whales, pilot whales, sperm whales, and more. Humpbacks commonly seen in April and November.

Season: December - March
Duration: 2.5-3 Hours
Departure Time: 7 AM, 11 AM, 3 PM
Possible Whale Types: Humpback whales are the main focus, but we also can see beaked whales, false killer whales, melon-headed whales, pilot whales, sperm whales, and more.

Book Direct and Save

At Hawaiian Adventures Kona, we offer the best available rates to our guests who book direct. Take the hassle out of making reservations through third-party booking agents and you’ll receive the lowest discounted rate. You’ll also receive direct communication with our team of year-round, full-time crew with confirmation emails/text messages, tour reminder emails, and special promotions after your tour. Should your travel plans change, it’s much easier to modify a direct booking as opposed to a third-party booking. Book direct with Hawaiian Adventures Kona to get the best service and lowest prices!

Rates and Schedule