Beaked Whales
Cuvier’s Beaked Whales
Cuvier’s beaked whales have the widest distribution of any beaked whale species in the world, with evidence of multiple populations in Hawaiian waters. Despite this, very little is known about their life history and habits. Although they prefer continental and island slopes, their pelagic tendencies and propensity for extended, deep dives makes study difficult. This species holds the world record for deepest diving cetaceans, and even in Hawaii, dives over 1000 meters and 60 minutes in duration are not uncommon. This species often travels in small groups, and is physically identified by its spotting coloration and pattern, and frequent scarring from cookie cutter shark bites.
Whale Stats
Scientific Name: Ziphius cavirostris
Length: 15-23 feet
Weight: 4,000-6,800 lbs
Diet: squid, octopus, fish, crustaceans
Lifespan: 40 years
Season: Year-round
Blainville’s Beaked Whales
Typically found in pelagic waters, the steep slope of Hawaii’s south-western coastline provides a unique opportunity to view this elusive species. Photo identification work has documented at least 350 unique individuals within Hawaiian waters, and resighting suggests a resident population off the Big Island. Blainville’s beaked whales are deep divers and odds are, if you see them for a prolonged period at the surface, the next dive will be a long one. Blainville’s feed at depth, foraging during the day and night. They are nearly silent when at the surface, vocalizing almost exclusively at depths greater than 550 ft. When spotted, they are seen in groups averaging 3-7 individuals.
Whale Stats
Scientific Name: Mesoplodon densirostris
Length: 15-20 feet
Weight: 1,800-2,300lbs
Diet: Squid, fish
Lifespan: Unknown
Season: Year-round
More Whales, Dolphins, and Wildlife of the Kona Coast
The Kona coast boasts an incredibly diverse array of marine life. Venture with us out into the blue in search of graceful mantas, massive mola mola, schooling sharks, or one of more than a dozen species of toothed whales that traverse these island waters.
At Hawaiian Adventures Kona, our expert guides offer the Big Island’s ultimate small-group wildlife experience. Our year-round whale watching, night manta snorkels, and private charters are the best opportunity for a true Hawaiian Adventure.
Whale watching in Kona is year-round! Hawaiian Adventures Kona has access to both near-shore and pelagic zones, which gives you the opportunity to see humpback whales during the winter months, spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, flying fish, surface-feeding mantas, pilot whales, beaked whales, sperm whales, spotted dolphins, whale sharks, and more!
Experience the real Kona nightlife and meet the mantas! Our Kona Night Manta tours depart strategically out of Honokohau Harbor, giving us the ability to head where there’s better conditions, fewer people, and more manta rays. This small-group tour is the best way to experience the #1 activity on the Big Island.
Explore the Kona Coast at your own speed. Private tours are the best choice for small or large groups that value exclusivity and a personalized experience. Whether you’re looking for a family adventure, school trip, memorial service, or something entirely different, our team will work with you to create your custom adventure.