2008 Hawaii – Cruise – Kona – Glass-bottom Boat

Cruise Ship Tender Boat

Kona was a tender port, where the cruise ship did not dock on shore but anchored off shore and you where transported to and from shore by smaller boats.

Mobility devices could be brought with you provided it was foldable or it came apart easily, no one section of the mobility device could exceed 100 pounds. A few steps on the ship to get to the tender platform. Assistance is available but if you have no walking ability at all, you may have to remain on the ship at this port

No roll on capabilities, but if you manage to go on the tender boat then you can likely leave your mobility device on shore and step into the glass bottom boat with some assistance. Great views of coral reef.

Here is the description from the cruise line listing…

“Enjoy Kona’s underwater paradise without getting wet! Cruise aboard Marian, a 36-foot glass-bottom boat specially designed to cruise within inches of the reef. Have your camera ready to capture the colorful fish, corals and other sea creatures. Marian is designed with shaded comfort and clear viewing, and as you cruise along, you’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas of the island’s rugged shoreline. Step forward to the bow and you might see frolicking dolphins, or humpback whales (December-April). Throughout your adventure, the onboard naturalist will share tales and legends that evoke the magic of the sea and Hawaii. This is a perfect compliment to your day in Kona! Marian departs from your launch site at Kailua Pier, allowing you time to enjoy other excursions or a stroll through Kailua Village. Note: All efforts will be made to view the dolphins and whales, but sightings cannot be guaranteed.”

We did not see any whales or dolphins when we where there.