Seaquest Rafting Hawaii

They're Here

2012-01-03T22:53:00.001-08:00

Humpbacks have arrived with more on the way!

1960

2011-12-25T22:21:00.000-08:00

Capt'n Tony took this picture in early 60's when he first got to Kona. Not much has changed in the bay except the cameras.

Ka'awaloa

2011-11-04T16:13:00.000-07:00

Kealakekua Bay and the Village Kowroaa, 1779 ink wash and watercolor by John Webber

Big in Japan

2011-11-04T14:26:00.001-07:00

Pelagic Jellyfish

2011-09-28T22:27:00.000-07:00

Found this awesome Jellyfish just outside Keauhou Bay. Once again great photos by Susan Knight!

1st whale of season spotted off Big Island

2011-09-28T22:25:00.000-07:00

Way to go Capt'n Tony!!!!!!!

HONOLULU (AP) — A tour boat captain has spotted the first humpback whale in Hawaii of the winter season — several weeks earlier than expected.

Tony Roensch, a Sea Quest tour captain, saw two tail-slaps from a humpback whale yearling in Honaunau Bay on the Big Island's Kona Coast on Monday, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said.

Last year's first sighting was on Oct. 20 off Maui's west coast. Such sightings typically come on the first or second week of October, said Edward Lyman, marine mammal response manager for the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.

"It's a couple of weeks before we expected," he said of this week's sighting about 14 nautical miles south of Kailua-Kona. "It tends to be the younger animals will be our first sighting."

Roensch said he was taking six people on a sightseeing tour about 50 yards from shore when a woman in the group exclaimed she saw a whale. Roensch thought she had to be mistaken: "I said, 'No ma'am, we don't have whales this early.'"

But when he turned around, he realized it was indeed a whale.

"We stopped. I turned the motor off, hoping he would do something or show himself more," said Roensch, who has been a Hawaii boater since 1969. "That's the earliest I've seen it my whole life."

He radioed the sighting to his office and then alerted officials that night.

Humpback whale season in Hawaii generally runs from November through May. As many as 12,000 of the whales winter each year in the waters off Hawaii, where endangered humpback whales are protected.

Federal regulations prohibit approaching within 100 yards of whales when on the water; 1,000 feet when operating an aircraft.

"It's important for everyone to be extra vigilant during whale season, for their own safety and the protection of these magnificent animals, said Paul Wong, the sanctuary's operations coordinator. Collisions between vessels and the 45-ton whales can cause death or injury to boaters and whales.

Boaters like Roensch help officials monitor the whales in the sanctuary by reporting sightings or locating distressed animals.

"There are many more tour boats than our research vessels out there on the waters," Lyman said.

Capt'n Steve

2011-09-22T16:34:00.001-07:00

Capt'n Steve with the cliffs of Kealakekua Bay in the background. Yet another fine picture from
www.SUSANKNIGHTSTUDIOS.com

Monk Seal in the Bay!

2011-09-22T16:30:00.001-07:00

This Hawaiian Monk Seal did a fly by in the bay a few days ago. Some of us saw it but Kathy was the only one to get the picture! Great shot Kathy, Mahalo.

You'll never find it...

2011-07-19T19:22:00.000-07:00

Only the best beach in Hawaii and you'll never find it unless you come on the boat and we'll tell you.

SUSAN KNIGHT STUDIOS!

2011-07-08T14:18:00.000-07:00

Another plug for Susan's thriving photography business.

www.SUSANKNIGHTSTUDIOS.com
groovy portrait art. images of earthly beauty.

Chaetodon lunula

2011-07-08T14:15:00.001-07:00

The raccoon butterflyfish,also known as the crescent-masked butterflyfish or lunule butterflyfish, is a species of butterflyfish (family Chaetodontidae). It is found in the Indo-Pacific region and in the southeast Atlantic.

How do I get back on the boat?

2011-07-08T14:12:00.000-07:00

The ladder.

Drew

2011-07-08T14:09:00.001-07:00

Crew Drew, Drew Crew

S Word

2011-07-08T14:05:00.001-07:00

We try not to say the S word but every once in a while we get lucky and find someone sleeping in a cave.

Someone got a new camera...

2011-07-08T14:02:00.000-07:00

Capt'n T

Stay off the reef!

2011-07-08T13:53:00.001-07:00

As long as no one stands in the shallow water, the algae should grow on rocks and schools of Yellow Tang will eat.

Buy an underwater camera!

2011-07-08T13:49:00.001-07:00

We sell underwater cameras at check in. If a creature swims under the boat then you take a picture, simple.

Stack

2011-07-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

A stack is a geological landform consisting of a steep and often vertical column or columns of rock in the sea near a coast, isolated by erosion.[1] Stacks are formed through processes of coastal geomorphology, which are entirely natural. Time, wind and water are the only factors involved in the formation of a stack.[2] They are formed when part of a headland is eroded by hydraulic action, which is the force of the sea or water crashing against the rock. The force of the water weakens cracks in the headland, causing them to later collapse, forming free-standing stacks and even a small island. Without the constant presence of water, stacks also form when a natural arch collapses under gravity, due to sub-aerial processes like wind erosion.

Capt'n Jack

2011-06-20T20:11:00.000-07:00

Capt'n Jack (Russell) get it...

Shaka's

2011-06-20T20:09:00.001-07:00

Shaka's all around from Kahea and Capt'n Bill!

Globicephala macrorhynchus

2011-06-20T19:49:00.000-07:00

Summertime the big waves go away and the water smoothes out which makes it easier to spot Pilot Whales.

Tubez

2011-06-20T19:45:00.000-07:00

These tubes (actually they're the same tube) can be seen in the grotto. There is a ton of iron mineral in the basalt here.

Kona Sunset

2011-05-03T16:08:00.001-07:00

Sunset from the slopes of Hualalai. nice

Sperm Whale

2011-05-01T19:40:00.000-07:00

Capt'n Bill's first day!

2011-05-01T18:36:00.000-07:00

Candid video of Capt'n Bill finally running the boat for the first time.

Saw it on the X

2011-05-01T18:26:00.000-07:00

Sweet day on the five hour Expedition trip. Plenty of sun, clear water and lot's o turtles.

Squid Scars?

2011-05-01T18:16:00.001-07:00

Once again Susan has taken an awesome photo of a Pilot Whale. This guy swam right under the boat. Check the circle scars just behind the dorsal fin. Squid scars or Cookie cutters?

SEAQUEST IS BACK!

2011-03-20T16:46:00.000-07:00

The recent tsunami that we experienced on 11 March did damage our office but not our boats or our spirits. We were up and running two days later. Once again the sun is shining and Lake Kona has returned to her beautiful, calm, clear self. Luckily, there was no damage to the Keauhou pier or any of our snorkel sites. So please come join us as we explore the beautiful and rugged Kona Coast!

Not a whale...

2011-03-14T01:48:00.000-07:00

Apparently the patch on the water line didn't hold when the water was turned back on after the tsunami.

More Tail

2011-03-10T14:49:00.000-08:00

Still a few whales hanging in there but most are on their way back to Alaska. This mom doesn't feel her calf can make the trip yet. Eric sent these shots in from his whale watch with Capt'n Steve and Susan (her narration gets pretty intense sometimes). Mahalo Eric!

Blow

2011-03-05T13:54:00.001-08:00

With Keauhou in the background one lone Humpback takes a breath before disappearing into the big blue. Thanks to Renee for this shot!

Captain James Cook

2011-02-14T12:33:00.000-08:00

232 years ago today Captain James Cook was struck down on the shores of Ka'awaloa in Kealakekua Bay. If you want to hear the whole story sign up for a trip with us.

I think there is something else going on today too...

Hey Man, Nice Shot

2011-02-01T20:52:00.000-08:00

First thing this morning we came across a pod of Humpbacks, good way to start the day! Thanks to Brenda and Ken for sending in this tail shot. The barnacles from Alaska won't last long in the warm Hawaiian waters.

Girls with knives...

2011-01-31T12:55:00.000-08:00

Susan and Capt'n Mar are waiting for their guests to return from the morning snorkel at Honaunau.

Whalewatch 1/28/11

2011-01-29T23:57:00.000-08:00

Lost count after 25 breaches! Just learning to party humpback style.

Whales in Kealakekua Bay

2011-01-29T20:14:00.001-08:00

Check out the tail on that one! Probably a victim of an Orca attack or sharks? Two tails and a blow! Thanks to Debra and Rick for sending in these awesome shots.

Sunrise

2011-01-24T21:53:00.001-08:00

The morning sun is just starting to hit the top of Hualalai while two locals get in some early fishing on Keauhou Pier.

Whalewatch 1/21/11

2011-01-23T18:25:00.000-08:00

It's on, they are here!

A Belated Happy New Year!

2011-01-11T16:00:00.001-08:00

Aloha and Happy New Year from Susan, Capt'n Tony and Capt'n Steve.

Another Whale Shark Day

2011-01-07T22:34:00.001-08:00

Whale Shark showed up the next day too! Susan took his shot.

Camera Phone

2010-12-23T21:52:00.001-08:00

Believe it or not Captain Deron took this shot with his waterproof cellphone! nice.

Whale Shark!

2010-12-23T21:23:00.001-08:00

Captain Deron saw a pod of Humpbacks about three miles offshore, after that encounter this guy showed up. We're gonna estimate about a 30ft Whaleshark! It hung out with the boats over an hour and wasn't shy, bumping the boats around with it's nose! Not a common site, some divers can go their whole life and not see one. This was a special day for all of us.

Mahalo to Francine for sending in these great pictures.

Another Kayak Issue!

2010-12-14T15:05:00.001-08:00

So another kayaker was hurt down at the bay. She slipped on the rocks, hurt her wrist and apparently the couple couldn't paddle back? HFD sent the helicopter$$$$$$ down for the rescue. Seaquest ended up transporting her across the bay to the ambulance. DO NOT DRAG YOUR KAYAK OVER THE REEF. STAY OFF THE CORAL AND ROCKS!

Chanting

2010-12-14T15:03:00.000-08:00

If you are lucky enough to have Sunny as your crew, you may get to hear him chant. This is a traditional Hawaiian chant asking permission for us to enjoy the water and have a safe day on the ocean.

A Whale Story

2010-11-23T20:49:00.001-08:00

...The Whale... If you read a recent front page story of the San Francisco Chronicle, you would have read about a female humpback whale who had become entangled in a spider web of crab traps and lines. She was weighted down by hundreds of pounds of traps that caused her to struggle to stay afloat. She also had hundreds of yards of line rope wrapped around her body, her tail, her torso, a line tugging in her mouth.
A fisherman spotted her just east of the Farallon Islands (outside the Golden Gate ) and radioed an environmental group for help. Within a few hours, the rescue team arrived and determined that she was so bad off, the only way to save her was to dive in and untangle her. They worked for hours with curved knives and eventually freed her.

When she was free, the divers say she swam in what seemed like joyous circles. She then came back to each and every diver, one at a time, and nudged them, pushed them gently around as she was thanking them.
Some said it was the most incredibly beautiful experience of their lives. The guy who cut the rope out of her mouth said her eyes were following him the whole time, and he will never be the same

Whale Season 2010

2010-11-21T09:48:00.000-08:00

The first Humpback whale arrived in Kealakekua Bay on the 10th. It can take between four to eight weeks to make the 3500 mile trip down from Alaska. They all don't show up at once or leave at the same time either. We won't start our whale watches for a while now until the whales can give us a good show.

Capt'n Tony

2010-11-04T22:07:00.000-07:00

Capt'n Tony is back on the water again! We're proud to have one of the most experienced captains on the Kona Coast working with us here at Seaquest. A lot of people don't know Tony actually came to Kona with Captain Cook...

(yes the water is really that blue!)

And he told two friends...

2010-11-04T22:05:00.001-07:00

High tide at the boat ramp is turning into a popular lunch spot for the green sea turtles.

Blackfish

2010-09-24T12:52:00.001-07:00

The Pilot Whales are not afraid of the boats. I think they are just as interested as we are.

Kayaks!

2010-09-24T12:47:00.001-07:00

We have seen less kayak activity but still people are destroying the reef by walking on it. DON"T TOUCH ANYTHING UNDER WATER! (Capt'n Kyle is not happy about the situation)

Honu Lunch

2010-09-24T12:44:00.001-07:00

When the tide is just right the turtles come up on the boat ramp to feed on the green sea grass. yum...

Cruise Ship Day

2010-09-24T12:39:00.000-07:00

Every Wednesday is Cruise Ship Day in Kona. This ship is based in Hawaii and does the interisland route.

Summertime Whales

2010-08-10T01:36:00.000-07:00

Humpbacks are fat and happy back in Alaska right now. So all our whale action has been Pilot whales. We've had some lucky days when the pod is not more than a couple of miles offshore. Easy viewing for us!

Don't forget to check out all Susan's photography at

http://www.susanknightstudios.com/

Mauna Kea

2010-08-09T12:35:00.001-07:00

Just before sunset at Mauna Kea State Park, no vog up here.

Waiting for the green flash back down at sea level.

Jackson's Chameleon

2010-08-09T12:27:00.000-07:00

These guys were introduced into Hawaii during the 70's as pets. They have spread to all the islands and don't seem to be a problem. This guy was hanging out in our lime tree.

Happy Fourth of July!

2010-07-05T11:27:00.000-07:00

Kailua Kona fireworks.

BOOK 'EM DANO!!!!!!!

2010-05-28T00:11:00.000-07:00

Five O is back!!!! Can't wait for the fall season.

Fuel

2010-05-18T00:06:00.000-07:00

Q: How much fuel do you use?
A: About twenty gallons a day.

Capt 'n crew

2010-05-03T13:59:00.000-07:00

Captain Mar and Joe mugging for the camera.

Breach in Kealakekua Bay!

2010-04-12T22:40:00.001-07:00

This doesn't happen a lot, now we have it on film. Don sent in this shot of a whale breaching in K Bay on a March 1st trip. The Humpbacks are now on their back to Alaska, we had an awesome whale season. Thanks again to Don! Aloha.

Expedition Trip 3/26/2010

2010-04-05T13:04:00.001-07:00

Busy day at Pu'u Honua O Honaunau with views of palm trees, clear waters and other Seaquest boats in the bay. The Expedition trip meandered south and checked out a Black sand beach at the base of a spectacular and fast (it traveled up to 6 miles an hour) lava flow that came down the pali (cliff) in 1950. This flow from Mauna Loa spewed more than 500,000,000 cubic yards of lava in a matter of weeks. That equals several years' production from currently erupting Kilauea. The flow doesn't stop at the edge of the water either. Areas like this are an amazing place to see life in action. A fresh lava flow means a brand new coral reef is forming and we get to see it as happens. Bit by bit. Year by year. Instant scientists, we are. Susan K [Pics from this trip at www.thecottoncandystudio.com.]

Voggy Days

2010-04-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

Last couple of months it's been howling up north, gusts up to 50 mph! The wind will blow the vog away, unfortunately it all blows down into south Kona. This video was taken at the Natural Energy Lab, see all the vog piled up on the south side of Hualalai volcano.

Squid Leftovers!

2010-04-01T12:47:00.001-07:00

Captain Colin found this floating out in the deep offshore water. By the looks of the teeth marks a Pilot Whale chomped this squid in half and popped it's eyes right out! Calamari anyone?

Morning Prep

2010-04-01T12:41:00.001-07:00

As soon as the snorkelers hit the water the crew goes to work prepping the snacks. Sweet Maui pineapple, red apples, cookies and chips - breakfast of champions.

Friendly Monk Seal

2010-04-01T12:35:00.001-07:00

Our resident Monk Seal was back in the bay again. I think he just wants a friend to play with.

Expedition Trip 3/16/2010

2010-04-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

Today we headed out to snorkel and on the way we had to stop as a small whale breached in front of and around the boat. Everyone was so quiet. This doesn't happen everyday! Well, maybe all were in awe and speechless. Also, it was Violet and Brian's Honeymoon, so perhaps the whales decided to celebrate with them. Congrats! More pics at www.thecottoncandystudio.com.

Expedition Trip 2/09/2010

2010-04-01T12:17:00.000-07:00

Whales, water and lots of sea caves. Need we say more?

Whale Watch 2/09/2010

2010-04-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

Well, whale season is past for another season as the wonderful Humpback whales, though we still have a rare sighting, have mostly moved on back to Alaska. It was a busy season with lots of interesting experiences. Now, we'll catch up with stories and pics on our blog and continue to have great times and more stories with Snorkeling adventures!

Whale watch 020910. This was a great day out on the water with an amazing ballet of two of the most synchronized whales we have seen. Check out this awesome tandem diving as the huge flukes lift up and out of the water. More pics at www.thecottoncandystudio.com. Aloha whales. Susan K.

Coastal Fsh

2010-03-18T02:01:00.000-07:00

If you've been on one of our trips you should see the humor in this video.

X Trip 2/18/2010

2010-03-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

We traveled the coast. Felt the wind in our hair. Saw some whales. Visited the fish. And all came back for an afternoon nap. Some of us had just gotten married.

Whale Watch 2/10/2010

2010-03-16T23:56:00.000-07:00

Today we got to spend some time with a mom and baby as they stayed around at the surface for quite some time and we drifted with them. The bond between mother and calf very apparent in our observations. They didn't seem to mind the boat and we ate snacks, drank juices and watched. Just like being at the movies Next time we bring popcorn? Susan K

Whale Watch 2/12/2010

2010-03-16T23:51:00.000-07:00

Captain Kyle, Susan and whale watchers today traveled the coast of Kona and did indeed find whales. Also, the awesome winter swells made for amazing wave watching from out on the boat so included was some coastal exploration. Lots of great photo opportunities as we traveled from pod to pod of Humpback whales.

On Duty

2010-03-16T02:03:00.000-07:00

Capt'n Steve keeping a close watch on all his snorkelers during an expedition trip on Manta RAIV.

The Black Pearl

2010-02-25T23:04:00.001-08:00

The Black Pearl arrived in Oahu. The next "pirates" movies will be shot here in Hawaii! arrrgh

On The Lookout

2010-02-25T22:56:00.000-08:00

Captain Liam and Sunny are always watching out for the safety of their snorkelers.

Adios Kayaks

2010-02-25T22:51:00.000-08:00

Since the new kayak rules have gone into effect most of the plastic has gone away! The ten a day permitted kayakers are still walking on the coral but it's a huge improvement.

Whale Alert!

2010-02-24T19:37:00.000-08:00

We are currently look for a whale off the Kona coast--sighted today at the green can at Honokohau and off Kaiwi point. This whale appears to be very light in color from a far but upon closer inspection it looks like some scarring, whale lice and some sort of skin infection or problem. We do not know exactly what is causing the skin coloration but we would like to find this whale and do some more documentation and possibly get a skin sample for research. If you see this animal please call me on my cell immediately at 987 0765 so that we can respond and if possible stay on the whale until we or back up arrives so that we don't lose him/her. Thanks for your help and wow what a year for whales!!!

Justin Viezbicke
Marine Conservation Coordinator
Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale NMS

Aloha From Brooklyn!

2010-02-22T00:08:00.000-08:00

Richard sent another shot to us and said "wish you were here".

Whale Shark Attack! caught on film.

2010-02-16T23:16:00.000-08:00

That was the last we ever saw of Susan...

Kealakekua Bay visitors must have permits

2010-02-09T19:03:00.000-08:00

THIS IS HUGE FOLKS! EVERY ONE OF OUR GUEST ASKS "WHY DON'T THEY DO SOMETHING ABOUT THE KAYAKS." WELL IT'S HAPPENING NOW!

Associated Press

KAILUA, KONA, Hawaii — The state plans to protect corals and historical sites at Kealakekua Bay State Historic Park by requiring park visitors to obtain permits.

Starting Feb. 23, permits will be required for those seeking to land kayaks and other vessels along the Kaawaloa shoreline or moor at the wharf next to the Captain Cook Monument.

People commonly land vessels at Kaawaloa to get to the monument and to go snorkeling at Kaawaloa Cove.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources said Monday it's informing kayak rental vendors about the new permit requirement. It's also asking the companies to tell their customers.

Department spokeswoman Deborah Ward says the agency is encouraging visitors to enjoy the park responsibly.

Control needed to manage bay resource
by Carolyn Lucas
West Hawaii Today
clucas@westhawaiitoday.com
Tuesday, February 9, 2010 6:48 AM HST
A free permit to land vessels along the Kaawaloa shoreline or moor at the wharf adjacent to the Captain Cook Monument will soon be required by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.

Starting Feb. 23, people must apply for a noncommercial general public permit at the Division of State Parks' Hawaii District Office, located at 75 Aupuni St. Room 204 in Hilo, or online at hawaiistateparks.org, under "announcements."

With the permit, they will receive information regarding sensitive sites and guidance on how to assist in preserving Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park and Kaawaloa peninsula, according to DLNR.

"By limiting access, we're increasing the value of the experience by reducing the pressure put on this very sensitive place," said Curt Cottrell, assistant administrator for the Division of State Parks. "This is a way to organize and manage the number of people who want to access the Kaawaloa flats, as well as educate them about the area's rich history. It also makes it a lot clearer for Division of Conservation and Enforcement to cite you for not having the proper permit. An enforcement officer will be able to tell exactly who belongs there and who doesn't."

A separate permit will be required for each vessel and each permit is valid for only one day. Only 10 of these noncommercial general public landing permits will be issued daily. DLNR determined the number by observing who was using the area with no intentions of making money. This included residents and visitors kayaking or on paddleboards without commercial guides, Cottrell said.

Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park and Kaawaloa peninsula are two of Hawaii's most significant historical and cultural locations, with an abundance of fragile and significant archaeological sites. Kaawaloa is the shoreline commonly used to access the Captain Cook Monument from the bay and to beach vessels before snorkeling at Kaawaloa Cove.

Prior to the system, the only legal way to land a vessel at Kaawaloa was with one of the two permitted commercial operators, which was not fair to the public, Cottrell said.

"Residents can easily access free education and cultural practices that will provide guidance to ensure there is no accidental damage to the cultural sites," DLNR Chairwoman Laura Thielen stated in a prepared statement. "Visitors have guided tours to ensure they appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the areas and eliminate inadvertent damage. In the meantime, the entire bay remains open to all people to enjoy the pristine waters and marine life."

Adventures in Paradise owner Jeff Hand said requiring a landing permit for the general public is "a step in the right direction" to protect the area. He said the system will reduce the overall number of people in the area, thus reducing the impact.

Hand also said the new permit system puts everyone on the same page in regard to the rules. He said commercial operators are already required to have a permit from the Division of State Parks to land at Kaawaloa, as well as permit from the Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation to use Napoopoo Pier. He added that enforcement is critical in this system's success.

Hawaii Pack and Paddle owner Betsy Morrigan called the permit system "a very good beginning" and "an intelligent management decision."

Any person beaching or launching a kayak or other vessel along the Kaawaloa shoreline or mooring at the wharf adjacent to the Captain Cook Monument without a permit from DLNR will be subject to civil penalty and the kayak or vessel may be subject to confiscation. An existing State Parks rule, HAR 13-146-13, prohibits landing, operating, leaving unattended, beaching, parking, launching, mooring and anchoring of vessels where prohibited by signage. Fines may be imposed by law. Signs will be posted at entry locations along the bay to notify everyone of the system and provide information on how they can obtain a permit. The Division of Conservation and Enforcement will have a presence, Cottrell said.

Those who do online permit applications are required to send the signed document via e-mail to Dean.H.Takebayashi@hawaii.gov, mail it to the Division of State Parks' Hawaii District Office or fax it to 974-6222. Once reviewed and approved, the application will be e-mailed, mailed or faxed back to the respective applicant.

For more information, call Division of State Parks' Hawaii District Office at 974-6200.

Whale and Booby Watch 2/2/2010

2010-02-07T22:30:00.000-08:00

Captain Steve and Susan and Megaptera enthusiasts wandered in search of their quarry and found..a brown Booby! Sitting in a boat. There are some Booby's nesting in these here parts and we've seen a few around. They dive from the air & plunge into the water to grab fish with their pointed beaks Booby's have air sacs under the skin of their face to help absorb the shock of impact. How cool is that?! Okay, onto the whales. We were fortunate to spend time with two whales, who breached and and did repeated head slaps up, out and back down onto the water. They delivered us home to Keauhou Bay. Mahalo Kohola. More pics at www.thecottoncandystudio.com.

Whale Watch 1/31/2010

2010-02-07T22:25:00.001-08:00

Well, today Captain Mar, Biologist Susan and the intrepid Adventurerers got plenty of practise at the little know technique we call "whale waiting". This would be the parts between whale "watching". It is an important strategy in sighting and resighting animals that spend most of their time under water. Tracking diving times and scanning the horizon we sighted several whales who appeared for a few breaths and mysteriously disappeared into the blue. Humpbacks are mysterious like that. After patience and searching, we were rewarded with...snacks and juice! Oh, and also we saw a breach and then watched a large whale do repeated pec (pectoral fin) slaps on the water. Loud enough to hear. Check out the pic with that big long (can be 15 ft) pec fin and tail sticking out of the water, as the whale rolled onto its side. Hence the scientific name Megaptera ("Big-winged) novaeangliae. Susan K

Whale Watch 1/29/2010

2010-02-07T22:00:00.000-08:00

Well, today we had an amazing find just minutes out of Keauhou Bay. We have fast engines to go find the whales, but this trip was all about slow and steady. Captain Liam, Susan and the whale spotters came across a heat run or "competitive pod" heading south close to the shoreline. We slowly followed their progress with lots of behaviours, yes, the kind that humpback boys carry on when competing to be the females #1. For the moment. Monogamy is not part of the humpback lifestyle. This mammalian strategy may seem familiar...girls go for quality, boys go for quantity. Pods are transient, constantly changing. One way to ensure the survival of your species. A group of four whales turned to 5 and then split into two pods by the time we left them to head back home for the night. Breaches 4. Head slaps 6. Tail slashes 8. Motorboating 2. And lots of heavy breathing. Listen for the blow in the video!

Whale Watch 1/27/2010

2010-02-07T21:36:00.001-08:00

Captain Shawny traveled us north and we found a few single whales wandering in the area. We then headed back to Kailua Bay and cruised past the cruise ship tenders bringing people back to the boat. We found a pod of spinner dolphins who gave us a great show of exactly why they are called "spinners". On the way home, we were able to spend time with a mom and calf and then headed back to good ole Keauhou Bay.

Whale Watch 2/05/2010

2010-02-06T11:25:00.000-08:00

Captain Shawny and Susan and the whale enthusiasts..well...lets put it this way...It started off with "Was that a whale tail way out there?" and ended with a mom and baby breaching a circle around the boat. Oh, and we saw a baby Booby. And heard some whale song. More pics available at www.thecottoncandystudio.com.

Whale Watch 1/26/2010

2010-02-06T11:01:00.000-08:00

We braved the wind and waves and saw a few whales doing 10 to 13 minute dives. Came across a large pod of spinner dolphins who we watched ride the waves. Found one whale that had clearly been entangled in something, perhaps a fishing line or net, in the past. Notice the deep indent in the back. Ended the day with a couple breaches! Yes, see that splash...a whale was there. Really.

Aloha

2010-02-04T22:08:00.000-08:00

Captain Steve and Susan taking care of their snorkelers on a flat glass calm day in Kealakekua Bay.

Entangled humpback with yellow cylindrical buoy re-sighted off Big Island

2010-02-04T22:03:00.001-08:00

On February 2, 2010 at 09:15 , the humpback whale carrying a yellow cylindrical buoy was re-sighted 7.5 nm NNE of Keahole Point, Big Island. The animal is heading south at about 1.3 kts. Line appears wrapped around the animal's head, possibly involving the mouth, and around the tailstock. The yellow cylindrical buoy that was first reported on January 24, 2010 is still attached and was riding along the left flank of the animal at the level of the dorsal fin.

The animal was reported by Doug Perrine and Julie Steelman, who attempted to standby/ monitor the animal until trained responders Justine Veizbicke (HIHWNMS), Brent Carmen (DAR), and Steve Cotton (DAR) could arrive on scene and attach a telemetry buoy. As this time (13:00) the response team, aboard a DAR vessel, is attempting to re-locate the animal.

Ilio-holo-i-ka-uaua

2010-01-31T10:41:00.001-08:00

"Dog that runs in rough water" This Hawaiian Monk Seal was born in Waipio Valley and frequents the waters around the Big Island. Hanging out in Kealakekua Bay for a week or two, we all got to see him. He has been tagged a definitely not afraid of humans. Scott was minding his own business when the seal came by for a closer look. Thanks Scott! this is a killer shot.

Whale (Shark) Watch 1/25/2010

2010-01-26T18:32:00.000-08:00

Captain Mar and Susan weren't expecting this type of whale when they left the dock on Monday. This 25ft Whale Shark came by and banged on the engine and pushed the boat around with his snout.

Rockin' Around NYC

2010-01-25T23:35:00.000-08:00

Our pal Richard from Brooklyn says "Aloha" and wants you to stop in at the Black Duck Restaurant next time you're in town.

Whale Watch 1/22/2010

2010-01-25T23:22:00.000-08:00

Great day. We saw a Brown Booby fly overhead. Whales of different shapes and sizes. One whale we watched for a while had an interesting curve to the tail fluke. we started calling her "Curly" because we saw her surface and dive several times with that unique curved fluke. And to end the day on the way home we saw some Spinner dolphins. These two are swimming in to ride our bow wake. Why? because they can. Mahalo Kohola and Naia.

1/19/2010

2010-01-25T23:12:00.000-08:00

Captain Steve and Susan had another awesome day on the water. It started with finding Pilot whales on the morning Expedition trip then on to a calf breaching with Spinner dolphins in the same bay. Kona was covered with thick vog that day but you won't know it under water.

Whale Log for Jan 15, 2010

2010-01-17T22:47:00.000-08:00

Sightings and behaviours. two pairs of mothers and young calves. one mom and calf let us hang out with them for about 25 minutes, just staying in one area at the surface as the baby rolled around showing its pectoral and tail fins. Perhaps baby was getting a good feeding of the nearly 100 gallons of milk per day it needs to gain strength and blubber for a long migration back to Alaska. Baby also spyhopped a few times, putting its eyes above water to check us out. We, the people, were being watched today. Also some noisy tail slapping or "lobtailing" was observed repeatedly for 10 to 12 slaps by one female, as the two mom and calves seemed to be on course towards each other. They never did meet, and each pair went its separate ways.

Also, a pod of spinner dolphins just waking up to head out for a night of hunting was out and about and one or two also checked us out.

To end the show, we saw two manta rays at the surface near the entrance to Keauhou Bay.

First Whale Watch of 2010

2010-01-17T22:32:00.000-08:00

Capt'n Steve and Susan (our very own whale naturalist) had an awesome start to whale season at Seaquest. A cow calf pair gave us plenty of photo ops. Check out Susan's website for more pic's.

www.thecottoncandystudio.com

The Evil Spirit of Red Hill

2010-01-12T12:58:00.000-08:00

Our buddy Dave sent in these shots from his Seaquest Morning Deluxe Trip. Doesn't it look like the Bobby Brady tiki idol.

Expedition Trip

2010-01-12T12:50:00.000-08:00

A Christmas Letter

2010-01-12T12:42:00.000-08:00

Allen sent in a funny excerpt from his Christmas letter to the family. Everyone survived the trip including Allen...

It was cold so we took a two-week trip to Hawaii. This was the trip of a lifetime with helpful financial support from our kids. Hawaii was awesome: lots of whales, great food, marvelous scenery and weather and all in all a very relaxing vacation.
Hawaii is beautiful but it can be dangerous. Shirley wanted to go scuba diving but I negotiated snorkeling instead. I had heard you could go snorkeling in shallow water, which suited me just fine.
So we arrived at this neat little sandy beach and I looked around for the snorkeling gear. I was informed that it would be on the boat. Nobody told me about a boat. Boats infer deeper water. I’ve been on boats before with Shirley. It always ends up different than I had anticipated.
So we take off in this boat to head for the Captain Cook snorkeling bay which I discover is ten miles away going over a whole lot of really choppy waves way off shore. I sat up near the Captain just in case he needed any advice. We were roaring across the ocean at about thirty knots when he said, “I noticed from your white knuckle grip on the rail that you are a bit nervous. Just remember that that little handle next to the rail is the throttle. If you feel inclined to grab anything besides the rail, don’t grab that. We are going fast enough.
Sheesh. What did he take me for, a landlubber?
So after about an hour of bouncing over the ocean we arrive at the bay, seasick, and the captain parks the boat about 200 yards from the shore and tells everybody to put on their gear, jump in and head for the shore. Everybody does except for me. I look up and Shirley is already fifty yards from the boat with her head in the water. She didn’t even check for sharks or nothing. I, on the other hand, had a few questions. I put one rubber fin in the water up to my ankle. The water temperature had to be about 30 degrees colder than anything I was used to swimming in.
I eased off the side and after about five minutes managed to get in the ice-cold water up to my neck. The Captain said, “Let go of the ladder and float toward shore.” (They had given us one of these little tubes to help me float).
I said, “How do I know this tube will hold me up?”
“They’re designed to hold up to 300 pounds.”
I talked them out of two more tubes.
After adjusting the tubes, I held my breath and very carefully stuck my head in the water to see if the snorkel tube was malfunctioning. You can’t be too careful you know. It seemed to be working ok so I practiced looking in the water. I spotted a couple of fish right away.
I announced, “OK, I’m done. I spotted a couple of fish and they were very pretty. Help me get back in the boat.”
“You haven’t let go of the ladder yet Allen and you have to paddle about 50 feet to shore in order to really see the good stuff.”
“Can’t you just nudge the boat closer to shore for me?”
“We are as close as we are allowed to go without running right into the coral. Aren’t your knuckles getting tired gripping that ladder?”
“They’re my knuckles.”
“Well yes but you paid good money to see more than two little fish.”
“Have you checked the shore line to see how many of your passengers, including my wife Shirley, have drowned yet?”
“Allen, in fifteen years, we have never lost a snorkeling diver this close to shore, but if you don’t let go of that ladder and paddle toward your wife, this could be the year.”
So I paddled over to see if Shirley needed any help. She was really glad to finally see me.

Entangled Whale

2010-01-12T12:37:00.000-08:00

This entangled whale was spotted up north. Everyone should be on the look out and if found please call 1 888 256 9840 to report the position.

Three cited for kayak vending near Kealakekua Bay

2009-12-11T12:17:00.000-08:00

by Erin Miller
West Hawaii Today

County police and law enforcement officers from the Department of Land and Natural Resources cited three men Wednesday for allegedly improperly renting kayaks on county and state land near Kealakekua Bay.

Permitted kayak vendors have long complained about illegal rentals along the roads leading to Napoopoo Pier, as well as in the adjacent parking lot. Officer Calvin DeLaries said the three men, who are 21, 28 and 44 years old, were ticketed for soliciting business on state property and trespassing, as well as commercial use of a county street.

The Police Department and DLNR officers also seized a truck and 13 kayaks.

The department has received numerous complaints about illegal activity at and near the pier, prompting the Community Policing investigation, DeLaries said.