Swim with the Dolphins

Nai'a (Hawaiian for dolphins) are a common sight in the Hawaiian waters. There are four species of dolphins in the waters around Hawaii, of which spinner dolphins are the most common. If you are lucky you might see them if you are swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving, but this is at best a "maybe". Taking a tour will guarantee that you get to see the dolphins up-close.

Swimming with the dolphins on the Big Island can be done by people of all ages and swimming skills. It is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories for a lifetime. Do not forget to take your (waterproof) camera.

However, swimming with dolphins can cause harm to the dolphins itself. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recommends to stay at least 50 yards away from dolphins when 'swimming' with them (more on the how and why of these guidelines). Out of respect for dolphins and the ocean, please respect these guidelines and choose your tour operator accordingly.

This means that if you want the best for the dolphins, you won't be able to swim very close to wild dolphins. If you really want to swim close to dolphins, we recommend the (captive dolphins) Dolphin Quest at the Hilton Waikoloa village

NOAA guidelings for swimming with wild dolphins

If you happen to be in the water close to dolphins, there are a couple of rules you can follow to keep the dolphins as 'safe' as possible. These guidelines have been stated by the NOAA, who recommends the following:

• Remain at least 50 yards (1/2 a football field) from spinner dolphins.
• Limit your time observing to 1/2 hour.
• Spinner dolphins should not be encircled or trapped between boats or shore.
• If approached by a spinner dolphin while boating, put the engine in neutral and allow the animal to pass. Boat movement should be from the rear of the animal.

All about dolphin tours

If swimming with dolphins is one of those things you want to do at least one time in your life, you can go on a 'swimming with dolphins' tour. These tours generally take 4 hours and set you back around $150 / person. Snacks, water and snorkeling equipment are provided to the guests aboard, but be sure to inquire about this when you book a tour. What you shouldn't forget to pack yourself are sunblock, a bathing suit and a towel.

Some options for a Dolphin Tour are: Blue Sea Cruises, BodyGlove Cruises, and Kamanu Charters. When contacting these (or any other) tour operators whose excursions you are considering, please inquire about the procedures they follow. Take a look at what they advertise. If they say they follow NOAA recommendations, do their pictures imply otherwise? Whose interests are they focusing on, and what about the dolphins'?

In this way you let these companies know that you care, which will make them care (even more).

This information has been provided by the lovebigisland travel guide to Hawaii. Please note that Aaah the Views takes no responsibility for the content, nor endorses any of the outfitters or vendors mentioned.