Day Dives

We hold our crew to the highest industry standards. Every staff member is certified to administer CPR, AED, emergency oxygen, and first aid. They are all required to attend live emergency scenario training on our vessels on a regular basis, which has been praised by local Emergency Medical Service providers. We ensure drug-free vessels by requiring all boat crew to participate in our random drug testing program. Additionally, we conduct regular performance evaluations for each employee. These efforts are part of our commitment to you to make your experience with Big Island Divers as safe and enjoyable as it can possibly be. In addition, we require the following of our crew:

Captains

Each of our captains holds a valid Merchant Mariner Credential issued by the United States Coast Guard as a Master Of Self-Propelled Vessels (official US captain's license), has earned a Marine Radio Operator Permit, and has satisfied a TSA background check.

Instructors & Divemasters

Each of our dive professionals holds current PADI membership and is in active teaching status through that industry-leading organization. Additionally, Big Island Divers regularly facilitates workshops and lectures covering a variety of ecologically relevant subjects to help develop our crew into experts on the local environment.

Snorkel Guides

Our in-water guides are required to show an expertise with water activities and rescue abilities. There are a number of qualifications they can earn to satisfy this, including PADI Rescue Diver, Lifeguard, and Freediver certifications. All of our snorkel guides hold one or more of these certifications.

Mikey B

USCG Captain, MSDT

“I always go with BID, and have yet to be disappointed. This dive was by far the best yet… Mikey is always a fantastic and entertaining captain. We saw over 13 mantas this time dancing right in front of us and several times had to duck to avoid them running into us. Just magical.” - justintraveltheworld

Nick W

USCG Captain, Maintenance

“Big Island Divers is a Wonderful Dive Operation… A Big Thanks to Captain Nick W who found the Humpback Whales, Dolphins, Beaked Whales and Pilot Whales on our surface intervals… From the shop to the boat, the experience is great. Thanks for the Fun Dives!!!” - Kingcotts from Red Deer, Canada

Chris M

USCG Captain, Instructor

“While travelling with my dive group in Kona, Hawaii, we did the Manta Ray Night Dive with Big Island Divers. It was amazing!!!... Our Captain was Chris, who is just hilarious and a super jolly dude… The dive itself was awesome. This dive is an absolute must when visiting Hawaii.” - waowyfish from Cascade Locks, Oregon

Scott S

USCG Captain, Maintenance

“My second experience with these folks. Great morning swim with dolphins and loads of tropical fish… Special shout out to captain Scott… These guys ROCK!” - JVU2016 from Houston, Texas

Budd P

USCG Captain

"Budd was excellent from start to finish. Gave my son some quick instructions and let him run with it while we sat and relaxed. It was a cloudy day so we were the only ones on the "island" and Budd sat with us and answered any questions we had about the island and places to go. Everything he talked to us about was just as fantastic as he said it would be. Would definitely recommend these guys again and especially Budd. Mahalo!" - mngelinas0214 from Bedford, New Hampshire

Ryan L

USCG Captain

“...the Manta Ray Dive was INCREDIBLE… My Captain was Ryan - OUTSTANDING (ask for her by name)” - Steve9172 from Suwanee, Georgia

Leao M

USCG Captain, Instructor

“I've dived all over the world and was very impressed with the professionalism of Big Island Divers. The crew made me feel our safety was a priority but made the whole experience fun. Our captain Leao was relaxed and very professional… Had a great time and hope to do the dive again with this company and these majestic creatures.” - Stella A from Vancouver, Canada

Justin S

USCG Captain

“Guys!!! This is a must do trip!!! We had the most amazing time ever… Justin was our captain, he was so accommodating and knowledgeable he is also a well rounded diver. He was a great conversationalist and experienced captain… I can’t recommend them enough. Thanks for making our trip!!” - Bmmberm from Mililani, Hawaii

Nick E

Captain, Instructor

“Would highly recommend using Big Island Divers for any scuba adventures… Nick did a great job during day scuba, finding all of the small things I wouldn’t have seen. These dive experiences were worth the trip.” - Climber04125617278 from Hoboken, New Jersey

Chuck L

USCG Captain

"We spent four great days swimming with dolphins, turtles, octopus, and manta ray. We saw countless whales and are so happy we chose Big Island Divers. Thanks Chuck... Hope to see you all again soon." - 1chadneuf from Durango, Colorado

Rob W

USCG Captain

“We had a great two tank dive with BID last week! Our captain Rob was not only a great captain but very knowledgeable about Hawaii and even served hot chocolate on the way back to the marina… The staff from beginning to end was very professional and organized. I would highly recommend Big Island Divers and the night dive to anyone and everyone.” - bridgetsheahan from Oconomowoc, Wisconsin

Tanner B

USCG Captain

Welcome to the team, Tanner!

Chase P

USCG Captain, Instructor

“Everything was perfect from exploring the manta rays to the food and drink service on the boat. Chase even went the extra mile to make sure my brother was okay several times in the water because he was fearful of the manta ray at first. HIGHLY recommended trip for families. One of the coolest things you will ever see!!” - Madison M

Sarah B

Instructor, Sales

“I booked my Referral OW certification dives with BID on a last-minute decision and I’m so glad I did. Sarah B. was so patient and in control of the dive, and even when I had trouble with certain skills she was able to explain the process behind everything until I got it down. Her attention to detail and one-on-one instruction cut through any nerves I had and allowed me the time to move at my own pace.” - Cruiser19874232829 from Denver, Colorado

Becca N

Instructor

“This is the dive shop to go with for great service and knowledgeable staff… a special shout out goes to Becca for her patience and time she spent with me. She also was very knowledge of the reefs we dove and was able to point out numerous things I would have missed if it wasn’t for her. Will be making some more dives with them before leaving Hawaii.” - ByronB690 from Riverside, California

Lukas B

Instructor, Sales

“Was such an epic way to end our trip. Lukas was on both of our trips and we recommend him as your guide, he was so friendly and attentive. We still have 4 more days in HI and we are already excited to come back again to dive next visit! Five stars…” - Kyle L

Alex M

Instructor

“We had a great experience with Alex (M) from Big Island Divers. We went for a two tank twilight & manta ray dive and they were amazing!! … Alex gives you a lot of space to explore the reef by yourself but we always felt safe… I definitely would recommend to book it with big island divers!” - Clairel142 from Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Alex L

Instructor

“These Guys and Gals are so awesome. The people in the store were Friendly and so knowledgeable… Our dive master was Alex (L), guy, was awesome so helpful and patient. Looking forward to going again sometime” Randy H from Ardmore, United States

Aimee M

Instructor, Sales

“We had a great two tank dive with BID last week! Our dive master Aimee was excellent all the way around... the Manta Ray night dive was out of this world! The staff from beginning to end was very professional and organized. I would highly recommend Big Island Divers and the night dive to anyone and everyone.” - bridgetsheahan from Oconomowoc, Wisconsin

Mike P

Instructor, Gear Technician

“Our scuba instructor Mike showed us the amazing world of scuba diving and showed us dolphins for our first time. If you want a once in a lifetime experience choose the amazing people of Big Island Divers” - GoPlaces51209694734 from Kailua-Kona, HI

Corrine C

Divemaster, Sales

“Corrine. Best. Dive. Master. Ever. Corrine is super knowledgeable, patient, and kind. She has the entire "Aloha I Ke Kai" vibe happening. All the Dive Masters at Big Island Divers are excellent, but Corrine managed to make our experience great with dive locations and pointing out the finer details of reef life... Go with Big Island Divers. You will not regret it.” - Gerard G from Santa Ana, California

Tara B

Divemaster, Sales

“My husband and I did this trip about two weeks ago… Tara was our very capable dive master… Remember to bring some tip money - these professionals work hard to ensure that you have a wonderful - INCREDIBLE - experience!” - marthajean from Lyle, Washington

Katrina P

Divemaster, Sales

“The dive shop is clearly well run. The staff is helpful and seeks to find the best options for you given your desires and skill level… Our dive master, Katrina, was enthusiastic as she guided us to a wide variety of sea life.” - OnAir67611923489 from El Dorado Hills, California

Brian W

USCG Captain, Divemaster, SNUBA Guide, Snorkel Guide, Sales

“Our guide, Brian, was amazing and we got 20 minutes with the Mantas with no other divers around the "campfire". The Mantas glided over and around us. So close that one actually hit my head!... Definitely recommend this dive for anyone who is fortunate to be on the Big Island” - Dreamer801256

Colt K

Divemaster

“From the start you could tell Colt was super passionate not only about what he did but about the Manta Ray population... Based on our experience I would definitely recommend BID as both the boat crew and the staff at the store went out of their way to accommodate us and our needs… I will definitely use BID again next year when we go back to Kona with my family.” - Gsxrgrizz69

Josh B

Divemaster, Snorkel Guide, Gear Technician

“Josh, you did such a great job instructing us and guiding us through the pelagic night dive.
Can’t thank you enough guys for being so good at what you are doing! I will never forget you!” - Starelenas

Alexis I

Snorkel Guide

“We had an awesome trip with Alexis... Our crew was truly second to none and worked extremely hard to make our outing educational, enjoyable, safe and fruitful.” - Phil J from Norman, Oklahoma

Jade T

SNUBA Guide, Sales, Snorkel Guide

“They exceeded our expectations. Jade offered to Record on our GoPro for us while we watched the manta rays, and was very considerate when I got seasick. Amazing experience, we would definitely recommend it to everyone!” - phongsavanhc21 from Portland, Oregon

Amanda F

Sales, Snorkel Guide

"This was a great experience for all the family. Amanda was awesome, as was the rest of the crew. We saw cool Manta Rays and a ton of fish." - pdog72

Chelsea W

Sales, Snorkel Guide

“I did almost everything that Big Island Divers had to offer. Everything from scuba diving to night time snorkel with Manta Ray's. I had an amazing tour guide by the name of Chelsea twice and she made the trip awesome with her knowledge of the places and over all happy attitude.” - GoPlaces51209694734 from Kailua-Kona, HI

Zack R

Snorkel Guide

“My husband dove with Big Island Divers two times while we were there and had a wonderful time!... The Captain and the snorkel leader Zack were SO kind and compassionate towards me. I felt very well cared for!” - Dana M from Klamath Falls, Oregon

Louise B

Sales, Snorkel Guide

Welcome to the team, Louise!

Franky B

Sales

“I booked an Advanced Open Water certification class for my wife and I. Franky was really helpful in getting it all setup with the Manta Rays night dive as one of the adventure dives… The folks at Big Island Divers are top notch and we highly recommend the company. We'll be back!” - MarkN1870

Aaron P

Gear Technician

Thanks for keeping our tanks full and our regulators flowing, Aaron!

Bryan G

Maintenance

Thanks for keeping the boats, trucks, trailers, jet skis, etc in great working order, Bryan!

Nikki T

Front of House Supervisor

“Big Island Divers took excellent care of me from the phone call to Nikki to arrange the best options for my needs through all seven dives including the Manta Ray and Pelagic Dives… big Mahalo… recommend them to all levels of diving experience.” - Theo H from Belmont, California

Dane K

Employee Development & Guest Experience Manager

“We had an absolutely wonderful time on the nighttime manta ray snorkeling trip! It was a beautiful boat ride and we saw the amazing rays for a good 45 minutes! Our guide and Captain Dane were absolutely delightful. They were kind, funny, and highly knowledgeable. The rays were absolutely incredible. It was truly the highlight of our honeymoon! We can not recommend this trip highly enough!” - carlymariae from Saint Paul, Minnesota

Will W

Marketing & Media Manager

Thanks for making us look good, Will!

Sarah R

Sales & PR Manager

"Big Island Divers is by far the best on the Island. Most professional and every staff member from Captain of the boat to dive masters and instructors are tops!! Dive Master Sarah R. from Maine is the best I have had in over 50+ total dives in multiple areas and conditions. Contagious excitement about diving and outstanding knowledge of dive sites and especially all of the marine life." - DAS2013 from Modesto, California

Paul D

Operations Manager

"The tour was great but it was the BID team that made the experience. Super professional, knowledgeable and friendly... These guys are the best! Thanks again Paul! Your team is truly great!" - Ben S from San Francisco, California

Craig N

Fleet Manager

"I have been scuba diving with this company for decades and they really do a great job... Craig leads marine maintenance so boats run well and safely." - ronwolfe from Waikoloa, Hawaii

John S

General Manager

Thanks for keeping us in the water, John!

2019's #1 Dive Operator in Hawaii

with a 5 star reputation

Manta Ray Night Dive

What a truly amazing experience!! Nearly an hour of down time with dozens of large mantas putting on an incredible show. Jenna, and Captain Kevin made it a pleasant and safe trip. This is a must do while staying on the Big Island.

RichGiff on TripAdvisor

Big Island Divers

5.0

2019-05-07T11:32:39-10:00

RichGiff on TripAdvisor

https://bigislanddivers.com/testimonials/manta-ray-night-dive/

One of the Top 10 Dives in the World!

Believe It, it really is one of the most phenomenal dives we have ever done! Laying on our stomachs on the ocean floor around the "campfire" was unforgettable as the beautifully graceful Manta Rays soared directly above our heads, over and over. They performed ballet moves with each other, sometimes as many as 4 at a time feeding on the plankton.

Susan R on TripAdvisor

Big Island Divers

5.0

2019-05-07T11:33:00-10:00

Susan R on TripAdvisor

https://bigislanddivers.com/testimonials/one-of-the-top-10-dives-in-the-world/

Excellent

We have been diving the BID on multiple dives over multiple trips and we keep coming back to them because of the high quality service that they provide. Definitely a step above the usual dive shops.

Dreamer6739 on TripAdvisor

Big Island Divers

5.0

2019-05-07T11:37:50-10:00

Dreamer6739 on TripAdvisor

We have been diving the BID on multiple dives over multiple trips and we keep coming back to them because of the high quality service that they provide. Definitely a step above the usual dive shops.

https://bigislanddivers.com/testimonials/excellent/

Manta Night Dive Lives Up to the Hype

I recently went on the sunset reef dive & manta ray night dive. I was a little hesitant about my expectations because I heard so many great things and didn't want to be disappointed. Cannot say enough great things about the company, captain and DM - highly recommend and will dive with them again.

ulintza on TripAdvisor

Big Island Divers

5.0

2019-05-07T11:38:42-10:00

ulintza on TripAdvisor

https://bigislanddivers.com/testimonials/manta-night-dive-lives-up-to-the-hype/

Excellent Staff

We had a great two tank dive with BID last week! Our dive master Amy was excellent all the way around and our captain Rob was not only a great captain but very knowledgeable about Hawaii and even served hot chocolate on the way back to the Marina.

bridgetsheahan on TripAdvisor

Big Island Divers

5.0

2019-05-07T11:39:31-10:00

bridgetsheahan on TripAdvisor

https://bigislanddivers.com/testimonials/excellent-staff/

Incredible

It was so amazing that it made me feel like a kid again - this is coming from someone who has traveled a lot. I talked to other divers who described the Black Water Dive, and I wish I would have done that one instead of the twilight dive.

Steve9172

Big Island Divers

5.0

2019-05-07T11:40:19-10:00

Steve9172

https://bigislanddivers.com/testimonials/incredible/

Great Dive Experience

Great dive experience underwater and while on the boat. Experienced staff gave all of the direction and assistance needed but did not "over-guide" the trip as is often the case.

Compass0726 on TripAdvisor

Big Island Divers

5.0

2019-05-07T11:40:52-10:00

Compass0726 on TripAdvisor

Great dive experience underwater and while on the boat. Experienced staff gave all of the direction and assistance needed but did not "over-guide" the trip as is often the case.

https://bigislanddivers.com/testimonials/great-dive-experience/

An Amazing Souvenir

I booked the night Manta Ray snorkeling tour. It was simply awesome. In addition of the amazing experience to observe the Manta rays in their natural environment, the crew was just perfect, always helpful and offers us a warm hospitality. I definitely recommend this tour.

tomlecube on TripAdvisor

Big Island Divers

5.0

2019-05-07T11:41:47-10:00

tomlecube on TripAdvisor

https://bigislanddivers.com/testimonials/an-amazing-souvenir/

Two Tank Dive

This is the dive shop to go with for great service and knowledgeable staff. I went out for a refresher dive since it had been 9 years since my last dive. Becca was great and by the end of the second dive I felt comfortable being back in the water.

BryonB690

Big Island Divers

5.0

2019-05-07T11:42:13-10:00

BryonB690

https://bigislanddivers.com/testimonials/two-tank-dive/

Read our TripAdvisor Reviews

Day Dives

Night Dives

Equipment

Snorkeling

Certifications

Info

Store

Day Dives

Night Dives

Dive Packages

Equipment

Snorkeling

Packages

Equipment

Store

Our Crew

Dive with Kona's finest. Our family loves the ocean, bar none.

Training & Qualifications

Captains

Instructors & Divemasters

Snorkel Guides

Mikey B

USCG Captain, MSDT

Nick W

USCG Captain, Maintenance

Chris M

USCG Captain, Instructor

Scott S

USCG Captain, Maintenance

Budd P

USCG Captain

Ryan L

USCG Captain

Leao M

USCG Captain, Instructor

Justin S

USCG Captain

Nick E

Captain, Instructor

Chuck L

USCG Captain

Rob W

USCG Captain

Tanner B

USCG Captain

Chase P

USCG Captain, Instructor

Sarah B

Instructor, Sales

Becca N

Instructor

Lukas B

Instructor, Sales

Alex M

Instructor

Alex L

Instructor

Aimee M

Instructor, Sales

Mike P

Instructor, Gear Technician

Corrine C

Divemaster, Sales

Tara B

Divemaster, Sales

Katrina P

Divemaster, Sales

Brian W

USCG Captain, Divemaster, SNUBA Guide, Snorkel Guide, Sales

Colt K

Divemaster

Josh B

Divemaster, Snorkel Guide, Gear Technician

Alexis I

Snorkel Guide

Jade T

SNUBA Guide, Sales, Snorkel Guide

Amanda F

Sales, Snorkel Guide

Chelsea W