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Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawaiʻi

Experience coral in a new way and become a part of its regeneration with the ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Coral Restoration Immersion.

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Go beyond the tourist hotspots and explore the coral regeneration happening in the heart of Hawai’i. This private Immersion is designed to transform your relationship with the ocean in the context of science and Hawaiian culture, while supporting the ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Reef Restoration Program. From visiting the largest land coral nursery to cruising along the coastlines of West Hawaiʻi, immerse yourself in this transformational learning experience that has a tangible impact on you, the ocean, and the community.

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Immersion overview

Step into Hawaiʻi’s reef revival with the ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Coral Reef Immersion, a hands-on experience blending science, culture, and conservation.

Begin at the ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Coral Nursery in Kailua-Kona, where marine biologists and researchers guide you through coral propagation and their reef restoration work. You will have the opportunity to not just learn first-hand, but participate in the work, by feeding coral in the raceways, an integral part to growing a new generation of climate resilient coral.



Then embark on a private super-raft with Body Glove Hawaiʻi to explore the marine ecosystems along the Kona coast. Learn about Native Hawaiian culture, their connection to the waters and the importance of coral health from a cultural practitioner, and gain insights on coral restoration from an ocean expert. While onboard, enjoy a sustainable breakfast and picnic lunch, locally sourced, and made by Body Glove’s in-house chef, while deepening your connection to the ocean and its stewards. 


Visit coral restoration sites with the experts, and see the impactful work first-hand. This day is meant to expand your horizons, and deepen your understanding of ocean health and the important of coral reef restoration.

Learn more about the important work of the ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Coral Restoration Program.

WHAT TO EXPECT

A masterclass in coral reef resilience.

  • Duration: 6 hours - 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
  • Pick-up & Drop-off: Pick up to and from your accommodation and transportation for the day is provided. 
  • Behind-The-Scenes Access: Start at ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Coral Nursery and  meet the chief scientist and marine biologists to learn about their research in building a climate resilient coral ecosystem. 
  • Hands-On Impact: You will have the opportunity to feed the coral and support coral restoration first-hand.‍
  • Private Charter: Head to the pier to embark on your private Body Glove Hawaiʻi super-raft excursion to explore the Kailua-Kona coastline and learn from cultural practitioners and ocean experts about the coral restoration work.‍
  • Locally Sourced Breakfast & Lunch: Start with a light breakfast as you cruise out to the first snorkel spot and later enjoy a picnic lunch on the boat, locally sourced and crafted by Body Glove’s sustainable kitchen and in-house chef. ‍
  • Two Snorkel Sites: Explore two different coral reef ecosystems with the experts to learn about the marine ecosystem and see tangible impacts of their coral restoration work. 
  • ‍Talk Story: Wrap up your Immersion by talking story with the ocean expert and cultural practitioner about the importance of coral health. 
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WHY THIS MATTERS

Hawaiʻi’s reefs are disappearing faster than almost anywhere on Earth, but there is hope.

By booking this Immersion, travelers directly fund coral restoration, and programs that protect marine life, local fisheries, and coastal communities. 



Every trip supports:

  • The restoration of climate-resilient coral colonies along the Hawaiian coast 
  • Ongoing research by local marine biologists
  • Education and training programs for the youth in West Hawaiʻi

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COST:

  • $22,000 for a private tour of up to 10 people.
  • 50% of the costs go directly to ʻĀkoʻakoʻa to fund their restoration work.
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What’s Included:

  • Expert-led coral nursery tour.
  • Private, guided boat expedition with ocean expert and cultural practitioner.
  • Sustainable breakfast snack and locally sourced lunch.
  • Snorkeling gear and safety briefing.

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ABOUT ʻĀkoʻakoʻa

Integrating culture and science for reef restoration.

The ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Coral Restoration Alliance unites Hawaiian cultural knowledge, community stewardship, and modern marine science to restore Hawaiʻi’s reefs. Built on the Hawaiian concept of ʻĀkoʻakoʻa, which means both to come together for a shared purpose, and for coral to assemble on the seafloor, is the foundation that fosters collaboration between scientists, cultural practitioners, and local communities. Through coral propagation, reef research, and youth education programs, it ensures that both the ocean and the people who depend on it thrive. Every initiative strengthens coastal resilience while inspiring lasting connection to Hawaiʻi’s ocean heritage.

Curious to learn more before you book?

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