Exploring Kona with Dinogo | Hawaii

We touched down in Kona around 9 am, allowing us to enjoy a leisurely morning aboard the boat. A standout feature for our family was the Lido deck, a buffet and dining area that stretches across almost the entire deck. With both indoor and outdoor dining options available, it was self-serve. Each meal became a delightful adventure for the boys as they sampled various foods. We savored our breakfast outside, taking in the sights of boats navigating the harbor.

Today was the day of our helicopter adventure booked through Dinogo On Shore Excursions. Each island offers a plethora of activities, and exploring the On Shore Excursions is definitely worthwhile if you have a specific experience in mind. Hawaii, known as the Big Island, is the largest of the Hawaiian islands. Since we've visited Kona previously, we aimed to maximize our time and see as much as we could. We thought there was no better way to explore the island than from the sky!

Upon our arrival at the dock, the shuttle for the helicopter was already there, waiting for us. They had a weigh-in, which was quite amusing since everyone had to step on the scale. There's nothing quite as awkward as lining up alone in front of strangers to get weighed 🙂 The ride to the helicopter facility takes about 45 minutes, during which you pass by extensive dry lava fields.

The Big Island is bursting with diverse landscapes. It's the only island that experiences snowfall, allowing you to surf in the morning and snowboard by evening. As you drive around, you'll encounter beaches, forests, deserts, mountains, jungles, and lava fields. The breathtaking views here are truly unique, set against an island in the middle of the ocean! Fun fact: the Big Island is the youngest of the Hawaiian Islands and is formed from five volcanoes, one of which, Kilauea, remains active.

Stepping onto the helicopter brought back childhood excitement, filling me with that nervous thrill of trying something new. Ira and Tama were absolutely adorable, their faces a mix of curiosity and eagerness for this new adventure, showcasing a whirlwind of emotions! Our pilot, Merl, made the experience enjoyable for the kids by incorporating fun guessing games through the headsets they wore.

Soaring above Hawaii in a helicopter offers a breathtaking view of this stunning island. We began our journey flying over the ridges of Pololu Valley, where waterfalls cascaded everywhere. Merl then guided us along the coastline, revealing dozens of waterfalls spilling into the ocean. With clear skies, we enjoyed uninterrupted views down the coast to where the island meets the horizon. Our adventure continued to Waimea Valley, passing a WWII plane wreck nestled in the jungle below. We were absolutely thrilled to share this experience together!

After returning to the harbor with a few hours to spare, we took the kids for some refreshing natural shave ice and strolled along the strip in Kona. There are plenty of charming little shops to explore. Many restaurants in Kona are right by the ocean, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with an unforgettable view. We also stopped by the farmers market to sample some local produce. Kona is a delightful town, perfect for shopping, grabbing a bite, or simply wandering the strip!

On the Boat:

For the Kids:

The boat set sail at 5, which felt quite early, so we asked the kids what they wanted to do. To our surprise, they chose to return to Camp Ocean before dinner. We allowed them an hour there, and when we picked them up, they were bursting with excitement because Tama had won a little trophy for creating the best necklace! It was heartwarming to see how proud both boys were of his achievement.

For Us:

While the kids enjoyed the Ocean Club, we opted to revisit the spa since we couldn’t get enough of it! I playfully convinced Shem to treat himself to a pedicure to remove the mud stains from his Kauai hike. I indulged in a rejuvenating body scrub that felt absolutely divine. If only we could experience this every day! The cruise spa is incredible, and the staff make it a wonderfully relaxing and enjoyable experience!

Note: The available onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining choices may differ by ship and destination.