Today we headed to Kealakekua Bay for snorkelling in what they say is the most pristine spot in Hawaii. But to get there, we had an hours zodiac ride. Mum decided against going as her back and neck and shoulders were aching and didn't want to make them worse. A few others also stayed back. We were transferred to the zodiacs and off we headed. Our captain took us to a spot not too far away where there were Spinner Dolphins to check out before we zoomed off to the bay. Hoping to see a whale on the way but no such luck for us but one of the other zodiacs saw on.

Kealakekua Bay is where Captain Cook was killed so we were told the history of the area before we could jump in and head off snorkelling. Visibility was great and we got in the water before a big boat arrived and it got quite busy. Most people come here snorkelling by boat because there is no carpark just off the beach. It is quite a hike in and especially out. Lots of colourful fish but not so much colourful coral as I have seen elsewhere. They don't have a lot of soft coral here in the island chain.

We spent about 1.5hrs in the water, which went way too quickly. This bay was where the Royal Village would have been and these waters reserved for them. The commoners would have lived further away. The cliff face which has lots of lava tubes was also the burial place for royals. A commoner would volunteer to bury the royal and they had the choice of tunnels. After they buried the royal, they would jump to their death so the burial place remained a secret and their family would be raised to a higher status.

On the way back, we stopped at The Grotto, an underwater cavern and also the spot which is said to have the likeness of Goddess Pele. You could really see why they thought it was her. Apparently this area was used for Moana, the disney movie. Zoomed back to the boat and that adventure was over. Before long it was time for lunch and the briefing on what to expect for tonight's open ocean crossing. Didn't sound pleasant.

After lunch, we boarded the skiffs and headed into Kona. We had the choice of a historical walking tour, a paddle in a traditional Hawaiian canoe or do your own thing. Mum did the walking tour and said it was very interesting while I tried out the canoe. Great stabilisation. There was an offer to jump off and go swimming but the though of trying to get back in turned me off. Afterwards went for a small wander and bought too small prints before running into two of the guys and we went and grabbed a drink while we waited for the shuttle back to the boat.

Before dinner, we secured the cabin and made sure everything was put away. Due to noone staying up for midnight, we celebrated NYE on east coast time, 7pm our time. Had the Times Square Ball drop up on the screen and some bubbly to celebrate. A lovely dinner with new friends and then pretty much everyone headed up to bed between 8-9pm, having already taken sea sick medication.

What a great way to spend NYE