Hi, I will be on the Big Island for a week in October and are considering taking a whale watching trip. I know that it's not the right season for humpback whales, but I read that several species are year-round. Has anyone ever done such a trip in October? Do you know what chances are that you might actually get to see whales? And anyone knows a good outfitter (I read about Dan - www.ilovewhales.com)?

Another thing we would like to do is a Manta night dive near Kona. Does anyone have a good suggestion for a reliable diving operator? And is October a good season for doing this?

Thanks so much for your reply, also for my previously asked questions. All replies were really helpful!

Any manta dive out of Kona will be great. There aren't too many to chose from and all are good. We do see whales in Maui that early so it's not out of the question.