Waikiki Catamaran Adventure: Snorkel with Sea Turtles

Discover the Waikiki Catamaran Adventure: Snorkel with Sea Turtles for $108.62

The Waikiki Catamaran Adventure offers an exciting 3-hour snorkeling trip departing from Kewalo Harbor in Oahu, USA. For $108.62 per person, this tour promises a chance to swim alongside green sea turtles at Turtle Canyon, with guaranteed sightings. If no turtles are seen, guests receive a free second cruise—a strong testament to the confidence in sightings.

This tour is well-loved, with a 4.5-star rating from over 2,000 reviews, and a recommendation rate of 91%. It is ideal for those eager to explore marine life in a relaxed setting while enjoying spectacular views of Waikiki and Diamond Head. The tour includes snacks, drinks, and snorkel gear, with options to add hotel pickup for added convenience.

While the midday tour features a lunch and two alcoholic drinks, the morning option offers unlimited soft drinks. The tour’s popularity is reflected in its average booking window of 35 days in advance, so early reservations are recommended.

Key Points

• Guaranteed sea turtle sightings at Turtle Canyon, with free re-rides if none are seen
• 3-hour catamaran tour departing from Kewalo Harbor with stunning views of Waikiki and Diamond Head
• Includes snorkel gear, snacks, and two alcoholic drinks for midday tours
• Optional hotel pickup available, making logistics easier
• A perfect choice for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike, with friendly guides and a spacious boat
• Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility

Departing from Kewalo Harbor for a Scenic Sail Along Waikiki

The tour begins at Hawaii Nautical’s meeting point at Kewalo Harbor, a central location in Honolulu. From here, the power catamaran sets sail along the Waikiki coastline, offering a chance to enjoy panoramic ocean views before reaching Turtle Canyon. The boat’s spacious design and casual barefoot cruise create a relaxed atmosphere.

Guests appreciate the near proximity to public transportation, which makes the start convenient. The group size, limited to 80 travelers, ensures a comfortable experience with enough space on the boat for everyone to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Exploring Turtle Canyon: A Natural Turtle Cleaning Station

Turtle Canyon is the highlight of the trip. Known as a natural turtle cleaning station, this spot sees green sea turtles coming above the reef. The reef is also home to colorful reef fish that come to clean the turtles, providing an engaging underwater spectacle.

Turtle sightings are almost always guaranteed, and if none are observed, the tour offers a free re-ride, making this experience particularly reliable. The admission to Turtle Canyon is free, but the boat ride itself is what makes the visit special.

While the crowded waters can sometimes lead to less peaceful snorkeling, the overall experience remains highly positive due to friendly staff and plenty of marine life.

Snorkeling: Encounters with Sea Turtles and Marine Fish

Snorkeling at Turtle Canyon typically involves swimming with green sea turtles near the reef. The tour provides high-quality snorkel gear, and guides are on hand to assist newcomers.

Reviews often mention the abundance of fish and the excitement of seeing a sea turtle swimming at the surface. Some guests also report passing dolphins or migrating whales during the cruise, adding to the marine wildlife encounters.

Crowded conditions in the snorkeling areas have been noted, with some mentioning less space to spread out, but overall, the diversity of marine life and the chance to swim with turtles make it worthwhile.

From the Ocean: Views of Waikiki and Diamond Head

One of the tour’s highlights is the spectacular scenery from the deck of the catamaran. Guests enjoy viewing the Waikiki coastline from the water, with the iconic Diamond Head visible in the background.

This perspective provides a peaceful, panoramic view of Honolulu’s beaches and skyline, making the trip a visual treat beyond the underwater adventures. The spaciousness of the boat and the calmness of the ocean enhance the experience of soaking in the scenery comfortably.

Food, Drinks, and Refreshments on the Tour

The midday tour offers lunch, which includes Turkey pesto wraps and chip bags. Special vegetarian or gluten-free options can be requested 48 hours in advance. Guests also receive two alcoholic drinks and unlimited nonalcoholic beverages throughout the trip, keeping everyone refreshed.

For the 8 am snack-only tour, guests enjoy snacks but no lunch, making it a quicker option. Both tours ensure refreshments are abundant, with helpful staff ensuring everyone stays hydrated and satisfied.

Optional Hotel Pickup and Additional Convenience

While the meeting point at Hawaii Nautical is easy to access, an upgrade that includes hotel transportation is available for those seeking extra convenience. This service takes the hassle out of logistics, especially for visitors staying farther from the harbor.

This flexibility makes the tour more appealing, particularly for travelers who prefer a seamless experience without worrying about transportation to and from the boat.

Professional Guides and Crew: Making the Experience Special

The crew and guides on this tour receive high praise for their friendly, helpful, and entertaining approach. They explain marine life, assist with snorkeling, and keep the mood lively throughout the trip.

Guests frequently mention that the staff makes the experience fun and safe, especially for first-time snorkelers who may be a little apprehensive. The knowledgeable guides help maximize the chances of spotting turtles and marine creatures, adding an educational touch to the adventure.

The Boat: Spacious, Safe, and Comfortable

The catamaran used for this tour is described as very nice and spacious, providing ample room for guests to relax. The vessel is designed for barefoot cruising, maintaining a casual, comfortable environment.

Guests appreciate the cleanliness and safety standards, with some noting the boat was not crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience. The boat’s stability and friendly atmosphere contribute to overall enjoyment.

The Experience’s Strengths and Limitations

The main strength of this tour is the guaranteed turtle sightings, combined with the stunning views and friendly staff. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and snorkel gear adds to the value, especially considering the price point.

However, some reviews point out crowded snorkeling conditions, which can compromise the sense of tranquility. Plus, the cancellation policy requires booking at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or rescheduled.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This snorkeling adventure suits families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a relaxed marine experience. The guaranteed turtle sightings and friendly crew make it a safe choice for first-time snorkelers and those eager to explore Hawaii’s marine life.

The midday tour with lunch is perfect for those who want a fuller experience, while the morning soft-drink option appeals to travelers seeking a shorter, quick trip. The optional hotel pickup enhances convenience for visitors staying in Waikiki.

The Waikiki Catamaran Adventure offers a well-rounded experience with guaranteed turtle encounters, scenic ocean views, and friendly staff. Its value for money, combined with beautiful scenery and marine wildlife, makes it one of the more popular tours in Oahu.

While some crowding during snorkeling can be a concern, the overall vibe remains enjoyable, especially for those interested in swimming with turtles and dolphins. The tour’s flexibility, including free re-rides if no turtles are seen, underscores its confidence in delivering a satisfying experience.

This tour is an excellent choice for beginners, families, and marine life enthusiasts alike, offering a memorable ocean adventure with stunning scenery and lively marine encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes snorkel gear, snacks, two alcoholic drinks (midday tour), unlimited nonalcoholic drinks, and all taxes, fuel, and fees.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, there is an option to include transportation to and from hotel for added convenience, though the meeting point at Hawaii Nautical is also accessible.

What happens if no turtles are seen?
The tour guarantees turtle sightings, and if none are observed, you will receive a free re-ride to try again.

How long is the tour?
The standard midday tour lasts approximately 3 hours, while the 8 am tour is about 2 hours with snacks only.

Are there any age restrictions for alcohol?
Yes, guests must be 21 years or older to consume alcoholic drinks on the tour.

What should I wear?
Guests are advised to go barefoot on the boat, with shoes kept at the pier, and to bring sunscreen, swimwear, and towels for snorkeling.