Waikiki Catamaran Escape: Snorkel with Turtles & Water Sports Fun

Taking to the waters of Waikiki on a luxury catamaran for this 3-hour tour offers a lively mix of wildlife encounters and water sports. Priced at $120.69 per person, the Waikiki Catamaran Escape provides a well-rounded adventure filled with snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sea scooter rides. This tour is notable for its passionate and knowledgeable crew, who excel at making every moment memorable, especially with their focus on safety and fun.

The tour departs from 1125E Ala Moana Blvd in Honolulu, with pickup included, making logistics straightforward. The group size is kept to a maximum of 35 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. The average booking window is around 21 days in advance, highlighting its popularity among visitors seeking a structured yet relaxed water excursion. While the tour is suitable for most with moderate physical fitness, young children under 2 years old can join free if accompanied by an adult.

Key Points

• Luxury catamaran experience with comfortable seating and amenities
• Snorkeling at Turtle Canyon, with frequent sightings of sea turtles and sometimes dolphins, whales, and seasonal whales
• Multiple water activities including paddleboarding, kayaking, and sea scooter riding
• Includes snorkeling gear, snacks, drinks, and restrooms on board
• Pickup and drop-off from Waikiki make logistics hassle-free
• Highly rated 5.0/5 based on 141 reviews, with 95% recommending

Set out on a Luxury Catamaran Tour in Waikiki

The tour begins at 11:30 am from 1125E Ala Moana Blvd, where a 45-seat luxury catamaran awaits. This vessel provides a smooth ride across Waikiki’s famous waters, offering stunning views of the diamond backdrop and the expansive ocean. The watercraft is designed to comfortably accommodate up to 35 guests, ensuring a relaxed, unrushed experience.

Passengers are greeted with water, coffee, tea, snacks, and muffins, setting a welcoming tone. The water sports are available throughout the trip, giving everyone a chance to jump into the water or try paddleboarding with the guidance of the crew. The sea scooters are a particular highlight, adding a fun twist to exploring underwater life.

Water Sports Activities in the Middle of Waikiki Waters

This tour’s 6-in-1 Deluxe Turtle Snorkel Package is what sets it apart, combining snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, sea scooter riding, and diving into one all-encompassing experience. Guests can enjoy exploring Waikiki’s Turtle Canyon, renowned for sea turtle sightings and vibrant marine life.

The crew actively encourages exploration, with many guests taking advantage of the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. They also assist with water sports, making sure everyone feels comfortable, regardless of swimming experience. Snorkeling gear is included, and the crew often takes GoPro photos and videos to capture these moments.

Wildlife Encounters: Turtles, Dolphins, and Whales

One of the main highlights of this tour is the chance to see sea turtles close up in their natural habitat. The crew prioritizes educating guests on how to interact respectfully with wildlife, emphasizing not touching the turtles but allowing for in-water observation.

In season, dolphins and whales are sometimes spotted swimming past the boat, adding extra excitement. The seasonal whale watching is an appreciated bonus, with some reviews mentioning dolphin sightings as well. The crew is attentive to sea conditions, providing chews for motion sickness and ensuring everyone stays safe and comfortable.

The Crew’s Expertise and Friendly Service

Multiple reviews praise the crew members, especially highlighting their friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive nature. Guides like Dustin, Justin, and others go above and beyond, taking photos for guests and making sure everyone gets the most out of their water adventure.

Guests note that the crew is particularly accommodating, even if participants are not confident swimmers. The crew’s focus on safety, including life vests and continuous water checks, helps create a secure environment for all ages.

Practical Information and Onboard Comforts

This tour includes use of snorkeling equipment, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks. You also find hot and cold water, coffee, tea, Tang, and cup noodles onboard. There are two restrooms on the vessel, which adds to the comfort during the 3-hour trip.

The pickup service from Waikiki ensures guests don’t need to worry about transportation, and the meeting point at Ala Moana Blvd is accessible via public transportation. A moderate physical fitness level is recommended, but children under 2 can join for free, provided they are with an adult.

The Experience’s Pacing and Atmosphere

The sailing pace is generally smooth, though some reviews mention rougher sea conditions on certain days. The crew is attentive, especially during sea sickness, and offers helpful remedies, such as chewable motion sickness tablets.

Guests praise the friendly and fun atmosphere onboard, created by guides who often let guests choose music and engage actively in water activities. Despite some comments about loud captain shouting, most find the experience relaxing and enjoyable, especially given the beautiful ocean backdrop.

Photos and Memories: Capturing the Best Moments

A key part of the tour is the opportunity to capture stunning photos of sea turtles, dolphins, and the blue waters of Waikiki. The crew frequently takes photos and videos, especially during snorkeling and sea scooter rides.

Guests recommend bringing sunscreen and protecting phones or GoPro cameras if planning to take underwater shots. The crew’s enthusiasm and willingness to help make it easy to get great photos even for beginners.

Considerations and Tips for Booking

Advance booking is recommended, with most reservations made about three weeks ahead. While cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, last-minute cancellations are not refundable. It’s advisable to prepare for sea conditions, especially if prone to motion sickness.

The tour operates in good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, guests are offered a reschedule or full refund. The group size and friendly atmosphere mean that everyone can enjoy the water without feeling crowded.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Waikiki

This catamaran tour combines luxury, wildlife viewing, and water sports, making it ideal for those looking for a comprehensive ocean experience. The passionate crew, especially guides like Dustin and Justin, ensure every guest feels cared for and engaged.

The opportunity to swim with sea turtles and try various water activities all in one trip offers great value for money. With strong reviews praising its organization, friendly staff, and memorable wildlife encounters, this tour is a top choice for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum age for water activities?
Children under 2 years old can join for free if accompanied by an adult. Water activities are suitable for most with moderate physical fitness, but young children should be supervised closely.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests are recommended to bring sunscreen, waterproof phones or cameras, and sea sickness medication if prone to motion sickness. Snorkeling gear and life vests are provided.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Yes, seasonal whale watching is possible, and whales are sometimes seen swimming past the boat during the trip.

What are the food and drink options?
The tour provides hot and cold water, tea, coffee, Tang, muffins, and cup noodles. Additional snacks are also included.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with plenty of time for water sports and wildlife observation.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, making it convenient for guests staying in Waikiki.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, guests are offered a rescheduling or full refund.

How many people typically join?
The maximum group size is 35 travelers, ensuring a friendly and manageable environment.

Are photos included?
While the tour crew often takes photos and videos, GoPro rentals are available for $40+tax if guests wish to rent their own.

Why do reviews highly praise the crew?
Guests consistently mention the crew’s knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness, which greatly enhance the overall experience.

Is it suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, the crew assists non-swimmers, and life vests are available for all water activities, making it accessible for everyone.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its combination of luxury sailing, wildlife encounters, and multiple water sports in a single 3-hour trip offers versatile fun with attentive service.

This Waikiki Catamaran Escape offers a well-balanced, engaging ocean adventure that appeals to wildlife enthusiasts, water sport lovers, and those simply seeking a peaceful yet exciting way to enjoy Waikiki’s waters. The strong crew, clear safety protocols, and spectacular marine life sightings make it a memorable and worthwhile addition to any Hawaii itinerary.