Waikiki 2 Tank World Class Wreck SCUBA Diving – Certified Only

If you’re thinking about taking your scuba skills to the next level with a two-tank adventure off Waikiki, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. It’s designed specifically for certified divers who want to see some of Oahu’s best underwater sights—shipwrecks and vibrant reefs—guided by experienced professionals.

What we really love about this experience is how well-organized and safety-focused it appears, with a professional team that seems genuinely dedicated to making sure everyone feels comfortable and secure. Plus, the chance to explore historic wrecks like the Sea Tiger or YO-257 is pretty exciting, especially if you’re a wreck enthusiast.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is that this tour is strictly for certified divers — no exceptions. So, if you’re new to diving, you’d need to look for other options. Also, it’s a bit on the pricier side at $229 per person, but considering the quality of equipment and guides, many find it worth the cost. This tour suits divers with Intermediate to Advanced experience, those comfortable at depths of around 100 feet, and anyone eager for a memorable marine adventure.

Key Points

• Certified Divers Only: You must have advanced open water or equivalent certification to join the wreck or night dives.
• All Equipment Provided: No need to worry about bringing gear; everything is included, making the experience more seamless.
• Marine Encounters: Expect sightings of turtles, sharks, eels, and more, with knowledgeable guides pointing out marine life along the way.
• Safety & Professionalism: The dive team is experienced and safety-conscious, with a good safety record since 1979.
• Early Start & Duration: Check-in is early at 6:30am, and the tour runs approximately 5 hours, including surface intervals.
• Group Size & Private Options: Groups are limited to 16, with private instructor options available for a more tailored experience.

If you’re a diver with a bit of experience under your belt, this tour offers a pretty compelling way to spend the morning (or part of your day) exploring the waters around Waikiki. What makes this experience stand out is the combination of wreck exploration and reef snorkeling, providing variety and a chance to see a range of marine life in different environments.

The Itinerary Breakdown

You’ll start your day early, meeting at the Waikiki Dive Center at 424 Niu St. The check-in process is straightforward, with a firm emphasis on safety and certification verification. Arriving by 6:30am is recommended—so be prepared for an early start if you want to maximize your time in the water. If you’re running late, you risk losing your spot, as check-in closes at 6:45am.

Once aboard the boat, it’s roughly a 5-hour adventure that includes two dives. The first stop is at a shipwreck — either the Sea Tiger, YO-257, or San Pedro — depending on conditions and your group. These wrecks are the main highlight, especially for anyone interested in maritime history or marine life thriving on submerged structures. Several reviewers mention the wrecks as “amazing to see,” with one describing the Sea Tiger as “pretty awesome.”

You’ll have the chance to explore the wreck, with guides leading the way and pointing out marine residents, including turtles, sharks, eels, and a variety of colorful fish. The shipwrecks are usually at around 100 feet deep, so your Advanced Open Water or equivalent certification is needed to access the wrecks comfortably.

Following the wreck exploration, you’ll enjoy a surface interval—time to relax, hydrate, and take in the stunning views of Waikiki from the water. After that, it’s time for the second dive, which takes place at a nearby reef. Here, the focus shifts to reef life—fish, sea urchins, octopuses, and occasionally sea turtles—offering a different underwater landscape and more opportunities for marine spotting.

The Experience & the Guides

Many reviews emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. They are knowledgeable about the local marine environment, which makes a big difference when you’re trying to spot elusive creatures or understand the significance of what you’re seeing. For instance, one diver mentioned that the divemasters “know the area well and what to look out for,” which enhances the entire experience.

Guides also take care of all gear and safety, so you can just focus on enjoying the underwater spectacle. The equipment is highlighted as “excellent,” and many reviewers feel totally safe and well-prepared, even if they’re diving at deeper levels or exploring wrecks for the first time.

What You’ll See

Marine life here is plentiful, with turtles, sharks, moray eels, and a variety of colorful tropical fish. One reviewer said, “We saw a shark, sea turtles, and eels,” describing it as “great sites.” The wrecks also attract marine residents, and several reviewers noted how lively and vibrant the wrecks are.

Because the tour is run by licensed, insured professionals, you’re in good hands, and the focus on conservation and safety means everyone sticks close to the guides. This makes the experience not only fun but responsible.

Value for Money

At $229 per person, the cost includes all necessary equipment, snacks, bottled water, and the expertise of guides. Compared to other activities in Waikiki, this is quite reasonable when you consider the quality of the experience, the safety record, and the marine encounters. Many reviewers call it “worth every penny,” especially for the chance to see such diverse marine life and historic wrecks.

Practical Tips

• Certification is a must for wreck and reef dives; no exceptions.
• Arrive early for check-in—be there by 6:30am to avoid last-minute stress.
• No dive and fly within 18 hours—plan your schedule accordingly.
• Medical conditions such as asthma or heart issues should be discussed with your doctor beforehand.
• Private guides are available for those seeking a more personalized experience—extra cost applies.
• Group size is capped at 16, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

What Could Be Improved?

While the experience is generally very positive, the fact that guides don’t assist with gear setup or remind you to check your comfort level might be worth noting. Some experienced divers appreciated that it pushes them to be more self-sufficient, but novices might prefer more hands-on help.

The tour is also not suitable for non-certified divers, so if you’re new to diving, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Also, it’s a day-long commitment, so if you have limited time or prefer a shorter activity, this might not fit your schedule.

Who Should Book This?

This tour is best suited for experienced divers with advanced certification who want to explore wrecks and reefs with knowledgeable guides. It’s ideal for those who enjoy marine encounters, history, and underwater exploration. If you’re traveling with friends or family who aren’t certified, they’d need to find other activities, as this tour requires certification and a certain level of comfort diving to those depths.

It’s also a good choice for those seeking high-quality equipment and a safety-focused environment, especially if you’re looking for a day with memorable marine sights and interesting wrecks. It’s not aimed at beginner divers or snorkelers, but if you fit the experience level, it’s a highly recommended way to see Waikiki’s underwater treasures.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, all required scuba equipment is included in the tour, so you just need to show up prepared to enjoy your dive.

Can I book this if I’m a beginner diver?
No, this tour is only for certified divers, specifically those with advanced open water certification or equivalent experience.

What’s the maximum depth I’ll go to?
You’ll be diving around 100 feet deep at the wrecks, so you need to be comfortable with that depth and have the proper certification.

Is there a refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

How early should I arrive?
Please arrive by 6:30am for check-in, with a grace period until 6:45am. Late arrivals may be considered no-shows and forfeit their booking.

Are private guides available?
Yes, private instructor options are available at an additional cost, perfect if you want a more customized experience or to dive with your own group.

Are there any health restrictions?
You’ll need to complete a health questionnaire and discuss any pre-existing medical conditions with your doctor. Diving within 18 hours of flying is not recommended.

Final Thoughts

If you’re an experienced diver eager to see wrecks and reefs around Waikiki with professional guides, this tour offers an excellent combination of safety, marine life, and historical interest. The all-included setup, knowledgeable crew, and lively marine environment make it a worthwhile splurge for those looking for a quality diving day.

While it’s not suited for beginners or non-certified divers, for intermediate and advanced divers, it provides a memorable, well-organized underwater adventure. The honest reviews show consistent appreciation for the professionalism of guides, the diversity of marine life, and the chance to explore shipwrecks that are both beautiful and historically significant.

For anyone comfortable at depth and keen to explore Waikiki’s underwater world, this two-tank tour is a strong contender. Just plan ahead, arrive early, and prepare to enjoy a true marine adventure that many say exceeds expectations.

Ready to jump into the water and see what’s beneath Waikiki’s surface? This tour offers one of the best ways to experience the islands’ underwater magic, with safety and fun at the forefront.