Waikiki Beach: Turtle Snorkeling and Sailing on Hwea

If you’re looking for a fun, laid-back way to connect with Hawaii’s ocean life, this Waikiki Turtle Snorkeling and Sailing Tour might be just what you need. Operated by Waikiki Sailing Company, it promises a relaxed cruise with a chance to see sea turtles up close and snorkel in clear waters. It’s a popular choice, with glowing reviews and a usually high rating, which makes it worth considering on your trip.

Two things we really like about this experience are the quality of the boat and the friendly, knowledgeable guides that many reviewers rave about. The fact that the boat is relatively new and custom-crafted adds a certain charm and comfort that’s hard to beat. Plus, the crew’s approachability and helpful attitude seem to make even first-time snorkelers feel at ease.

One potential drawback? The snorkeling area can get crowded with other boats, and some travelers note that it’s best to be comfortable with open-water swimming. If you’re nervous or not a confident swimmer, you might find the experience a bit overwhelming, especially since the tour is not suitable for non-swimmers. Also, the tour’s duration is just 2.5 hours, so if you’re craving an extended adventure, you might want to look elsewhere.

This tour suits those who want a short but sweet ocean adventure, especially if you appreciate friendly guides, scenic sailing, and the chance to see turtles—one of Hawaii’s most beloved marine creatures. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy relaxing, guided experiences and don’t mind sharing the water with others in a lively environment.

Key Points

• Comfortable, new catamaran offers a stable, safe platform for snorkeling and sailing.
• Guides receive high praise for their friendly, informative, and attentive service.
• The tour includes complimentary local cold brew and granola bars, perfect for starting your morning with a touch of aloha.
• Snorkeling with turtles and fish is the main highlight, with many reviewers noting successful sightings.
• The scenic sail along Waikiki’s coast adds a relaxing vibe and beautiful views.
• Some mention that the snorkeling area can be crowded, so it’s best for confident swimmers who enjoy social environments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

This tour offers a pretty solid blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a favorite among both first-timers and seasoned snorkelers. The boat itself, a hand-built 50-foot catamaran, is especially appealing. Built by the owner with a family legacy, the vessel is described as beautiful and new, with many reviews emphasizing its clean, stable, and luxurious feel. Being on a modern, well-maintained boat significantly enhances the comfort and safety of the trip.

The itinerary is straightforward. After meeting behind the Duke Kahanamoku Statue—right on Waikiki Beach—you’ll board the boat (or move to the pier during high tide for safety reasons), and set out for Turtle Canyon. The departure is usually in the morning, with times like 8:30 AM and 11:45 AM, which are perfect slots for a non-intrusive morning adventure.

Once underway, the crew starts with offering complimentary cold brew coffee from ARVO Café, served with an array of granola bars in various flavors. The cold brew customization options—like adding coconut or vanilla—are a thoughtful touch. Several reviews highlight how much guests appreciate these small details that elevate the experience beyond just snorkeling.

The sailing portion is just as inviting. Many travelers mention the stunning coastline views and the chance to sit back with a drink in hand—either the included cold brew or a curated selection of beers, seltzers, wine, or tropical cocktails available for purchase. If you’re into enjoying the scenery with a beverage, this tour hits the right notes.

Snorkeling at Turtle Canyon: A Close Encounter with Sea Turtles

The main attraction? Snorkeling with Hawaii’s famous green sea turtles. Many reviewers expressed delight at how close they got to these gentle creatures. “We saw many turtles,” says Leslie, and others comment on the variety of tropical fish and vibrant reef life. One guest even raved, “It was the best time and we saw so many turtles,” emphasizing how successful the snorkeling was.

The crew provides high-quality snorkeling gear, including masks, fins, and floatation belts, which many reviews find more comfortable than traditional vests. This thoughtful detail can make a noticeable difference, especially for those who are nervous about floating in open water. Many reviews mention the crew’s effort in helping less confident snorkelers or those experiencing seasickness—another point that makes this tour stand out.

While the waters can sometimes be congested due to other boats, many reviewers note that the guides are excellent about redirecting attention toward turtles or specific fish, ensuring you don’t miss the main sights. The underwater visibility is generally praised, with crystal-clear waters allowing for good viewing.

The Sailing Experience and Scenic Views

Beyond the snorkeling, the sailing aspect is highly valued for its relaxing vibe. Many reviewers mention the beautiful, modern boat and the smell of the ocean as the sails go up. The option to sail with no motor, just the wind, makes for a peaceful ride back along Waikiki’s coast. You’ll see Diamond Head and other iconic sights from the water, which elevates the entire experience.

The crew’s relaxed, friendly attitude helps create a casual, fun atmosphere. Guests often comment on how well the staff balance professionalism with a friendly, humorous approach, making it easy to unwind and enjoy the surroundings.

Food, Drinks, and Overall Value

The inclusion of complimentary cold brew and granola bars is a pleasant surprise and sets this tour apart from others that might just focus on snorkeling alone. It’s a nice way to fuel up before or after your swim.

For those wanting more than just the free drinks, there’s a curated selection of local beers, seltzers, wine, and tropical cocktails available for purchase. Many reviews highlight the quality of the drinks and how the beverage options complement the laid-back island vibe.

In terms of value, the $85 price point for this 2.5-hour experience seems reasonable, especially considering the new vessel, friendly guides, and the opportunity to see turtles and tropical fish in their natural habitat. The reviews consistently mention it’s worth the cost, with many saying they’d do it again or recommend it to friends.

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Practical Considerations

The tour is not suitable for non-swimmers, as snorkeling is a core part of the experience. If you’re nervous in open water or don’t swim well, this may not be the best fit. The group size appears to be manageable, and the guides are attentive, which helps ease any nerves.

You’ll want to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a towel, and your swimwear. The tour departs in the morning, making it a good choice for those wanting to beat the crowds or enjoy a cooler part of the day. Remember, the departure location can sometimes change due to high tides, so keep an eye out for updates if you’re staying nearby.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re visiting Waikiki and are eager to snorkel with sea turtles and enjoy a scenic sail along the coast, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate friendly guides, clean and comfortable boats, and the chance to see Hawaii’s marine life up close without a long commitment.

While it’s not ideal for non-swimmers or those seeking a lengthy multi-hour adventure, it’s perfect for a morning activity that combines relaxation, wildlife encounters, and beautiful scenery. Families with confident swimmers will enjoy it, as will couples and solo travelers who want a taste of Hawaiian ocean life.

This Waikiki snorkeling and sailing trip offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that balances comfort, scenic beauty, and marine encounters. The new, luxurious catamaran and friendly crew create a relaxed environment where you can focus on the fun and the views. The chance to swim alongside turtles and see vibrant reef life makes it a popular choice, especially if you’re keen on wildlife.

The tour is priced fairly, considering the quality of the boat and the guides’ attentive service. The inclusion of complimentary cold brew and the option to purchase tropical drinks adds a nice touch of island luxury. If you’re comfortable in open water and looking for a short, memorable adventure, this trip should definitely be on your list.

For those who prioritize good value, friendly service, and wildlife encounters, this tour hits the mark. Just keep in mind the timing and your comfort in open water, and you’ll likely come away with some fantastic memories and great photos.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, since snorkeling is a key part of the experience, it’s best suited for confident swimmers. Non-swimmers may find it difficult to enjoy the snorkeling sections.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The tour provides snorkeling equipment and flotation belts, but personal items like a waterproof camera or a hat could enhance your experience.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 2.5 hours, usually in the morning, making it a perfect short activity to fit into a busy day.

Can I enjoy drinks during the tour?
Yes, complimentary cold brew and granola bars are provided, and a selection of beers, seltzers, wine, and cocktails are available for purchase onboard.

Where do I meet the boat?
The boat departs from behind the Duke Kahanamoku Statue on Waikiki Beach. During high tide, the meeting point might be moved to Kewalo Basin Harbor for safety reasons.

Is there a limit on the number of guests?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest a manageable group size, with guides paying close attention to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

If you’re after a relaxed, friendly, and wildlife-rich ocean experience in Waikiki, this snorkeling and sailing tour offers a solid blend of fun and scenic beauty, all in a comfortable setting. It’s a good choice for first-time snorkelers and seasoned water lovers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: