Waikiki: Turtle Snorkeling Cruise with 20ft Jumping Platform

If you’re dreaming of swimming alongside Hawaiian green turtles and exploring vibrant coral reefs, this Waikiki turtle snorkeling tour might catch your eye. It offers a chance to see Hawaii’s iconic marine creatures in their natural habitat, all while cruising on a comfortable catamaran with scenic views of Oahu’s coastline. The experience is designed for a wide range of travelers — from snorkeling novices to seasoned swimmers — and includes some fun extras like a 20-foot jumping platform.

What we really like about this tour is that it combines relaxing ocean views with the thrill of jumping into clear waters, plus the convenience of included amenities like snorkeling gear and light snacks. Another bonus? The opportunity to enjoy a cruise experience that doesn’t just focus on snorkeling but also offers panoramic scenery and a laid-back vibe. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that marine life sightings, including turtles, cannot be guaranteed — a common limitation in wildlife excursions. That said, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a casual and scenic ocean outing, with a good chance of seeing Hawaii’s turtles but without the pressure of a hardcore diving experience.

Key Points

• Includes a 3-hour cruise with opportunities for snorkeling and jumping
• Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced swimmers
• Snacks, water, and juice are provided, but you can bring your own food or drinks
• Marine life sightings aren’t guaranteed, so patience and a bit of luck help
• Opportunity to jump from a 20ft platform adds thrill and fun
• Pickup and drop-off within Waikiki make logistics easier

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This three-hour adventure starts with a brief safety and orientation session on the catamaran — nothing complicated, just enough to get everyone comfortable. Once out on the water, you’ll cruise along the coast of Oahu, enjoying the views of the shoreline and marine environment. The boat’s multi-level decks provide great spots for relaxing, snapping photos, or just soaking in the scenery while sipping on included beverages.

Snorkeling and Marine Life Encounters

The main highlight is, of course, swimming with sea turtles in their natural habitat. The guides will take you to the best snorkeling spots where turtles are commonly seen, along with tropical fish and vibrant coral formations. However, reviews remind us that there’s no certainty of seeing turtles, which is worth considering if this is a must-see for your trip. One traveler expressed some disappointment: “The snorkeling was good but we didn’t see any turtles… and that was the goal of the activity.”

For those who prefer to stay dry, or simply want a break from swimming, there’s the option to stay on board, enjoy the scenery, and relax with a cold drink or snack. It’s a nice way to experience the ocean without the physical effort, especially if you’re traveling with children or less confident swimmers.

Jumping Platform and Additional Fun

A unique feature of this tour is the 20-foot jumping platform. For thrill-seekers, this is a fantastic addition — imagine flying through the air and making a splash into the blue water. It’s a fun, adrenaline-pumping activity that adds an extra layer to your day on the water. Plus, the boat’s spacious decks are perfect for capturing those memorable leaps and panoramic shots of Hawaii’s coastline.

The Cruise Itinerary in Detail

While the exact schedule can vary depending on weather and sea conditions, the general flow includes:

• Pickup and check-in: Usually at the designated harbor location, with check-in 30 minutes ahead of departure.
• Safety briefing: Guides go over snorkeling basics, safety rules, and boat etiquette.
• Ocean cruise: The boat departs, offering stunning views of Oahu’s coast while you relax on the decks.
• Snorkeling stops: The guides navigate to the best locations to find turtles and colorful marine life. You’ll have time to snorkel freely, guided by staff if needed.
• Jumping platform: When conditions are right, you’ll have the chance to leap from the 20ft platform.
• Refreshments: Light snacks, water, and juice are served during the cruise, giving you energy for the water or just a chance to unwind.
• Return: The boat heads back to the harbor, with plenty of opportunities for photos and reflection on the day’s highlights.

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The Practical Side: What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour fee of $89 per person offers decent value, considering the inclusions. You get snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and refreshments, plus transportation to and from your Waikiki hotel — a big help for those who prefer hassle-free logistics. The boat is equipped with two restrooms, which is appreciated on a 3-hour outing.

If you’re planning to participate, remember to bring:

• Swimwear and a change of clothes for after your water time
• A towel for drying off
• Sunscreen to protect your skin from Hawaii’s strong sun
• Any food or drinks you’d like to have besides what’s provided

It’s also wise to arrive 10 minutes early for pickup, and check the location details carefully. If you miss the shuttle, you can head directly to the harbor, where you’ll find clear signage and parking nearby.

The Realities of the Experience

Reviews paint a mixed picture, which is typical for wildlife tours. Several travelers point out that marine life sightings aren’t guaranteed, and patience is key. One traveler from Belgium noted, “The snorkeling was good but we didn’t see any turtles… it’s a shame.” Others expressed disappointment with the overall experience, citing boredom or issues with staff. For instance, a review from Slovakia called it “the worst activity ever,” while another from the US mentioned a rude captain, especially with kids.

On the flip side, many enjoy the scenic cruise and the chance to relax and enjoy Hawaii’s coastline. The views from the boat are often praised — a relaxed, picturesque setting that’s perfect for social media photos or simply soaking in the surroundings.

The jumping platform is a big hit among thrill-seekers, adding a memorable and exciting element that elevates this experience beyond a typical snorkeling trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a leisurely day on the water with some fun added. If your main goal is to see turtles, keep in mind that sightings are not guaranteed but are quite common. For those who enjoy scenic boat rides, a bit of adventure, and casual snorkeling, this is a good fit.

It’s also well-suited for people who prefer an all-in-one package that covers transportation, equipment, and refreshments — no need to worry about bringing a lot of gear or planning extra meals. If you’re traveling with kids who can handle a boat ride and are comfortable in the water, they’ll likely enjoy the jumping platform and the chance to see marine life.

However, if you’re particularly eager to see turtles and are okay with paying for a more specialized tour or are highly experienced snorkelers, you might want to explore other options. Similarly, if weather conditions are poor and marine activities are canceled, your experience could be less engaging.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this Waikiki turtle snorkeling cruise offers a relaxing and scenic way to spend part of your Hawaiian vacation. While the chance of turtle sightings isn’t guaranteed, the gorgeous setting, opportunity to jump from a 20ft platform, and included amenities make it a solid choice for casual ocean lovers.

If you’re after a laid-back day with good views and light adventure, this tour fits the bill. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate comfort and convenience and aren’t overly concerned if wildlife encounters don’t go as planned.

On the other hand, if you’re highly focused on guaranteed wildlife sightings or want a more active, in-depth snorkeling experience, you might consider other options. Always consider your own interests and what kind of day you want to have in Hawaii.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off within Waikiki, making logistics straightforward. Just arrive 10 minutes early.

Can I participate if I’m not a strong swimmer?
Absolutely. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, and snorkeling equipment plus life jackets are provided.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour operates weather permitting. If conditions are unsafe, certain activities like paddle-boards and kayaks may be canceled, but the cruise itself might still run.

Are children allowed?
Children under 3 can come along for free if accompanied by an adult, but they cannot participate in the activities for safety reasons.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and any food or drinks you prefer. Snacks and beverages are available on board.

Is the jumping platform safe?
While the tour includes a 20-foot jumping platform, always use caution and follow instructions from guides. It’s a fun addition for those comfortable with jumping into the water.

All in all, this tour offers a decent mix of relaxation, scenic views, and a splash of adventure. Whether it’s your first time in Hawaii or a return visit, it’s a way to enjoy the ocean with minimal fuss and maximum scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: