Private Catamaran Charter in Waikiki (7-12 Guests)

A Practical Look at the Private Catamaran Charter in Waikiki

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed day out on the water while exploring the stunning coastline of Oahu, a private catamaran charter might just be the thing. This experience, offered by Sail Hawaiian Style Catamaran, is designed for groups of 7 to 12 guests, making it ideal for friends, family, or small gatherings who want a more personalized adventure.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility—you get to choose your preferred activities once onboard, whether that’s snorkeling, swimming, or simply cruising and soaking up the scenery. The second big plus? It’s a private experience, so you won’t be sharing your day with strangers, allowing for more intimate moments or lively group fun.

That said, one aspect worth considering is the cost—at $1,200 for up to 12 guests, it’s not exactly cheap, but when you break down the price per person, it can be quite reasonable, especially for a tailored outing. This experience is best suited for those who want a luxurious, customizable day on the water with friends or family and aren’t bothered by the need to organize their own food and drinks.

Key Points

• Private and customizable 2-hour adventure perfect for groups up to 12.
• Includes snorkeling gear and Bluetooth surround sound for your playlist.
• BYOB policy means you can bring your favorite snacks and drinks.
• Stunning views of Waikiki coast and opportunities to see marine life.
• Flexible options for snorkeling, swimming, or just sailing.
• Free parking available nearby, making logistics easier.

An Honest Dive into the Experience

When you first arrive at Sail Hawaiian Style’s meeting point at Ala Wai Boat Harbor, you’re greeted by a sleek 48-foot catamaran that looks built for stability and comfort. The low-profile design is not just stylish but practical — it helps keep the boat steady even if the waters get a little choppy, which is a plus for those prone to seasickness or just looking for a smooth ride.

The boat itself is quite spacious for its size. It offers two large lounging nets at the front that are perfect for sunbathing — trust me, there’s nothing quite like lying out on a net with the salty breeze and views of Diamond Head looming nearby. There are also four bean bag chairs, plus additional lounging nets on the back for those who prefer shade or a more seated lounging experience. The ample room for relaxing makes it clear that this isn’t a cramped boat; it’s designed for comfort.

What’s on the menu? Well, for a start, the boat features two coolers filled with ice, ready for your food and beverages, which you bring along. The eco-friendly stainless steel cups provided are a nice touch—they make for a more sustainable experience and make it easy to enjoy your drinks without waste. The Bluetooth surround sound system is another highlight, allowing you to set your own vibe—whether that’s relaxing tunes, a playlist of your favorite songs, or even some lively Caribbean beats.

The itinerary is flexible, which is what makes this tour stand out. The captain will ask you once onboard whether you’d like to snorkel with tropical fish and turtles, swim near Diamond Head in a more secluded spot, or just enjoy sailing along the coast to admire the scenery and look for marine life. If you’re the type who can’t get enough of the water, upgrading to the 4-hour option gives you a chance to hit all three spots—sounds like a pretty good deal for those wanting a fuller day.

Snorkeling and swimming spots

The snorkeling spot is renowned for its tropical fish and turtles, with all gear included, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own. The water near Diamond Head offers a more private swimming experience — perfect for floating around, taking pictures, or just cooling off. The sailing route along the coast provides breathtaking views of Waikiki and diamonds of marine life, if you’re lucky.

What the reviews say

While there aren’t any reviews yet on this specific tour, similar experiences from Sail Hawaiian Style have garnered positive comments about the crew’s friendliness and the boat’s stability. The fact that it’s USCG inspected gives some peace of mind. You might find that the ability to customize your route makes the experience feel more personal—no cookie-cutter tour here.

What’s not included?

The tour’s main catch is that food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring your own snacks or alcohol—yes, it’s BYOB. Towels, sunscreen, and gratuity are also on you, so plan ahead accordingly. Parking is straightforward, with free options nearby or paid parking for just $1/hr, which definitely helps with logistics.

Who is this tour ideal for?

This private catamaran experience is perfect if you’re traveling in a group with friends or family who appreciate a bit of flexibility and comfort. It’s especially suited if you enjoy water activities like snorkeling, or simply want a scenic cruise with good company. Keep in mind, it’s a more upscale experience for those willing to invest a bit more for a tailored day on the water.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

This private Waikiki catamaran tour offers a great balance of comfort, flexibility, and fun. The boat’s roomy, stable design, and the ability to customize your activities make it stand out among other group excursions. If your group is into snorkeling or just soaking up the sun with friends, you’ll find this experience provides everything you need—plus a few extras like Bluetooth sound and eco-friendly cups.

It’s a good choice for those wanting to avoid crowded tours and prefer a more intimate, personalized outing. The main consideration is price—if you’re looking for a budget-friendly activity, this might be on the higher end—but for groups who value privacy and customization, it’s a solid investment.

This experience is best for groups who want a relaxed, scenic, and flexible day on the water, and who are comfortable bringing their own food and drinks along for the ride.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children of any age are welcome onboard. However, they are included in the total guest count, so consider the age and activity level of your kids when booking.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Absolutely. The tour is BYOB, so you can bring snacks, beverages, and anything else you’d like to enjoy during your cruise.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, sunscreen, and your food and drinks of choice. The boat provides snorkeling gear, but it’s a good idea to have your own if you prefer.

Is parking easy to find?
Yes, there’s free parking alongside the lagoon or paid parking at $1/hr, making logistics straightforward.

How long in advance should I book?
Most people book about 53 days ahead, so it’s wise to secure your spot early, especially during peak seasons.

What routes are available?
You get to choose among snorkeling with tropical fish and turtles, swimming near Diamond Head, or sailing down the coast for sightseeing.

How customizable is the experience?
Very. The captain will ask for your preferences once onboard, and you can switch between activities, especially if you upgrade to the 4-hour tour.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after a private, flexible way to explore Waikiki’s waters with a friendly crew and options suited to your mood, this catamaran cruise could be just what you need. It’s a solid choice for groups wanting a personalized day full of sunshine, sea, and good company.