Private Turtle Snorkel & Cruise Waikiki

Exploring the Private Turtle Snorkel & Cruise Waikiki: A Truly Personalized Ocean Adventure

If you’re considering a boat trip that offers both a peaceful escape from the busy crowds and a chance to see some of Oahu’s stunning underwater life, this private snorkel and cruise experience might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, I’ve come across quite a few reviews and details that paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

What really catches our eye about this tour is its exclusivity—up to six guests, which means you get a tailored experience with plenty of chances to ask questions, relax, and truly enjoy the scenery. Plus, the flexibility to choose your destination, whether it’s Turtle Canyon, a shipwreck, or whale watching in season, makes it a versatile option.

Of course, it’s important to mention that at a price of $675 per person, this isn’t the cheapest way to snorkel in Hawaii. But considering it’s a private tour, with all gear included, plus a knowledgeable crew, many find it offers good value, especially if you’re after a more intimate experience.

This tour tends to be best suited for travelers who crave a personalized, relaxed outing, prefer avoiding the crowds, and are comfortable spending about an hour and 40 minutes on a boat. If you’re traveling with a small group or family and want a flexible, high-quality experience, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group on the boat, with the freedom to decide where to snorkel.
• Wildlife Encounters: Turtles, reef fish, eels, rays, and in season, humpback whales.
• All-Inclusive: Snorkel gear, flotation vests, and drinks are provided, making it hassle-free.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable crew who know the best spots and marine life behaviors.
• Flexible Destinations: Options include Turtle Canyon, shipwrecks, or seasonal whale watching.
• Limited Space: Only up to six guests, ensuring comfort and personalized attention.

What to Expect: An Honest Breakdown of the Experience

Setting Out from Waikiki

The tour begins at Hawaiian Parasail conveniently located near public transportation. From here, your small group will board a comfortable boat, and with only six spots available, you’ll immediately notice how this setup emphasizes a personal touch. The boat ride itself is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy the ocean breeze, soak up the sun, and prepare for your underwater adventure.

Choosing Your Snorkel Sites

One of the biggest perks of this tour is its flexibility. The crew will assess ocean conditions and help you pick the best spots for the day. Common options include Turtle Canyon, famed for the Hawaiian green sea turtles, or shallow shipwrecks that provide interesting and less crowded snorkeling.

A review from a recent guest, Brandy_W, highlights the thrill of seeing sharks nearby during one adventure, emphasizing the added excitement of a more dynamic marine environment. The crew’s experience and knowledge seem to be a real advantage here—they know where to find the wildlife and how to maximize your time in the water.

Marine Wildlife and Snorkeling

As you slip into the water, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant reef fish, eels, octopus, urchins, rays, and possibly dolphins. The chance to see turtles up close and at a respectful distance is a major draw, especially since the tour emphasizes protecting these creatures—touching or harassing them is strictly prohibited by law.

Chris, the guide mentioned in reviews, is praised for her ability to steer guests away from crowds and find turtles in calmer areas. This means you’ll enjoy a more intimate, less hectic snorkeling session, with the potential to spend quality time observing marine life rather than swimming through throngs of other snorkelers.

Onboard Comfort & Refreshments

After your water time, you’ll return to the boat, where soft drinks and water are available to keep you hydrated. The experience isn’t just about the underwater spectacle; it’s also about relaxing in the sun, enjoying the scenery, and chatting with your crew. The vessel’s limited size ensures a cozy, friendly atmosphere, making it feel more like a private outing than a commercial tour.

Extra Considerations

While the tour’s focus is snorkeling and wildlife viewing, the weather can influence the experience. Good weather is necessary for the best experience, and if conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled—something to keep in mind when planning. The company offers full refunds if canceled due to weather, which is reassuring.

Pricing & Value: Is It Worth It?

At $675 per person, this private tour isn’t cheap. But considering the exclusive nature and personalized service, many guests find it worth the splurge. The reviews support this—guests like Vanessa_T emphasize how they loved the close-up views of turtles and the friendly crew, calling it a highly recommended experience.

The price includes snorkel gear, flotation vests, and drinks, so there’s no hidden cost for the essentials. The limited group size ensures a comfortable environment, and the ability to choose the site means you’re not stuck in a large, crowded tour that rushes through the highlights.

Is It Good Value?

If you’re looking for a truly private, relaxed adventure with a knowledgeable crew who prioritize wildlife protection and your experience, this tour offers solid value. It’s especially appealing if you’re willing to pay a premium for a more personalized and less crowded outing.

Detailed Breakdown of the Day

Before the Tour

Expect to meet at Hawaiian Parasail where you’ll check in and board your boat. The crew makes a point of staying in touch before the tour day, with calls to confirm details, adding a layer of professionalism.

The Boat Ride

The ride out provides a chance to enjoy the open ocean, spot other boats, maybe even see some marine life from the boat itself. The small group size means you won’t be packed in, and you’ll likely form a relaxed, friendly vibe with your crew and fellow guests.

The Snorkel Time

Once at the selected site, your guide will help you gear up and enter the water. Many reviews mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, sharing interesting facts about the marine life and flora. You’ll have as much time as you wish—around 1.5 hours—to explore at your own pace.

Wildlife Encounters & Photography

Seeing sea turtles is a highlight—guests often mention how close and personal the experience feels, yet respectful of their protected status. Bring your camera, but remember to keep a safe distance—at least 10 feet away, as requested. Water sightings like rays, eels, and colorful reef fish add to the visual feast.

Return and Relaxation

Back onboard, you can unwind with a drink and enjoy the scenery. Many guests appreciate the laid-back, intimate environment that makes the experience stand out from larger group tours.

Who Is This Tour For?

This private snorkel and cruise experience is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, personalized, and wildlife-focused outing. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or friends wanting to avoid crowded tours and enjoy undisturbed marine life. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity, you’ll find the snorkeling straightforward, especially with the crew’s guidance.

It’s less ideal for those on a tight budget, since it’s priced at $675 per person. Also, if weather conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled, so flexibility in your plans is helpful.

The Sum Up: Is It The Right Choice?

This private snorkel trip offers a combination of exclusivity, expert guidance, and a chance to see some of Hawaii’s most iconic marine creatures. The small-group setting ensures you get personal attention, making it feel more like a friend showing you around rather than a large, impersonal tour. The ability to select your snorkel spot and the focus on wildlife protection makes it a responsible and memorable way to experience Oahu’s underwater world.

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate, and high-quality adventure that lets you see turtles and perhaps whales without the crowds, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value comfort, personalized service, and meaningful wildlife encounters over a bargain price.

FAQs

How many people can join this tour?
Up to six guests can participate, ensuring a private and intimate experience.

What’s included in the price?
Snorkel gear, flotation vests, soft drinks, and water are all provided, so you don’t need to bring much beyond your sense of adventure.

Can I choose where to snorkel?
Yes, the crew will assess ocean conditions and help you pick the best site for the day, such as Turtle Canyon or a shipwreck.

What marine life might I see?
Expect to see turtles, reef fish, eels, octopus, rays, and possibly dolphins or whales in season (December to April).

Is the tour suitable for children?
The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the moderate physical activity and focus on wildlife, it may be best for older children or teens who are comfortable in the water.

What happens if the weather cancels the tour?
Full refunds are offered if canceled due to poor weather, or you can reschedule for another day.

How long is the whole experience?
About 1 hour 40 minutes, which includes boat time and snorkeling.

Where do I meet the tour?
At Hawaiian Parasail located at 1651 Ala Moana Blvd #600b, Honolulu.

This private snorkel and cruise in Waikiki offers a thoughtful blend of relaxation, wildlife viewing, and personalized service. If you’re after a small-group adventure that respects nature and delivers memorable underwater moments, it’s a tour worth considering.