Private Whale Watching from Waikiki
Head out from Kewalo Basin Harbor (15-mins from Waikiki) for a private whale watching tour with Captain Francesco Forti. Pick your time of day for 2-4 hours of whale watching and add on snorkeling with sea turtles!
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Activity Overview
Waikiki Private Whale Watch Highlights
- 2-4 hour duration
- Departure times at 9:30 am, 11:45 am, or 2:00 pm
- Private tours run daily (book several weeks in advance)
- Departs from Kewalo Basin Harbor (click here for directions)
- Private tour up to 6 guests
- Private whale-watching cruise for 2-4 hours depending on how long you wish to take. Enjoy coastal views of the south shore of Oahu, visit Diamond Head State Monument, & offshore Waikiki for photo opportunities, and optional guided snorkeling at an offshore reef commonly home to sea turtles and tropical fish
- Soft drinks, waters, snorkel gear, and flotation are all included
- Bring your own food and drinks or use one of their local catering partners
- All ages are welcome, best suited for ages 7 & up
Waikiki Private Whale Watch Details
Embark on a truly exclusive and intimate experience with a private whale watching cruise on Oahu. Glide through the pristine waters of the Pacific aboard your chartered 30 foot catamaran, where you and your group can enjoy unobstructed views of humpback whales as they breach and play in their natural habitat.
The luxury catamaran is a comfortable and smooth ride, making it a great choice if you suffer from motion sickness. Shaded cabin seating and on board bathrooms are available throughout your trip. A knowledgeable and experienced crew will give you the best chance of finding whales on your adventure! You also get the chance to snorkel at an offshore reef commonly home to sea turtles and tropical fish.
We got to go out with Hawaii Ocean Charters and met Francesco, who prides himself on providing meaningful experiences to his guests with the Aloha spirit. We had a great time, and we know you will too!
Waikiki Private Whale Watch FAQ
Know Before You Go Snorkel Safety
Swimming and snorkeling in the Pacific Ocean should not be taken lightly. To keep you safe, please know your health limits, swim with a buddy, never turn your back on the ocean, and read and obey posted signs. Check HIOceanSafety.com for ocean conditions at lifeguard beaches.
What is the cancellation policy?
There is a 48 hour cancellation policy. Any cancellations outside of 48 hours from your departure can be 100% refunded. Refunds are not given inside of 48 hours unless they are able to rebook your charter, then a refund is assessed minus a service fee.
The tour runs rain or shine as the rain is likely to pass quickly, but it will be cancelled if ocean conditions are unsafe. In the event of operator cancellation, you’ll be offered a rebooking or full refund.
What should I bring?
- Water or any drinks you would like to enjoy other than water
- Food and snacks
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses (polarized if you have them, we like Goodr)
- Swimwear & towel for snorkeling
- Change of clothes
- Light jacket or sweater (it may get cold especially later in afternoon/evening)
- Camera for photos
- A sense of adventure!
Is transportation provided?
No transportation is provided to or from Kewalo Basin Harbor.
What if I’m prone to seasickness?
While a catamaran makes seasickness unlikely, if you’re especially prone or concerned it’ll ruin your trip, it doesn’t hurt to take the appropriate motion sickness medication as directed prior to your tour.
Are whale sightings guaranteed?
Hawaii Ocean Charters does not offer guaranteed sightings. But snorkeling is included for all their private tours so even if you don’t see whales, you have an opportunity to get in the water with sea turtles and other marine life.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, this catamaran is not wheelchair accessible. Check out our Hawaii Handicap Accessibility Guide for wheelchair-friendly activities!
About Hawaii Ocean Charters
Captain Francesco Forti grew up on boats in Hawaii and has spent much of his time adventuring between the islands. He has built invaluable local knowledge of the waters of Oahu, helping create once-in-a-lifetime private boat tour experiences.
His goal is to deliver the best quality experience for each and every one of his guests. Being able to captain private boat tours out of Oahu allows Francesco to provide custom and unique experiences for his clients unlike many of the large chain tours where a personalized experience is lacking.
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