Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tour: private and semi-private tour
Experience an epic guided snorkel tour at Waikiki’s offshore reefs where you will get to see Hawaiian green sea turtles along with tropical fish and marine life. After snorkeling, enjoy coastal views of southern Oahu, visit Diamond Head State Monument for pictures, & admire the Waikiki coastline.
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Activity Overview
Oahu Snorkel Tour Turtle Canyon Highlights
- 2 hours
- Departure times at 7:15 am, 9:30 am, 11:45 pm, & 2:00 pm
- Tours run daily (best to book several weeks in advance).
- Departs from Kewalo Basin Harbor, a 15-minute drive from Waikiki (click for directions)
- Shared and private tours with up to only 6 people
- Snorkel at the revered Turtle Canyon and get spectacular coastline views of Waikiki and Diamond Head for stunning photo opportunities.
- Soft drinks, water, juices, snorkel gear and flotation are all included
- Bring your own snacks!
- Children are welcome, best suited for ages 5 & up
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.
Oahu Snorkel Tour Turtle Canyon Details
Embark on an epic snorkeling experience aboard the “Keanuenue”, a 30ft catamaran. This tour leaves from the Kewalo Basin Harbor, so it’s convenient to get to from Waikiki.
Head out to Turtle Canyon to snorkel and get a chance to see Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural cleaning station plus other marine life. The crew is informative on the local marine life and the Hawaiian history of the areas you will visit. The guides also know other reefs nearby if conditions at Turtle Canyon are not ideal, so you won’t miss out on any opportunities if conditions rapidly change.
After snorkeling, you’ll head over to Diamond Head for pictures and to admire the Waikiki coastline.
From our experience, the boat was fast and comfortable. It was easy to get in and out of for snorkeling. It’s a great price for a small group or private experience if you’re feeling exhausted from the crowds on the island. It was perfect for the kids to get a chance to snorkel and see awesome marine life!
Oahu Snorkel Tour Turtle Canyon FAQ
Is Transportation provided?
No, transportation is not provided to the Kewalo Basin Harbor. You will need to find your transportation to get to the Kewalo Basin Harbor. Taxies, Ubers, or Lyfts are the best way to get to the harbor.
Parking is available at Kewalo Basin Boat Harbor for $2 per hour. Pay machines accept cash and credit cards.
Are food and drinks provided?
Soft drinks and water are provided, but food is not provided. You are welcome to bring your snacks and drinks if you wish.
Do I need to know how to swim and is snorkeling gear provided?
Please note that swimming is a required skill to participate in the in-water portion of the tour. Snorkeling gear and flotation devices are provided on the tour. Please note snorkeling is a physically strenuous activity and requires participants to be in good health.
Are there any restrictions to snorkeling?
Snorkeling is not recommended for those who are pregnant, have back/neck problems, or have severe mobility issues. Children must be 7 years and older to participate in the snorkeling session. If you have a mustache, the snorkeling masks may not make a good seal and leak. Prescription masks are not offered but can be rented at “Snorkel Bob’s”.
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 within 48 hours unless they can rebook your charter, then a refund is assessed minus a service fee.
In the event of unsafe weather or heavy rain, the tour will be canceled. If you have purchased your ticket directly through Hawaii Ocean Charters you will have the option of rescheduling (based on availability) or a full refund.
If your ticket was purchased through a 3rd party you will have the option of rescheduling (based on availability).
*Please note links provided in this post are direct booking links through Hawaii Ocean Charters!
What should I bring?
- Any drinks you would like to enjoy (soft drinks, water, juices are provided)
- Snacks if needed
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses (polarized if you have them)
- Swimwear & towel for snorkeling
- Camera for photos
- A sense of adventure!
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 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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