oahu catamaran whale watching

The 8 Best Whale Watching Tours on Oahu (+How to DIY)

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The winter is one of the best times to visit Oahu. That’s because you’ll be able to witness the amazing humpback whale migration! During this time, more than 10,000 whales make the long journey down to the islands from Alaska to breed and raise their young (the waters are much warmer around Hawaii than they are up north!). 

If you’re heading to Oahu and want to witness this incredible spectacle for yourself, there are many whale watching tours where you can get up close to these beautiful creatures. There are private yacht charters, group speed boat tours, and everything else in between, which can make choosing the right tour difficult. 

But we’ve done the dirty work and picked out the best whale watching tours on Oahu. As one of our favorite Hawaiian activities, you can’t go wrong with any of the excursions on this list!

Looking for more Oahu resources: Check out our Oahu Travel Guide to take a deep dive into everything you need to know about the island. Find a great place to stay on Oahu and even more to do around the island Don’t forget anything for your trip with our Hawaii packing list

Oahu Whale Watching FAQs

When is the oahu whale watching season.

Most whales start arriving in Hawaii around December (but there have been some years where they show up as early as September). The season usually wraps up around March, which is when the majority of pods head back up north. However, we have also spotted them around the islands in May, so the season, in general, is quite flexible! But always during Hawaii’s winter.

If you’re visiting over whale season, you’ll want to read our full guide on visiting Hawaii in the Winter.

What time of day is best for whale watching on Oahu?

During peak season, it’s possible to see whales any time of the day, as they are always active. Therefore, it doesn’t really matter if you choose a morning, afternoon, or even a sunset tour to see them.

But in general, you’ll find that most companies operate tours in the morning. This is a good time to go, as the temperatures are a tad cooler, and you won’t be directly in the sun the whole time. Morning is also before the trade winds pick up, so the boat ride will be smoother and more enjoyable (especially if you’re prone to seasickness). 

What month is best for whale watching on Oahu?

As we mentioned, peak whale season changes year by year, so it’s hard to say exactly what month has the best whale watching opportunities. If you’re planning your vacation around this, you can consult the official Sanctuary Whale Watching Count . The count is conducted during the peak season to keep track of how many whales are spotted off the Hawaiian Islands.

In 2023, the highest number of whales was recorded in March. But in 2022, the best month for sightings was in January. 

But even if you don’t go during the month with the highest numbers, you might still be lucky enough to see several on your tour! Because, as we said, they can be spotted earlier or later than peak seasons. Take a deep dive on the best time for whale watching in Hawaii.

What is the best place to see whales on Oahu?

Whales live in the water, so the best place to see them is by taking a boat tour. If you prefer to stay on land, then don’t worry. There are still a few places around Oahu where you can see them from shore.

One of the best spots on the island is up at the North Shore . Shark’s Cove , Turtle Bay, and La’ie Point are all great places to see the majestic creatures playing in the water.

If you’re down south, then you also have tons of seaside locations for viewings. Makapu’u Lighthouse is one of our favorites (it’s also a nice hike with a beautiful lookout over the ocean). You can also try Halona Blowhole, Spitting Caves, and Lana’i Lookout – all of which are just a short drive from one another along the southeastern coast.

How much is a whale watching tour on Oahu?

The price of a whale watching tour on Oahu depends on multiple factors, including the number of people in your party, the length of your tour, and the type of vessel you’re traveling in. With this in mind, the average cost for one person is around $100 – $150. However, we’ve seen some Oahu tour companies offer shorter whale watching tours for about $60 a person, which is a great deal if you’re on a budget!

Another option is to hire a private charter. While this is more expensive than a shared whale watching tour, it can make more financial sense if you’re traveling with a large group or with lots of family members. While the cost of a private charter also varies from company to company, we’ve seen them as low as $400 for 1 to 4 people and upwards of $2,500 for larger boats and groups. 

Is a whale watching tour worth it on Oahu?

Oahu is a really fun island to visit (especially if it’s your first time in Hawaii). But the truth is, it’s not the best island for whale watching. It doesn’t get as many whales as Maui , which has the highest recorded number of whales out of all the Hawaiian Islands.

There’s a better chance of seeing whales on a boat tour than if you were to just watch them from shore. But keep in mind that you might not see any at all. This can be a big disappointment if you have your heart set on seeing whales. But if you go with lower expectations, the leisurely boat ride can be a wonderful experience on its own.

If you have flexible travel plans or are already headed to Maui, check out more whale watching resources here: The 7 Best Whale Watching Tours on Maui: get our exclusive discounts The Ultimate Guide to Whale Watching on Maui: Best Tours and Tips Hawaii in the Winter: What to Know BEFORE Booking Your Trip

The 8 Best Whale Watching Tours on Oahu

If you’re browsing different whale watching tours on Oahu, you’ll quickly see that there are many options to choose from. Depending on your budget and interest, you can book a shared tour with other people or charter a private boat for a more exclusive experience. To help you make a decision, we’ve rounded up 7 of the best tours that we can recommend to visitors.

We also wanted to make you’re aware that boats aren’t allowed to drive directly into the area where the whales are. State and federal law require them to keep at least 100 yards back. For this reason, most tours will go close to the pods but turn off their engines. This isn’t a big deal, as you’ll be able to see those giants from that distance anyway! Plus wild animals know no bounds so curious whales may approach the boat, giving you an exhilarating close encounter.

And You Creations

The early morning whale-watching tour hosted by And You Creations is an affordable option if you’re staying in or around Waikiki. Departing from Kewalo Boat Harbor (roughly 2.5 miles from downtown Waikiki), this 2.5-hour cruise is on a powerful double-decker boat for sightseeing. As you travel past Waikiki Beach towards Diamond Head, you’ll get to enjoy stunning coastal views while you search for swimming and breaching whales.

We like this tour because it also includes a Hawaiian plumeria flower ceremony and whale-watching chant. The crew also performs authentic hula and dance songs to keep everyone onboard occupied in between sightings, which is great if you’re traveling with kids. 

When whales are nearby, the nature specialist will drop the hydrophone into the ocean so you can hear them singing their songs! They’re also there to help answer any questions you have about the whales (or other visible marine life creatures, for that matter).

Tours leave bright and early at 7 AM. And don’t worry about breakfast! Tickets include morning beverages as well as breakfast pastries. 

Book 30+ days early and get 15% off when you use code EARLYBIRD

Get 10% off with WHALES10 at checkout!

Dolphin Excursions

Ditch the crowds and enjoy this 15-person (max!) tour as you look for whales around Waikiki. We particularly love this tour by Dolphin Excursions because you also have the opportunity to get off the boat to snorkel! Snorkel gear and life vests are provided for those who want to swim with tropical fish, green sea turtles, and possibly dolphins. Back on board, the marine naturalist will share insight into all the creatures you see during your tour. 

This is an afternoon excursion that leaves around 2:30 PM and lasts for 3 hours. Boats leave from Waianae Boat Harbor, which is around a 25-minute drive from Ko Olina Resorts . If you prefer a more intimate experience, private charters can also be booked just for your group.

And most importantly, Dolphin Excursions guarantees whale sightings while you’re out. If you don’t see any during your outing, they’ll give you a return trip voucher for a future journey completely free of charge!

Bob Marlin Charters Oahu

A private whale-watching charter is an incredible experience. With Bob Marlin Charters Oahu , you can have the open waters practically to yourself as you cruise around the island on your 32ʻ Luhrs Express. It’s an awesome opportunity to see whales and surprisingly more affordable than you might think – we’re talking starting at $400 for groups up to 4 people!

Because this is a private charter, you get to choose the start time that works best for your group out of 5-time slots. Leave first thing at 7 AM, enjoy a leisurely lunch sail, or admire the colorful sunset from a 4 PM journey. All trips last two hours, so keep that in mind when booking.

This trip leaves from Haleiwa Harbor, so it’s best if you’re staying somewhere on the North Shore . But if your tour starts later, you can still make your way up from Waikiki. It’s worth the drive, considering that the North Shore has more whale sightings than any other part of the island!

Find a great place to stay on Oahu: Which Part of Oahu Should You Stay: Waikiki or Ko Olina or North Shore Where to Stay in Waikiki: The 12 Best Hotels and Vacation Rentals Where to Stay on Oahu with Kids: The 7 Best Family Hotels The Best North Shore Oahu Hotels and Vacation Rentals

Honolulu Snorkel Company

Hop aboard Honolulu Snorkel Company’s 40-foot catamaran for a memorable sail across the Oahu coastline. This 1.5-hour tour is ideal if you’re short on time and want to make the most of it on Oahu. Although you’re not on the water for as long as some other whale watching tours, you’ll still get to see humpbacks, as well as other marine life like turtles, flying fish, and dolphins!

Tickets are more affordable than other excursions, which means you can still go whale watching even if you’re on a tight budget! And young kids are more than welcome as long as they are over 5 years old.

Tours leave twice a week on Mondays and Wednesdays at 3 PM and depart from the Kewalo Boat Harbor outside of Waikiki.

Deep Blue Eco Tours

The whale watching tours with Deep Blue Eco Tours is another fantastic option for those staying on the North Shore. Departing from Haleiwa Boat Harbor, they offer shared and private tours for pretty reasonable prices.

If you’re joining a shared tour, you’ll only be on the boat with a maximum of 5 other guests. Having such a small group is a great way to see and photograph the whales up close and personal. But if you’d rather enjoy a VIP experience, you can also charter a boat for your group (also a maximum of 6 people total).

All tours last for two hours. Depending on the date, you can choose from one of five different start times: 8 AM, 10 AM, 12 PM, 2 PM, or 4 PM. 

The Adventure Boat (Private Charter)

Take a wild ride on the Adventure Boat and across the entire southern coast of Oahu! On this high-speed inflatable Zodiac boat, you’ll be able to see more and cover more miles as you zip through the Pacific Ocean looking for whales.

This is a private charter company, so it will just be you and your group out on the open waters. This is a great opportunity to get a knowledgeable guide all to yourself – and the whales, of course! You can choose to book for up to 6, 9, or 12 people (prices vary depending on how many people are on board). 

Light refreshments are served during the trip, although you’re more than welcome to bring any food or snacks if you crave something more. The Adventure Boat operates tours from December to April and at three times during the day. You can book your tour at 8 AM, 11 AM, or 2 PM.

Honolulu Sailing Company (Private Charter)

For a truly memorable experience, look no further than a trip with the Honolulu Sailing Company . Instead of a crammed boat with other tourists, you’ll be relaxing in style as you glide across the ocean on a private yacht! 

As these are completely private charters, you’ll be allowed to book the vessel of your choice. Set sail on the Beneteau 42 Gauguin, the Beneteau 48 Gauguin, or the extra luxurious Beneteau Sense 50′ Tefiti (each yacht can accommodate parties of up to 6). They also have shaded deck lounges, so there’s plenty of room for everyone to sprawl out and find a front-row seat to the action.

Cruises last for three hours and can be booked starting at 8 AM, 11 AM or 2 PM. Make sure to bring your own snacks and drinks, as it makes the entire journey that much more enjoyable!

Hawaii Ocean Charters (Private Charter)

Set out on a 30′ catamaran with up to 6 guests. You’ll have a ton of space to spread out and enjoy unobstructed views as whales breach and play.

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. 

Tours are 2-4 hours (your choice) departing at 9:30 am, 11:45 am, and 2:00 pm daily. You have the option to bring your own snacks and BYOB or you can have your charter catered.

Whale Watching on Oahu Tips

As you prepare for your whale watching tour, there are a couple of things to keep in mind to enhance your magical marine experience. 

• Book a tour with a sighting guarantee .  Because whales are wild animals, it’s hard to predict exactly where they’ll be around the island. For this reason, it’s possible you might not get to see them on your tour. However, some companies will put you on another boat if you don’t see them on the trip. While there aren’t many companies on Oahu that offer this, it can make a huge difference if you’re arriving early or later in the whale watching season.
• Do your first tour earlier during your vacation. If you do book with a company that guarantees whale sightings, then you’ll need a few extra days to rebook if you need a second outing. Therefore, you shouldn’t wait until the end of your trip to book your tour, or else you won’t be able to take advantage of this offer. 
• Go on a morning tour. While this depends on your personal preference, we think morning tours are the best time to be out on the water. Not only are the waters calmer (the tradewinds usually pick up in the afternoon), but fewer boats and crowds are looking for whales. It’s also much cooler in the morning, which is great if you don’t want to be baking in the sun for hours at a time!
• Choose the right boat. As you can see from the different types of tours above, many different types of vessels go out to see whales. Knowing which boat you want can significantly impact the type of trip you have. For example, smaller power rafts are fun and fast, but they’re not suitable for young kids, pregnant women, or people with injuries. In these situations, larger vessels or sailboats are usually the better choice!

Check out even more to do on Oahu: 40 Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii (we will surprise you!) The 21 Best Things to Do in Waikiki 21 Amazing Things to Do on Oahu’s North Shore

The Rest of Your Trip Done for You

It really doesn’t get any easier than this. Wherever you are in the planning process, you’ve probably realized there’s a lot that goes into planning the perfect Hawaii vacation. It’s hard to have a bad trip to Hawaii, but we make it easy to have an extraordinary one. From truly countless trips ourselves, living on Oahu and Maui, to all the research we’ve done, we cut straight to the chase in our itineraries . Just pick the island(s) you want to visit and get ready to experience the islands like a local.

We loved both of these itineraries!  It was an excellent use of our money.  I would recommend them to anyone who plans to travel to Hawaii.  The itineraries were both so well written and easy to use.  All the restaurant recommendations were amazing!  We loved every minute of our 2 week vacation and plan to come back to different islands and use hawaii vacation guide itineraries to help us navigate the different islands.   Kimberly H. + family

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

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The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Oahu.

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Experience the best seats in the house as we get up close and personal with the brilliant colors of Waikiki’s Friday Night Fireworks Show. There’s no better view of this magnificent aerial display than from out on the water with the Waikiki skyline as the backdrop.

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Experience the thrill of watching majestic Humpback Whales frolic in the beautiful waters off of Waikiki as our guides educate you on their migration habits, their behaviors, and other fun facts. This Oahu tour is available from December 15th through April 15th.

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North Shore Catamaran - Whale Watching Cruise

This is a fun whale watching cruise departing from Haleiwa Harbor on Oahu's North Shore. The Ho'o Nanea is a luxurious sailing catamaran and just the right size to not feel crowded. It is also equipped with an underwater hydrophone, so you can listed to the singing, clicking and moaning of the whales as they communicate with each other. It is truly an amazing experience! Tour Highlights:

• Whale watch cruise along Oahu’s North Shore
• Morning and sunset tours available
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Private Whale Watching Waikiki, Hawaii

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Come explore Hawaii’s beautiful ocean in search of Humpback Whales. Enjoy views of the iconic south side of Oahu and snorkel if you like as you join our crew on a private catamaran cruise in Waikiki.

Private Charter

2 hour | all ages | up to 6 people, 3 hour | all ages | up to 6 people, 4 hour | all ages | up to 6 people, more than 6 guests, select a boat from our partner charter boat network, experience whales up close on our private waikiki whale watching tour.

Embark on a truly exclusive and intimate experience with a private whale watching cruise in Oahu. Glide through the pristine waters of the Pacific aboard your chartered 30 foot catamaran, where you and your group can enjoy uninterrupted views of humpback whales as they breach and play in their natural habitat. Come find them with us! Our knowledgeable crew will give you the best chance of finding these creatures.

With personalized attention from our knowledgeable guides, a private whale watching cruise in Oahu offers the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your preferences. Whether it’s capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments on camera or delving deeper into the fascinating behaviors of these magnificent creatures, our private tours ensure an enriching and unforgettable encounter with Oahu’s awe-inspiring marine life. Snorkel time is also included and always a fun and memorable part of any cruise!

Escape the crowds and revel in the tranquility of the ocean as you witness these gentle giants, creating cherished memories with your loved ones on a private whale watching cruise that promises a truly immersive and magical adventure.

• Chevron down Humpback Migration

Humpback whales visit Hawaii from November to April but our best time to see them is from January to March. They migrate to Hawaii from Alaska to mate and have their babies. During their time in the islands, you can spot them along the coast showing off to attract mates, teaching newborns how to swim, or just relaxing at the surface while they cruise down the coast.

• Chevron down What are the chances of whale sightings?

While there is never a guarantee with wild animals, we will give you the best chance to see these creatures. Our crew is highly experienced in locating whales along the Waikiki coast and we run a communication network with all the other captains out on the water. This means that if there are any whales in the area that day we’re sure to know about them!

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• Depart from Kewalo Basin Harbor
• Enjoy coastal views of the south shore of Oahu
• (Optional) Guided snorkeling at an offshore reef commonly home to sea turtles and tropical fish
• Visit Diamond Head state monument & offshore Waikiki (Great Photo opportunity!)
• Stop along the way to see any turtles, dolphins, or whales (in season)
• Crew will share local knowledge and cultural history of the area. (We’re always happy to answer questions!)
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• Small private group allows maximum attention to service and safety!
• Spacious catamaran to lounge on
• Bring your own food and drinks (BYOB)
• Soft drinks, waters, and a large iced down cooler with extra space provided
• Shaded cabin seating
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• Swimming is a required skill to participate in the in-water portion of the tour.
• This charter may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
• Unfortunately, there is no wheelchair-boarding access.
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We can connect you with our local favorite catering company to plan almost any food options you could want. Please inquire via the contact form, email, or phone to organize.

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The Ho’o Nanea is the perfect boat for whale watching. It is just the right size to keep you close to the ocean, but big enough to be a safe and stable viewing platform.

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North Shore sunsets are the best, and there is no better place to watch them than from the deck of the Ho’o Nanea. From December – April, join us for a Sunset Whale Watching cruise.

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Haleiwa sunset catamaran whale watching.

**Seasonal from December - April** North Shore sunsets are the best and there is no better place to watch them than from the deck of the 40ft Catamaran, the Ho'o Nanea. The sunset hours are a magical time to be out on the water. With the winds calm, the sun turns golden and paints the sky in a palette of hues and colors that seem almost unreal. There is no way you cannot be taken by it. The clean ocean air, vast sky and unbelievable sunset colors will connect you with nature and give you a feeling of relaxation and happiness that most people don't get to experience anymore. A sunset sail will help you calm your mind and let you breath again. So come join us and reset your senses!

What to Expect

And let's not forget about the Humpback Whales. Watch blowholes spout off in the distance, 50 foot long humpbacks break the surface within a few yards of the boat, giant fluke tails lift up exposing their unique white pigment patterns, and even the occassional breach right off the side of the catamaran.

North Shore Catamaran Charters was chosen as the best whale watching on Oahu because of it’s personalized attention, uncrowded boat, and fun and informative crew. During whale watching season the ocean boils with activity from the humpback whales and marine life.

The Catamaran

The Ho'o Nanea is the perfect boat for whale watching. It is just the right size to keep you close to the ocean, but big enough to be a safe and stable viewing platform. We are the only commercial sailing catamaran on the whole North Shore. You will not find a gaggle of boats competing for whales. Avid and apathetic whale watchers alike would both agree that sailing the North Shore of Oahu in search of whales is done best on the Sailing Cat.

The whales do not get frightened or disturbed by our boat because most of the time we are under sail. When we do motor, the small outboard engines are very quiet and unobtrusive. Our underwater hydrophone lets you hear the singing, clicking and moaning that goes on between the groups of humpbacks. It is a truly amazing experience!

• The only commercial sailing catamaran on the entire North Shore
• Chance to get up close with a breaching whale

Please Arrive 30 minutes before departure for check-in process

• Frequent Humpback Whale, Dolphin, and Turtle Sightings
• Friendly and Knowledgable Crew
• Informative Tour teaching about Hawaii's Humpback While Migration
• Coast Guard Approved Life Jackets on board
• Non-Alcoholic Beverage Refreshments
• Bathroom Onboard
• Bring Your Own Beer / Alcohol Permission
• Enjoyable Sailing off the underdeveloped North Shore
• Please meet us at our boat in the Haleiwa Boat Harbor. For GPS, we recommend that you use the "Haleiwa Joe's Seafood Grill" or harbor address: 66-105 Haleiwa Rd., Haleiwa, HI 96712. Our boat is located next to the 2 story grey building in the middle of the harbor.

Cancellation Policy

All cruises and tours have a 24-hour notice of cancellation policy. Any cancellation with less than 24 hours notice will not receive a refund. There is a 20% fee for rescheduling within 24-hour period. Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances (i.e. Lack of participation) Weather conditions are decided at the boat dock. Private charters require 168-hour (7 Day) notice for refund. 20% fee for ALL canceled Private tours. Contact us anytime to inquire about cancellations or reschedule.

Wildlife Hawaii

Whale Watching on Oʻahu, Hawaii

Between December and May, you might glimpse the majestic humpback whales, known as koholā in Hawaiian, in the southern waters of Oʻahu. These gentle giants visit the warm Hawaiian seas annually for breeding and calving.

Book a guided tour or charter a boat for a chance to witness these magnificent creatures. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views while knowledgeable guides lead you to prime whale-watching spots. From playful surfacing to tail slaps and spouting air, you’ll witness these behaviors from a distance—regulations mandate staying at least 100 yards away from the whales, and it’s important never to swim with or touch them or any other marine mammals.

Two North Shore Oahu companies, Deep Blue Eco Tour and North Shore Catamaran Charters, offer whale watching tours.

Deep Blue Eco Tour

On Deep Blue Eco tour’s whale watch expedition , they’ll guide you to the coastal waters of North Shore Oahu, seeking the majestic humpback whales that grace Hawaii during the winter. These gentle giants travel thousands of miles to mate and give birth. You’ll have a firsthand opportunity to witness them in their natural habitat from the comfort of our boat. Throughout the journey, a marine biologist on our crew will share intriguing insights about humpback whales and other marine life. They strictly adhere to rules and regulations, ensuring no disturbance or harm to the whales or any marine mammals we encounter. While there’s no guarantee of a whale sighting, our experienced team uses knowledge and expertise to maximize your chances.

North Shore Catamaran Charters

Embark on unforgettable Oahu tours aboard the Ho’o Nanea with North Shore Catamaran Charters . With over 40 years of experience, we are the leading whale watching company, offering memorable experiences through whale watching, sunset tours, and seasonal snorkeling tours. Our catamaran provides a smooth and comfortable sailing experience, allowing you to enjoy the true feeling of sailing without the inconvenience of leaning or splashing. Contact us for special pricing and reservations for military personnel and locals.

The Ho’o Nanea, an ideal vessel for North Shore whale watching , provides an intimate yet secure platform close to the ocean. As the only commercial sailing catamaran on the entire North Shore, we offer a unique and uncrowded experience for avid and casual whale watchers alike. Sailing through the North Shore of Oahu, our catamaran ensures a remarkable opportunity to witness breaching whales up close.

Captain Don, the full-time captain on the Ho’o Nanea, has been sharing his passion for the ocean and the North Shore since arriving from Huntington Beach, California, in 1977. With over 30 years of experience in Hawaii, he’s engaged in various ocean activities, including surfing, diving, windsurfing, sailing, and fishing. Captain Don is not just a clock-watcher; he genuinely loves his job, often having as much fun as his guests. Known for his knowledge of the North Shore and the ocean, he goes the extra mile to ensure his guests have a memorable and enjoyable experience, sharing entertaining and mostly true stories from his decades on the North Shore.

North Shore Haleiwa Shuttle from Waikiki to Haleiwa Boat Harbor

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North shore walking tour (self-guided) north shore walking tour (self-guided).

Self-Guided Turtle Walking Tour in Haleiwa, North Shore Oahu Self-Guided Turtle Walking Tour in Haleiwa, North Shore Oahu

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North Shore Catamaran - Whale Watching Cruise

Come aboard the Ho'o Nanea, a spacious sailing catamaran, and enjoy a whale watch cruise along Oahu’s scenic North Shore. The catamaran is just the right size to keep you close to the ocean and also big enough to be a safe and stable viewing platform. The whales do not get frightened or disturbed by our boat because most of the time we are under sail. When we do motor, the small outboard engines are very quiet and unobtrusive. Our underwater hydrophone lets you hear the singing, clicking and moaning that goes on between the groups of humpbacks. It is truly an amazing experience!

Tour Highlights:

• Whale watch cruise along Oahu’s North Shore
• Morning and sunset tours available
• See humpback whales frolic in the water
• Plenty of great photo opportunities

Private Charters

Are you looking for a unique way of exploring the Hawaiian islands with a custom-curated experience away from the mainstream crowds? With our private catamaran charters, you can control where you go and what you do! The possibilities to explore any Hawaiian islands (weather-dependent) are endless! Our charters depart from Waikiki on the island of Oahu. From there, we bui ld an itinerary based on your dream adventure on the water. We have pre-planned packages to help get you started!

Below you will find pre-built packages to choose from. These are entirely customizable to suit your needs or liking. Charter length times start at 2 hours and can be spent on the water snorkeling in the beautiful waters of Waikiki or looking for wildlife like humpback whales. Choose to explore one of Hawaii's most popular turtle snorkeling spots: Turtle Canyon, or visit several Hawaiian islands on a luxurious 5-day, 4-night adventure!

WHAT'S INCLUDED

The base price of all boat charters includes the full use of the catamaran and its equipment. An experienced, licensed captain and crew are included, as well as equipment like snorkeling gear, towels, ice, water, and local snacks. If you're having a fantastic time and want to spend more time on the water, all charter times can be increased while you relax for a discounted hourly rate! 

Half Day Charter

2-6 hours - ($349/hour)

Choose any of the following options or combine them any way you’d like and set sail for the adventure of a lifetime! 

Jump into the spectacular blue waters off Oahu's south shore in the Waikiki, Honolulu, and Diamond Head area. Catch a glimpse of magnificent marine life like Green Sea Turtles, Spinner Dolphins, and Tropical Reef Fish at one of our favorite snorkel sites, Turtle Canyon! We also have dive locations in the Hawaii Kai area along the coast between China Walls and Hanauma Bay, and with our catamaran, the boat ride couldn't be more relaxing. While on our way to dive locations located past Diamond head, there is a chance to see whales! During their time in Hawaii, whales sing long beautiful songs to attract mates. While diving along the walls near Hanauma bay, these songs echo through the water, amplifying them. 

Looking to capture the most magnificent moment of the day as the sun sets below the horizon along the Honolulu and Waikiki coastline? This boat adventure runs from Ala Wai Harbor to Diamond Head and back. Relax as you gaze upon the beauty of the Waikiki coastline with your friends or family while you create memories that will last a lifetime. Many guests have been lucky to encounter Green Sea Turtles, Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, Hawaiian Monk Seals, Humpback Whales (seasonal), and the rare green flash! During your private catamaran boat charter, you will have the opportunity of snorkeling at the famous Turtle Canyon. There you can witness Green Sea Turtles having their shells cleaned by schools of Surgeonfish or simply relax and swim right in front of Waikiki Beach with a gorgeous sandy bottom.

WHALE WATCHING

Observe Hawaiian Humpback whales and their journey to Hawaii for the warmer waters to breed and give birth to their calves. This excursion is guided by a knowledgeable crewmember with years of boating experience in the waters of Oahu. This is a seasonal activity which is offered between mid-December and April. We guarantee Whale sightings or we will take you out on another catamaran boat cruise for free!!

FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS

The Hilton Hawaiian Village has an epic firework show every Friday night, and going on a private catamaran boat cruise is the best way to beat the crowds and enjoy the Waikiki coastline. With our friendly crew excited to catch the show with you, there is simply no better way to enjoy the show. 

Start or end your trip to Hawaii with a bang! Watch this beautiful firework show from the best seats in Waikiki with Oahu Ocean Adventures. Watching the lovely lights reflect off the ocean right off of Waikiki beach is an unforgettable sight that is sure to highlight your trip to Oahu. Relax on the bow of our sailboat with cushioned chairs or choose to lay on the front netting so you can feel the Hawaii ocean breeze!

SPECIAL EVENTS

Intimate Weddings

Ash Scattering

Holiday Parties

Corporate Events

Photo Shoots

Full Day Charter

8-12 hours - ($249/hour).

Looking to spend the whole day out on the water, tired of all the crowds in Waikiki? Join us for a full-day charter and keep the good times rolling. You have the option to spend the whole day doing what you want! Choose one of the options from our half-day charters, or do them all! With our Full day private charters, you can go further and explore the North Shore of Oahu or relax at the infamous Kaneohe Sandbar! 

Looking to spend the day on the North Shore of Oahu on your own private catamaran and explore all it has to offer? This charter packs everything you could ever want to do on the North Shore of Oahu and more! Skip the traffic from Laniakea beach, "Turtle Beach," and come for a ride along the famous North Shore to see some of the world's most renowned surfing locations, Sunset Beach and Bonzai Pipeline, with the tallest point on Oahu, Mount Ka'ala, in the background. Anything can happen on our journey, so keep an eye out for resting Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins in Waimea Bay, breaching Humpback Whales (seasonal), and the famous Ewa Bird soaring overhead. Once arriving at our dive location, an in-water snorkel guide will accompany you in the water for your safety. Our guide will highlight marine life, identify fish species, and showcase what makes Sharks Cove and Three Tables a unique place. Green Sea Turtles, schools of Convict Tangs, Parrotfish, and some of the clearest blue waters on Oahu can be found in these areas. While enjoying the beautiful water of the North Shore, There's no better place to watch a Hawaiian sunset! While watching the sun gracefully set, guests have been lucky enough to witness pods of Hawaiian spinner dolphins, humpback whales (seasonal), and even pods of Melon Headed Whales, Pilot Whales, and False Killer Whales on rare occasions. 

Another great option (and one of the coolest things Oahu has to offer) is the Kaneohe Sandbar. Located just 16 miles from Waikiki on the east side of Oahu in Kaneohe Bay, it is one of the world's largest sandbars where people pull their boats up, park and relax, snorkel, and have some of the best parties on the island! With our private catamaran charters, you can party in style! BYO style, so feel free to bring drinks, snacks, lunch, dinner, or anything else you feel would elevate your experience! We all offer exclusive packages with DJs and live music to make sure to ask for available artists! The Kaneohe Sandbar is an absolute must for people visiting the island of Oahu, so why not experience it in style!

Overnight Catamaran Charter

24-30 hours - ($150/hour)

One of our favorite adventures is a beautiful overnight journey to the west side of Oahu! Sail into the sunset from Waikiki, enjoying a lovely dinner. Anchor overnight on the most exclusive side of Oahu to stargaze, where the milky way can be seen in all its glory. Wake up, enjoy a breakfast of muffins, fruit, coffee, and juice, and get ready to dive into the clearest waters of Oahu. Spend the day looking for fantastic wildlife like Pilot whales, melonhead whales, Hawaiian spinner dolphins, and other deep sea creatures. Enjoy snorkeling in some of Oahu's clearest and pristine waters before returning to Waikiki.

Multi-Day Catamaran Charter

5 days, 4 nights - $100/hour

Easily the most exclusive way to explore the Hawaiian Islands is to travel on your own private chartered catamaran. Skip the flights, hotels, taxis, and crowds of people while you see a side of Hawaii that very few people ever get to experience on our multi-day adventures. Below is a preview of our 5-day, 4-night adventure around Lanai, Maui, and Molokai. These charters are entirely customizable to fit your dream!  

This one-of-a-kind adventure starts in Waikiki on the Island of O’ahu. From the dock in Honolulu, we will enjoy a beautiful sunset then set sail and begin our journey to the Island of Lana’i! Lana’i is a truly remote place with a population of around 3,000 people. Some of the most untouched reefs in the Hawaiian chain are just off of Lanai's south shore. The water is filled with turtles, bright coral reefs, fish, manta rays, and more! This island’s beauty is truly one of a kind, we always have a hard time saying goodbye!

Wave aloha to the island of O’ahu after you enjoy a breathtaking sunset along the Waikiki coastline! Night one consists of our passage to Lana’i. Enjoy your dinner and sunset, then get cozy in one of the bedrooms and enjoy the ride! Close your eyes and dream about the day you will have when you reopen them in the morning!

Wake up to an amazing golden sunrise with stunning mountain views and spend the day snorkeling, diving, spearfishing, and exploring Lanai's beautiful underwater coastline! Enjoy lunch on the boat in the late afternoon while we make our way toward Maui's South Shore. Many marine mammals can be spotted along this journey – especially whales during whale season! During their season, the waters between Lanai, Maui, and Molokai have been known to be some of the best whale watching worldwide! Experience whales breaching, playing, and mating in the channels as we continue on our passage – a truly one of a kind experience! 

We will arrive at a beautiful anchorage near Maluaka beach, where Turtle Town is located! Turtle Town is one of Maui's best places to go snorkeling with turtles! This is just miles from Molokini crater, so it's the perfect place to settle in for the night as we get ready for another beautiful day on the water! During the night at our first anchorage, we commonly encounter beautiful manta rays passing by during the night. With our special in-water lights, we can easily spot fantastic marine animals as they come and feed off the plankton that are attracted to the light. If you would like to dine on fresh fish during our journey, there is always a possibility to catch fish, so this is the perfect time to enjoy a fresh fish dinner!

Day three is dedicated to snorkeling at Molokini crater and Maluaka beach (a.k.a. Turtle Town!), two of Maui’s most unique and famous snorkeling spots. We will start the morning snorkeling at Molokini crater which has two vastly different sides to explore. One side of Molokini crater is a shallow calm reef which is perfect for people who are new to snorkeling. For our more experienced snorkelers, the backside of Molokini crater is a beautiful sea wall that has over a 300 foot drop off with breathtaking schools of deep water butterfly fish, lobsters, puffer fish, and more! In the afternoon, we can fully explore Turtle Town to bring your turtle dreams to life! The crater is just a few miles away from Turtle Town, so it's just a quick sail over! If the weather is right, on our way to Turtle Town you can spot the Hawaiian islands Kahoolawe, Maui, Molokai, and Lanai all at once from the boat!

We will sail the west coast of Maui to enjoy a beautiful sunset and dinner. We will stop at the local supermarket for your favorite store bought ice cream and some snacks to finish off another epic day out on the water and the beautiful island of Maui!

We start our final full day with snorkeling at Mala Wharf, a broken down loading dock that was once used for shipping pineapples and sugar cane from Maui. This is such a unique snorkeling spot because of all the underwater structures it has to offer that definitely make for a unique underwater photo! For your final afternoon, we will visit Shipwreck beach (weather dependent) on Lanai’s north shore where a massive shipwreck lies just off the beach. If the weather is limiting us, we will spend the day fishing, snorkeling, and whale watching along the south shore of Molokai!

Celebrate your journey through the islands with one last dinner and a gorgeous sunset off the coast of Molokai! We can share photos we have all gathered along the way to make sure your memories last a lifetime. Tuck yourself in for the night and prepare for the journey back to Oahu in the morning!

Take in your last golden sunrise and prepare for the sail back to Waikiki on Oahu. As we make our way back to our home base on Oahu, keep your eyes peeled for pelagic marine life like whale sharks, orcas, whales, dolphins, and more! This channel is one of our favorites for spotting marine animals and their activity. We will arrive back at the dock mid-day to late afternoon to unload. This journey is filled with so much activity and so many beautiful views that we hope you will carry with you forever!

"Forrest is absolutely incredible. My boyfriend (now fiancé) booked a sunset cruise with Oahu Ocean Aventures and it was absolutely perfect. Forrest and Tyler made our night so special and helped coordinate my proposal!! Every detail was thought out and it was the most perfect evening. I can't thank them enough and I highly recommend you book with them. Forrest will work with you on a custom itinerary and he sails to other islands too, so what are you waiting for?!"

EMILY H. Yelp, May 2023

 WHERE TO FIND US 

Ala Wai Boat Harbor

1651 Ala Moana Blvd. 

Honolulu, Hawaii

We'll meet you at the first dock in the harbor.

 PARKING 

​Public parking is available in this area for $1/hour. Be sure to avoid permit-only parking spots. Parking is limited to 24 hours. For overnight and multi-day charters, consider taking a taxi or Uber to the harbor.

Book any tour for a Monday and receive a 10% discount. Must call to book!

Morning Catamaran Snorkeling Oahu

Quick details.

• Clock Check In: 8:00 A.M. Check-in
• Hour Glass Duration: 3 Hours - 8:30 A.M. - 11:30 A.M.

Transportation Included

Ages 3 and under, without transportation, oahu morning catamaran sail and snorkel.

If you are looking for the best way to start your morning in Hawaii, look no further than our Morning Catamaran Snorkel Sail!

Swim with tropical reef fish and exotic marine life at our first destination on our Oahu snorkel tour.

Your captain knows which snorkel site will be the best for the day, but all sites we frequent are teeming with colorful fish, exotic ocean life, and are known to attract manta rays every now and then. Book this tour online today and reserve your spot!

Depart from Ko Olina Marina located on the beautiful Ko Olina Resort for a wonderful 3 hour Catamaran Sail and Snorkel Tour watching the playful, acrobatic Hawaiian spinner dolphins and snorkeling one amazing Oahu snorkel site with a variety of tropical reef fish and visits from friendly Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Seasonal bonus! Alaska humpback whale watching from December thru March included with all tours.

Parking at the marina is a daily flat rate charge of $20.00 plus taxes & fees.

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Paradise cove luau & snorkel oahu combo.

We now offer an exclusive Snorkel by Day and Luau by Night Combo Savings Package.