Honolulu: Private Catamaran Cruise & Snorkeling Waikiki

Summary

Waikiki’s waves, Diamond Head views and a private boat just for you

You’ll feel Honolulu’s breeze as you cruise past Waikiki Beach on your own private catamaran. Watch for sea turtles or dolphins with a local guide who knows every story along this coast. Snorkel near Diamond Head or just relax on deck—your music, your pace. It’s a day that feels personal from start to finish.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly lost my hat to the wind before we even left Kewalo Basin Harbor—should’ve known better, but hey, that’s what happens when you’re busy gawking at the color of the water in Honolulu. Our guide, Keoni, grinned and said it was a “good omen” if something tried to fly away. He grew up around here and seemed to know every ripple between Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. I could smell sunscreen and salt in the air before we even set off.

The catamaran felt roomy with just our small group—no crowds elbowing for space or shouting over each other. We played our own playlist (Keoni showed us how to hook up Bluetooth) and watched for turtles. At one point he pointed out a pod of spinner dolphins—I swear they were showing off for us. The sun kept shifting behind clouds, making the ocean look like different shades every few minutes. I tried snorkeling for the first time here; breathing through that tube is weirder than it looks on TV, but Keoni was patient and actually swam alongside me until I got the hang of it.

Lunch was whatever snacks we’d brought—nothing fancy, but eating chips with wet hands after swimming always tastes better somehow. There was bottled water and soda on board too. When we anchored near Diamond Head, everything got quiet except for someone laughing about how awkward fins are to walk in (it was me). I still think about that view back toward Waikiki Beach—the city all hazy behind us while we floated there, not a tour bus in sight.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private catamaran cruise and snorkeling

• Depart from Kewalo Basin Harbor
• Cruise past Waikiki Beach
• Enjoy ocean view of Diamond Head
• Spot turtles, dolphins, or whales
• Anchor at calm snorkeling spot
• Swim or snorkel with guide
• Relax and enjoy personal music

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment included on this private catamaran cruise?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided for all guests during the tour.

Where does the catamaran cruise depart from in Honolulu?

The cruise departs from Kewalo Basin Harbor in Honolulu.

Can we bring our own food or drinks on board?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring any refreshments you’d like to enjoy during your time on board.

Will we see wildlife like turtles or dolphins?

You might spot turtles, dolphins, or even whales depending on the season—but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Is this tour suitable for beginners at snorkeling?

Yes, beginners are welcome and the guide offers help if you’re new to snorkeling.

How many people will be on the catamaran with us?

The vessel is exclusively reserved for your party only; no outside guests join.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

Is there music available during the cruise?

You can play your own music using the Bluetooth sound system provided.

What’s included

Your day includes exclusive use of a private catamaran departing from Kewalo Basin Harbor in Honolulu—with all snorkeling equipment provided, plus bottled water and soda onboard. You can play your own music through Bluetooth speakers and bring any extra snacks or drinks you want as you explore Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head with a local guide before returning relaxed (and maybe salty) by afternoon’s end.