Honolulu: Whale watching cruise with upper deck seating

Summary

Whale watching in Honolulu—close enough to hear the splash

You’ll ride out from Honolulu on a stable boat with open decks and watch humpback whales breach and play in the wild Pacific—with a local guide sharing stories as you go. Expect salty air, maybe dolphins or turtles too, and moments of real awe you’ll remember long after heading back to shore.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t really expect to feel anything when we first boarded the Prince Kuhio for this whale watching cruise in Honolulu—maybe just some sun and sea air. But then you’re out there, salt on your lips, and suddenly someone shouts “there!” and everyone’s pointing at the water. The hush that falls is weirdly intense. Our guide, Kaleo, grinned and said it was a good day for whales—something about the wind being just right. I didn’t even know wind mattered for whales.

The boat itself felt steady, which helped because I get a bit queasy sometimes (I brought ginger chews just in case). We found a spot on the upper deck, legs dangling over the side. You can smell sunscreen and ocean mixed together—plus someone’s coffee drifting by. And then, out of nowhere, this massive tail slapped the surface maybe 30 meters away. It’s not quiet; it’s a real thump you feel in your chest. Everyone kind of gasped at once. I tried to take a photo but honestly missed half of it because I was too busy staring.

Kaleo told us about how these humpbacks come here every winter from Alaska—he pointed out how you could tell if it was a mom or calf by their size (I still can’t tell them apart). At one point he laughed when I tried to say “kohola” (whale) in Hawaiian—I probably butchered it but he seemed happy I tried. There were dolphins too, darting around like they were showing off for us. The whole thing felt both calm and exciting at once.

I keep thinking about that first breach—the sound of it, how everyone went silent for a second after. If you’re looking for a day trip from Honolulu that isn’t just another beach afternoon, this whale watching cruise is something different. Not perfect weather or perfect photos every time, but there’s something about seeing those whales up close that sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale Watching Cruise

• Whale watching on Prince Kuhio Cruise

Top questions

When is whale watching season in Honolulu?

The main season is between mid-December and March when humpback whales visit Hawaiian waters.

Is this whale watching cruise suitable for kids?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are allowed on board.

Does the tour include an upper deck viewing area?

Yes, there is outside seating on the large upper deck (capacity dependent).

Will I get seasick on this cruise?

The boat is stable but not recommended if you have unmanageable motion sickness.

Are other animals seen besides whales?

Dolphins and sea turtles often make appearances during the cruise.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to the departure point.

What’s included

Your day includes outside seating on the spacious upper deck (depending on capacity), guidance from a local crew who share stories along the way, plus easy access from central Honolulu so you can arrive by public transport or car before heading out to spot whales—and maybe dolphins or turtles too—before returning to shore.