Oahu: Dolphin Watch Cruise with Waterslide & Snorkeling

Summary

Wild dolphins, Makaha snorkeling, waterslide fun on Oahu’s coast

You’ll set out from Oahu’s coast searching for wild dolphins with local guides who know every ripple of these waters. Snorkel Makaha’s reefs among turtles and tropical fish, try out a giant waterslide or just float under the sun. Lunch is included onboard before heading back—expect laughter, small surprises, and moments you’ll want to replay later.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the Poseidon just as someone was finishing a soft chant — our guide called it an “Oli” for safe travels. The boat had this salty smell, mixed with sunscreen and coffee from someone’s thermos. I didn’t expect to see dolphins so soon, but there they were — Spinner dolphins flipping in the distance while everyone pointed and whispered (like we’d scare them off if we talked too loud). Our guide, Kimo, knew all their names or at least acted like he did. He told us to keep our eyes out for Bottlenose and Pan Tropical Spotted dolphins too — I tried to remember which was which but mostly just watched the water flicker in the sun.

After that first rush, we drifted along Oahu’s west coast for a bit before heading toward Makaha. The water there is this unreal blue, almost fake-looking. Snorkeling was… honestly a little awkward at first (I always forget how weird fins feel), but then it turned into something peaceful — floating above sea turtles and these neon fish darting around coral. My mask fogged up so I missed part of what Kimo was pointing at, but I caught enough. Lunch was a turkey sandwich (they’d packed veggie wraps too), chips, and green tea that tasted kind of sweet after all that saltwater.

The 21-foot waterslide looked huge from the top deck — my nephew dared me to go first so I did (screamed halfway down). There was also a floating mat where some kids played king-of-the-hill and a couple of people tried stand-up paddleboarding without much luck. The sun felt good on my shoulders by then. Someone handed out hot cocoa when we got chilly after swimming — not sure why hot chocolate on a boat hit so different but it did.

I still think about that moment floating quiet above the reef, just hearing my own breath and the distant laughter from the boat. It wasn’t perfect — my mask leaked, I got sunburned on my knees somehow — but it felt real in a way you can’t plan for. On the ride back toward Waikiki, Kimo told us stories about growing up here; he laughed when I tried to say “mahalo” right (I probably butchered it). So yeah… if you’re looking for an Oahu dolphin watching cruise that feels lively but not forced, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin watching and snorkeling cruise

• Begin with traditional Hawaiian “Oli” chant
• Watch for wild dolphins along West Oahu coast
• Enjoy locally crafted sandwich or wrap onboard
• Snorkel at Makaha with sea turtles and fish
• Use 21-foot water slide and floating mat
• Try stand-up paddleboard or kayak
• Rinse off with onboard ION hot shower

Top questions

What types of dolphins can you see on this Oahu dolphin watching cruise?

You might spot Spinner dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, and Pan Tropical Spotted dolphins during the cruise.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is included for use during your time at Makaha.

Does this dolphin watch cruise include hotel pickup?

Complimentary transportation is available from Waikiki and Ko'Olina hotels.

What’s included for lunch on board?

Your lunch will be a turkey sandwich unless you request a vegetarian wrap in advance; chips and drinks are also provided.

Are there activities besides dolphin watching?

Yes—you can use a 21-foot waterslide, floating mat, stand-up paddleboards, kayak, or just relax on deck after snorkeling.

Where does snorkeling take place on this tour?

The snorkeling stop is at Makaha, one of Oahu’s best spots for seeing sea turtles and tropical fish.

Is this tour suitable for families with young kids?

Yes—it’s family-friendly and suitable for all fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Can you bring service animals on board?

Service animals are allowed on this dolphin watching cruise.

What’s included

Your day includes complimentary pickup from Waikiki or Ko'Olina hotels, bottled water plus green tea or hot cocoa onboard, all snorkeling equipment at Makaha reef, use of the double-decker Poseidon boat with its big waterslide and floating mat, plus lunch—either turkey sandwich or veggie wrap if you let them know ahead—and snacks like chips before heading back in comfort.