Oahu: Maunalua Bay Submarine Scooter & Turtle Swim Tour

Summary

Underwater scooter ride in Oahu’s Maunalua Bay with turtles and local guides

You’ll cruise Oahu’s Maunalua Bay by catamaran, try a submarine scooter with a local guide, and swim among tropical fish and turtles—no experience needed. After your underwater adventure, relax with snacks and stories on deck as you watch Diamond Head fade into the distance. This is one of those days you’ll keep replaying in your head long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the water around Maunalua Bay looked almost glassy—like someone had ironed out every ripple. We’d barely left the dock before our guide, Keoni, pointed out Diamond Head in the distance. The catamaran hummed underneath us, and there was this salty breeze that made my hair stick up weirdly. I remember thinking, “Okay, I’ve never done anything like this before,” which felt both exciting and a little nerve-wracking.

Keoni gave us a safety rundown that was half serious, half jokes about what not to do (“Don’t race the fish—they always win”). The submarine scooter itself looked kind of goofy at first—like something from an old sci-fi movie—but once I ducked inside and felt the air bubble pop around my ears, it was just quiet blue everywhere. Fish darted by so close I could see their scales twitch when they turned. At one point, a green sea turtle drifted past me so slowly I almost forgot to breathe. My hands were cold gripping the handlebars but honestly, I barely noticed after a minute.

After twenty minutes underwater (which didn’t feel nearly long enough), we climbed back onto the boat. There were snacks—those sweet Hawaiian chips and cold drinks—and everyone swapped stories about what they’d seen below. Someone tried to pronounce “honu” for turtle; Keoni laughed and corrected us gently. The sun came out strong while we lounged on deck, wetsuit tops still dripping. It’s funny how quickly you go from nervous to not wanting it to end.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Submarine scooter adventure on Oahu

• Arrive 30 minutes before departure
• Check in with valid photo ID
• Board power catamaran at Maunalua Bay
• Cruise past Diamond Head and mountains
• Receive safety briefing and scooter demo
• Dive underwater on electric submarine scooter
• Glide among fish, coral, and turtles
• Swim, snorkel, and relax on deck
• Enjoy snacks and island stories
• Option to purchase photos or videos

Top questions

How long does the submarine scooter tour last?

The entire tour takes about two hours from check-in to return.

Do I need scuba or snorkeling experience for this?

No experience is needed; beginners are welcome on this day trip in Oahu.

Is hotel pickup included?

No, but public transportation options are available nearby the departure point.

What should I bring for the Maunalua Bay scooter tour?

You should wear a swimsuit and bring a towel and sunscreen for comfort.

Are there age or height restrictions?

The minimum age is 10 years old and minimum height is 4 feet (1.2 meters).

Will I see turtles during the underwater scooter ride?

You may see Hawaiian green sea turtles along with tropical fish during your dive.

Is food provided on board?

Complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are included during your tour.

Can I buy photos or videos from my dive?

Yes, professional photos or video footage are available for purchase after your adventure.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary equipment for the submarine scooter adventure in Oahu’s Maunalua Bay, wetsuit top and snorkel gear, complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic drinks onboard, plus time to swim or relax after your guided underwater session before heading back ashore.