Oahu snorkeling cruise Waikiki - turtles, fish & deck jump

Summary

Snorkeling off Waikiki with turtles, fish, and a high deck jump

You’ll float above coral gardens near Waikiki, spot sea turtles and schools of tropical fish with local guides nearby, and maybe even take a leap from the 20-foot upper deck if you’re feeling bold. With snacks included and gear provided, it’s one of those Oahu moments you’ll remember long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re really gonna jump?” That’s what the guy next to me asked as we stared down from the top deck of this big catamaran just offshore from Waikiki. I laughed — honestly, my legs were shaking a bit. But after floating in the water with those green sea turtles (they look so calm up close), it felt like anything was possible. The Oahu snorkeling cruise crew was joking around with us, tossing bits of bread for the fish — flashes of yellow and blue everywhere. I didn’t expect to hear so much laughter echoing over the water.

Our guide, Kaleo, pointed out a hawksbill turtle gliding by — he said they’re rarer than the greens. The water was cooler than I thought but clear enough to see all the way down to the sandy bottom. I kept fogging up my mask (user error?) but nobody seemed to care; everyone was too busy spotting parrotfish or trying to pronounce “honu” right. Li laughed when I tried it in Hawaiian — probably butchered it.

You can bring your own snacks if you want (someone had pineapple that smelled amazing), but they had juice and chips out too. There’s something about drying off in the sun on that upper deck, salt still on your skin, watching Waikiki shimmer in the distance. We saw a couple of kids jumping off again and again — braver than me by far. If you come between December and April you might see humpback whales too, though we just got lucky with turtles this time.

I keep thinking about how quiet it felt underwater compared to all the chatter on deck — just your breath and those slow-moving turtles drifting past. It’s not fancy or anything, but somehow that makes it better.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Oahu Snorkeling Adventure

• Snorkel from 65' double decker catamaran
• Swim with fish, turtles, and marine life
• Jump off top deck
• Watch crew feed the fish

Top questions

Is snorkel gear included on this Oahu snorkeling cruise?

Yes, snorkel masks, fins, and life jackets are provided. You can also bring your own if you prefer.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks (just no glass containers).

Are there bathrooms on the boat?

Yes, there are marine/RV type bathrooms available onboard.

Is this Waikiki snorkeling tour suitable for kids?

Yes, infants and small children can join (strollers allowed), but check health recommendations first.

Will I see sea turtles on this Oahu snorkeling trip?

You have a good chance to see green sea turtles and sometimes hawksbill turtles.

When is whale season in Oahu for this cruise?

The best chance to see humpback whales is between December and April.

Is pickup included for this Waikiki snorkeling cruise?

No hotel pickup is included; you'll need to get yourself to the departure point.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

The boat is wheelchair accessible but shuttle service is not.

What’s included

Your day includes use of snorkel masks, fins, life jackets (or bring your own), light snacks like chips plus water and juice onboard. You’ll have access to marine bathrooms and an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort before or after swimming — plus that 20-foot high upper deck if you’re feeling adventurous enough for a jump into the Pacific.