Snorkeling Oahu: Turtle Canyon with 20-person max group

Two hours in Turtle Canyon, guaranteed to see sea turtles

Small-group snorkeling in Oahu's Turtle Canyon with a maximum of 20 people per boat, two in-water guides, and a sightings guarantee. You explore the reef for sea turtles and tropical fish while the crew handles setup, instruction and safety. If no turtles appear, you rebook at no cost.

The experience

The boat runs at half capacity (20 people instead of its rated 49), which means you get genuine attention in the water and real comfort on deck. Two in-water guides join you while you explore, and the crew handles all the snorkel gear setup so you can focus on what's actually happening beneath the surface. The ride out to Turtle Canyon passes Waikiki from the ocean side, and the crew knows the local knowledge worth sharing.

Snorkeling here means sea turtles and tropical fish are the main event, but you'll also keep an eye out for spinner dolphins and, between January and March, humpback whales passing through. The activity runs two hours total, which leaves your morning or afternoon open depending on when you depart. First-time snorkelers and seasoned ones both work here: the guides adjust to what you need. Complimentary fresh water, local juices and sodas are on deck, and a freshwater shower rinses off the salt when you're done.

All snorkel gear, fins and a flotation vest come with the booking. Shaded and sunny seating lets you choose where to sit between water time. Basic swimming skills are required, and the activity is physically demanding, so you should be in good health to participate. Children from age seven are welcome.

What’s included

• All snorkel gear, fins and flotation vest.
• two in-water guides certified in lifeguard rescue.
• fresh water deck shower.
• complimentary fresh water, local juices and sodas.
• shaded and sunny seating options.

Information

Lasts 2h, runs every day at 08:00, 10:30 and 13:00, from US$ 85 per person, with a live guide in English and with free cancellation up to 24 h before.

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 08:00, 10:30 and 13:00Another time? ›

GroupUp to 20

Live guideEnglishOther languages ›

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.1 with pickup ›

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (18 to 70 years) · Child (7 to 17 years) · Under 7: can't be booked

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortStroller-friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Hawaii Ocean Charters

Is this one for you?Two hours is short enough to fit into a morning or afternoon without eating your whole day, but long enough to spend real time looking for turtles and other reef life instead of rushing through the snorkel. The small group size and in-water guides mean you're not competing for attention or space with dozens of other swimmers.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (7 to 17 years). Children under 7 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the guarantee if I don't see a turtle?

If no sea turtles appear during your snorkel, you can book the excursion again for free. The operator stands behind the likelihood of sightings at Turtle Canyon.

What's included in the snorkel gear?

Snorkel gear, fins and a flotation vest are all provided. Bring your own towel or rent a prescription mask lens separately if you need one.

How long is the boat ride to Turtle Canyon?

The full activity is two hours, which includes the boat ride out, snorkel time at the reef and the return to shore. You'll see Waikiki from the water both ways.

What should I know about the boat size?

The boat holds 49 people at full capacity but carries only 20 on these trips, which gives you more space on deck and more attention from the guides in the water.