Waikiki: 2-Tank Shipwreck & Reef SCUBA Dive for Certified

Summary

Waikiki shipwrecks then reef diving with expert guides

You’ll feel that first jolt of excitement dropping onto a real Waikiki shipwreck with your certified guide nearby, then relax into colorful reef life on your second dive. Expect early morning energy, friendly banter in multiple languages, all your gear sorted for you—and maybe even a sea turtle sighting if luck’s on your side.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I was nervous before this Waikiki 2-tank wreck SCUBA dive. There’s something about slipping into the ocean at sunrise, wetsuit clinging awkwardly, that makes you hyper-aware of every sound—the slap of fins on deck, low chatter in three languages (our guide Li switched between English and Mandarin like it was nothing). The Sea Tiger loomed below us—just a shadow at first, then suddenly there, rusted and somehow peaceful. I remember the cold metal railing under my glove and how my breath echoed in the regulator. Fish darted through broken windows; Li tapped his tank to point out a turtle gliding past like it owned the place.

After surfacing from the wreck dive (my heart still pounding), we swapped tanks and drifted toward the reef off Waikiki. The water felt warmer here—maybe it was just relief. Sunlight filtered down in those weird shifting patterns you only see underwater. I tried to say “parrotfish” in Japanese to one of the other divers—got a laugh, not sure if I nailed it. There was this moment when everything went quiet except for bubbles and distant whale song (or maybe that was just boat noise—I want to believe it was whales). Snacks tasted way better than they should have after two dives, sitting on deck with salt drying on my face.

The whole thing is run tight—you have to show your dive cert at check-in (no exceptions), and they’re strict about safety stuff. Our group had a mix of languages but everyone got paired up by experience level. If you want more time or attention, you can book a private guide (I overheard someone say it’s worth it if you’re picky about bottom time). Just don’t forget: no flying same day as diving—they’ll remind you twice, at least.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Certified diver shipwreck and reef dive

• Check diver certification at check-in
• Dive at shipwreck site
• Follow local reef dive in Waikiki
• Stay close with dive guide

Top questions

Do I need to be certified for this Waikiki wreck dive?

Yes, only certified divers can join the shipwreck or night dives—no exceptions.

Which shipwrecks do we visit on this 2-tank dive?

You may dive sites like the Sea Tiger, YO-257, or San Pedro wreck near Waikiki.

Is all scuba equipment included in the booking?

Yes, all required scuba equipment is provided as part of your tour.

Are there guides who speak Japanese or Chinese?

Yes, Japanese, Chinese and Korean speaking instructors are available upon request.

What time does check-in start for this dive trip?

Please arrive by 6:30am; there’s a short grace period until 6:45am.

Can I book a private instructor for my group?

Yes, private instructors are available at extra cost for groups wanting personal attention.

Is lunch included during the tour?

No full lunch is provided but snacks and bottled water are included onboard.

What’s the cancellation policy for this SCUBA tour?

Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refunded; larger groups need 21 days’ notice for free cancellation.

What’s included

Your morning includes all necessary scuba gear fitted by staff at check-in, bottled water to keep you going between dives, light snacks after surfacing from the reef, plus guidance from certified professionals who handle safety briefings and lead both dives around Waikiki’s shipwrecks and reefs.