Waikiki Turtle Canyon Private Snorkel Cruise & Guide

Summary

Private Waikiki Snorkeling with Turtles & Local Crew

Slip into crystal-clear waters off Waikiki for a private turtle snorkel cruise with a local guide. Watch honu glide past at Turtle Canyon, enjoy music onboard with your group, sip cold drinks after swimming, and soak up stories from your crew—an experience you’ll remember long after leaving Oahu.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the color — that wild, impossible blue off Waikiki, with Diamond Head just kind of hanging in the background like it’s always been there. We met our crew at the dock (I think it was Kimo who handed me my mask), and right away it felt different from those big, packed boats you see drifting by. It was just us and the boat, music already playing low — someone in our group put on old-school reggae, which somehow fit the morning.

We headed out toward Turtle Canyon, bouncing over little waves. The air smelled salty but also sweet, like sunscreen and something floral I couldn’t place. Our guide explained how these Hawaiian green sea turtles are protected — “honu,” he called them — and made sure we understood: no touching, no chasing, just float and watch. I liked that. When we finally slipped into the water (it’s colder than you expect for a second), there they were — two turtles gliding below us, totally unbothered by our awkward fins. I tried to say “honu” properly; Li laughed at my pronunciation but gave me a thumbs-up anyway.

I lost track of time watching those turtles move — slow but so sure of themselves. There were flashes of yellow fish everywhere, and once I thought I saw an eel darting under a rock (not 100% sure). The whole thing felt quieter underwater; even with people around you, there’s this hush. When we climbed back onto the boat, towels waiting and cold drinks handed out, I realized my shoulders were already pink from the sun. Someone spotted dolphins off in the distance — or maybe it was just wishful thinking? Either way, nobody minded.

On the way back to Waikiki Beach, we stretched out on deck while Kimo told us about growing up here and pointed out where whales sometimes show up in winter. It’s funny how fast 90 minutes goes when you’re not counting minutes at all. I still think about that moment floating above those turtles — how small you feel in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Snorkel Adventure

• Board private boat
• Snorkel at Turtle Canyon
• Snorkel at private reef
• Spot Hawaiian green sea turtles
• Watch for spinner dolphins and whales
• Relax onboard with complimentary beverages

Top questions

How long is the private turtle snorkel cruise in Waikiki?

The tour lasts about 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Is snorkel equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all snorkel equipment is included for guests.

Are drinks included during the cruise?

Complimentary soft drinks and water are provided onboard.

How many people can join the private tour?

The boat accommodates up to 20 passengers for private groups.

Can we bring our own food or alcohol?

The tour is BYOB; you may bring your own beverages.

Will we definitely see turtles at Turtle Canyon?

Turtle sightings are likely but not guaranteed due to wildlife behavior.

Is hotel pickup included for this Waikiki snorkeling tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transport options are nearby.

Are flotation vests available if needed?

Yes, flotation vests are available for all guests who want them.

What’s included

Your day includes exclusive use of the boat for your group only, all snorkel gear and flotation vests provided by an experienced local guide and crew, plus complimentary soft drinks and water to enjoy after swimming before returning to Waikiki Beach together.