Waikiki: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Tour & Catamaran Cruise

Summary

Swim with sea turtles at Turtle Canyon and cruise Waikiki’s coast

You’ll step onto a Waikiki catamaran with local guides, join in a traditional Hawaiian chant for luck, then snorkel above green sea turtles at Turtle Canyon while tropical fish swirl around you. Enjoy hot drinks onboard after your swim and take in Diamond Head views as you cruise back along the coast—one of those days that lingers long after.

What’s the experience like?

We climbed onto the catamaran just off Waikiki Beach, salt in the air and that kind of bright Hawaiian morning that makes you squint even if you’re half awake. Our guide, Kaleo, started us off with a chant — E Hō Mai — which he said was for safe passage. I’ll admit I didn’t catch every word, but it felt like we were being let in on something real. The boat had this gentle sway as we pulled away from shore; someone handed me a cup of hot green tea and it actually tasted good, not like the stuff I make at home.

Turtle Canyon isn’t far — maybe 20 minutes? — but the water changes color out there, gets almost see-through blue. We spotted a few heads bobbing before we even anchored. The crew passed out masks (they have Rx ones too, which my partner needed), fins, and life jackets for anyone who wanted them. There was this second when I put my face in the water and everything went quiet except for my own breathing. Then suddenly—there they were—two green sea turtles gliding right below us. One looked up straight at me (or so I thought), slow and calm, totally unbothered by our clumsy flippers.

I tried to say “honu” (the Hawaiian word for turtle) but probably butchered it; Kaleo laughed anyway and corrected me gently. There were flashes of yellow fish everywhere and someone swore they saw a dolphin off to the left, though I missed it because I was busy watching a turtle nibble on coral. Afterward, back on deck with wet hair sticking to my forehead, they poured hot cocoa if you wanted it—felt weird after swimming but honestly hit the spot.

On the way back we cruised past Diamond Head—never realized how massive it looks from the water—and people waved from other boats as we drifted by Waikiki’s beaches again. I kept thinking about that silent moment underwater with the turtles; kind of peaceful in a way you don’t expect when you’re surrounded by strangers and saltwater gear. So yeah… if you’ve ever wanted to do a Waikiki turtle snorkeling tour that doesn’t feel rushed or fake, this one’s worth it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel with turtles and scenic cruise

• Board catamaran in Waikiki
• Participate in Hawaiian E Hō Mai chant
• Enjoy complimentary drinks and snack
• Snorkel at Turtle Canyon with sea turtles
• Watch for dolphins and whales
• Cruise past Diamond Head crater
• View Waikiki beaches on return

Top questions

How long is the Turtle Canyon snorkeling tour?

The tour length isn’t specified but includes cruising to Turtle Canyon, snorkeling time, and return past Diamond Head.

Is snorkel equipment provided on this Waikiki tour?

Yes, all snorkel gear is provided—including masks (with Rx options), snorkels, fins, and life jackets.

Are drinks included during the boat tour?

Yes—complimentary water, green tea, and hot cocoa are served onboard.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

You can bring your own food and beverages (no glass containers allowed).

Is this snorkeling tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes—the boat is wheelchair accessible and service animals are allowed.

Will we see dolphins or whales?

Dolphins are sometimes seen; whales may be spotted during whale season but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Does the boat have restrooms?

Yes—there is a restroom available onboard the catamaran.

Are there public transportation options nearby?

Yes—public transportation options are available near departure point in Waikiki.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all snorkel equipment (with prescription mask options), complimentary water plus green tea or hot cocoa served onboard, access to an air-conditioned vehicle if needed for transport nearby Waikiki, wheelchair accessibility throughout the experience—and plenty of time swimming with turtles before cruising past Diamond Head back toward shore.