Waikiki: Turtle Snorkeling Cruise with 20ft Jumping Platform

If you’re headed to Hawaii’s Waikiki Beach, and love the idea of swimming alongside sea turtles in their natural habitat, this 3-hour snorkeling cruise might catch your interest. For $89 per person, you’ll hop aboard a catamaran, cruise out into the Pacific Ocean, and enjoy a chance to encounter Hawaii’s iconic marine life, all while savoring refreshments and soaking up stunning coastline views.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to interact with gentle sea turtles in a relatively relaxed setting. Second, the added thrill of a 20-foot jumping platform that lets adrenaline seekers leap into the ocean — a fun twist that few snorkeling trips include. On the downside, however, some travelers have noted that marine life sightings aren’t always guaranteed, which can be disappointing if you’re eager to see turtles on the day you go. This tour tends to suit families, first-time snorkelers, or anyone looking for a blend of gentle adventure and scenic relaxation. If your expectations are realistic and you’re flexible, you’ll likely enjoy what this experience offers.

Key Points

• Marine Life Encounters: The main draw is swimming with sea turtles and tropical fish, but sightings depend on the day.
• Comfort & Convenience: All snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, and pickup and drop-off are included within Waikiki.
• Scenic Views & Atmosphere: The catamaran cruise offers panoramic coastline vistas and a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty.
• Extra Adventures: The 20-foot jump platform adds a fun element for those wanting a quick adrenaline rush.
• Food & Drinks: Complimentary water, juice, and snacks are on board, perfect for rehydrating and snacking during your trip.
• Weather Dependence: Tours run weather permitting, and activities like paddling or kayaking may be unavailable during bad weather.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Once you arrive at the designated check-in location at 1025 Ala Moana Blvd #PIER E, you’ll be greeted and given a brief safety orientation. This careful introduction helps ensure everyone feels comfortable, especially if you’re new to snorkeling. The shuttle buses, marked ESEADIVER, will transport you to the boat, which is a spacious catamaran with multiple decks, offering ample space to relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific.

The cruise out into the deeper waters usually takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on conditions. Along the way, you can sip refreshing beverages or nibble on snacks, all included in the price. The crew, typically friendly and attentive, will keep an eye on safety and guide you to the best snorkeling spots for turtle sightings.

Snorkeling and Marine Life: Seeing Turtles and Fish

Once at the designated snorkeling sites, you’ll don your gear, which is provided, and jump in. This is the heart of the experience. Many reviewers report that swimming with turtles was the highlight, though some have noted that marine life sightings are not guaranteed — a fact worth keeping in mind. One traveler from Belgium mentioned, “The snorkeling was good but we didn’t see any turtles… and that was the goal,” emphasizing that nature’s unpredictability can sometimes affect expectations.

Besides turtles, you’ll encounter colorful tropical fish, coral, and sometimes larger marine creatures. The guided briefings ensure you know how to snorkel safely and help you identify what you see. For beginners, this is a plus, as the crew is prepared to support less experienced swimmers.

The Jump Platform: A Fun Add-On

One of the unique features of this tour is the 20-foot jumping platform. If you’re feeling adventurous, it offers a quick, exhilarating leap into the water. This addition is especially appealing to families with kids or adventure-minded travelers. It provides a break from snorkeling and a chance to capture some memorable photos of you mid-air.

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Scenic Relaxation & Coastal Views

Back on the boat, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Oahu’s coastline, making this not just a marine adventure but also a scenic cruise. The multi-level decks give ample space to relax, socialize, or simply soak up the sun and scenery.

Food, Beverages, and Comfort

Included water, juice, and snacks keep everyone hydrated and energized. The boat is equipped with two restrooms, adding to the comfort during your journey. If you’re craving a full meal or alcoholic drinks, you’ll need to bring your own, as they are not included.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

The experience hasn’t been universally perfect. One traveler from Belgium rated it 4 out of 5, appreciating the “nice boat ride” and “good value,” but noted that marine sightings weren’t always guaranteed. Conversely, a reviewer from Slovakia was quite disappointed, calling it “the worst and most boring activity ever,” highlighting that expectations versus reality can vary significantly.

A US-based traveler shared that the crew was “rude with kids,” which suggests that customer service can differ, and travelers should manage expectations for personalized service. These varied reviews underscore the importance of having flexible expectations and understanding that nature-based activities are inherently unpredictable.

The Price Point and Value

At $89, this tour offers a moderate price for a full 3-hour marine experience, including transportation, gear, snacks, and scenic cruising. While marine sightings aren’t always guaranteed, the convenience, safety measures, and added excitement of the jumping platform make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a family-friendly, scenic, and active outing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits families with children, especially those eager for a fun, active adventure. It’s also great for beginners or travelers looking for an easy-going introduction to Hawaii’s marine life without the complexity of a deep dive. If you’re adventurous and enjoy a quick leap into the water, the jump platform adds that extra thrill.

However, if your primary goal is guaranteed turtle sightings, you might want to consider managing your expectations, as sightings are not always guaranteed. This tour is ideal for those who appreciate scenic cruising, light adventure, and the chance to relax while enjoying Hawaii’s natural beauty.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic way to experience Hawaii’s marine environment, this snorkeling cruise offers a good balance of adventure and comfort. The scenic boat ride, opportunity to swim with turtles, and fun leap from the 20-foot platform make it stand out among other tours. It’s particularly suited for families, first-time snorkelers, or those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline with their marine encounters.

While marine life sightings cannot be promised, the experience’s value lies in the overall atmosphere, scenic views, and the chance to connect with Hawaii’s natural wonders. If you go with a flexible mindset, you’re likely to come away with beautiful photos, stories, and memories.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
Your ticket covers pickup and drop-off within Waikiki, a catamaran cruise, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, water, juice, snacks, and access to restrooms onboard.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and alcoholic drinks, as they are not provided by the tour.

How long is the cruise?
The total experience lasts around 3 hours, including transportation, snorkeling, and relaxing time on the boat.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. All levels are welcome, and the crew provides snorkel gear and safety instructions, making it accessible for first-timers.

What if I don’t see turtles or marine life?
Since sightings depend on wild animals and weather, sightings are not guaranteed. Many travelers still enjoy the cruise for the scenery and the boat ride itself.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 3 years old can join for free but cannot participate in the activities for safety reasons. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, and any food or drinks you prefer. Wear comfortable footwear suitable for boardings and disembarking.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour operates weather permitting. If the weather is unsuitable, activities like paddleboarding or kayaking may be canceled, but the cruise may still proceed if safe.

In essence, this snorkeling tour offers a scenic, fun-filled way to experience Hawaii’s marine environment, especially if you’re eager for the chance to swim with turtles and enjoy a lively boat ride. Just remember, nature isn’t always predictable, so keep your expectations flexible and your camera ready.

You can check availability for your dates here: