Waikiki Catamaran Snorkel to Turtle Canyon — Snorkel with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
Board a spacious catamaran from Kewalo Basin and head to Turtle Canyon, where Hawaiian green sea turtles feed and clean above reef channels. This 2–3 hour snorkel cruise includes premium gear, lunch on select departures, and a turtle-spotting guarantee.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding to protect marine life and avoid greasy reapplication on the boat.
Wear reef shoes
Decks are barefoot and reef bottoms can be rocky—light reef shoes protect feet when entering and exiting the water.
Use the floating vest if unsure
Even confident swimmers should use the provided flotation device over reef areas where currents can surprise you.
Protect your camera
Use a waterproof case or float strap—the boat offers clear views and sudden surf can flip an unsecured camera.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Park the car and walk along the Kewalo Basin pier at sunrise for local fishing boats and early-morning light
- •After the cruise, grab poke or fresh fish plates at nearby Ala Moana or Kewalo Basin fish market stalls
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- •Spinner dolphins; winter months may bring humpback whale sightings offshore
Conservation Note
Operators enforce no-touch rules and limit interaction to minimize stress on turtles; using reef-safe sunscreen and following crew instructions reduces human impact on sensitive reef habitats.
Honu have long been important in Hawaiian culture as symbols of endurance and guidance; the reef and current patterns here reflect Oahu’s volcanic formation and centuries of coastal use.
Photographer's Notes
- • Swim platform for underwater shots of turtles
- • Bow of the catamaran for coastline and Diamond Head frames
- • From the water looking back at the vessel to capture scale and color
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects you and the reef while enabling comfortable time in the sun.
Reef shoesEssential
Protects feet when stepping on rough reef, on warm decks, and at the pier.
Waterproof camera or case
Captures underwater encounters without risking gear loss.
Light windbreaker or cover-up
Keeps you comfortable on the cooler ride back as winds pick up near sunset.
Common Questions
How likely am I to see a green sea turtle?
Very likely—turtles are almost always spotted at Turtle Canyon; if not, the operator offers a re-ride on a tour of equal or lesser value.
Do I need experience snorkeling?
No prior experience required—staff provide a basic briefing and flotation devices; however, basic comfort in the water helps.
Can I bring my own snorkel gear?
Yes; premium gear is provided, but you’re welcome to use personal masks or snorkels for comfort and fit.
Are children allowed?
Yes—children can join but infants must sit on an adult’s lap and crew will advise based on age and swimming ability.
What happens in bad weather?
If canceled due to weather you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund; the operator monitors sea conditions and decides on safety.
Is food and drink included?
Snacks and nonalcoholic drinks are available on shorter sails; lunch and alcoholic beverages are included on select longer departures.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light to moderate; you should be able to enter/exit the water and swim short distances (50–100 yards).
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