Waikiki Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise to Diamond Head — Coral Reefs, Sea Turtles & Ocean Stories
Step aboard the Haleiwa Queen and watch the Pacific unfold beneath glass portals: live coral, sea turtles, and the slope of Diamond Head. This one-hour Waikiki cruise pairs marine viewing with local history and a crew who grew up on these waters.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early
Check in 20 minutes before departure at Kewalo Basin Slip F21 to secure seating and boarding; parking is metered nearby.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Use a biodegradable sunscreen to protect coral when spending time on deck or near open hatches.
Pack a Light Layer
Onshore heat can give way to trade-wind breezes — a windbreaker or light fleece keeps you comfortable on the shaded deck.
Camera Prep
Use a polarizing filter and lower angles to reduce glare through glass ports; put phones on airplane mode before boarding.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning boardings often have calmer water and clearer reef visibility.
- •Look toward the deeper channels off Kūhiō Beach for chances to see reef sharks and larger pelagic fish.
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtle (honu)
- •Spinner dolphins
Conservation Note
The operator emphasizes reef-safe practices and encourages guests not to feed or touch marine life to protect fragile coral ecosystems.
Waikīkī was once a mosaic of fishponds and taro loʻi managed by chiefs and families; the shoreline’s present coral formations grew over ancient lava flows.
Photographer's Notes
- • Forward deck for wide views of Diamond Head
- • Glass-bottom ports for low-angle reef shots
- • Starboard side when passing nearshore reefs
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the coral ecosystems you’ll observe from the deck.
Wide-brim hat & sunglassesEssential
Shields eyes from glare and keeps you comfortable while scanning the water.
Light windbreaker
Blocks the trade-wind chill that can pick up on open water, especially in mornings and evenings.
Waterproof camera or phone case
Protects electronics from spray and lets you capture low-angle reef photos through the glass ports.
Common Questions
Where do we meet for the cruise?
Meet at Kewalo Basin Harbor, Slip F21 (1009 Ala Moana Blvd); look for the big red sign and arrive 20 minutes early.
How long is the cruise and what will we see?
The cruise lasts 60 minutes and travels along Waikiki toward Diamond Head; expect views of coral reefs, tropical fish, and seasonal sightings of turtles, dolphins or humpback whales.
Are there restrooms and shade onboard?
Yes — the Haleiwa Queen has onboard restrooms and a shaded deck for passenger comfort.
Can children and strollers board?
Yes — infants and small children can ride in a stroller, and the cruise is family-friendly; service animals are allowed.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No — the crew will do their best to locate wildlife, but sightings depend on ocean conditions and animal behavior and cannot be guaranteed.
Is snorkeling or swimming part of the tour?
No — this is a glass-bottom boat cruise; swimming or snorkeling is not included or recommended from the vessel.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal mobility required for boarding and moving around the shaded deck.
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