Waikiki Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise to Diamond Head — Marine Life & Shoreline Views
Slide away from Kewalo Basin and peer through glass panels into reef gardens while Diamond Head looms ahead. This 60-minute Waikiki glass-bottom cruise is a concise, family-friendly primer on Oʻahu’s coastal life and shoreline history.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early to Check In
Be at Slip F21 at least 20 minutes before departure to secure boarding and metered parking; buses #19, #20, and #42 stop nearby.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
The boat provides shade, but UV reflects off the sea — choose mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen to protect skin and reefs.
Mitigate Seasickness
If you get queasy, sit midship where motion is less pronounced and consider ginger or an over-the-counter remedy beforehand.
Protect Your Camera
Use a waterproof case or dry bag for phones and small cameras — splashes and spray are common near the bow.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the nearby Ala Moana Beach Park after your cruise for calm swimming and sunset views
- •Look for the shallow WWII-era shipwreck visible on calm days — guides will point it out during the cruise
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtle (honu)
- •Spinner dolphins
Conservation Note
Operators encourage reef-safe sunscreen and responsible viewing distances; whale and turtle protection laws prohibit chasing or touching marine wildlife.
Kewalo Basin evolved from traditional Hawaiian canoe landings to a commercial marina; Diamond Head (Lē’ahi) is the eroded remnant of a 300,000-year-old volcanic tuff cone.
Photographer's Notes
- • Glass-bottom port for reef and fish composition
- • Starboard deck facing Diamond Head for coastline panoramas
- • Bow for dynamic shots of wake and skyline
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and reduces chemical impact on coral and marine life.
Sunglasses with strapEssential
Cuts glare for viewing through water and keeps eyewear secure in wind.
Light wind jacket
Useful on cooler, windy mornings and when the boat crosses exposed water.
Waterproof phone case or small cameraEssential
Keeps devices safe from spray and lets you shoot low-angle photos through the glass.
Common Questions
How long is the cruise?
The trip is approximately 60 minutes from boarding to return at Kewalo Basin.
Will I definitely see turtles or dolphins?
No sighting can be guaranteed; the crew maximizes chances but wildlife sightings depend on conditions and animal movement.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The cruise is stroller-accessible and allows service animals, but power wheelchairs are not accommodated due to a single boarding step.
Where do I check in?
Check in at Slip F21 in Kewalo Basin (1009 Ala Moana Blvd) and look for the large red sign; arrive 20 minutes early.
Can I bring food or alcohol?
The tour provides bottled water and typically does not allow outside alcohol; small snacks are usually fine but check operator policy if unsure.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled for unsafe conditions; full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours prior per the operator’s policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal — suitable for most fitness levels; you must be able to step aboard and stand for short periods.
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