Waikiki Glass-Bottom Boat Tour to Diamond Head — Reef and Marine Life Cruise
Step aboard a glass-bottom boat at Kewalo Basin and watch Waikiki’s reefs, shipwreck, and marine life unfold beneath your feet. This 60-minute cruise toward Diamond Head offers easy access to coral gardens and frequent wildlife viewing—ideal for families and first-time ocean explorers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early
Check in at least 20 minutes before departure to secure boarding and hear the safety briefing; slip F21 is busy and parking can take extra time.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before boarding to protect both your skin and the coral ecosystems below.
Prepare for motion
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication an hour before departure and pick a seat near the boat’s centerline for the smoothest ride.
Bring a camera with a polarizer
A polarizing filter cuts surface glare and improves underwater visibility through the glass panels for sharper photos.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the Ala Moana Beach Park path toward Magic Island for sunset photo runs after your cruise
- •Visit the small fishing markets near Kewalo Basin for fresh poke and local seafood vendors
Wildlife
- •Honu (green sea turtle)
- •Spinner and bottlenose dolphins
Conservation Note
Operators follow no-touch policies and encourage reef-safe sunscreen; visitors are asked not to feed or chase marine animals to reduce stress on ecosystems.
Diamond Head (Lēʻahi) is a volcanic tuff cone formed roughly 200,000 years ago and later used as a strategic coastal lookout during the territorial era.
Photographer's Notes
- • Glass-bottom viewports amid the central cabin
- • Bow rail facing Diamond Head for coastline panoramas
- • Starboard side near the shipwreck viewing location for close-up reef shots
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and prevents harmful chemicals from entering marine habitats.
Polarizing sunglasses or filterEssential
Reduces glare and improves visibility through the glass panels for photography.
Light wind jacket
Evenings and winter mornings can be breezy on the water—bring a thin layer.
Small dry bag or secure camera caseEssential
Keeps valuables dry and secured on a moving boat.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The cruise runs approximately 60 minutes and departs from Kewalo Basin Harbor, Slip F21.
Are marine sightings guaranteed?
No—crew maximize viewing opportunities but animals are wild and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The boat has a single step at boarding and cannot accommodate full-size power wheelchairs; contact the operator for specific accessibility needs.
Can I bring children or infants?
Yes—children are welcome; infants are recommended to be in a car seat or hands-free carrier and must be accompanied by an adult.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time; trips may be canceled for bad weather.
Is there bathroom onboard?
Yes, the vessel is equipped with a restroom for passenger use during the 60-minute cruise.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
60 minutes
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal mobility required aside from a single step to board.
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