Oahu: Swim with Dolphins, Turtle Snorkel Tour and Waterslide

Exploring Oahu’s coastlines offers some of the most memorable Hawaiian experiences, and this Swim with Dolphins and Turtle Snorkel Tour is no exception. Offered by Iruka Hawaii Dolphin, this 3.5-hour excursion combines wildlife encounters with fun water activities—perfect for families, adventurous travelers, or anyone eager to enjoy Hawaii’s marine life in a lively, supportive setting.

What we love about this tour is how it balances up-close animal encounters with relaxing leisure activities like paddleboarding and lounging on a floating mat. The crew’s enthusiasm and local knowledge come through clearly, making it more than just a boat ride — it’s a genuine chance to connect with the ocean. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the dolphin swimming is described as fast-paced and recommended for advanced snorkelers, which might not suit complete beginners.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive ocean experience that includes wildlife, scenic views, and fun extras. If you’re traveling with children or family members who enjoy water parks, the waterslide and paddleboarding will add an extra layer of enjoyment. However, those with mobility issues or wheelchair users should note the activity’s physical demands.

Key Points

• Wild dolphin encounters provide a rare chance to see these intelligent creatures in their natural environment.
• Snorkeling with Hawaiian Green sea turtles and reef fish offers colorful underwater sights.
• The scenic cruise along Waianae’s coastline highlights some of Hawaii’s most beautiful ocean vistas.
• Multiple water activities like watersliding, paddleboarding, kayaking, and lounging help cater to diverse interests.
• Complimentary lunch and beverages add value, making this a well-rounded outing.
• The tour’s knowledgeable crew and cultural insights enhance the experience, making it both fun and educational.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Pickup and Departure

The adventure begins early morning, with pickups from several Waikiki hotels—ranging from Ala Moana Hotel at 5:20 AM to the Ko Olina resorts at 6:40 AM. This well-organized pickup system is a real plus, ensuring you don’t have to worry about logistics. Expect a comfortable ride to the boat, where you’ll be greeted by a friendly crew ready to equip you with snorkeling gear and prepare for a day on the water.

Cruising Along Waianae’s Coastline

Once aboard, the boat departs, and you’ll start cruising along the scenic western shoreline of Oahu. This stretch is known for its rugged beauty and offers a perfect backdrop for photos. The crew is generally praised for their enthusiasm and attentiveness, with some reviews mentioning Captain Kurt’s humor and the crew’s warmth as highlights.

Wild Dolphin Encounter

The first major highlight is the chance to swim with wild dolphins. The description makes clear that several opportunities exist to jump into the water when dolphins swim nearby. However, some reviewers note that this part of the tour is fast-paced, best suited for experienced snorkelers. If you’re comfortable in open water and can handle some quick starts, you’ll find this exhilarating.

One reviewer from Switzerland expressed some frustration about the photos promised by a guide, which they did not receive, but overall the excitement of spotting the dolphins made up for it. Expect to feel the rush of swimming alongside these graceful creatures in their natural habitat—a rare and memorable experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Cultural Insights

After the dolphin swims, the tour offers a complimentary, locally crafted lunch—a simple turkey sandwich unless you specify otherwise before 8:00 PM the night before. The crew sometimes shares insights into Hawaiian culture, including the traditional “Oli” prayer of the sea, adding depth to what might otherwise be a straightforward ocean outing.

Snorkeling at Makaha Beach

Next, the boat heads to Makaha, a well-known surf and snorkel spot. This stretch provides an excellent chance to see Hawaiian Green sea turtles and colorful reef fish. The environment here is lively but safe, with the crew constantly on hand to assist or answer questions.

Many travelers find this part the most rewarding, especially seeing the turtles glide peacefully among the reefs. One review notes, “We swam with turtles, and the activity matched the description,” confirming the authenticity of the experience.

Water Activities and Leisure Time

Once the snorkeling wraps up, the fun continues with a host of water activities. The standout is the 21-foot waterslide, newly built into the boat, which offers a playful break from the ocean. Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and lounging on a floating mat are also available, providing options for both active and relaxed travelers.

Participants appreciate the quality of equipment supplied, which is extensive and well-maintained. After splashing around, rinsing off is easy thanks to the ION hot shower on board. The crew also offers green tea and hot cocoa to warm up, adding a cozy touch to the day.

Return and Reflection

As the tour winds down, you’ll enjoy a scenic cruise back along the coast, with ample opportunities to take photos. The boat includes shaded areas and restrooms, making the ride comfortable. The entire experience wraps up in roughly 3.5 hours, leaving plenty of time to explore further or relax for the rest of your day.

The Value of This Tour

At $199 per person, this trip offers solid value considering the inclusions: transportation, snorkeling gear, multiple water activities, lunch, and drinks. Many travelers mention the friendly crew and stunning views as highlights, making the cost worthwhile, especially if wildlife encounters are a priority.

Some might find the dolphin swim challenging if they are not confident swimmers or are new to snorkeling, but for those with some experience, it’s a thrilling highlight. The cultural elements, such as hearing the “Oli” prayer, add a layer of authenticity and respect for Hawaiian traditions.

The tour’s flexibility, with options for vegetarian meals and the ability to book and pay later, makes it easier for travelers to plan without stress. The hot shower and shaded deck are thoughtful touches that enhance comfort during this active outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a fun, active day with wildlife in Hawaii. It’s especially suited for those comfortable in open water and with some snorkeling experience, given the fast-paced dolphin swim segment.

If you’re a wildlife lover eager to see dolphins and turtles in their natural environment, you’ll appreciate the authenticity of this trip. The added extras—watersliding, paddleboarding, and lounging—make it particularly appealing for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

However, travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more leisurely or less physically demanding experience might want to explore other options, as this tour involves some activity and requires moderate physical fitness.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This Swim with Dolphins, Turtle Snorkel Tour, and Waterslide offers a lively, genuine slice of ocean life on Oahu. With its combination of wildlife encounters, scenic cruising, and fun water activities, it appeals to a broad audience looking for a day packed with memorable moments. The experienced crew, beautiful vistas, and variety of included activities ensure that most travelers will find this adventure engaging and worthwhile.

For families with kids who love water parks, or for travelers wanting a comprehensive, active day at sea, this tour provides excellent value and authentic Hawaiian experiences. Just remember, if you’re not comfortable snorkeling in open water or are seeking a more relaxed cruise, you might want to consider other options.

This tour captures the spirit of Hawaii’s playful and majestic marine environment—an experience that many will cherish long after they leave the boat.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, especially with the waterslide and water activities. However, the dolphin swimming is recommended for experienced snorkelers, so very young children or less confident swimmers should be cautious.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and motion sickness prevention if needed. Wetsuit rental is available for an additional $10 for adults and $5 for children if you want extra warmth.

Are the water activities included?
Yes, paddleboards, kayaking, floating mats, and the waterslide are all included in the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 3.5 hours, including transportation, water activities, and time at sea.

What is the price?
It costs $199 per person, which covers transportation, lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and water activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking now and paying later offers flexibility.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What is included in the lunch?
A turkey sandwich unless you specify a vegetarian option by calling before 8:00 PM the night before.

Are there restroom facilities on board?
Yes, the boat includes two restrooms, as well as shaded areas for comfort.

Is whale watching possible?
Yes, if you tour between December and March, keep an eye out for whales during the cruise.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded, active day on the water with plenty of chances to see Hawaii’s iconic marine life. For those who love a bit of adventure mixed with cultural appreciation and beautiful scenery, it’s a solid choice that provides both fun and meaningful encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here: