Oahu: Waikiki Turtle Canyons Cruise and Snorkel Excursion

The Waikiki Turtle Canyons Cruise and Snorkel Excursion is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Oahu. This 2-hour adventure offers the chance to witness endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat, as well as an abundance of vibrant tropical fish. With stunning coastal views, snorkeling equipment, and light refreshments, the excursion caters to a range of skill levels. However, there’s more to this experience than meets the eye. Delving deeper into the details reveals why this could be the highlight of your Oahu vacation.

Key Points

• This 2-hour excursion offers the opportunity to snorkel with endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles and observe tropical fish along the Waikiki coastline.
• The cruise provides scenic views, snorkeling equipment, light snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks, but is not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or wheelchair users.
• Participants must complete an online waiver and arrive early due to limited parking, as the excursion is likely to sell out.
• The snorkeling experience allows visitors to witness the graceful turtles and diverse marine life up close in their natural habitat.
• Recommended attire includes lightweight, quick-drying clothing, water-friendly shoes, and other essential items like sunscreen, hat, and towel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The Waikiki Turtle Canyons Cruise and Snorkel Excursion offers participants the unique opportunity to snorkel alongside endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles and observe a variety of tropical fish in their natural habitat.

During the 2-hour cruise, visitors will enjoy a scenic tour along the Waikiki coastline while taking in the stunning ocean views. The excursion includes use of snorkeling equipment, as well as light snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.

However, it’s important to note that the activity isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or wheelchair users. Participants must complete an online waiver prior to arrival, and parking is limited, so early arrival or taking a taxi is recommended.

Duration and Availability

This excursion runs for 2 hours, and you can check availability for different starting times. However, it’s likely to sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.

With the opportunity to snorkel with endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles and tropical fish, as well as enjoy a city cruise along the Waikiki coast, this excursion is sure to be a highlight of your Oahu adventure.

The duration allows ample time to fully experience the natural wonders and scenic views. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a first-timer, this 2-hour outing is designed to accommodate a range of skill levels and provide an unforgettable encounter with marine life.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the Waikiki Turtle Canyons Cruise and Snorkel Excursion are the cruise, snorkeling equipment, and light snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 3 years, pregnant women, or wheelchair users. This is due to safety concerns and the physical nature of the snorkeling activity. Participants must be able to enter and exit the water independently.

The cruise along the Waikiki coast provides an opportunity to spot the endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles and tropical fish, but those with certain physical limitations or medical conditions may not be able to fully enjoy the snorkeling portion of the excursion.

It’s important to review the exclusions carefully before booking.

Meeting Point and Instructions

Participants meet at the Coral Kai boat located in Kewalo Basin Boat Harbor, Slip B-1 for the Waikiki Turtle Canyons Cruise and Snorkel Excursion.

They must complete an online waiver prior to arrival, as parking is limited and early arrival or taking a taxi is suggested.

The meeting location features:

• A sturdy, stable boat ready to embark on the 2-hour adventure
• Friendly staff to greet guests and provide instructions
• Access to the harbor, allowing easy entry to the water for snorkeling
• Convenient restrooms and facilities for participants’ comfort

With the necessary preparations complete, guests can look forward to an unforgettable experience swimming alongside endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles and tropical fish.

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Exploring Waikiki’s Coastline

After meeting at the Coral Kai boat, the excursion begins with a scenic cruise along Waikiki’s picturesque coastline.

Guests can admire the iconic skyline and lush green mountains as the boat gently navigates the calm waters. The cruise provides a unique perspective of the Waikiki beachfront, allowing travelers to soak in the beauty of the area.

Along the way, the knowledgeable crew shares insights about the history and culture of Hawaii.

As the boat approaches the Turtle Canyons, excitement builds in anticipation of the upcoming snorkeling adventure with the endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles.

The coastal cruise sets the stage for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

Snorkeling With Sea Turtles

As the Waikiki coastline fades into the distance, the boat glides towards the Turtle Canyons, where snorkelers can expect an up-close encounter with the endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles. The crew provides detailed guidance on how to safely and responsibly interact with the gentle creatures, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a respectful distance and not touching the turtles.

Once in the water, snorkelers may observe:

• Turtles gracefully swimming through the clear blue waters
• Vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish
• Turtles surfacing for air, their large shells breaking the surface
• Turtles resting on the sea floor, their flippers gently moving to maintain position

This unique opportunity to witness these remarkable animals in their natural habitat is a highlight of the Waikiki Turtle Canyons Cruise and Snorkel Excursion.

Encountering Tropical Fish

Exploring the vibrant underwater world, snorkelers delight in the sight of a kaleidoscope of tropical fish darting through the coral reefs.

From the striking clownfish to the graceful angelfish, the diversity of marine life is truly breathtaking. As snorkelers drift along the Waikiki coastline, they’ll encounter a spectrum of colors and patterns, each fish unique in its own way.

The warm, clear waters provide an optimal environment for these tropical species to thrive, making the Waikiki Turtle Canyons Cruise and Snorkel Excursion a must-do activity for any nature enthusiast.

With the opportunity to observe these captivating creatures up close, the experience promises to be both educational and awe-inspiring.

Preparing for the Excursion

Preparing for the excursion involves completing an online waiver prior to arrival and ensuring one’s attire and equipment are suitable for the activity.

Participants should arrive early at the Coral Kai boat located in Kewalo Basin Boat Harbor, Slip B-1, as parking is limited in the area.

Those with special needs, such as children under 3 years, pregnant women, or wheelchair users, should note the restrictions on the activity’s suitability.

The checklist for the day includes:

• Lightweight, quick-drying clothing
• Comfortable, water-friendly shoes
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
• Towel and change of clothes for after the snorkel

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

You can bring your own snorkeling gear, but it’s not required. The excursion provides all necessary snorkeling equipment, including masks, snorkels, and fins. This makes it convenient for participants who don’t have their own gear.

Is Food and Drink Included During the Cruise?

Yes, light snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are included during the cruise. The activity description states that "Light snacks and drinks" are provided as part of the excursion.

Is There a Minimum Number of Passengers Required?

There’s no minimum number of passengers required for this cruise. The tour operates with a maximum group size, so booking early is recommended as the excursion is likely to sell out.

Can I Reschedule or Cancel My Booking?

Guests can generally reschedule or cancel their booking, but may be subject to fees or penalties. It’s best to review the operator’s policies and contact them directly to inquire about their specific cancellation and rescheduling procedures.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Snorkeling Activity?

The activity has age restrictions – it’s not suitable for children under 3 years. Pregnant women and wheelchair users are also excluded from the snorkeling portion. All other participants are welcome to enjoy the turtle canyon cruise and snorkeling.

Recap

The Waikiki Turtle Canyons Cruise and Snorkel Excursion offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles and vibrant marine life.

With stunning coastline views, snorkeling equipment, and light refreshments, this 2-hour excursion caters to a range of skill levels, providing an awe-inspiring encounter with the wonders of Oahu’s underwater world.

Participants should complete the online waiver and arrive early to secure limited parking.

You can check availability for your dates here: