Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise

The Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise promises an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majesty of marine life up close. Operated by the renowned Honolulu Snorkel Company, this immersive tour allows guests to observe humpback whales, spinner dolphins, and sea turtles in their natural habitat. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the cruise offers a personalized experience with a maximum of 40 participants, ensuring an intimate and unforgettable adventure. But what makes this excursion truly captivating are the insights and stories behind these remarkable creatures that await discovery.

Key Points

• The Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise offers a chance to observe a variety of marine life, including humpback whales, spinner dolphins, and sea turtles.
• The tour is provided by Honolulu Snorkel Company, and advance booking is recommended due to high demand.
• The cruise includes complimentary Mai Tai, informative commentary from a licensed guide, and private transportation to and from the meeting point.
• The tour is suitable for families, with strollers allowed and infants sitting on laps, but not recommended for those with back problems.
• The tour receives a solid mid-range overall rating of 3.9 based on 10 reviews, with positive comments on the beautiful scenery and knowledgeable guide.

Tour Highlights

During the Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise, guests can expect to see a variety of marine life, including humpback whales, spinner dolphins, and sea turtles in their natural habitat.

The tour is supplied by the Honolulu Snorkel Company and is likely to sell out, so booking in advance is recommended. Guests will enjoy a complimentary Mai Tai and have access to restrooms on board.

The tour is led by a licensed guide and includes private transportation to and from the meeting point. With a maximum of 40 travelers, the intimate cruise provides a unique opportunity to witness the wonders of the Pacific Ocean.

Amenities and Inclusions

The Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise includes a complimentary Mai Tai, as well as access to restrooms on board.

Guests will be accompanied by a licensed tour guide who’ll provide commentary throughout the tour.

Private transportation to and from the meeting point is included, and gratuities are covered.

The cruise can accommodate up to 40 travelers, and strollers are allowed.

However, the experience isn’t recommended for those with back problems, and infants must sit on laps.

Meeting Location and Pickup

Travelers meet at 1085 Ala Moana Blvd suite 103, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA, a one-story building adjacent to Ala Moana Boulevard, across from pier E and F.

The location is:

1. Easily accessible, with the building situated near public transportation.
2. Identifiable, as it’s across from the piers.
3. Convenient, as the tour returns to the same meeting point.

After the cruise, participants are transported back to the original meeting point, completing the seamless experience.

The clear directions and straightforward pickup/drop-off process ensure a smooth start and end to the Waikiki Whale Watching adventure.

Accessibility and Participation

Although the Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise is not wheelchair accessible, it is stroller accessible, allowing families to bring their young children along. Service animals are also permitted on the tour. The boat is located near public transportation, making it convenient for those without their own vehicles. However, the cruise is not recommended for travelers with back problems, as the motion of the boat may cause discomfort. The maximum number of participants is 40, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Accessibility	Participation
Stroller accessible	Infants must sit on laps
Service animals allowed	Not recommended for back problems
Near public transportation	Maximum of 40 travelers

Customer Reviews

Based on the 10 total reviews found across Viator and Tripadvisor, the Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise earns a respectable 3.9 overall rating.

While no reviewers provided 5 or 4-star ratings, the cruise still maintains a solid mid-range score.

Some highlights from the reviews include:

1. "Beautiful scenery and the guide was knowledgeable."
2. "Saw a few whales but the tour was a bit short."
3. "Felt a bit crowded on the boat, but overall a good experience."

The lack of any negative 1 or 2-star reviews suggests the cruise provides a generally satisfactory experience for most travelers.

Booking and Cancellation

Customers can book the Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise online through the Honolulu Snorkel Company’s website. The cruise is priced from $94.22 per person.

Booking confirmation is received at the time of purchase. Customers have the flexibility to cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the experience starts without incurring any fees. This allows for last-minute changes in plans.

The cruise is likely to sell out, so it’s recommended to book in advance to secure a spot. The booking and cancellation process is straightforward and convenient for customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’re some frequently asked questions about the Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise? Guests often wonder about the likelihood of seeing whales, what the cruise experience entails, and whether the tour is suitable for all travelers.

The cruise company generally spots whales on 90% of trips, but can’t guarantee sightings. The vessel has a restroom, licensed guide, and complimentary Mai Tai.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with back problems. Infants must sit on laps, and the maximum group size is 40 travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Whales Can Be Spotted on the Cruise?

Visitors can likely spot humpback whales, the most common whale species in Hawaii’s waters during the winter months. Sightings of other whale species, such as spinner dolphins, may also occur on the cruise.

How Long Does the Whale Watching Cruise Last?

The whale watching cruise typically lasts approximately 2 hours. Participants will have the opportunity to spot whales and observe their behaviors during this time on the water.

Are Binoculars Provided for Better Whale Viewing?

Binoculars are not explicitly mentioned as being provided on this tour. However, the cruise does have a licensed tour guide, suggesting they may offer binoculars to enhance the whale watching experience for guests.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Guests are allowed to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on board. However, the cruise provides a complimentary Mai Tai for all participants, so guests may choose to enjoy the provided beverage instead.

Is the Cruise Suitable for Young Children?

The cruise is suitable for young children, as infants must sit on laps and the tour is stroller accessible. However, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, so parents should consider their child’s needs.

The Sum Up

The Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the wonders of Hawaii’s marine life up close. With an expert guide, complimentary Mai Tais, and a small group size, this tour provides an intimate and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts visiting Honolulu. Whether you’re seeking to spot majestic humpback whales, playful spinner dolphins, or graceful sea turtles, this cruise is a must-do activity during your stay.