Top Oahu On the Water

Great tour of the island, went to and saw many highlight spots on Oahu. Van was comfortable and AC worked well. Group was small 12 total and we were picked up at our hotel right on time. The biggest highlight of the tour was the guide Alaura. A funny and very friendly young lady; Hawaiian born and very knowledgeable of the island and its history. You may want to have water shoes if you plan to swim at the beach. The lunch, although not included was reasonably priced and was very tasty, several different types of shrimp from which to chose. Multiple shopping opportunities amongst the many stops. Many great photo opportunities. Great way to see the island in one all day tour.

We decided to parasail on a whim. It was something I’ve wanted to do but my wife is scared of large bodies of water and heights. I threw it out there and she said she’d try it too! We were both nervous but once we got on the boat and saw all the beautiful surrounds and the water itself it calmed us. This experience is something I believe EVERYONE that can, should try! It is WELL WORTH the money spent!! This was an opportunity I never thought I’d get to experience with my wife and we both enjoyed it so much!!

Believe the hype. When it says turtles guaranteed, they were right. We deliberately booked the 8am session (Friday 18 September 2026), as this time was recommended as the best time to see the turtles due to calm conditions and when they are most active. The water was so clear that you could see the reef an ocean floor (about 20 feet or 6 metres). You could see the turtles feeding at the bottom, and they would regularly come to the surface to breathe, so close that we would have to back off to be the minimum distance away (10 feet or 3 metres) as regulated by law. To be this close to dozens and dozens of turtles across the 90 minutes in the water was astounding. Definitely one of the best experiences of our lives, and something our kids will never forget. If you are going to book the snorkelling experience, Hawaii Ocean Charters should be your first choice operator. Communication between booking and the tour was clear and timely. As a small group of maximum 20 people, they catered brilliantly to everyone’s ability. We had 3 children who had never snorkelled before, and Erica and Gerald took amazing care of them the entire time. They made sure that all of the gear, including snorkel, googles, flippers, and floatation vest, wear appropriately sized and comfortable. In the water, Erica constantly stayed nearby the kids, happily answering all of their many questions. When my daughter had enough swimming, Gerald happily allowed her to hang onto his surfboard while they paddled around together. Adults also had flotation devices (waist belts), but strong swimmers are best without it. Having some basic swimming experience is suggested, so that you feel comfortable face down in the water, and pick up the kicking action with flippers quickly. With other tour groups out there too, the whole team were fantastic in ensuring our group remained together, and were safe distances away from other boats arriving and departing. Our captain (sorry, name forgotten) was friendly, professional, and highly knowledgeable, picking a fantastic spot to find the turtles, as well as ensuring a safe and comfortable ride. The boat was extremely well maintained and had a range of seating options, from the main deck at the back, to an elevated deck where the captain was, and an option to ride at the front of the boat. Meanwhile, Erica was very experienced in guiding us in the water to find the best spots to see turtles, fish, and other aquatic life around the reef.

It’s a great experience. We like the convenience of the landing location as it’s at the heart of Waikiki beach. The crew are wonderful and explained the boat and safety clearly. We took the 11:30 morning sail. Very nice weather and we enjoyed the sailing a lot!

The Ohana Surf Project was amazing from start to finish. The shuttle was fast and easy and the lesson was incredible. We had 8 people, all with no experience, ranging from ages 10-60. We were all able to stand with the help of the instructors. Chelsea, Matt, and the rest of the team made surfing accessible to everyone!!! Also, get the pictures…100% worth it!!!!

Kyle was great. Eased us into the world of scuba diving. He was well knowledgeable explaining what we would do in and out of the water, a really good instructor. Easily approachable and answered any questions we had in common sense answers. Good job Kyle.

Great tour and informative. Bring a clear bag if you need to carry things to not have to check things. Don’t bother with a hat (it’s windy). Wear comfortable shoes. Please listen and don’t take pictures where you are told not to - it was really disrespectful to watch people take selfies and look at me photos over the hallowed waters on the Arizona memorial.

Booked with Viator which was about $40 cheaper than booking at the hotel! Honestly, savings aside...it's totally worth the cost. The crew on Sunday, 1/25/26 was very accommodating and nice. The view was amazing and we had a great time! We saw whales and dolphins and the captain caught a huge tuna. You get 2 drinks and snacks included in the price which is a bargain in itself. Love the boat! Plenty of spacing and tables to enjoy the adventure. 🥰