Waikiki Swim with Turtles Tour - Moana Catamaran Best Honolulu Snorkeling Cruise

Set sail with Moana Sailing on a budget-friendly Hawaii catamaran snorkel tour! Cruise to Waikiki's famous Turtle Canyon, the best snorkeling location in Waikiki to swim with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. Jump in and enjoy calm, clear tropical waters as you explore the reef and encounter native marine life such as turtles, fishes, and maybe even an octopus if you can spot one! Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase for only $5.00, and sodas and juices for just $2.00.

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Why do travelers choose this tour?

The Moana Catamaran Snorkel Tour takes place at Waikiki's most popular snorkeling location, Turtle Canyon, and there you will see many Hawaiian green sea turtles in this area. Turtle Canyon serves as a designated "cleaning station" where turtles will often rest and relax which allows fish to remove debris from their shells. This mutually beneficial relationship offers the best opportunities for snorkelers and scuba divers to see both turtles and fish in their natural habitat.

Although every Waikiki snorkel tour requires guests to wear flotation devices when in the water, Moana Catamaran offers the most comfortable safety option with a flotation belt instead of a bulkier vest. The flotation belt goes around your waist and allows for much more freedom of movement in the water when swimming and snorkeling.

Once you are done snorkeling, and enjoying the sail along the Waikiki coastline, head to the bar featuring top-shelf local liquors, wine, and beer for a drink to enjoy as you take in the incredible views of Diamond Head and Honolulu.

During the sail, have a seat on comfortable outdoor cushioned seating on the lounging nets, and get ready for the most relaxing sail in Waikiki. These lounge seats offer a great way to sit back and take in the views, warm Hawaiian sun, and cool ocean breezes.

Local expert tips

• This activity books up quickly, and we highly suggest booking at least 2 weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons like summer and spring break.
• If you are prone to seasickness, please consult your doctor and take your medication before boarding the boat.
• Although the sea turtles are friendly, both the NOAA and DLNR guidelines state that you should stay at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from the Hawaiian green sea turtles both in and out of the water.
• What to bring: Reef-safe sunscreen and a towel are both needed. Guests should wear their swimsuit under their clothes, flip-fops or sandals, sunglasses and/or a hat for sun protection, and a hoodie or a light jacket is recommended to wear after you exit the water.
• There are several options to explore in the area either before or after your Waikiki turtle snorkel. Ala Moana Beach Park and Magic Island provide a serene and secure beach experience suitable for individuals of all ages. For those seeking post-snorkeling dining options, Ala Moana Shopping Center, located a few blocks away, boasts a food court with a wide range of choices. Additionally, the shopping center offers an extensive selection of retail stores, providing ample shopping opportunities.

How to get there?

Kewalo Basin is easily accessible from all parts of Oahu, and is located right outside of Waikiki. Guests staying at Waikiki hotels and resorts can get to the check-in location by public transportation, taxis and ride shares, or driving on your own.

The harbor can be reached by the Honolulu City Bus by taking the #20 or #42 west bound bus, and exiting at Ala Moana Blvd & Kamakee Street.

Guests who are driving can find paid parking at the harbor. While there is complimentary parking available near by in the Ward shopping area, we do not recommend parking there since it is for Ward clientele only.

Kewalo Basin is approximately a one hour drive from the Ko Olina resort area, and up to a 15 minute drive from most major Waikiki hotels and resorts.

About the snorkel location

Turtle Canyon, one of the most popular snorkeling destination in Waikiki, is celebrated for its role as a cleaning station and sanctuary for the Hawaiian green sea turtles. Situated a mere 15-minute boat ride away from Waikiki Beach, Turtle Canyon acquired its name from the abundance of turtles residing near the reefs and submerged rock formations. The Hawaiian green sea turtles, known as honu in Hawaiian, frequent Turtle Canyon to relax on the reef while tropical fish diligently nibble away the algae that clings to their shells. With a depth ranging from 30 to 35 feet, Turtle Canyon offers excellent visibility, allowing observers to easily see all the way down to the ocean floor.

Boat Information
Name:	Moana
Size:	55 ft long and 30 ft wide USCG Certified Catamaran
Capacity:	48 Passengers (limited to 36 passengers to guarantee comfort and safety of all guests)
Safety:	Lifeguard-certified crew members always on board
Accessibility:	The boat is not wheelchair accessible
Amenities:	The Moana Catamaran is a custom built double-hulled sailing catamaran that can accommodate up to 48 passengers and features ample open and covered seating, 2 restrooms, forward lounging nets and a one-of-a-kind articulating swim ladder.