Waikiki Private Turtle Snorkel Tour & Charter Cruise - Moana Sailing Company

Show your guests a truly incredible time with a Waikiki private charter snorkel tour of Oahu’s favorite snorkel spot, Turtle Canyon. Perfect for any occasion and guests of all ages, there is something for everyone to enjoy on both sides of the surface at the bustling underwater reef. Dive into the calm waters to meet its friendly denizens including Hawaiian green sea turtles, native Hawaiian fish, and more. Sun and wind more your speed? Relax aboard Moana’s lounging splash nets and enjoy affordable beverages from the full bar as you marvel at Oahu’s iconic natural beauty. Whatever you’re celebrating, you deserve to have a blast so book now and do it with Moana Catamaran!

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Why do travelers choose this tour?

• Turtle Canyon is Oahu’s favorite snorkel spot for a reason! Known locally as a "cleaning station", it is where Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) flock from miles around so that other sea life can eat the algae and other debris from their shells. This means that you are virtually guaranteed to see not only plenty of sea turtles on this trip, but also the many creatures that depend on their presence for food.
• There’s also lots to enjoy aboard the Moana, from the ample, comfortable seating to the lounging splash nets at the front of the boat that will let you get soaked as you sail. Plus, enjoy delicious and refreshing beverages at unbeatable prices.
• And while you’re snorkeling, don’t sleep on the incredible natural beauty above the surface! Check out iconic, glittering Diamond Head Crater and Honolulu skyline as you sail to and from Turtle Canyon.
• All snorkel equipment is provided, so you don’t need to bring any, and just have your bathing suit, towel, and spirit of adventure with you. All crew members are also trained in safety and ready to assist you in the water if needed, even if it’s your very first time snorkeling. They take care of safety so you can relax and enjoy every minute of your journey!

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 any preventative 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 Waikiki’s most beloved snorkeling spots, serves as both a cleaning station and a haven for Hawaiian green sea turtles. Just a quick 15-minute boat ride from Waikiki Beach, this vibrant site earned its name due to the many turtles found around its reefs and underwater rock formations. Known locally as honu, the Hawaiian green sea turtles visit Turtle Canyon to rest on the reef while tropical fish clean their shells by nibbling away at algae. With depths of 30 to 35 feet and exceptional water clarity, Turtle Canyon offers snorkelers a clear view straight 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.