Reviewed by: Hung Hoang
Our overall experience was good however there were a few bad eggs that turned the whole excursion sour. Mica, the young blonde girl, and Yoshi were all great staff members and added a positive outlook to our experience. However, Chad was a looming storm cloud that would ruin any fun and exuded a negative aura that lasted the whole trip.
After Mica gave us a rundown of the safety procedures, sign language and other diving fundamentals, we were given another debrief of these things by Chad. The experience was night and day. Mica was actually teaching and explaining how and why we do those things while Chad was quizzing us and giving condescending answers that weren't very helpful. When we would ask for clarification he would act like it's a quiz and would be hesitant to give us a straightforward answer. His tone was very condescending and he made us feel stupid despite us being brand new divers. Instead of quizzing us, how about answering our clarifying questions about the loads of safety information that we took in 20 minutes prior?
During the first dive, I was lucky enough to get Mica as my instructor and he was great. However, Chad was not a helpful instructor and ALL the members of my group who had the displeasure of learning from him had a negative experience. These main issues remained constant in all their experiences with Chad: he was not helpful, he was dismissive of your concerns, and he expected you to know what to do already. I witnessed his teaching when I was on the boat and I could see the difference in my experience with Mica versus what Chad offered.
He needs more empathy and consideration for others, especially new divers. It's funny because I mentioned that I wanted to dive with Mica because he is chill but he overheard, got jealous, and said, "What did you say about Mica? I am the best diver". It is his attitude and teaching style that make him a great instructor not simply his skills. Chad needs a reality check to fix his attitude.
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2024/09/12 |
Activity Date: | 2024/09/09 |
Reviewed by: Barbara
I never tried scuba diving and I can't swim well so I was worried but the scuba diving team was amazing.
They were very attentive and helped each diver in the group to ensure we had a great time in the water. The lagoon is in the city very close to Waikiki Beach but not crowded. It is a beautiful and quiet place. It felt very safe.
We saw corals and many different fish and we got a few short videos of the experience as part of the tour.
If you are looking for a safe introduction to scuba diving this guided diving tour is definitely a great choice.
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Packages: | Waikiki Scuba Diving Tour for Beginners |
Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
Posted on: | 2024/02/17 |
Activity Date: | 2024/02/16 |
Reviewed by: Muse Events
Dustin and Randy provide a fun, safe environment that is enjoyed by both new and certified divers. I highly recommend this tour. I have done it twice now with groups and will definetely take more people here if I have the opportunity.
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Packages: | Introductory SCUBA Shore Diving Tour |
Attended as: | Friends |
Posted on: | 2023/09/12 |
Activity Date: | 2023/09/04 |
Reviewed by: Rachel
Waikiki Dive Center delivered an exceptional diving experience. Let me begin this review by stating that I was genuinely terrified to scuba dive before this experience. I had no prior certification or training classes under my belt. As a complete beginner, I received comprehensive instruction alongside fellow novices in basic skills on dry land before embarking on the boat to the dive site. Moreover, the dive center provided an ample selection of equipment for trial, including fins and wet-suits of varying sizes.
Once everyone confirmed the fit of their gear, we were transported via a clean and well-maintained bus to the boat that would ferry us to the diving site. The boat itself was well-stocked with water and snacks. Upon reaching the dive site by boat, divers were organized into groups based on skill level. Each group, consisting of 1-4 divers, was accompanied by a seasoned instructor. Novices such as myself were able to practice our skills at the ocean's surface while fully geared up.
My group's instructor, Nick, displayed remarkable patience and a genuine concern for the safety of each diver, effectively assuaging my nervousness. He consistently ensured that each diver was doing well through hand signals and emphasized the importance of equalizing pressure to prevent discomfort or injury. Furthermore, although not directly assigned to my group, instructors Abby, Chad, and Yoshi were tremendously helpful and displayed an unwavering commitment to safety. The rules and regulations were clearly explained multiple times, ensuring that everyone was well-informed.
Since the dive "package" we opted for included two oxygen tanks per person, I used the first dive/tank as a warm-up, which significantly enhanced the enjoyment of the second dive. Additionally, I was thrilled to bring my Go-Pro along for the second dive, capturing breathtaking pictures.
Overall, I thoroughly relished this experience and wholeheartedly recommend it, particularly to beginners.
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2023/07/07 |
Activity Date: | 2023/07/03 |
Reviewed by: Grace
Had a wonderful dive this morning with Waikiki Dive Center. The tour provided everything needed for a perfect morning dive. As two experienced divers we were impressed with the marine life and shipwreck!
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Packages: | Certified Shipwreck & Coral Reef Boat SCUBA Dive Tour |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2023/06/20 |
Activity Date: | 2023/06/19 |
Reviewed by: Lacy Jay Gilhousen
Getting to scuba dive with my kids made our trip to Hawaii so amazing. We all learned how to scuba dive as a family. You got to see a sea turtle and bonded together through this activity. The instructor was very informative and very thorough and very patient. I recommend this activity to anyone of all ages.
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Packages: | Introductory SCUBA Shore Diving Tour |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2023/04/05 |
Activity Date: | 2023/04/03 |
Reviewed by: Kara
Last minute I decided to add this onto my itinerary and it was so worth it! The magic island feels like the perfect spot to dip your toes into scuba diving!
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Packages: | Waikiki Scuba Diving Tour for Beginners |
Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
Posted on: | 2023/02/19 |
Activity Date: | 2023/01/25 |
Reviewed by: Anirudh
You're in great hands with Chad. He was an excellent instructor and underwater guide. He was very thorough in prepping us. We were able to see a lot of cool stuff, including a turtle!
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2023/01/07 |
Activity Date: | 2023/01/02 |
Reviewed by: Derek
Rachel was absolutely amazing! The first dive we saw lots of fish and the second dive was even better with a shark and turtle hanging out together! All 3 instructors (Rachel, Josh and Nick) were all very helpful and knowledgeable! The Captain took us to 2 great spots and an experience we will never forget! Thank you to the dive center and all the staff for amazing memories!
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2022/09/24 |
Activity Date: | 2022/09/22 |
Reviewed by: Carla
My son and husband did this as their first scuba adventure and it was perfect! Great instructors and setting made my son feel at ease and safe with his surroundings. I would definitely recommend this activity to anyone who’s thinking about a different ocean experience!
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Packages: | Waikiki Scuba Diving Tour for Beginners |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/07/29 |
Activity Date: | 2022/07/26 |
Reviewed by: Drew
Avoid them at all cost. They are there to loot your money only. If you just want to experience holding a oxygen tank on your back and go down 12 feet, then this would be for you. Even though they say you don’t need to know how to swim, hey also don’t really teach you much and so when you feel uncomfortable, they take you out. No wetsuits were provided. They are right by a little bay so you won’t be going anywhere in a boat and they finish the entire thing in about hour (there are about 10-12 people). It feels like they just want to get done with it so they can get their money. Never here again!
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Packages: | Waikiki Scuba Diving Tour for Beginners |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2022/06/19 |
Activity Date: | 2022/05/25 |
Reviewed by: Antonio1982
even though I couldn't make it all the way to the bottom scuba diving cause I couldn't get my breathing/hyperventilating under control I still had the best time ever just being able to experience what I did. The small Asian girl and both guys as well as the captain were awesome and the two in the water instructors were patient and encouraging. They def made it a good time and an experience in Hawaii that will last a lifetime. thank you Waikiki Dive Center. we will be back again our next trip to Hawaii. 5 STAR SERVICE!!!
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2022/04/23 |
Activity Date: | 2022/04/22 |
Reviewed by: Doug
I took my daughters and one of their friends out for diving experience. Even though the instructors tried and tried to help them they couldn’t seal their mask and became sea sick. This was no fault of the dive instructors or dive company. My daughters still had a good time snorkeling.
My daughter’s friend and I dived and enjoyed the experience. Make sure you tip the instructors and captain well, it is a lot of work to make this adventure happen and they deserve it.!
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/12/25 |
Activity Date: | 2021/12/02 |
Reviewed by: Jeff Henry
We totally enjoyed having Lauren as our diving instructor who was very encouraging and knowledgeable throughout the entire time. The entire crew was very professional and the captain of the boat Winter was amazing also. We definitely recommend this place if you are interesting in scuba diving.
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/11/30 |
Activity Date: | 2021/11/28 |
Reviewed by: JoDo
I had an amazing experience with my first dive ever! Zola & team made the whole experience very easy & remove any fear or doubt I had about diving. During the dive Zola made sure everyone was good and comfortable and made sure we got the most out of our experience by showing us local wildlife & the coral. i highly recommend I know when I go to Hawaii again I’m going to make sure I dive again. Thank you Zola for making such a great memory that will last a life time!!
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Packages: | Waikiki Scuba Diving Tour for Beginners |
Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
Posted on: | 2021/11/13 |
Activity Date: | 2021/10/21 |
Reviewed by: Jess
I really liked all the staff members there. They were very kind, nice, and try best for you. However, the equipment they use such as car or boat is very old and small, which made me have a severe motion sickness and I could not do scuba diving at all. Total activity lasts about 4 hours but you actually scuba dive for less than 45 mins in total (there were two dives) I think. You wait like an hour at the shop them preparing, take their van to go to harbor, wait for them to get ready at the boat.. I expected all the preparation should be already ready for us, but wasn't, which was fine I guess. Anyway, I personally wouldn't do it again, but my husband enjoyed and saw cool stuff, and seemed like other people also enjoyed.
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/08/03 |
Activity Date: | 2021/07/21 |
Reviewed by: JDP
What a great experience with Waikiki Dive Center. 2 Tanks off the coast of Waikiki. Saw some awesome wild life and the staff was super friendly, knowledgeable and accommodating for our skill level. Would totally recommend them!
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Packages: | Afternoon Dive |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/02/09 |
Activity Date: | 2021/02/07 |
Reviewed by: Natalia
It was our first scuba dive experience and we could not have had a better time!
All thanks to our instructor, Zola, he was super helpful from diving safety to the techniques and made us enjoy every second of the dive.
We want to point out and send a special thanks to Zola on how patient he was. He made sure I was comfortable in the water, since I was a bit scared at first, still getting used to the equipment and picking up the new breathing pattern.
We'll definitely do it again!
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Packages: | Waikiki Scuba Diving Tour for Beginners |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2020/10/30 |
Activity Date: | 2020/10/28 |
Reviewed by: Mike
Best dive company on Oahu without a doubt! I wish I could dive everyday with these guys. Incredibly friendly and knowledgeable crew, top-notch gear, a luxurious dive boat and they are on the west side where the best diving on the island is! They really go above and beyond to ensure you have an excellent experience both above and below water. Our guide, Drew, was awesome. He was extremely attentive and pointed out countless different types of marine life that most divers would pass right by without even noticing. After diving, the crew cut up a fresh pineapple and sprinkled li hing powder on it, which was a perfect post-dive snack. I will definitely be back!
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Packages: | Test Package |
Attended as: | Friends |
Posted on: | 2019/08/07 |
Reviewed by: Mike
This is one of the most epic things I have ever done! Steve (the owner) really does an amazing job getting you ready to make the jump and making the whole experience something you will never forget! The helicopter flight was awesome and the diving was perfect. I couldn't possibly recommend anyone other than Trident Adventures for an incredible, one of a kind dive experience! Also, The dive gear they provide is top end, brand new SCUBAPRO equipement. No sketchy, under-maintained gear with these guys. It doesnt matter how deep or shallow you go, that new, quality gear makes a huge difference in comfort and safety.
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Packages: | Test Package |
Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
Posted on: | 2019/08/07 |
Reviewed by: John
Waikiki Dive Center is a small dive shop that works with both beginners and experienced divers. The boat is small (no bathroom). We had 7 divers on the boat, including instructors. Water is provided, but you must bring your own food.
Since this was my sixth time diving (not certified), they did a quick review of skills with me, but I did not need much instruction. My dive instructor pointed out some interesting sea creatures including a small octopus (too fast for me to get a picture). Lots or turtles at this dive site.
Only down side was the second dive was at the same site, but we did explore more on the 2nd dive.
I am considering going back there to get certified.
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
Posted on: | 2019/07/26 |
Activity Date: | 2019/07/18 |
Reviewed by: The Hall family
Liz was great. She and the other staff were super friendly, knowledgeable, attentive, and helpful. She gave us a couple of nice dives....we didn't have to do a thing, the crew took care of all the hard work of loading tanks and equipment, so just got to have fun. 10 out 10 would do again!
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2019/05/06 |
Activity Date: | 2019/05/03 |
Reviewed by: Mike
This was my dads first dive in Hawaii while visiting and we could not have had a better morning diving with Divemaster Red! The first spot we dove for our deep dive was the Sea Tiger ship wreck which sits in about 115' of water yet is only about a half mile out. The wreck was full of life. We saw a big sea turtle, eels, a white tip reef shark and many different fish species including a frog fish. Our divemaster Red is insanely good at finding all kinds of difficult to spot marine life. There was also a few spots on the wreck that are opened up and safe to swim through if you are comfortable. The second spot we dove was the old Kewalo drain pipe. The visibility at this spot was absolutely perfect. There were so many different fish swimming around the reef. Red did not disappoint on this dive either! He found a tako (octopus) that we were able to take pictures of. He also found a few other rare, very difficult to find reef fish that I had never seen before! We couldn't have possibly enjoyed our time underwater more! The captain of the boat was hilarious keeping everyone entertained while top side. Due to the proximity of these awesome dive sites to the boat harbor it seemed like the longest amount of time spent on the boat was for our surface interval, which would be nice for those who get sea sick easily. Lucky for us, conditions were calm and perfect and we couldn't have had a better morning of diving. My best advice is to stay close to the Divemaster and pay close attention because they are looking for awesome things to show you that you would otherwise miss.
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Packages: | Test Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2018/10/01 |
Reviewed by: Priscilla
My boyfriend and I went to this event on the first day of our trip. Our coach is so nice and accommodating. The oxygen tank is heavy and I couldn't really carry it. So he actually carried it for me and helped me wear it when I was in water so it didn't feel heavy haha.
For the next half an hour, we dived around and saw so many small, tropical fishes swimming around us. We saw coral reefs and even a starfish.
It was our first time scuba diving, and our coach is so patient and nice and explained the procedures and things to keep in mind to us in detail. He also answered all the questions I had. He took photos and videos of us scuba diving.
Overall, it was such an amazing experience!
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Packages: | Waikiki Scuba Diving Tour for Beginners |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2018/02/03 |
Activity Date: | 2018/01/08 |
Reviewed by: Nick
For my first time scuba diving, this was a great experience. The instructor, octo, was amazing. He was very knowledgeable about diving and had great humour. Overall made the introduction to diving great and am looking forward to my next dive, thanks to Tey Scuba Diving and their amazing instructor, octo.
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Packages: | Waikiki Scuba Diving Tour for Beginners |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2017/12/25 |
Activity Date: | 2017/12/24 |
Reviewed by: Woolley Family
From check in with the staff at the office to Our instructor Christian and Captain Steve and the rest of the crew, the whole day was outstanding! Great instruction, kindness, patience, and clean equipment.
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2017/05/18 |
Activity Date: | 2017/05/15 |
Reviewed by: Brent
I had a great time diving. It had been a long time since my last dive so I considered myself a "beginner". Great staff and very helpful every step of the way.
I highly recommend them!
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2017/05/09 |
Activity Date: | 2017/04/15 |
Reviewed by: Jeryn
Really truly awesome, friendly, and knowledgeable people. Honestly they were just as cool as the actual diving experience. If I'd been able to spend more time on the island I would have just completed my certification through them. 5 stars.
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
Posted on: | 2017/04/29 |
Activity Date: | 2017/04/07 |
Reviewed by: Caleb
This is my first time with the Waikiki Dive Center. Amazing and Unforgettable experience.
Although it is introductory scuba diving, the instructor will actually give you freedom to swim around while accompanying you based on your needs and previous experience. (Other company's instructor will actually hold your tank while diving, which is annoying)
99% safe and they will never force you to do anything uncomfortable.
Highly Recommended.
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2017/04/15 |
Activity Date: | 2017/03/22 |
Reviewed by: James
It's a bit difficult to understand specialized vocabulary in English. But still had fun! The driver who picked me up said they will have Chinese version handbook very soon.
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Packages: | Two Tank Introductory Boat Dive for Beginners |
Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
Posted on: | 2017/02/28 |
Activity Date: | 2017/02/25 |
Tips and suggestions
Reply from activity provider
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Hello, Hung Hoang. The review explicitly targets instructor Chad on a personal level. Micah and Chad are combat veterans and passionate instructors, with over 15k safe dive experiences. While many customers understand their dry sense of humor and straightforward military styles, some may interpret it differently. The DSD quiz is a PADI requirement to help the instructors evaluate how much knowledge the diver has absorbed. Instructor Chad did precisely what he is trained to do. The divers were distracted by their phones and ignored Micah's dive briefings. When tested, it was clear that they didn't remember. The instructor had to redo the briefing. All 8 divers completed the skills, but only four went for the second dives. One diver hesitated on the ladder, which is unsafe for lingering. Instructor Chad had to say, "If you don't come now, you may need to stay on the boat." Based on your summary, the Ring footage, and crew feedback, the one-star review doesn't reflect the actual event."