Best Whale Watching Tours in Oahu 2024

Take a whale-watching cruise on the Star of Honolulu, Oahu’s most popular cruise. Enjoy ample outdoor decks and viewing areas to spot whales breaching and playing. An optional breakfast buffet provides a great way to start the day on a family-friendly tour. The state-of-the-art vessel is ADA accessible with multiple observation decks for optimal whale spotting. Experienced naturalist guides provide expert narration about whales encountered on the cruise. Round-trip hotel transportation and onboard snacks/drinks are available for extra convenience.

Travelers join a morning whale-watching breakfast cruise aboard the Prince Kuhio to see humpback whales and other wildlife along the Waikiki coast while dining. The tour is unique as an onboard chef freshly prepares meals during the cruise, offering a laid-back atmosphere as passengers enjoy the views of Waikiki and Diamond Head from the spacious decks. The 100-foot Prince Kuhio safely carries up to 138 passengers with a certified captain and crew alongside amenities like a tiki bar, seating, and restrooms.

Set sail on a 65-foot catamaran along Oahu’s western coast to search for humpback whales.  Enjoy uncrowded views of whales in their natural habitat far from Waikiki. Cruise again for free if no whales are spotted, ensuring the best chance to see these amazing animals. “Ko Nau Lani” features twin engines, a bar, an enclosed seating cabin, restrooms, showers, and a surround sound system. Lifeguard-certified crew is always on board for safety, though the vessel is not wheelchair accessible.

Join a 3-hour whale watching and snorkeling adventure aboard the speedy ocean raft, “Nai’a I” from Waianae harbor  This tour is one of the few on Oahu that offers both whale watching and reef snorkeling opportunities The “Nai’a I” is state-of-the-art 34-foot rigid inflatable raft, perfect for snorkeling expeditions he crew members are lifeguard-certified and knowledgeable about the environment, providing an exciting and educational experience while ensuring safety.

Spot humpback whales on a private whale-watching tour along Oahu’s North Shore. The tour takes passengers out to the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary to see whales and calves. The boat fits a maximum of six people for an intimate viewing experience. Cruises depart from Haleiwa Small Boat Harbor lasting around two hours each.   Passengers can bring drinks and snacks to enjoy on the comfortable and spacious boat during the tour.

Sail in search of humpback whales during winter months in Waikiki. Witness mother whales with their young playing in warm Hawaiian waters. Depart from Ala Wai harbor on the 65 ft. catamaran Wahine Koa. See the impressive actions of the whales such as waterspouts, fin waving, and tail slapping. The vessel can hold up to 150 passengers with indoor and outdoor seating available. Restrooms are also onboard for passenger convenience.