Honu, Coral and Coastal Sail: A Waikīkī Turtle Snorkel and Lunch Aboard the Honu Lani

HONOLULU SAILING FIELD GUIDE

Honu, Coral and Coastal Sail: A Waikīkī Turtle Snorkel and Lunch Aboard the Honu Lani

A three-hour sail from Kewalo Harbor aboard a 65' catamaran to snorkel among Hawaiian green sea turtles, enjoy an onboard lunch and—seasonally—watch for whales.

Honu, Coral and Coastal Sail: A Waikīkī Turtle Snorkel and Lunch Aboard the Honu Lani.

Duration
3 Hours
Location
Honolulu
Operator
Hawaii Nautical - Oahu
Category
Sailing
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Departing from Kewalo Harbor just minutes from Waikīkī and Ala Moana, the Waikīkī Turtle, Snorkel and Lunch trip puts you on a spacious 65' sailing catamaran with comfortable seating, bathrooms and a full bar as you glide along the famous Waikīkī coastline to reef spots where Hawaiian green sea turtles are often seen and, in season, whales can pass nearby.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE VESSEL

A stable 65' catamaran built for comfort

The Honu Lani is a roomy 65' sailing catamaran with comfortable seating, onboard bathrooms and a full bar—an intentional platform for relaxed viewing, snorkeling prep and enjoying lunch between reef stops.

THE MARINE LIFE

Snorkel with honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles)

Sail to vibrant reef sites where Hawaiian green sea turtles are often spotted in clear water; snorkel among tropical fish, coral and the gentle honu under the guidance of an experienced crew.

THE MEAL & SEASONAL WILDLIFE

Lunch on deck and winter whale chances

Enjoy a served lunch on board and complimentary drinks while you relax on deck; from December through April the route can include whale watching when migrating humpbacks move through Hawaiian waters.

What the day feels like

What the trip feels like

The three-hour outing departs Kewalo Harbor, slips into a steady coastal sail along Waikīkī, then pauses at reef sites for guided snorkeling among coral, fish and frequently-seen green sea turtles before returning to harbor; during whale season (December–April) the cruise also offers opportunities for whale watching while you eat and rest on deck.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this sail suits—and who should consider alternatives.

1
Active FamiliesFamily-friendly and suitable for children of all ages; life jackets are provided and the crew supports beginners in the water.
2
Beginner SnorkelersNo prior snorkeling experience is required—the crew provides guidance and sanitized reusable snorkel gear is available on board.
3
Wildlife SeekersIdeal for travelers prioritizing turtle encounters and seasonal whale watching (December–April), with a Turtle Guarantee if no turtles are seen.
4
Comfort-Oriented RelaxersThose who prefer comfort afloat will appreciate the roomy catamaran, onboard bathrooms, full bar and a served lunch during the three-hour outing.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring a swimsuit and towel, reef-safe sunscreen (non-spray—please apply before boarding), sunglasses, a hat and a reusable water bottle; optional items include a waterproof camera or phone case. Sanitized reusable masks, snorkels and fins are provided on board at no extra charge.

Meeting & Check-in

Check in at 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, Slip F28, Kewalo Harbor; guests are asked to arrive about 20 minutes before departure.

Duration & Timing

The trip lasts three hours; seasonally, from December through April, the itinerary may include whale watching opportunities in addition to snorkeling.

Onboard Amenities

The catamaran features comfortable seating, onboard bathrooms and a full bar; light snacks and a served lunch are included along with complimentary beverages.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Do I need snorkeling experience?

No experience is required. The experienced crew provides guidance and safety support for beginners.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes. Sanitized reusable masks, snorkels and fins are provided on board at no extra charge.

Are drinks and food included?

Yes. Complimentary refreshments (beer, wine, tropical cocktails, juice, soda, water) and light snacks are provided; a served lunch is included on the cruise.

Can children join the tour?

Yes. The sail is family-friendly and safe for kids of all ages; life jackets are provided for everyone.

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour departs from Kewalo Basin Harbor, Slip F-28 (1125 Ala Moana Blvd), just minutes from Waikīkī and Ala Moana.

What time should I arrive?

Please check in 20 minutes before departure; for the 11:00 AM sail that means arriving by about 10:40 AM.

Is parking available?

Yes. Paid parking is available at Kewalo Basin Harbor; arriving early is recommended to allow time to park and check in.

Will I definitely see turtles?

Hawaiian green sea turtles are frequently seen at the Turtle Canyon snorkel site, but wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed; the operator offers a Turtle Guarantee—if you don't see a turtle, you may return free of charge.

What should I bring with me?

Bring a swimsuit, towel, reef-safe sunscreen (no sprays), sunglasses or a hat, and a reusable water bottle; a waterproof camera and valid ID are optional if you plan to enjoy alcoholic beverages.

What if I get seasick?

The catamaran is large and very stable, which minimizes motion; most guests experience little to no seasickness, and the trained crew will assist if you feel unwell.