Up Close with Honu: Turtle Snorkeling from a 50‑Foot Catamaran in Maunalua Bay

HONOLULU SNORKEL FIELD GUIDE

Up Close with Honu: Turtle Snorkeling from a 50‑Foot Catamaran in Maunalua Bay

A two‑hour Island Water Sports Hawaii cruise that puts you at Maunalua Bay’s reefs to view Hawaiian green sea turtles and colorful tropical fish, with snorkel gear and light refreshments provided.

Up Close with Honu: Turtle Snorkeling from a 50‑Foot Catamaran in Maunalua Bay.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Honolulu
Operator
Island Water Sports Hawaii
Category
Snorkel
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Board a 50‑foot power catamaran and cruise across the clear, protected waters of Maunalua Bay to a shallow reef where Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), coral and tropical fish congregate. The outing is run by Island Water Sports Hawaii as a short, accessible surface‑snorkel experience: staff brief you on arrival, provide complimentary snorkel gear and a wetsuit top if desired, and offer water and snacks while you swim or relax on deck.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE WILDLIFE

Face-to-face with Hawaiian green sea turtles

Maunalua Bay’s shallow reefs are frequented by green sea turtles and schools of colorful tropical fish; the tour brings guests to those clear snorkel sites for close observation in the animals’ natural habitat.

THE VANTAGE

Scenic coastal views from the water

The short cruise frames the snorkeling with landmark views of Diamond Head, Koko Crater and the Ko'olau mountain range, giving the outing a strong sense of place on Oahu’s southeastern shore.

THE PLATFORM

Comfortable, no‑fuss snorkeling from a power catamaran

Guests board a 50‑foot power catamaran, receive a briefing on arrival at the dive site, and can choose to snorkel or relax on deck while staff provide complimentary gear, wetsuit tops if wanted, water and snacks.

What the day feels like

What the two‑hour outing feels like

The flow is direct: embark on the catamaran, glide out over Maunalua Bay, receive a brief orientation at the snorkel site, then slip into crystal‑clear water to float among coral, tropical fish and the region’s native green sea turtles—or stay onboard in sun or shade while enjoying light refreshments.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this outing suits — and who should consider alternatives.

1
Active CouplesIdeal for couples who want a short, scenic ocean experience with easy snorkeling and wildlife viewing without committing to a long excursion.
2
Families with Young ChildrenAccessible for families—infant and child pricing is offered—but note the operator differentiates fares by age (Ages 3+ and 0–3), and the outing is not a guided snorkeling lesson.
3
Independent SnorkelersGood for snorkelers who are comfortable entering the water on their own after a staff briefing; complimentary gear and wetsuit tops are provided.
4
Sightseers & RelaxersWell suited to travelers who prefer to stay on deck and enjoy scenic views and light refreshments rather than getting in the water.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The tour is a two‑hour outing.

What to Bring

Bring sun protection, and any personal snorkel masks if preferred; the operator supplies complimentary snorkel gear and wetsuit tops and also provides water and snacks onboard.

Prices & Ages

Rates are published by age category: Ages 3 and up have one rate and infants (0–3) have a separate rate.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Turtle Snorkeling & Cruising Maunalua Bay Tour?

The tour duration is two hours.

What are the rates and age categories?

There are separate published rates for Ages 3 and up and for infants ages 0–3.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes — the operator provides complimentary snorkel gear and offers wetsuit tops if you would like one.

Is this a guided snorkeling tour?

No — the outing is not a guided tour; staff provide a briefing on arrival and guests snorkel independently.

What wildlife and scenery can I expect to see?

Expect to see Hawaiian green sea turtles, colorful tropical fish and coral reefs, with coastal views that include Diamond Head, Koko Crater and the Ko'olau mountain range.

What amenities are available onboard?

The operator provides water and snacks onboard, and the boat is a 50‑foot power catamaran used to reach the snorkel site.