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    Diamond Head Cruises

    4.8 (145 reviews)
    Open 7:00 am - 5:00 pm

    Diamond Head Cruises Snorkeling Photos

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    Reviews With Photos

    Ken P.

    We had the pleasure of trying out Diamond Head Cruises right when they opened under new management. We booked the 2-hour semi-private morning tour with our friends visiting from overseas. The tour is guided by two staff members who cruise you along Waikiki and then to various snorkeling spots. I appreciated them accommodating our request to allow ample time at each attraction, as this was our first boat tour in Honolulu. I particularly liked the unique style of their boat, which features both traditional and saddle-type seats. I enjoyed the saddle-type seats, as I felt they offered the best experience for galloping through the occasional choppy waves. We're locals who frequently drive by Waikiki, but cruising along it from the ocean side gave us a completely different sense of appreciation. Our first stop was at a snorkeling spot with Diamond Head as the backdrop. We stayed for about 20-30 minutes, which was just right, as we were eager to try our luck at spotting dolphins and whales. As we left the snorkeling area, we were greeted by spinning dolphins all around our boat. They swam so close that we were able to capture some underwater footage of them. On our return cruise to the dock, we were fortunate enough to see a whale surface in the distance. If seeing giant turtles, dolphins, and whales swimming by isn't enough, you might even get lucky and have the boat owner--travel and lifestyle celebrity vlogger Cedric Lee @passport_ced--on board with you. He is well-traveled, adventurous, and fun to chat with. Overall, we had a pleasant experience with Diamond Head Cruises. It's reasonably priced for the experience, and we will definitely be back with other friends and family!

    Beautiful view of Waikiki beach
    Joe J.

    Had an amazing time! Under new ownership. The team is so fun and kind. It was my wife's first time snorkeling and the team was so patient and helpful in instructing her, she was able to jump right in and feel comfortable. Snorkeling conditions were not the best but they turned the boat around and we got to see whales! Very fun time, highly recommend

    Nora H.

    From the moment you get to the gate to the last minute of the trip you are treated like royalty! Warm smiles and genuine care are characteristic of this adventure!! Cedric and Captain Flo took their time to explain safety protocols and worked as a dynamic duo to ensure that our family was enjoying our time. Cedric stayed with us in the water and pointed to key marine life for us to see--and of course we saw sea turtles!! The boat ride was a whole experience for us as we usually go on catamarans for snorkeling. This was another level of FUN!! Highly recommend and when in Waikīkī we will be back for this fun adventure!! Thank you Cedric and Captain Flo

    Alex K.

    The boat, the tour, the crew and the service....all five stars! Highly recommended!!! Added bonus is that this is semi private to provide a more personal experience!

    Taking off for a snorkel excursion
    Michelle R.

    We had a great time today on the snorkel excursion to Turtle Canyon! Paul and Hannah were great guides who kept up safe and took care of us. The weather was fabulous and the excursion was so much fun!

    Coming back to the dock
    Stephanie P.

    Let's just say this is was my first time snorkeling and let's just say when I come back to Hawaii I'll try this again especially with this awesome crew! Melissa was an awesome instructor-explaining the safety precautions and answered any questions we may have had. Justin being an awesome captain and ready for us to take us on an adventure. Snacks and drinks are available. PS don't forget to tip the crew !

    Pineapples!

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    1 month ago

    Fantastic time! Our guides were knowledgeable about the area and took the time to make sure our trip was unforgettable.

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    Cedrick L.

    Thank you for choosing us. Glad you had a good time with the crew!

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    2 months ago

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    1 year ago

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    8 months ago

    Such an amazing experience with a small group !! Crew made the trip! Turtles everywhere!

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    Cedrick L.

    Thank you Pam! You were a pleasure to hve on board!

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    10 months ago

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    Cedrick L.

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    1 year ago

    Hannah and Paul were great! They went above and beyond, very helpful and knowledgeable. Such a fun experience. Would definitely recommend!

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    Cedrick L.

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    10 months ago

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    Cedrick L.

    Thank you for chosing us!

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    3 years ago

    Amazing experience and service! Both Thomas and Henna were very helpful and cool tour guides.

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    3 years ago

    Went out snorkeling. Had a great time. Our guide was knowledgeable and the Captain was great.

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    Page 1 of 4

    Ask the Community - Diamond Head Cruises

    Review Highlights - Diamond Head Cruises

    Captain Sam and First Mate Savannah were excellent hosts on a great day of snorkeling with the turtles.

    Mentioned in 8 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Maita'i Catamaran - All sails are barefoot boarding - passengers may get splashed while boarding or sailing, so you may want to bring a towel.

    Maita'i Catamaran

    4.5(678 reviews)
    2.0 miWaikiki
    Locally owned & operated
    45 years in business

    Always a great time with Jenna, Kia and Ian ... our favorite activity every year!…read more $6 Mai Tai's $5 beer $3 soda What's not to like??

    We joined the sunset sail and really loved the view and the experience. Price probably was more on…read morethe high-end compared to bigger-sized group or different time slot, but quite worth the tag. All the staffs were so attentive, welcoming, and knowledgeable. It was quite confusing to find the meetup point at the beginning, but asking the hotel staff did help us getting there. We went on the high-tide day so needed to walk a bit from the usual boarding area. Probably helpful to remind people wearing slippers as you'd need to take shoes off. They did provide proper and plenty storage spaces for your footwear on the boat (appreciated!). Drinks were pretty much bottomless and they had their very own Mai Tai so you could really enjoy the 'complete Hawaiian package'! The only problem with high tide day, it meant be prepped to get wet and going on and off the boat would be quite tricky as you needed to manage timing to avoid the tide from getting you soaking wet. I was unfortunately not the pro and literally got half-bottom wet, getting off the boat LOL. Paid off by the gorgeous sunset view!!

    Photos
    Maita'i Catamaran - Sunset cruises never get old. Especially when Diamond Head steals the show.

    Sunset cruises never get old. Especially when Diamond Head steals the show.

    Maita'i Catamaran - Current ID is required to be served alcoholic beverages.

    Current ID is required to be served alcoholic beverages.

    Maita'i Catamaran - Diamond Head

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    Diamond Head

    Living Ocean Tours - Crew briefing.

    Living Ocean Tours

    4.9(784 reviews)
    0.1 mi

    I'm the girl who wants to go snorkeling even though she gets sea sickness and can't really swim…read morebecause I love animals and I want to experience snorkeling with turtles and fish at least once in my life. We did the turtle tour on 5/13 at 8:30 in the morning. They teach everyone how to use the given gear, they antifog the goggles beforehand and sanitize all the gear well afterwards. They have snacks, water, and ginger ale. We saw two turtles within a couple arms lengths at the surface (you can't touch them but gosh they were so close!). We also saw about seven turtles chilling on the bottom. Tons of reef fish swimming so close to us too. The crew makes sure to point out turtles so you don't miss them. It was my first time in open water and the crew was welcoming from the start. They separate the groups so if you can't swim or are not great at swimming, you can stay back and hold onto a blue mat in the water where they teach you and help you feel comfortable in open water first. Even though I vomited afterwards (yes I took plenty of motion sickness medication ahead of time!), I highly recommend the experience. It's unlike anything else. The crew is so funny, they normalized not being able to swim well or motion sickness so you don't feel embarrassed. They get in the water with you (not all crews do!) and were super attentive, and encouraging. I felt safe enough that I was able to learn, get confident in the water and join the others and I still felt like I had plenty of great snorkeling time. Overall, GREAT company for actually seeing turtles! GREAT for inexperienced swimmers and people who get motion/sea sickness! If you're determined, you can still do it. The crew made me feel safe the entire time! You've got this, you only live once!

    Fun 5/5 Snorkeling 4/5…read more Service 5/5 Informative from staff in safety 5/5 Price for value and time 5/5 Overall 5/5 Wow you guys are truly amazing. I didn't even get off the boat and my son already asked me "can we come back to this same boat again next time!" From the gate B, which is your entrance, make sure you read your additional info after your confirmation email, especially if you are taking a Uber or Lyft, or else you can get dropped off at the main area and have to walk and find gate B! It's a long walk if you do not specify, our u er drive was the one that asked me, what gate sir, or else you have a long walk. Thank god he asked us! So from the gate to the entire experience, it can be overwhelming, it's a lot to do, it's a ton of fun. I rated 4/5 for the snorkeling because it's open ocean vs doing this inside a "bay" You first get a cruise down the waters and learn about the city and the captain t Story tells you a lot of history and the buildings while we are cruising and then we turn around to the play and snorkeling areas! Wow! But knowing my kids they want to also PLAY! Thais is the boat, you have a water trampoline, a water floating board that you legit can lay on or stand on and play balance and or just lay, and a huge slide!!!!! Wow! And drink and snacks are included! We didn't even get a chance to grab a beer! lol (for additional $ on your own) Just look at the view and the photos. So this entire experience is just 5/5 We booked through TripAdvisor. This is 100% recommend, since this is also at open ocean, it's easier if you can swim and not afraid of the waters. They do offer life jackets and self blown floatation vests, your choice. Must do!!!!! See you next time!

    Photos
    Living Ocean Tours - My son made a new friend and he loved his secure life jacket even though he is an excellent swimmer.

    My son made a new friend and he loved his secure life jacket even though he is an excellent swimmer.

    Living Ocean Tours - Taking the Waikiki Sunset #cruise with #LivingOceanTours! #DebutDanceDistrict @BryantCabrera

    Taking the Waikiki Sunset #cruise with #LivingOceanTours! #DebutDanceDistrict @BryantCabrera

    Living Ocean Tours - Da boat.

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    Da boat.

    Dolphins and You - Best Dolphin Watch and Turtle Snorkel on Oahu!

    Dolphins and You

    4.7(922 reviews)
    1.9 miWaikiki

    We booked a last-minute turtle snorkeling tour for myself and my 13-year-old daughter, not knowing…read morewhat to expect--and it ended up being the most amazing experience! The bus arrived right on time, and our driver, Cheryl, was awesome and hilarious. Once we got to the boat, Captain Zach was fantastic, and Leilani, our lovely hula dancer, added such a special touch to the whole experience. From start to finish, we loved every single second. The crew was fun, professional, and made us feel completely at ease. We were even lucky enough to see whales, which made the trip extra unforgettable! I've told everyone I know about this experience and can't wait to come back and try the dolphin tour next time. This place is absolutely a 10 out of 10--highly recommend!

    This tour is very misleading online snd I want to make sure ppl know what they are signing up for…read more The staff was wonderful and very organized. But despite being called a "Dolphin and You" tour, there is only dolphin WATCHING from the boat -- no swimming with dolphins. They also only stop at one snorkel spot in shallow waters.m whereas most companies have you snorkel at 2. Maybe if I had never been on another tour, I would have thought this was good, but I'd only recommend this for people who want to mainly watch things from the boat and not snorkel. I honestly saw more marine life where I live in OC. On a previous tour with a different company, I swam in waters where dolphins were swimming all around and underneath me -- it was a core memory, and I was hoping to recreate that experience. They also don't let you swim very far from the boat, which made the experience feel overly restrictive. Because the website is not clear I will lay down the iternary: 6:00am pick-up from hotel (about 1.5 hrs to get there) Restroom stop at Fareharbor 1 hr dolphin watching--basically your just on a boat 1 hr snorkel--will see sparse fish 1 hr return--will give you sandwich and water cups no water bottles, temporary tattoo offered Return to hotel: another 1.5 hrs to drop everyone off etc Kind of waste of money $180+ and my precious vacation time. Also, be wary of the reviews. They offer incentives for leaving one. Sorry, but as a Yelp Elite, my honest opinion can't be bought.

    Photos
    Dolphins and You - Dolphins and You is a party on the ocean! Enjoy a day off in paradise.

    Dolphins and You is a party on the ocean! Enjoy a day off in paradise.

    Dolphins and You - Lunch Included with Dolphin Adventure

    Lunch Included with Dolphin Adventure

    Dolphins and You - Watching dolphins swim by and ride the surf of the bow on Dolphins and You is an experience you'll never forget!

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    Watching dolphins swim by and ride the surf of the bow on Dolphins and You is an experience you'll never forget!

    Island Splash Tours - Sunset cruise.

    Island Splash Tours

    5.0(92 reviews)
    1.2 mi

    Amazing tour and very friendly tour guides! Turtles were super amazing!!!!!!! Would definitely…read morerecommend

    If you're an energetic couple looking for more than just a relaxing beach day, Island Splash Turtle…read moreTours delivers an experience that's equal parts thrilling, educational, and impeccably organized. From the moment we arrived, their team demonstrated a level of professionalism that immediately stood out. The check-in process was seamless, the safety briefing was clear and thorough, and the equipment was in excellent condition. You could tell they run a tight operation -- everything felt structured, efficient, and well thought out without ever feeling rushed. What truly elevated the experience was how intellectual the tour felt. The guides weren't just there to point out turtles; they shared fascinating insights about marine ecosystems, turtle behavior, conservation efforts, and local oceanography. Their knowledge added so much depth to the adventure. It felt like a marine biology mini-masterclass -- but one where you're actively swimming through the lesson. And speaking of active -- this is not a passive, float-around experience (which we loved). As a very active couple, we appreciated the energy and pace. There was plenty of swimming, exploring, and maneuvering through the water, and the guides kept the vibe upbeat and engaging the entire time. They matched our enthusiasm and made sure we got the most out of every moment in the water. The atmosphere was fun, vibrant, and full of positive energy. The team clearly loves what they do, and that enthusiasm is contagious. We left feeling exhilarated, accomplished, and genuinely grateful for such a well-run adventure--we left having seen many turtles, Hawaiian spinner dolphins, a stingray and plenty of fish in a natural setting. If you're the kind of couple that prefers movement over lounging, learning over just observing, and meaningful experiences over generic tours -- Island Splash Turtle Tours is absolutely worth it. Professional. Knowledgeable. Energetic. And incredibly fun. We would book again in a heartbeat.

    Photos
    Island Splash Tours - Merch - hat

    Merch - hat

    Island Splash Tours - Don't mess with the rest go with the best tour boat in Waikiki .

    Don't mess with the rest go with the best tour boat in Waikiki .

    Island Splash Tours

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    Hawaii Ocean Charters - Humpback whale breaching off Waikiki during a whale watch tour

    Hawaii Ocean Charters

    5.0(135 reviews)
    0.3 mi
    Locally owned & operated
    Certified professionals

    The service was top notch. They were very accommodating, knowledgeable and very friendly. The boat…read morewas spacious and clean. The gear was current and well maintained. The whole operation was organized and safe. We are ready to come back! Thank you for a great time!

    Semi-Private Snorkel Tour --7:15 AM Departure…read more If you're debating whether the early departure is worth it-- it absolutely is. Being the first boat out in the morning makes a huge difference. The ocean was calm, conditions were excellent, and we weren't surrounded by multiple tour boats. For long stretches it genuinely felt like we had the reef to ourselves. Sam and Ella were in-cred-ible. Professional, knowledgeable, and very clearly people who love what they do. They struck the perfect balance of being attentive while still letting everyone enjoy the experience naturally. We felt extremely safe the entire time, and they were just genuinely joyful humans to spend the morning with. And I have to mention the turtles. We saw at least eight. Not just in the distance-- they were everywhere. Below us in the reef, gliding past us at the surface, popping up for air unexpectedly. At one point we were actively looking around just to make sure we weren't about to bump into one. Also...calling them "little" would be inaccurate. Some of these turtles were big-- absolutely stunning animals. Swimming alongside them, surrounded by hundreds of reef fish, was one of those rare travel moments that sticks with you. A core memory, without question. -- San Diego

    Photos
    Hawaii Ocean Charters - It's Turtle Time! Come swim with these massive creatures on our Turtle Snorkel Adventure

    It's Turtle Time! Come swim with these massive creatures on our Turtle Snorkel Adventure

    Hawaii Ocean Charters - We know the best spots to make your day on the water unforgettable.

    We know the best spots to make your day on the water unforgettable.

    Hawaii Ocean Charters - Jumping into adventure on our Turtle Snorkel Adventure

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    Jumping into adventure on our Turtle Snorkel Adventure

    Holokai Catamaran - My host and friend, Alex

    Holokai Catamaran

    4.7(862 reviews)
    1.8 miWaikiki

    Awesome experience! Class A crew with impeccable service! We had ample time to snorkeling. Our…read moreguide showed us exactly where the sea turtles would be! We'll worth it!​

    Second time doing this sunset cruise and it's been amazing both times. Such a fun way to be out on…read morethe water in Waikīkī! Some logistics to know about: you can get validated parking at the Embassy Suites for $15 (4 hours). If you want free street parking, you'll need to come much earlier and give yourself extra time to get to check-in. Check-in itself is super easy annd it's inside the Outrigger near Monkeypod. The staff is genuinely kind and welcoming from the start. They give a quick safety talk and then walk you down to the boat You'll step into the water to board and you're not allowed to wear shoes, so honestly don't even bother bringing any. It's a catamaran with nets to sit on (my favorite spot) plus regular seating and plenty of space to move around. Unlimited drinks are included and the crew constantly checks in to see if you need anything. Both times I've gone we've seen whales, which feels so special! It is definitely choppy so if you get seasick easily this might not be your move. If you're a water baby though, you'll thoroughly enjoy this experience! It also gets windy, so bring a jacket. If you love being on the water, sunsets, and a fun but relaxed vibe, this is such a good option. Highly recommend!

    Photos
    Holokai Catamaran - Drinking the hooch.

    Drinking the hooch.

    Holokai Catamaran - Waikīkī

    Waikīkī

    Holokai Catamaran - Waikiki from the Holokai

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    Waikiki from the Holokai

    Diamond Head Cruises - snorkeling - Updated June 2026

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