Private Whale Watching Waikiki, Hawaii

Come explore Hawaii’s beautiful ocean in search of Humpback Whales. Enjoy views of the iconic south side of Oahu and snorkel if you like as you join our crew on a private catamaran cruise in Waikiki.

Experience whales up close on our private Waikiki whale watching tour!

Embark on a truly exclusive and intimate experience with a private whale watching cruise in Oahu. Glide through the pristine waters of the Pacific aboard your chartered 30 foot catamaran, where you and your group can enjoy uninterrupted views of humpback whales as they breach and play in their natural habitat. Come find them with us! Our knowledgeable crew will give you the best chance of finding these creatures.

With personalized attention from our knowledgeable guides, a private whale watching cruise in Oahu offers the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your preferences. Whether it’s capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments on camera or delving deeper into the fascinating behaviors of these magnificent creatures, our private tours ensure an enriching and unforgettable encounter with Oahu’s awe-inspiring marine life. Snorkel time is also included and always a fun and memorable part of any cruise!

Escape the crowds and revel in the tranquility of the ocean as you witness these gentle giants, creating cherished memories with your loved ones on a private whale watching cruise that promises a truly immersive and magical adventure.

As we make our way out to the offshore reef, keep an eye out for playful dolphins and majestic humpback whales (in season). Once we reach the reef, we’ll anchor in a prime spot for snorkeling, where you’ll get to swim alongside Hawaii’s beloved green sea turtles in their natural habitat. Don’t worry if you’re new to snorkeling – our experienced crew will be on hand to provide guidance and ensure your safety throughout the excursion.

While you’re snorkeling, admire the coral reef structures and a variety of colorful tropical fish. After your snorkeling adventure, climb back on board and enjoy a refreshing drink as we make our way back.

The vessel is exclusively reserved for your party so you are welcome to play your music and bring any refreshments you would like to enjoy during our time together. Our crew will happily be sharing their local knowledge and the cultural history of the area we are traveling in throughout the cruise.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience – book your spot today and make memories to last a lifetime!

Humpback Migration

Humpback whales visit Hawaii from November to April but our best time to see them is from January to March. They migrate to Hawaii from Alaska to mate and have their babies. During their time in the islands, you can spot them along the coast showing off to attract mates, teaching newborns how to swim, or just relaxing at the surface while they cruise down the coast.

While there is never a guarantee with wild animals, we will give you the best chance to see these creatures. Our crew is highly experienced in locating whales along the Waikiki coast and we run a communication network with all the other captains out on the water. This means that if there are any whales in the area that day we’re sure to know about them!

    • Depart from Kewalo Basin Harbor
    • Enjoy coastal views of the south shore of Oahu
    • (Optional) Guided snorkeling at an offshore reef commonly home to sea turtles and tropical fish
    • Visit Diamond Head state monument & offshore Waikiki (Great Photo opportunity!)
    • Stop along the way to see any turtles, dolphins, or whales (in season)
    • Crew will share local knowledge and cultural history of the area. (We’re always happy to answer questions!)
  • Small private group allows maximum attention to service and safety!
  • Spacious catamaran to lounge on
  • Bring your own food and drinks (BYOB)
  • Soft drinks, waters, and a large iced down cooler with extra space provided
  • Shaded cabin seating
  • Bathroom on board
  • Snorkel gear and flotation included
  • Bluetooth sound system
  • Snorkeling is a physically strenuous activity and requires participants to be in good health.
  • Swimming is a required skill to participate in the in-water portion of the tour.
  • This charter may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
  • Unfortunately, there is no wheelchair-boarding access.

We can connect you with our local favorite catering company to plan almost any food options you could want. Please inquire via the contact form, email, or phone to organize.

More than 6 people? Inquire about a charter on Big Kahuna for up to 49 people.

Private Catamaran Cruise & Snorkeling

Explore beneath the sea on an incredible boat tour and guided snorkeling experience! Relax in the Hawaiian sun with your family and friends.

Private Sunset Catamaran Cruise Waikiki

A Hawaii sunset cruise to remember! Join us aboard our catamaran for an incredible cruise among the scenery of Waikiki.

Private Fireworks & City Lights Cruise

Front row to the show! Marvel at Waikiki’s beautiful city light watch a firework show right in front of the island. Enjoy a brief coastal cruise of Waikiki’s city lights to and from the fireworks location.

Semi-Private Turtle Snorkel & Catamaran Cruise

Explore Oahu’s offshore reefs on a small group shared tour for an unforgettable sightseeing and snorkeling experience. Turtles Guaranteed!

Private Whale Watching

Private charter · Keanuenue

Private Whale Watching

Experience humpback whales up close on your own schedule — charter the catamaran for your group this winter.

Duration 2, 3 or 4 Hours
Group Size Up to 6 Guests
Ages All Ages
Season January – March
Boat Keanuenue · 30ft Catamaran
📍 Departs Pier C, Kewalo Basin Harbor

See Hawaii's humpback whales up close on a private charter built entirely around your group. Aboard the Keanuenue, you'll head offshore in search of these magnificent visitors while enjoying beautiful views of Waikiki and Diamond Head along the way.

With more time on the water than a shared tour and a fully flexible itinerary, a private whale watch gives you the freedom to slow down, linger with a sighting, and take it all in at your own pace. Your captain follows all federal viewing guidelines, keeping a respectful, legal distance.

Whale watching in Honolulu is a must-do winter activity — bring a light jacket, sunscreen and a camera, and let us handle the rest.

What's Included

  • Private use of the Keanuenue catamaran
  • Experienced spotting captain & crew
  • NOAA-compliant, respectful viewing
  • Customizable route and timing
  • Bluetooth sound system & iced cooler
  • Fresh-water shower & marine restroom

Policies & Info

Cancellation Policy
Customers will receive a full refund or credit with 48 hours' notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather, minimum seats not being filled or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price.
Departure Time / Late Arrivals
Out of respect to our guests we attempt to leave on time for every trip. If you are running late and do not arrive at the boat prior to the start of the passenger safety briefing your ticket will be forfeited. Refunds cannot be processed for no-shows or late arrivals, so please plan ahead and arrive on time.
Weather Cancellation
In the event of unsafe weather or heavy rain we will cancel the tour. We will notify guests via email and text message (if a text message-capable phone number has been provided) as soon as the cancellation is made. If you purchased your ticket directly through Hawaii Ocean Charters you'll have the option of rescheduling (based on availability) or a full refund. If your ticket was purchased through a 3rd party you'll have the option of rescheduling (based on availability). As we do not control the refunds of 3rd parties or daily deal sites, please refer to the refund policy of the business you purchased your ticket through in the event of a cancellation.
Parking
Parking is available at Kewalo Basin Boat Harbor for $2 per hour. Pay machines accept cash and credit cards. Please refer to the Kewalo Basin Boat Harbor map in your confirmation email for parking areas and our boat's location. Please arrange your own transportation to the boat, located at Kewalo Basin, 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, Pier C, Honolulu, HI 96814.
Kewalo Basin Harbor map

Kewalo Basin Harbor — Pier C is the Keanuenue meeting point, Pier A is the Big Kahuna meeting point. Parking is available on both sides of the harbor.

Sea Sickness
Generally the ocean is calm near Waikiki, but if you are prone to sea sickness or are not accustomed to being aboard ocean-going boats we suggest you consult your doctor or pharmacist about taking preventative measures prior to your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I book a private whale watch?
Private whale watching charters run during peak humpback season, roughly January through March, when sightings off Oahu are most reliable.
Are sightings guaranteed on a private charter?
Whales are wild animals, and the free re-ride guarantee applies to our shared tours only — not private charters. That said, our captains know where the whales tend to travel and give you excellent chances during peak season.
How close do we get?
Federal law requires all vessels to stay at least 100 yards from humpback whales. We position the boat for great viewing while respecting that distance — and curious whales sometimes approach on their own.
How many guests can come?
The Keanuenue holds up to 6 guests, and the charter price covers your whole party up to that limit.
Where do we depart from?
Private charters aboard the Keanuenue depart from Pier C at Kewalo Basin Harbor, 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu — minutes from Waikiki with easy parking nearby. Please confirm your exact pier and meeting point in your booking confirmation.
Price $649
Book Now