Private Whale Watching

Private charter ยท Keanuenue

Private Whale Watching

Experience humpback whales up close on your own schedule โ€” 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 โ€“ March
Boat Keanuenue ยท 30ft Catamaran
๐Ÿ“ 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 โ€” 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 โ€” 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 โ€” 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 โ€” 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 โ€” minutes from Waikiki with easy parking nearby. Please confirm your exact pier and meeting point in your booking confirmation.
Price $649
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