Oahu’s renowned Waikiki Whale Watching Tour offers a captivating opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat. Departing from the Kewalo Boat Harbor, guests embark on a two-hour journey aboard a stylish, dual-decker boat designed for optimal viewing and comfort. While keeping an eye out for these gentle giants, participants can indulge in delectable poi mochi donuts and freshly brewed coffee, all while immersed in the enchanting Hawaiian culture. From engaging in a traditional ceremony to enjoying a captivating hula performance, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the island’s natural wonders and rich heritage. But what truly sets this tour apart is the opportunity to…

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Whale Watching Experiences In Oahu.

Key Points

Oahu: Waikiki Whale Watching Tour-Donut and Coffee Included - Key Points

  • A two-hour Waikiki whale watching tour that includes the opportunity to see humpback whales in their natural habitat and participate in the traditional E Ho Mai ceremony.
  • The tour is offered for adults and children, with pricing starting at €2,215 per person, and a full refund available for cancellations over 24 hours in advance.
  • The tour features a stylish 2-decker boat with a bathroom, surround sound system, and panoramic sightseeing opportunities on the second deck.
  • Participants can enjoy light refreshments, including poi mochi donuts and coffee, and conclude the tour with a hula performance by the crew.
  • Whale sightings are guaranteed from December 1, and a free rebooking option is available if no whales are spotted during the tour.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Oahu: Waikiki Whale Watching Tour-Donut and Coffee Included - Tour Overview

The Waikiki Whale Watching Tour offers an engaging two-hour experience for both adults and children.

Priced from €2,215 per person, the tour departs from Pier D, slip 111 at Kewalo Boat Harbor. Availability and starting times can be checked in advance.

Guests can enjoy a full refund for cancellations made more than 24 hours prior to the tour.

The tour takes place aboard a stylish 2-decker boat with a Titanic-style bow, bathroom, and surround sound system.

As the boat cruises around Diamond Head, a qualified naturalist provides commentary, and guests can participate in a traditional E Ho Mai ceremony, listen to whale songs, and enjoy light refreshments.

Experience Highlights

Oahu: Waikiki Whale Watching Tour-Donut and Coffee Included - Experience Highlights

Guests can see humpback whales in their natural habitat during the Waikiki Whale Watching Tour. The tour also includes a traditional E Ho Mai ceremony, where participants can listen to whale songs using an underwater hydrophone. Light refreshments, such as poi mochi donuts and coffee, are provided, and the tour concludes with a hula performance by the crew.

Experience Highlights
See humpback whales
Participate in E Ho Mai ceremony
Listen to whale songs
Enjoy light refreshments
Watch hula performance

Boat Details

Oahu: Waikiki Whale Watching Tour-Donut and Coffee Included - Boat Details

Boarding a stylish 2-decker boat with a Titanic-style bow, guests will enjoy a bathroom and surround sound system as they cruise around Diamond Head.

The boat features:

  • A Titanic-style bow for unobstructed views
  • A bathroom for comfort and convenience
  • A surround sound system for an immersive experience
  • A second deck for panoramic sightseeing
  • A robust and stable design for a smooth ride

This vessel provides an ideal platform to spot humpback whales in their natural habitat, with commentary from a qualified naturalist throughout the tour.

Whale Sightings

Oahu: Waikiki Whale Watching Tour-Donut and Coffee Included - Whale Sightings

According to the provided information, whale sightings on this tour are not guaranteed from November 15-30, but they are guaranteed starting from December 1. If no whales are spotted during the tour, the company offers the option to rebook the tour for free.

Whale Sighting Guarantees
November 15-30 Not Guaranteed
December 1 and after Guaranteed
No Whales Spotted Free Rebook Option

The overall rating for this tour is 4.8 out of 5 based on 10 reviews, suggesting a highly satisfactory whale watching experience for guests.

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Participant Information

Oahu: Waikiki Whale Watching Tour-Donut and Coffee Included - Participant Information

Travelers can choose from two age groups for this whale watching tour – adults (ages 12-99) and children (11 and younger).

The tour offers a flexible booking option, allowing participants to reserve their spot without upfront payment. Some key participant information includes:

  • Adults: Ages 12-99
  • Children: Ages 11 and younger
  • Cancellation Policy: Full refunds for cancellations over 24 hours; doctor’s note required for last-minute cancellations
  • Whale Sightings: Not guaranteed from November 15-30; guaranteed starting December 1, with options for free rebooking if no whales are spotted
  • Overall Rating: 4.8/5 based on 10 reviews

Ceremony and Hula

Oahu: Waikiki Whale Watching Tour-Donut and Coffee Included - Ceremony and Hula

Guests will have the opportunity to participate in a traditional E Ho Mai ceremony, a cultural practice that honors the whales and prepares participants for the experience. This meaningful ritual involves chanting, prayer, and the passing of a sacred object, which sets the tone for the whale watching tour.

Ceremony and Hula
E Ho Mai Ceremony Whale Song Listening Hula Performance
Honors the whales Hear whale songs via underwater hydrophone Crew performs traditional hula dance
Prepares participants Gain deeper appreciation for whale communication Enhances culture

After the ceremony, the crew will entertain guests with a hula performance, showcasing the graceful movements and rich storytelling of this iconic Hawaiian dance form.

Refreshment Offerings

Oahu: Waikiki Whale Watching Tour-Donut and Coffee Included - Refreshment Offerings

The tour includes light refreshments to sustain guests throughout the experience. Attendees can enjoy a poi mochi donut – a Hawaiian delicacy made with taro flour and filled with sweet red bean paste.

Plus, freshly brewed coffee is provided, offering a warm pick-me-up on the open waters. The refreshments are complemented by:

  • Snacks to fuel energy levels
  • Hydrating beverages to combat seaside conditions
  • Tasty treats to sample local cuisine
  • Options for dietary restrictions or preferences
  • Servings sufficient for the 2-hour duration

Cancellation Policy

Oahu: Waikiki Whale Watching Tour-Donut and Coffee Included - Cancellation Policy

Subject to the tour operator’s cancellation policy, full refunds are provided for reservations cancelled over 24 hours in advance.

A doctor’s note is required for last-minute cancellations. This ensures transparent and fair practices for all participants.

The whale watching tour’s generous cancellation policy allows flexibility, so guests can book with confidence knowing their money is protected.

It’s important to review the full cancellation terms prior to booking, but the overall policy offers peace of mind and the ability to plan a trip without worry of losing the reservation fee if plans change unexpectedly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Oahu: Waikiki Whale Watching Tour-Donut and Coffee Included - Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Camera Equipment Is Recommended for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify any recommended camera equipment. However, a camera with a telephoto lens would be ideal for capturing clear, close-up shots of the whales in their natural habitat during the tour.

Is There an Option to Purchase Souvenir Photos After the Tour?

The tour does not mention an option to purchase souvenir photos after the excursion. The focus seems to be on the whale watching experience itself, with light refreshments and a hula performance provided on board.

How Stable Is the Boat and Are Motion Sickness Medications Advised?

The boat is considered quite stable for whale watching tours. However, if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s advisable to take preventative medication beforehand. The smooth ride allows you to focus on spotting whales without discomfort.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages on the Tour?

Passengers are allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages on the tour, but light refreshments like poi mochi donut and coffee are already included in the experience. The tour operator encourages guests to stay hydrated and enjoy the scenic cruise.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. The boat has designated wheelchair seating areas, and the crew can assist passengers with boarding and disembarking. Guests with mobility needs should notify the tour operator in advance to ensure appropriate accommodations.

Recap

The Oahu: Waikiki Whale Watching Tour offers an unforgettable experience. Guests can witness the majestic humpback whales, savor delicious poi mochi donuts and coffee, and enjoy Hawaiian culture through a traditional ceremony and hula performance. With a stylish 2-decker boat designed for optimal viewing, this 2-hour tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Oahu.

You can check if your dates are available here: