Private Whale Watching and Dolphin Excursion

Whale watching and dolphin sightings are popular activities for visitors to Oahu. But a private excursion offers a more intimate experience. Guests can observe these magnificent marine creatures up close in their natural habitat, guided by knowledgeable crew. With complimentary snacks and the option to bring your own refreshments, this personalized tour promises an unforgettable encounter. However, there are a few important details to consider before booking this unique adventure.

This experience made our article of 16 Top Dolphin Watching Tours In Oahu (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Private boat tour providing a personalized experience to observe whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and flying fish around Oahu.
• Knowledgeable crew offering insights into the local marine ecosystem during the excursion.
• Convenient meeting point at Kewalo Basin Harbor, Slip A2, with departure and return at the same location.
• Flexible booking options with a starting price of $247.50 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
• Included amenities such as complimentary bottled water, snacks, and an Igloo chest for storing personal items.

Activity Details

Although the tour is billed as a private whale watching and dolphin excursion, participants can also expect to see a variety of other marine life during the outing.

Along With whales and dolphins, the charter often encounters sea turtles, flying fish, and more. The tour takes place aboard a private boat, ensuring a personalized experience for the group.

The knowledgeable crew provides insights into the local marine ecosystem and helps guests spot wildlife. The activity offers a unique opportunity to observe Oahu’s diverse ocean inhabitants in an intimate setting.

Location and Meeting Point

The meeting point for this private whale watching and dolphin excursion is located at 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA, specifically at Slip A2 in Kewalo Basin Harbor.

From here, guests will embark on their tour and return to the same location at the end of the experience.

The key details about the meeting and pickup are:

• Located at Kewalo Basin Harbor, Slip A2

• Address: 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96813

• Meeting point and end point are the same location

• Activity starts and ends at the meeting point

Pricing and Booking

The private whale watching and dolphin excursion has a starting price of $247.50 per person, though the final cost may vary depending on the size of the group.

Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later to secure their place. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This allows for flexibility in planning.

Booking through the platform ensures a hassle-free process, so adventurers can focus on their upcoming whale and dolphin sightings.

Included Amenities

The excursion includes several amenities to enhance the overall experience.

Guests are provided with bottled water to stay hydrated, and an iced Igloo chest is available for storing personal items.

Plus, snacks are included, ensuring participants can fuel up during the adventure.

Guests are also welcome to bring their own food and drinks, and the ice chests on board can be used to keep them cool.

These thoughtful inclusions contribute to the comfort and convenience of the private whale watching and dolphin excursion.

• Bottled water

• Iced Igloo chest for personal items

• Snacks

• Guests can bring their own food and drinks

• Ice chests available for use

Accessibility and Tour Type

Though the private whale watching and dolphin excursion isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

The activity is a private tour, meaning only your group will be participating. It’s supplied by Honolulu Charter Fishing, a provider of various water-based experiences in Oahu.

The private nature of the tour allows for a more personalized and intimate experience, compared to a larger group setting. The accessibility and tour type cater to a wide range of travelers, providing an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Oahu’s marine life in a private and customized manner.

Customer Feedback: Negative Experiences

While some customers have expressed negative experiences with the private whale watching and dolphin excursion, these concerns primarily revolve around the crew’s inexperience and the focus on fishing rather than whale watching.

Specifically, some reviewers noted:

• Inexperienced crew

• Excessive focus on fishing rather than whale watching

• Lack of adequate refreshments

• Cleanliness issues on the boat

• Disappointment in the overall whale watching experience

Despite these complaints, the activity still maintains an average rating of 3.5 stars, suggesting a mixed bag of experiences for customers.

Addressing the crew’s expertise and refining the whale watching focus could help improve guest satisfaction.

Customer Feedback: Positive Experiences

Despite the negative experiences shared by some customers, the private whale watching and dolphin excursion has also garnered positive remarks from others.

Guests have enjoyed their time on the water, with sightings of turtles and flying fish. Customers have also praised Captain Mike and Rick for their knowledge and attentive service.

One reviewer noted an "enjoyable time on the water," while another highlighted the crew’s expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?

The group size for this private tour is variable and depends on the number of participants. The pricing is listed as "from $247.50 per person" which indicates the rate can change based on the total size of the group.

Can We Bring Our Own Alcohol on the Boat?

Guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks, including alcohol, on the boat. There are ice chests available for personal use to store these items during the excursion.

Are Any Photography Equipment or Devices Allowed During the Tour?

Based on the overview, guests are allowed to bring their own photography equipment and devices during the tour. The activity includes amenities like an Igloo chest for storing personal items, which would accommodate bringing cameras and other photography gear.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Excursion?

There’s no minimum age requirement for this excursion. However, infants must sit on laps during the tour. Most travelers can participate, though the activity may not be suitable for very young children.

Can We Request a Specific Time for the Tour?

Yes, guests can request a specific departure time for the tour. The activity allows for scheduling flexibility, with the tour operator able to accommodate requests based on availability.

The Sum Up

This private whale watching and dolphin excursion offers a unique chance to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. With knowledgeable guides, complimentary snacks, and an intimate setting, it’s an unforgettable experience. Reviewers praise the tour’s personalized approach and the opportunity to get up close with Oahu’s diverse marine life.