Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tour from Waikiki promises an unforgettable aquatic adventure. This 1.5-hour excursion lets visitors explore the vibrant underwater world, featuring 50 minutes of snorkeling amidst Hawaiian green sea turtles and colorful reef fish. With convenient departures, a flexible cancellation policy, and personalized attention for up to 19 guests, it’s an ideal way to experience Oahu’s stunning marine life. But what makes this tour truly special? Dive in to find out.
This experience made our article of 8 Must-Try Snorkeling Experiences In Honolulu.
Key Points
- A 1.5-hour snorkeling tour from Waikiki that takes guests to the renowned Turtle Canyon to see Hawaiian green sea turtles and other marine life.
- The tour departs from Island Splash Tours near Waikiki Beach and includes a 15-minute boat cruise each way.
- Snorkeling time is 50 minutes, and the group size is limited to 19 guests for a personalized experience.
- The tour is priced from $81.99 per person and has a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
- Safety measures include two lifeguard-certified snorkel guides, and the tour is not suitable for certain individuals with medical conditions or restrictions.
Tour Overview
The Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tour is a 1.5-hour adventure that takes participants on a boat cruise to the renowned Turtle Canyon in Waikiki, Honolulu.
Priced from $81.99 per person, this intimate tour limits capacity to 19 guests, providing a personalized experience on a boat that accommodates 35.
Snorkelers can expect to see Hawaiian green sea turtles, reef fish, eels, octopus, urchins, rays, and potentially spot humpback whales during the winter season.
Snorkel equipment, flotation devices, refreshments, and knowledgeable guides are included.
A free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance ensures flexibility.
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Waikiki Location
Located in the heart of Waikiki, the starting point for the Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tour is Island Splash Tours. This convenient departure point is just steps away from the bustling Waikiki Beach, allowing easy access for participants.
The tour departs from the dock behind the yellow parasail booth, where guests should arrive 30 minutes prior to departure. From here, the boat will cruise through the calm waters of Waikiki’s coastline, heading towards the snorkeling destination of Turtle Canyon.
This prime location ensures an optimal experience for witnessing the marine life and Hawaiian green sea turtles.
Duration and Capacity
The Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tour runs for a total duration of 1.5 hours, with 50 minutes dedicated to the snorkeling experience itself.
This intimate tour is limited to just 19 participants, ensuring a personalized adventure. The boat can accommodate up to 35 passengers, but the tour operator has chosen to keep the group size small for a more immersive and enjoyable experience.
With this limited capacity, visitors can expect to have ample space and attention from the experienced snorkel guides and crew during their time exploring the vibrant marine life of Turtle Canyon.
Pricing and Cancellation Policy
How much does the Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tour cost? The tour starts at $81.99 per person.
Considering the intimate group size, stunning underwater scenery, and included amenities, this price offers excellent value. The cancellation policy is also flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This gives travelers peace of mind when booking. With limited availability, it’s best to check the tour’s website for the current schedule and secure a spot in advance.
More Great Tours NearbyItinerary and Main Sites
The tour begins with a 15-minute boat cruise from the starting point at Island Splash Tours in Honolulu to the renowned Turtle Canyon. Once there, guests will enjoy 50 minutes of snorkeling, encountering a diverse array of marine life, including:
| Sightings | Frequency |
| — | — |
| Hawaiian green sea turtles | Common |
| Reef fish, eels, octopus, urchins | Frequent |
| Rays | Occasional |
| Dolphins | Possible |
| Humpback whales (Dec-Apr) | Potential |
After the snorkeling adventure, the tour concludes with a 15-minute boat ride back to the starting point.
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Included Amenities
The Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tour includes a variety of amenities to enhance the experience.
Snorkel equipment and flotation devices are provided, ensuring participants can safely explore the underwater world. Refreshing soft drinks and water are available to quench thirst.
Experienced snorkel guides and a skilled crew accompany the group, offering guidance and expertise. Towels and reef-safe sunscreen are also included, allowing guests to comfortably prepare for and enjoy the tour.
Lastly, a camera is available to capture unforgettable moments with the marine life, creating lasting memories of the adventure.
Safety and Restrictions
To ensure the safety of all participants, two lifeguard-certified snorkel guides accompany the group in the water.
This popular Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tour isn’t suitable for:
-
Pregnant women
-
People over 65
-
Children under 5
-
Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions
Guests must meet at the dock behind the yellow parasail booth 30 minutes prior to departure.
The tour strictly adheres to these safety guidelines to provide an enjoyable and secure snorkeling experience for everyone.
Customer Feedback
According to the available customer reviews, the Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tour has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 121 reviews.
Customers rave about the safe experience with clear instructions from the knowledgeable guides.
One reviewer from Canada, Alyssa, described it as the "best activity" with "close encounters with turtles."
Another guest, Anne from the USA, found the crew "fantastic" and "highly recommend[ed]" the tour.
Eileen, also from the USA, had a "memorable experience" and saw several turtles, praising the "friendly guides."
Frequently Asked Questions
What Equipment Do I Need to Bring for the Snorkeling Tour?
The snorkeling tour provides all the necessary equipment, including snorkel gear and flotation devices. Participants don’t need to bring any additional snorkeling equipment, just their swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. The tour staff ensures all gear is properly fitted and ready for use.
Can I Participate if I Have Never Snorkeled Before?
Absolutely! This tour is beginner-friendly. The experienced guides provide a comprehensive safety briefing and hands-on assistance to ensure even first-time snorkelers feel confident and enjoy close encounters with Hawaiian green sea turtles.
Will I See Other Marine Life Besides Sea Turtles?
Yes, in addition to the Hawaiian green sea turtles, participants may also spot reef fish, eels, octopus, urchins, rays, and potentially even dolphins or humpback whales during the peak season of December to April.
How Deep Will We Be Snorkeling?
The snorkeling depth on the tour is typically around 10-15 feet. Participants will have the opportunity to observe a variety of marine life including reef fish, eels, octopus, and rays in addition to the Hawaiian green sea turtles.
Is Food Provided During the Tour?
The tour includes soft drinks and water, but no food is provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own snacks or light refreshments if desired. The focus of the tour is on the snorkeling experience at Turtle Canyon.
The Sum Up
The Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tour from Waikiki offers an unforgettable underwater adventure. With its convenient location, flexible cancellation policy, and personalized attention, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking to explore Hawaii’s vibrant marine life. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-time explorer, this tour promises an exciting and memorable experience.
📍 This experience made our list of the 8 best Snorkeling Experiences in Honolulu
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