Oahu’s whale watching scene comes alive with the Ala Wai Harbor excursion. Aboard the renovated Lahaina Princess, visitors can enjoy the enchanting world of humpback whales. With experienced crew providing educational commentary, guests enjoy panoramic views and the whales’ captivating sounds through an underwater hydrophone. This 2-hour adventure promises exciting sightings and memorable photo ops. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a family-friendly activity, the Oahu whale watching experience offers an unforgettable glimpse into the marine life of the Hawaiian islands.
Key Points
- 2-hour whale watching cruise departs from Ala Wai Harbor in Waikiki, offering panoramic views and opportunities to hear whale sounds via an underwater hydrophone.
- Experienced captains and crew provide educational commentary on the migratory patterns and behaviors of humpback whales during their annual visit to Hawaii.
- Newly renovated Lahaina Princess boat ensures a comfortable and enjoyable whale watching experience, with a shaded main cabin and observation deck.
- Ticket price is $49 per person, with a reserve now and pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The excursion has an overall rating of 4.5/5 from over 281 reviews, with positive feedback highlighting memorable whale sightings and engaging cruise experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Oahu Whale Watching Excursion offers a unique opportunity to encounter humpback whales during their annual migration from Alaska to Hawaii.
Set out on a captivating journey to encounter humpback whales during their annual migration to Hawaii.
This 2-hour cruise departs from the Ala Wai Harbor, likely to sell out quickly. Priced at $49 per person, the tour provides panoramic views from the observation deck of a newly renovated boat.
Participants can listen to the whales’ sounds through an underwater hydrophone and enjoy educational commentary from the experienced crew.
A reserve now and pay later option is available, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Whale Watching Experience and Highlights
As participants board the Lahaina Princess, they can expect an immersive whale watching experience.
The newly renovated boat offers panoramic views from the observation deck, and an underwater hydrophone allows for unique whale sounds. Experienced captains and crew provide educational commentary, sharing their knowledge of the humpback whales’ migration from Alaska to Hawaii.
Families will enjoy the sightseeing and photo opportunities, as the whales breach the surface in a breathtaking display.
The 2-hour excursion promises an unforgettable encounter with these majestic marine mammals during their seasonal visit to the Hawaiian waters.
Getting to the Departure Location
Participants can find the Lahaina Princess departure point at Slip 497 of the Ala Wai Harbor, located at 1651 Ala Moana Boulevard in Waikiki.
Travelers should look for the HAWAII OCEAN PROJECT banner at the dock. The excursion departs from this central location, making it easily accessible for those staying in the Waikiki area.
Participants are advised to arrive a few minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth check-in process.
The boat, Lahaina Princess, is a newly renovated vessel, offering a comfortable and enjoyable whale watching experience.
What to Expect on the Cruise
Once aboard the Lahaina Princess, passengers can expect an engaging and educational whale watching experience.
The newly renovated boat features a shaded main cabin and an observation deck for panoramic views. An on-board hydrophone allows guests to listen to the unique sounds of humpback whales. The experienced captain and crew provide informative commentary, sharing their local knowledge.
The boat’s renovations include a shaded cabin and observation deck for panoramic views. Onboard hydrophones let guests hear the sounds of humpback whales.
Key highlights include:
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Spotting humpback whales during their migration from Alaska to Hawaii
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Learning about the whales’ behaviors and ecology
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Enjoying photo opportunities with the scenic backdrop
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Hearing the whales’ vocalizations through the hydrophone
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Exploring the boat’s amenities and comfortable seating areas.
Preparing for the Excursion
To make the most of the Oahu Whale Watching Excursion, visitors should come prepared.
They’ll need to bring comfortable, closed-toe shoes, a sun hat, and biodegradable sunscreen. Participants should also have their ID ready for check-in at Slip 497 of Ala Wai Harbor.
The excursion isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Drones, feeding animals, electric wheelchairs, and explosive substances are prohibited.
With the right gear and mindset, guests can look forward to an educational, whale-watching adventure aboard the newly renovated Lahaina Princess.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
How do customers rate the Oahu Whale Watching Excursion?
Based on over 281 reviews, the excursion boasts an impressive 4.5/5 overall rating.
Customers particularly praise:
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The crew’s dedication and exceptional service, with a 4.6/5 guide rating
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The comfortable and newly renovated boat, with a 4.6/5 transportation rating
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The educational experience and value for money, both earning 4.6/5 ratings
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Highlights like the underwater hydrophone and panoramic views
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Memorable whale sightings during the educational 2-hour cruise.
The consistently positive feedback underscores the excursion’s ability to deliver an engaging and unforgettable whale watching adventure.
Booking and Reserving Your Spot
When it comes to booking and reserving your spot on the Oahu Whale Watching Excursion, the process is straightforward.
Prices start at $49 per person for the 2-hour cruise, and a reserve now, pay later option is available. You can easily secure your spot online, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour is likely to sell out, so it’s best to book early. On the day, you’ll check in at Slip 497 of the Ala Wai Harbor, where you’ll board the Lahaina Princess boat for your whale watching adventure.
FAQ
Are Life Jackets Provided on the Cruise?
Yes, life jackets are provided on the cruise. The cruise operator ensures the safety of all passengers by making life jackets available throughout the tour.
Is Food and Drink Available for Purchase on Board?
Food and drink are not included, but passengers can purchase snacks and beverages on board. The vessel has a newly renovated cabin with a snack bar area for travelers to enjoy during the excursion.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?
Participants are allowed to bring their own camera equipment on the whale watching tour. However, the use of drones is prohibited for safety and environmental reasons.
What Happens if the Weather Is Poor on the Day?
The company offers full refunds if the tour is canceled due to inclement weather. Customers won’t be charged if the excursion doesn’t operate, and they can easily rebook for another day during their stay.
Do I Need a Ticket for My Child Under 5 Years Old?
Children under 5 years old do not need a ticket for the whale watching excursion. The tour is suitable for families, and children can join the cruise free of charge.
Sum Up
The Oahu Whale Watching Excursion from Ala Wai Harbor offers an unforgettable 2-hour adventure to observe humpback whales during their migration. With experienced crew, panoramic views, and the chance to hear whales through a hydrophone, this immersive experience promises exciting sightings and memorable photo opportunities for families and nature enthusiasts. Booking in advance is recommended to secure a spot on this popular whale watching tour.
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