2hr Luxury Private Sailing Catamaran for 7-12 People

A Review of the 2hr Luxury Private Sailing Catamaran in Oahu

Picture yourself on a sleek, spacious catamaran gliding smoothly along Oahu’s coast, away from the bustling Waikiki crowds. This 2-hour private sailing experience offers an intimate journey with your own group of up to 12 guests, combining comfort, flexibility, and authentic Hawaiian scenery. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a tranquil escape, this tour promises a personalized adventure out on the water.

What we love most about this experience is how it grants you full control — you decide where to go, what to do, and even what music to listen to. The option to customize your day means you won’t just follow a set schedule; instead, you craft your own perfect escape. Plus, the chance to see marine creatures like turtles, dolphins, and whales (during whale season) makes this trip both fun and educational.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour doesn’t include food or transportation, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a private, flexible, and relaxed way to explore the coast, especially those who love snorkeling and wildlife spotting. If you’re after a high-end, customizable water excursion with a small group atmosphere, this experience might just be your perfect fit.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience allowing you to choose activities, music, and destinations.
• Ideal for small groups of 7-12 people seeking exclusivity and flexibility.
• Includes snorkeling gear and a guide, with options to add food and beverages.
• Opportunity to see wildlife such as turtles, dolphins, and humpback whales (December-April).
• Departure from a convenient location at Ala Wai Boat Harbor with easy access.
• No food included, so planning for snacks or bringing your own is recommended.

Why This Private Sailing Catamaran Stands Out

This tour offers a refreshing alternative to conventional group excursions — it’s tailored to your preferences. We loved the way it emphasizes privacy and flexibility, allowing you to craft a unique Hawaiian experience. The boat itself is described as “luxury,” with ample space for lounging in the shaded cockpit and relaxing in the nets. That means you can unwind comfortably while taking in scenic views of Diamond Head and Waikiki’s coastline.

The seaworthiness and professionalism of the crew, led by a seasoned captain, ensure a safe experience. Multiple reviews praise the crew for their attentiveness and ability to spot marine life, which truly enhances the value of the tour. The boat’s Bluetooth sound system also means you can set your playlist — a small touch that makes the trip feel more personal.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Departure and Setting Out

The journey begins at Hawaiian Parasail conveniently located at Ala Moana Blvd. This spot is near public transportation and easy to find. Once aboard, the crew quickly sets the tone for a relaxed but exciting adventure. The boat’s design ensures a smooth ride, with a large shaded cockpit that offers unobstructed views of the coastline.

As the catamaran departs, you’ll immediately notice how spacious and stable it is — sailing on a catamaran is known for its gentle, steady motion, making it perfect for those prone to seasickness or simply wanting a peaceful ride.

Exploring the Coastline

Heading out along Waikiki’s shoreline, your captain will keep an eye out for marine life. Several reviews highlight the crew’s skill in spotting turtles, dolphins, and schools of tropical fish. One reviewer mentioned, “We saw a sea turtle just a few feet away from the boat, and the captain was quick to point it out and even took a moment to explain its significance in Hawaiian culture.”

The view of Diamond Head from the water is spectacular, and the boat’s position allows for great photo opportunities. Since the tour is private, you can ask to sail along specific spots or focus on wildlife viewing, making it a truly personalized trip.

Snorkeling and Wildlife Spotting

The highlight for many guests is snorkeling — and the best time for this is generally before 1 pm, as the water clarity tends to be optimal then. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, a guide, and flotation devices, including a colorful “magic carpet” float, making it easy for beginners or those wanting a relaxing float.

During snorkeling, you might encounter big schools of tropical fish, eels, rays, and even octopus. Whale season (December to April) offers the chance to see humpback whales, which is an incredible sight from the boat or in the water.

Flexibility and Personalization

One of the biggest selling points is that this is a completely private experience. You’re the boss — decide where to anchor, what activities to prioritize, and how long to stay at each spot. Want to listen to your favorite playlist? Just connect via Bluetooth. Prefer a quiet day with just your group? No problem.

There’s also an opportunity to add to your trip with snacks and beverages, which can be arranged on board. If you’re celebrating something special, bringing your own food or even hiring a private chef is an option — the boat’s refrigerator and cooler make this straightforward.

End of the Trip

After about two hours, the boat gently returns to the harbor. Guests often comment on how quickly the time flies, especially when they’re having fun and soaking up the sun. The crew ensures everyone is comfortable and offers a freshwater shower on deck to rinse off saltwater.

Analyzing the Value

At $1,495 for up to 12 people, this private charter offers a cost-effective way for small groups or families to enjoy a personalized day on the water. When split, the per-person cost is quite reasonable for a luxury experience that includes snorkeling gear, wildlife spotting, and the comfort of a private boat.

Unlike larger tours, which can feel crowded and rigid, this trip’s ability to tailor the day to your preferences is a major plus. Plus, the bonus of avoiding Waikiki crowds and exploring lesser-visited spots makes this a more authentic Hawaiian adventure.

While food and drinks aren’t included, this gives you the freedom to plan a picnic or indulge in local treats brought on board. The tour also doesn’t include transportation to the meeting point, so organizing a short drive or parking is advisable (there’s a small fee of $1/hr in the marina).

Who Will Love This Experience?

This sailing tour is perfect for small groups of friends, families, or couples looking for a private, flexible, and upscale day on the water. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in snorkeling, wildlife viewing, or simply relaxing without the hustle of larger tours. Those celebrating special occasions will appreciate the exclusivity and custom options.

Travelers who prefer a more laid-back, intimate experience with the freedom to choose activities will find this tour a delightful way to see Oahu’s coast. It’s also a fantastic option for repeat visitors who want a different perspective from the usual tours.

The Sum Up

This private 2-hour sailing catamaran experience offers a combination of comfort, flexibility, and authentic Hawaiian scenery that’s hard to beat. The ability to customize your day, coupled with the chance to spot marine wildlife and snorkel in clear waters, makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking a relaxed and personalized adventure.

While you will need to bring your own food and plan transport to the marina, the overall value for the intimacy and quality of the experience stacks up well. It’s especially suited for those who want a private day on the water without the constraints of larger tour groups.

If you’re craving a peaceful, customizable, and scenic outing with close-up wildlife encounters and plenty of room to relax, this vessel delivers in spades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to organize your own transportation to the meeting point at Hawaiian Parasail Inc. in Ala Wai Harbor.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 12 people can join, making it ideal for small groups looking for exclusivity and personalized service.

What should I bring?
Bring your own food, drinks, and any personal items. Snorkeling gear and flotation devices are provided, but you’re welcome to bring extra equipment if you prefer.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since this is a private charter, you can decide where to go, what activities to focus on, and even what music to play via Bluetooth.

Are there any seasonal considerations?
Yes, whale watching is best from December to April. Otherwise, the tour focuses on snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the scenic coastline.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund.

This private sailing adventure in Oahu offers an intimate, flexible, and genuinely enjoyable way to explore Hawaii’s waters. It’s perfect for those who value privacy, comfort, and personalized experiences — a true small-group luxury on the waves.