Oahu: Swim with Dolphins, Turtle Snorkel Tour and Waterslide

Oahu: Swim with Dolphins, Turtle Snorkel Tour and Waterslide Review

Exploring Hawaii’s coast through a tour that combines wild dolphin encounters, snorkeling with green sea turtles, and fun ocean activities sounds like a perfect day in paradise. This 3.5-hour tour offers a mix of wildlife, scenic sailing, and family-friendly fun, making it an appealing choice for those wanting to see the best of Oahu’s west side without feeling rushed.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances adventure with comfort. The boat is equipped with extended snorkeling gear, paddleboards, kayaks, and even a giant waterslide—ensuring that everyone, from seasoned swimmers to first-timers, can join in the fun. However, one thing to consider is that the dolphin-swimming portion is quite fast-paced and recommended for more confident snorkelers or swimmers. This tour is best suited for families, wildlife lovers, and anyone craving a lively, action-packed day on the water.

Key Points

• Wild Dolphin Encounters: Multiple opportunities to swim alongside playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
• Snorkeling with Turtles: Spot Hawaiian Green sea turtles and vibrant reef fish at Makaha Beach.
• Scenic Coastal Sail: Enjoy breathtaking views of Oahu’s Waianae coastline during the cruise.
• All-Inclusive Water Activities: Use paddleboards, kayaks, and lounge on a floating mat — no extra charge.
• Family-Friendly & Fun: A lively, engaging experience suitable for families and adventure seekers.
• Additional Comforts: Includes a hot shower, green tea, hot cocoa, snacks, and a substantial lunch.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup & Departure

The tour begins with pickups from select Waikiki hotels, starting as early as 5:20 AM from Ala Moana Hotel and running until around 6:00 AM from Waikiki Marriott Resort & Spa. The early start means you’ll get a head start on the day’s adventures, and the included transportation is both convenient and straightforward, especially for those staying in Honolulu. The boat departs from a well-equipped vessel that offers shaded areas and two restrooms, adding comfort to the day’s activities.

The Dolphin Swim: A Highlight with Some Considerations

The dolphin swim is the first major highlight. You’ll feel the ocean breeze as you sail along the coastline, searching for pods of wild dolphins. The guides, like the knowledgeable crew members frequently praised in reviews, are skilled at finding these playful creatures. Multiple opportunities allow guests to jump in and swim with the dolphins, which can be quite exhilarating.

But it’s worth noting that this part is quite fast-paced and requires good swimming ability, especially since it’s recommended mainly for advanced snorkelers or swimmers. One reviewer, Noe, shared a memorable story about losing their phone in the water but being rescued by a crew member who found it and kept it safe—highlighting the attentive and friendly nature of the crew.

Snorkeling with Green Sea Turtles at Makaha

After the dolphin encounters, the boat heads toward Makaha Beach, famed for its abundant green sea turtles and vibrant reef life. Here, guests can switch from dolphin-chasing to relaxing and exploring underwater. The tour provides extensive snorkeling gear, so you can expect to see turtles swimming close enough to touch (if you’re brave enough) and a variety of reef fish and tropical marine life.

Guests mention the clear waters and beautiful scenery as major pluses. Be prepared for a lively, energetic environment—some reviewers, like Ann, note how the crew was fantastic at making everyone feel comfortable and helping novices get comfortable with the gear.

Water Fun Galore: Waterslides, Paddleboards, and Lounge Space

What sets this tour apart from many others is the variety of ocean activities included. The new 21-foot waterslide is a crowd favorite, with guests describing it as a “fun addition” that adds a splash of excitement. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and floating mats are all available, giving you options whether you want to stay active or just unwind on the water.

The floating mat is especially popular for relaxing after swimming or snorkeling, and reviews mention how fun it is to lounge on the water while soaking up the sun. For those who want to rinse off after all the activity, an ION hot shower on board offers a quick refresh, and complimentary green tea and hot cocoa help warm you up afterward.

Lunch and Additional Comforts

A complimentary lunch is included, with a turkey sandwich as the default option—though vegetarian requests are accommodated with a quick call to the office the night before. Reviewers like Melinda praise the generous and tasty lunch, which provides energy for the rest of the day. Snacks, pineapple slices, drinks, and hot beverages ensure that you won’t go hungry or thirsty during your time on the boat.

Scenic Coastal Views & Cultural Touches

As the boat makes its way along the Waianae coast, you’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas of rugged cliffs and lush landscapes. The guides also share insights into Hawaiian culture, including a traditional “Oli” prayer of the sea, adding an authentic touch to the experience.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s advised to take motion sickness remedies about an hour before the tour.
• The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, due to the physical demands of swimming and boat access.
• Remember to bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and your seasickness medication if needed.
• Glass objects are not allowed on the boat for safety reasons.
• Restrooms are available on board, which is convenient during the 3.5-hour tour.

What the Reviews Say: Authentic Perspectives

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable crew and stunning scenery. Ann describes the experience as “amazing,” emphasizing the dolphins, turtles, and beautiful fish she saw. Noe’s story about losing and recovering his phone underscores the friendly, helpful attitude of the staff, making even minor mishaps manageable and memorable.

Melinda’s review calls it a “once-in-a-lifetime experience,” noting the energy and kindness of the crew and the abundance of dolphins they encountered. Families, like Susan, mention how their children loved snorkeling with turtles and how the fresh pineapple was a highlight. These sentiments emphasize that the tour offers authentic wildlife encounters in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Pricing & Value

At around $199 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. Everything from transportation, snorkeling gear, water activities, and lunch is included, which simplifies planning and budgeting. Considering the multiple activity options—from dolphin swims to paddleboarding—and the chance to swim with sea turtles, many guests feel they received excellent value.

However, if you’re interested in underwater photos or GoPro rentals, these come at an extra cost ($70 and $10 respectively). So, if capturing memories is important, plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous families, wildlife enthusiasts, and ocean lovers wanting a lively, multi-faceted day on the water. The early start and fast-paced dolphin swim might be less suitable for those with limited mobility or slow swimmers, but the inclusive water activities and scenic views make it accessible for most guests with a reasonable level of fitness.

It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine wildlife encounters with active fun, and for those who enjoy authentic, engaging guides. The family-friendly environment and the attention to safety and comfort make it a well-rounded choice for a memorable Hawaiian day.

The Sum Up

This Oahu tour offers a fantastic blend of wildlife, adventure, and cultural insights in a manageable 3.5 hours. The chance to swim with dolphins and turtles, combined with scenic sailing and fun water activities, creates a well-rounded experience packed with memorable moments. The knowledgeable crew, stunning coastal views, and inclusive amenities make it a strong contender for anyone looking to enjoy Hawaii’s marine life authentically and comfortably.

While it’s best suited for those comfortable in the water, families, and active travelers will find this outing provides great value and plenty of fun. Its emphasis on authentic encounters and scenic beauty ensures you’ll leave with both stories and pictures worth cherishing.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including transportation, snorkeling, and water activities.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation, a hearty lunch (turkey or vegetarian), drinks, snorkeling gear, waterslides, paddleboards, kayaks, and a floating mat.

Can I bring my own underwater camera?
While not explicitly stated, you may want to bring your own waterproof camera, but note that underwater photo packages are available for an extra $70.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but the dolphin swimming is fast-paced and recommended for confident swimmers, especially children.

Are wetsuits provided?
Wetsuit rentals are available at $10 for adults and $5 for children if needed, but the tour mainly emphasizes water gear rather than wetsuits.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and seasickness remedies if applicable. The boat has restrooms and shaded areas for comfort.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Glass objects are not allowed onboard.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, spots are limited and bookings are recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can reserve now and pay later.

This tour proves a lively, authentic, and beautifully scenic way to experience some of Hawaii’s most iconic marine life, all while having fun on the water. Whether you’re a wildlife lover or just looking for a day of ocean-side excitement, it’s well worth considering.