Moana’s Swim’n’Sail Cocktail Cruise Along the Waikiki Coast

Imagine slipping away from the crowded sands of Waikiki Beach for a couple of hours of gentle sailing, refreshing swimming, and soaking in some of Hawaii’s best views. That’s exactly what Moana’s Swim’n’Sail Cocktail Cruise promises—and, based on the glowing reviews, it mostly delivers. This tour offers a chance to see the iconic Honolulu coastline from a comfortable catamaran, with the added bonus of stopping for a swim in the clear waters and enjoying a relaxed, social atmosphere.

What we love about this experience is how it combines the tranquility of a sail with the opportunity to get in the water and see Hawaii’s marine life—sea turtles and dolphins are often spotted. Plus, the onboard lounge area makes it easy to unwind with a cocktail or to snap some memorable photos with Diamond Head as a backdrop. The only potential downside? It’s a shorter trip—around two hours—so if you want to explore more extensively, you’ll need to look elsewhere. But if your goal is a laid-back, scenic escape, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for couples, families, or anyone wanting a relaxing water-based activity without the crowds.

Key Points

• A 2-hour catamaran sail from Waikiki to Diamond Head offers scenic views and a peaceful escape.
• The tour includes swimming opportunities in clear waters, often with sightings of sea turtles.
• It’s praised for friendly staff and a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.
• The experience is affordable at $49.99 per person and books about 17 days in advance on average.
• The group size is limited to 47 travelers, making it intimate enough for personal attention.
• It’s ideal for all ages and physical fitness levels, provided guests enjoy moderate activity.

Starting Point: Kewalo Basin Harbor
The adventure begins at Kewalo Basin Harbor, conveniently close to public transportation options. Here, you’ll meet the friendly crew and get oriented before casting off. The harbor’s location ensures easy access for most travelers staying in Waikiki, and the check-in process is straightforward, especially with the mobile ticketing option.

Sailing Past Waikiki
Once underway, the catamaran glides past the bustling Waikiki shoreline, giving you a different perspective of the iconic beach and city skyline. We loved the way the boat smoothly cuts through the water, offering a gentle breeze—an ideal setting for relaxing and taking photos. The crew often provides commentary about the coastline and sights, adding a touch of local flavor.

Heading Toward Diamond Head
The main sailing stretch takes you toward the famous Diamond Head Crater, a volcanic formation that dominates the horizon. As you cruise along, the scenery is captivating—lush greenery, rugged cliffs, and sparkling water. Many reviews highlight the stunning coastline views, with some describing it as “a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.”

The Swimming Stop
Midway through the trip, you’ll pause at a top swimming spot where the water is remarkably clear. Here, swimmers—regardless of experience—can jump into the water, which might be warm and inviting or refreshingly cool, depending on the day. Reports indicate frequent sightings of sea turtles, adding a special touch to the experience. Children and adults alike often find this part exciting; one review even mentions children swimming and jumping off the boat as “awesome.”

Relaxation and Refreshments
Back on board, the onboard lounge areas provide a relaxing space to enjoy the coastal scenery, sip cocktails (available for purchase), or simply unwind. The crew is noted for their friendly service, and some guests appreciate the opportunity to take photos with Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach as a backdrop, thanks to crew members snapping pictures for guests.

Return Journey
As the cruise winds down, the boat heads back toward the harbor, offering more opportunities for sightseeing and soaking in the ocean breeze. Many reviewers mention how quickly the trip passes, leaving them wishing for a longer experience.

The reviews consistently praise the crew’s friendliness and the relaxed, fun atmosphere. One guest describes it as a “great ride,” highlighting the “fantastic swim” and sightings of sea turtles. Families appreciate how suitable the trip is for all ages, with children enjoying the water and adults enjoying the scenery and cocktails.

Several reviewers emphasize the lack of crowds, making the experience feel intimate and personal. Holly notes, “It wasn’t crowded. It was very relaxing,” which is a stark contrast to the often-hectic Waikiki beaches. Michelle points out that the trip is “exciting and adventurous,” especially for kids who get to jump into the water and explore.

The value for money also gets high marks. At $49.99, the tour is seen as affordable, providing a memorable experience without requiring a full day or a hefty price tag. Many describe it as a perfect quick escape from the busy beach scene.

However, a few constructive comments highlight areas for improvement. One reviewer, Andrew, mentioned the music choice and the fact that additional items cost extra—though water is free. It’s important to note that this tour is designed as a cocktail cruise, not a snorkeling or diving adventure, which might disappoint those expecting more extensive water activities.

Duration & Group Size
The cruise lasts about two hours, making it an easy addition to any day in Waikiki. The boat accommodates up to 47 travelers, balancing a social environment with enough space to relax.

Pricing & Value
At $49.99 per person, this tour offers a good bang for your buck—especially when you consider the scenic sailing, swimming, and the chance to escape the crowds. There are no hidden fees, with all taxes included, and the option to purchase cocktails adds to the fun.

Booking & Availability
Most travelers book about 17 days in advance, which is a practical tip if you’re planning ahead for peak times. The tour provides a mobile ticket, streamlining the check-in process.

Physical Fitness & Accessibility
While the tour is suitable for most, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level—think easy walking, some sitting, and swimming. It’s not overly strenuous, but guests should be comfortable on a boat and in the water.

Environmental & Weather Considerations
Good weather is essential for this trip. The operator offers full refunds if canceled due to poor weather. So, a sunny forecast is your best bet for a smooth, enjoyable ride.

What makes Moana’s Swim’n’Sail unique is how it balances relaxation, scenery, and fun all in a compact two-hour window. Unlike larger, crowded boat rides, this experience tends to be intimate, friendly, and visually stunning. Many reviews describe it as “a great affordable excursion,” making it appealing for travelers wanting a taste of Hawaii’s sea without a full-day commitment.

The opportunity to see marine life, like turtles and dolphins, adds a special dimension that many travelers cherish. Plus, the casual atmosphere—where you can hang out, swim, and enjoy a cocktail—makes this a versatile choice for couples, families, or anyone seeking a mellow coastal adventure.

If you enjoy being on the water, soaking in scenic views, and jumping into clear ocean waters, this tour will suit you well. It’s particularly good for those who want a relaxing, social experience without the hustle of crowd-heavy beaches or long excursions.

Families with kids who love swimming, couples looking for a romantic yet informal outing, or solo travelers wanting a quick, enjoyable escape will all find value here. It’s also ideal if you’re on a budget but still want to enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty from the water.

While it’s not suited for snorkelers or divers seeking underwater adventures, it’s perfect for anyone craving a breezy, scenic cruise with a splash of fun.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children swimming and jumping off the boat, indicating it’s family-friendly.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, alcoholic drinks are available for purchase onboard, but the tour itself is mainly a cocktail cruise.

How long is the cruise?
About two hours, which is short enough not to be tiring but long enough to enjoy the scenery and swimming.

Where do we meet for the tour?
At Kewalo Basin Harbor, located at 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu. The location is near public transportation.

Is this a snorkeling tour?
No, this tour does not include snorkeling equipment or activities. It’s focused on sailing, swimming, and socializing.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel. The boat has restroom facilities, and water is provided onboard.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour offers free cancellation if canceled due to poor weather, and you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Moana’s Swim’n’Sail Cocktail Cruise offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience Waikiki from the water. It’s a well-reviewed, affordable trip that emphasizes scenic sailing, marine life, and relaxation. Perfect for those who want a brief but memorable escape from the busy beaches, this cruise showcases Hawaii’s coastline without the fuss of longer, more crowded tours.

The combination of friendly staff, beautiful views, and the chance to swim in clear waters makes this experience stand out. Whether you’re traveling with family, a partner, or flying solo, you’ll likely find this trip a delightful addition to your Hawaii itinerary.

If your goal is to enjoy Hawaii’s ocean and coastline in a laid-back setting—one that’s fun, safe, and offers plenty of photo opportunities—this cruise is definitely worth considering.

Remember: Book in advance, check the weather forecast, and come prepared for a relaxing, scenic ride. After all, a couple of hours on the water in Waikiki might just be the highlight of your trip.