Whale Watching & Late Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu

Travelers curious about Hawaii’s legendary whale season will find this whale watching and breakfast cruise in Honolulu offers a laid-back yet engaging way to see marine life. With a reputation for friendly crew and tasty food, this tour promises a relaxed morning on the water, giving you a chance to spot whales without the early wake-up call of a typical boat trip.

What we find particularly appealing are the opportunity to enjoy a hearty breakfast while cruising and the high likelihood of seeing migrating whales breaching and feeding. Plus, the chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles adds an extra layer of excitement. The downside? If the whales aren’t very active—something that can happen during the season—you might leave without the big splash you’re hoping for. Still, this cruise caters well to those who prefer a balance of wildlife viewing and a comfortable, social experience. Ideal for families, first-timers, or anyone who loves a scenic start to their day, this tour offers a good mix of nature, comfort, and value.

Key Points

• Good chance to spot whales, dolphins, and turtles
• Breakfast served on board, saving time and enhancing the experience
• Friendly crew and knowledgeable guides
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds for 24-hour notice
• Approximate 2-hour tour duration, with outdoor seating options
• Cost is around $95.86 per person, offering decent value for marine life and onboard amenities

A Practical Overview of the Tour

The “Whale Watching & Late Breakfast Cruise” in Honolulu is designed to combine the thrill of marine wildlife viewing with a leisurely breakfast. At just under two hours, it’s a manageable outing that fits well into a morning without rushing. You meet at 1009 Ala Moana Blvd, a location near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers staying in Honolulu.

The price of about $95.86 per person strikes a reasonable balance between cost and the experience offered. For that, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast (with options like loco moco or French toast), along with coffee, tea, sodas, and bottled water—all included. The cruise’s capacity is limited to around 100 travelers, ensuring a friendly and less crowded atmosphere, which many visitors appreciate.

The boat’s outdoor upper deck provides excellent views and a chance to see whales breaching or dolphins playing nearby. The guide’s knowledge about whale behaviors helps enhance the experience, turning a simple boat trip into an educational outing.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

Starting your morning at the dock, you’ll board a comfortable vessel for a cruise toward Diamond Head. The route is carefully selected to maximize your chances of whale sightings, especially during migration season between December and April.

As the boat sets sail, you’ll settle into your seat on the outside deck with your breakfast and drinks close at hand. The crew makes a point to be attentive and welcoming, often turning around or adjusting the route if they spot activity, as one reviewer happily noted: “They worked really hard to ensure everyone had a great time and even turned back around so that we could see a whale.”

During the cruise, you’ll likely see a variety of marine life. Whales are the star attraction, often breaching or tail-slapping, while dolphins and sea turtles may also make appearances. The knowledgeable guides share insights into whale behavior, helping you understand what you’re witnessing.

If you’re lucky, you may be treated to multiple whale sightings—a highlight that many reviews praise highly: “Was very fun and amazing to see humpback whales.” However, as some reviewers experienced, the whales can be quiet or distant at times, which is typical for this season.

Once back at the dock, you’ll leave with a sense of having enjoyed a relaxed, scenic start to your day, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and stories.

Food and Beverage Experience

One of the tour’s standout features is the included breakfast, which is generally well-reviewed. Travelers have raved about the loco moco being “unbelievably good,” and French toast options are also available. Having your meal on the boat means no need to schedule a separate breakfast or worry about finding a café afterward.

The beverages—coffee, tea, soda, and bottled water—are available throughout the trip, ensuring you stay refreshed while watching the marine show. Guests appreciate the casual, social atmosphere this creates, making it suitable for families or groups wanting a laid-back outing.

Reviews in a Nutshell

The overall rating sits at 4.2 out of 5, based on 158 reviews, reflecting a generally positive consensus. The most praised aspects include the friendly staff, the guiding expertise, and stunning views. One reviewer sums it up: “The crew was spectacular. They worked really hard to ensure everyone had a great time.”

Many appreciated the good value—considering the inclusive breakfast, drinks, and scenic wildlife sightings. Yet, some noted disappointments, mainly when whales weren’t very active: “We didn’t see any whales, but the food was delicious and the staff was wonderful.”

A few reviews mention logistical issues, like a cancellation the night before, or problems with refunds when the chef canceled. These are less common but worth noting if you’re planning last-minute.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect if you’re seeking a relaxed, family-friendly way to experience Hawaii’s whales. It’s well-suited for first-time visitors, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates good food combined with scenic views. Those who prefer shorter excursions and enjoy social atmospheres will find this an appealing choice.

If you’re seeking a more adventurous or exclusive wildlife adventure, or want to guarantee whale sightings, you might consider other options. However, for value and comfort—especially if you’re traveling with kids or want an easy morning—this tour ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

For roughly $95, this whale watching cruise delivers more than just a chance to see whales. It offers a comfortable, social experience with tasty food and friendly staff. The outdoor deck provides excellent views, and the guides’ insights add educational value—making it a worthwhile outing for most visitors.

While whale sightings aren’t a guarantee in every season or trip, the overall experience is still charming and memorable. You leave with stories of marine life, a full stomach, and a relaxed start to your day in Honolulu.

If you value good company, scenic water views, and the chance to witness Hawaii’s marine giants without a long or strenuous outing, this cruise is a solid pick. It’s best for travelers who enjoy a casual, friendly atmosphere and don’t mind the possibility of quieter whales on some days.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable morning activity without taking up your whole day.

What’s included in the price?
You get breakfast, coffee, tea, soda, and bottled water, along with outdoor seating on the boat’s upper deck.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, and you’ll receive a full refund. Less notice means no refund.

Is this tour suitable for people with motion sickness?
It’s not recommended for travelers with unmanageable motion sickness, so be prepared if you’re prone to seasickness.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at 1009 Ala Moana Blvd in Honolulu, a location accessible by public transportation.

What if we don’t see any whales?
While sightings are common, especially during peak season, there’s no guarantee. However, many travelers still enjoy the boat ride and other marine life.

What’s the typical group size?
The tour caps at around 100 travelers, providing a comfortable and less crowded experience.

This cruise offers a practical, fun way to enjoy Hawaii’s marine wildlife, with the added bonus of a hearty breakfast and friendly guides. Whether you’re a whale enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing water adventure, it’s worth considering for a memorable morning in Honolulu.