big yellow catamaran waikiki

PLEASE NOTE: We operate RAIN or SHINE.

SNORKEL MANU KAI & KE KAI

Snorkeling & sailing in waikiki & kewalo harbor.

Ke Kai Catamaran departs from Waikiki Beach

Manu Kai Catamaran departs from Kewalo Harbor

SNORKEL MANU KAI

Snorkeling & sailing in waikiki & kewalo harbor, snorkeling & sailing in waikiki, sail from waikiki beach.

• Calendar Daily
• Clock 12:30PM , 10:30am
• Hour Glass 1.5 Hours

Waikiki Snorkel

Join us for a special limited-seat snorkel. Swim and snorkel with the turtles and fish at Turtle Canyon!

*All guests who wish to participate in the snorkel must be able to swim as this snorkel tour is in open water and may not be ideal for swimming/snorkeling beginners

• Most Popular
• Clock 5:30pm

Sunset Sail (WAIKIKI)

Experience adventure sailing, sightseeing, and complimentary cocktails and a beautiful Hawaiian sunset!

• Clock 4:00 pm , 2:30 pm
• Hour Glass 1 Hour

Diamond Head Sail (WAIKIKI)

Explore beautiful Diamond Head on this afternoon sailing adventure!

• Calendar Friday
• Clock 7:30pm

Friday Night Fireworks Tour (WAIKIKI)

Join us on a Friday evening for our fireworks sail to see the Hilton’s firework display!

PRIVATE CHARTERS FROM KEWALO BASIN HARBOR

• Calendar Friday - Sunday
• Clock 11:00 am
• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Private Swim & Sail (HARBOR)

Join us for our special Private Charter on our South Shore Honolulu Swim & Sail!

Guests can choose between a swim and sail combination, or choose a sail-only option! You will experience views of Waikiki, Diamond head, blue rolling waves, and stunning views of the south shore of Oahu!

• Clock 9:00am
• Hour Glass 90 minutes

Private Morning Ceremony Sail (HARBOR)

This is a private 90-minute sailing trip to attend to morning charters, with a discounted rate for ceremonies, celebrations of life, funerals, organization charters, and more.

• Clock 3:30 pm , 1:30pm

Private South Shore Sail! (HARBOR)

Join us for a fun private 90-minute happy hour sail! Sail with us through the gorgeous waves off of the South Shore of Honolulu! With charter rates for groups of up to 10, 25, or 49 guests- we can accommodate your private group and customize the experience for you! Drinks are always complimentary!

• Calendar 7 Days a Week

Private Honolulu Sunset Sail (HARBOR)

Experience a private 90-minute sunset sail with complimentary drinks (alcoholic beverages for adults only)! Enjoy a beautiful Hawaiian Sunset, and perhaps if you’re lucky, witness the rare green flash! Charter options and pricing available for groups of up to 10, 25, and 49 guests! Book your private sunset sail today!

Private Friday Night Fireworks (HARBOR)

Join us on a Friday evening for our Private Friday Night Fireworks Cruise. Enjoy complimentary beers, maitais, and cocktails, and experience The Hilton’s Friday night fireworks display from the ocean!

KE KAI & MANU KAI CATAMARANS

Ke Kai Catamaran and Manu Kai Catamaran both offer a variety of Oahu sailing, swimming, and snorkeling trips! Ke Kai is located on Waikiki Beach in front of the famous Duke’s Restaurant (2335 Kalakaua Avenue), and Manu Kai is located at Kewalo Basin Harbor  (1025 Ala Moana Blvd) in gorgeous trendy Kaka’ako!

Our signature yellow and purple striped KE KAI , and yellow and blue striped Manu Kai are both USCG-certified vessels with a sailing capacity of 49 guests and a snorkel/swim capacity of 36 guests. We are proud to offer fun, stunning, safe, and entertaining sails in both Waikiki and Kaka’ako! Come join us on a beautiful and fun Hawaiian rollercoaster ride!

RATED 4.5 STARS ON TRIPADVISOR!

Great time snorkeling with this crew! We saw a lot of fish and many sea turtles. My daughter loved jumping off the side of the boat over and over! Drinks were great too!

My husband and I had a wonderful time on the 2:30 Sunset Cruise. The guys sailing us out were super nice. It was beautiful on the water, and we even saw a turtle in the water! The Mai Tai drinks they had on board, were actually the best we had the entire trip. I would defiantly recommend this experience! P.S. you could get soaked...we did :-)

So much fun! One of the more affordable sunset cruises and 100% worth it. The workers on the boat were friendly and upbeat and did a great job of cultivating a fun vibe. Would do it again in a heartbeat.

Best part of my trip! Kalani, Mina, Mitchell and Justin were great. Super nice and friendly. The views during sunset were incredible. I will definitely be booking this again when I come back to Waikiki. Thanks Manu Kai crew!

This was a great experience. We went on the morning snorkel tour and had a fantastic time! The boat comes right to the beach at Waikiki. The people were fantastic!!! We saw 3 turtles and lots of fish at turtle canyon.

We did the Diamond Head Tour and had a great time. This is a 90 min tour with sails up. Captain and crew were great. Great views of Waikiki and Diamond Head from the boat. The Manu Kai is small enough that you really felt the waves and were really sailing. Crew were manning the sails but still had time to make sure you had mai tais. Overall a great time and highly recommend.

Well worth the money. Great crew, drinks included. Plenty of room on the boat. Friendly atmosphere. Bring a camera or iPhone, maybe a sweatshirt for after sunset. Expect to have a great time for $40.00. Definitely would go again.

We chose Manu Kai for the mid morning turtle snorkel at Turtle Canyon and had a terrific time. We saw plenty of turtles and fish and enjoyed the professional but casual, laid back vibe of the crew. Jess in particular was outstanding (with a background in marine biology). Post our snorkel we headed towards Diamond Head for a great view of the beach and were lucky enough to see dolphins at play. A great morning trip.

FIND YOUR BEACH.

Our policies.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Guests receive a full refund with a 24-hour notice of cancellation. Full refunds are also issued in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

During the slower seasons and typically for the morning sails, tour cancellations can occur due to not meeting a minimum requirement of 6 booked guests. In these rare situations, guests are always given the option to rebook or refund. If you are concerned about your tour, please call with any questions.

Guests wishing to rebook or reschedule must give 24 hours’ notice. Contact us by phone directly to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows and guests cancelling within 24 hours of departure will be charged full price.

CHECK-IN POLICY

Check-in time for all tours is strictly 30 minutes prior to departure, with no exceptions. Failure to check in on time will result in loss of reservation.

We require payment for all reservations. Otherwise all trips are first come, first served. We accept cash or credit card as payment methods.

Adventure Tours Hawaii

Na Hoku II is the iconic Waikiki booze cruise catamaran. Guests have been sailing aboard the bright yellow boat while sipping on mai tai cocktails for years. The red striped sails can easily be seen sailing across Waikiki multiple times a day. And with an "all you can drink" beverage policy, the catamaran is known as Waikiki's best party boat. Our 90-minute sailing adventures with sightseeing, potential marine life, complimentary specialty drinks and cocktails, and perfect sea breeze.

​We are proud to be serving Pacifico, Modelo, Maitais and various other mixed drinks. Our catamaran has become so popular that you now need to make an online reservation in advance. So make your booking now, and hop aboard the most fun boat in Waikiki, Hawaii.

Kewalo Basin Harbor at Pier F23 - 1025 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI, 96814

Tours By: Na Hoku 2

Waikiki booze cruise catamaran.

PLEASE NOTE: We operate RAIN or SHINE. It's officially rainy season, so please plan accordingly!

Aloha Boats

Catamaran sailing in waikiki, hawaii.

Ke Kai Catamaran departs from Waikiki Beach

Na Hoku 3 departs from Waikiki Beach

Catamaran Sailing in Honolulu, Hawaii

Na Hoku 2 departs from Kewalo Harbor

Manu Kai Catamaran departs from Kewalo Harbor

ALOHA BOATS

Catamaran sailing in waikiki, hawaii, sail on one of our catamarans in waikiki and honolulu.

Departing from Waikiki Beach

Welcome our newest vessel, Ke Kai, offering Turtle Canyon Snorkeling, Diamond Head Happy Hour Sails, stunning Sunset Sails, and Fireworks cruises all with complimentary drinks! Guests can observe green sea turtles and other marine life during a Waikiki Snorkel, experience the views of Diamond Head for a breezy midday sail, and enjoy the colorful views and gorgeous Honolulu sunset- all while sipping on a refreshing complimentary cocktail!

• Chevron down View Location

Na Hoku 3 is a beautiful yellow and red 49-passenger catamaran that offers sailing daily directly from Waikiki Beach. Guests can enjoy a fun sail with stunning views of Waikiki by day, and experience the colorful Hawaiian sunset by night. These adventure sails include complimentary cocktails and beer – making it a perfect way to enjoy a maitai while taking in the panoramic views of Diamond Head and Waikiki from the seaside!

Departing from Kewalo Harbor

Sailing the beautiful Hawaiian waves from Kewalo Basin Harbor – NA HOKU 2 operates fun-filled sailing tours exploring Kaka’ako, Ala Moana, and the Waikiki area! Offering open public daytime sails, sunset sails, and fireworks cruises, with private charters also available.  Join us for complimentary drinks and experience our beautiful red and yellow sails on the south shore of Oahu!

Discover a perfect private aquatic adventure in Honolulu on MANU KAI – a vibrant 49-passenger yellow & blue catamaran operating from Kewalo Basin Harbor. Manu Kai offers customizable private charters morning, noon, and night – perfect for parties, schools, weddings or welcome parties, birthdays, celebrations of life/ash scatterings, company events, and more- all along the pristine waters in Waikiki on the south shore of Oahu!

SAIL. ENJOY. EXPLORE.

Rated 4.5 stars on tripadvisor.

They have this operation dialed in. It is short but very sweet. The open bar and fun, yet competent, staff makes for good times on the water. The views are great, they have good music going, and it is fun meeting other folks on board. Definitely check it out!

Great time snorkeling with this crew! We saw a lot of fish and many sea turtles. My daughter loved jumping off the side of the boat over and over! Drinks were great too!

What a wonderful experience! The crew was friendly and fun. The drinks were tasty and plentiful. The sunset was gorgeous and the moonrise was a terrific bonus. I highly recommend!

My husband and I had a wonderful time on the 2:30 Sunset Cruise. The guys sailing us out were super nice. It was beautiful on the water, and we even saw a turtle in the water! The Mai Tai drinks they had on board, were actually the best we had the entire trip. I would defiantly recommend this experience! P.S. you could get soaked...we did :-)

This was a great experience. This sail is very calm and relaxing and a completely different experience from the trade wind sails, where you expect to get tossed around and get wet. The crew was very friendly and attentive. The sunset was gorgeous, even though it was overcast all day. My wife and I now prefer this sail over the trade winds sails we have done in the past. Great sail!

So much fun! One of the more affordable sunset cruises and 100% worth it. The workers on the boat were friendly and upbeat and did a great job of cultivating a fun vibe. Would do it again in a heartbeat.

My friend was visiting me on the island and we both loved this experience! The crew is so refreshing and fun! It was a mix of young and old! It was a great time! Would definitely recommend!

Best part of my trip! Kalani, Mina, Mitchell and Justin were great. Super nice and friendly. The views during sunset were incredible. I will definitely be booking this again when I come back to Waikiki. Thanks Manu Kai crew!

7 Best Waikiki Catamaran Cruises Worth Booking (2024)

A World in Reach contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a commission at no cost to you! Read my full disclosure here .

Are you looking for the best Waikiki catamaran cruises? If so, you’re in the right place!

Taking a catamaran cruise off the shore of Waikiki Beach was a highlight of my trip to Oahu.

Waikiki catamaran cruises offer some of the best sightseeing opportunities – not only will you be rewarded with great views of Waikiki Beach and the Oahu coast, but you’ll also get the opportunity to marvel at the incredible wildlife that call the Pacific Ocean their home.

There are lots of different Waikiki catamaran cruises to choose from, from daytime sightseeing cruises to nighttime sunset cruises, party catamaran cruises, and more.

You can also take a private catamaran cruise with your group, tailoring the cruise to exactly what you and your travel mates want.

With so many cruise options, it can be overwhelming trying to choose exactly which cruise is the best one for you. No worries, though – I’ve got you covered!

Below, I’ve put together a list of the very best Waikiki catamaran cruises, complete with all the helpful information you need before booking!

With that being said, here are 7 of the best catamaran cruises in Waikiki, Oahu (including my top picks)!

Table of Contents

My Top 3 Picks: Waikiki Catamaran Cruises

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Turtle Canyon Catamaran Snorkel Cruise from Waikiki ✔️ Guaranteed turtle spotting ✔️ Great for beginner snorkelers

Moana’s Sunset Cocktail Sail along Oahu’s Waikiki Coast ✔️ Breathtaking sunset views ✔️ Drinks included

Marine Life or Trade Wind Sail with Manakai Catamarans ✔️ Budget friendly cruise ✔️ Max of 26 passengers

7 Best Waikiki Catamaran Cruises

1. turtle canyon catamaran snorkel cruise from waikiki.

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (read more reviews ) | TOUR LENGTH: 2-3 hours | ⛵️ Book it now!

Many Waikiki catamaran cruises are focused only on the sightseeing aspect. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but this cruise takes it a step further: you get to snorkel with green sea turtles!

When booking, you can choose from a 2-hour morning tour or a 3-hour midday tour. On the day of your cruise, you’ll either meet at the designated spot or be picked up at your hotel by a shuttle (depending on which option you choose).

Then, you’ll board a power catamaran and sail along the Oahu coast towards Turtle Canyon, the best place to spot the magnificent green sea turtles. This is truly an Oahu bucket list experience !

Once there, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel with the residents of Turtle Canyon. Not an experienced snorkeler? No worries – this tour is fit for beginners!

“We loved this adventure and the crew. I enjoyed snorkeling way more than I thought I would. A sea turtle popped up right beside me while I was snorkeling. I can’t say enough good things! Thank you for this great experience. Aloha!” – Valerie C. ( Read more reviews )

You’ll also get to enjoy a lunch (with the midday tour – snacks are provided on the morning tour), 2 alcoholic drinks (and unlimited non-alcoholic ones), and sightseeing opportunities.

You’ll also have the chance to see other marine life, like dolphins and whales, as you sail out to Turtle Canyon. Plus, the views of the Waikiki coastline can’t be beat!

The best part of this tour? Seeing the turtles is a guarantee – if none are spotted, you’ll get a complimentary second tour!

Between the guarantee of turtle spotting, snorkeling that’s fun for both beginners and experienced snorkelers, the sightseeing opportunities, and nearly 1500 5-star reviews, this is my pick for the best overall Waikiki catamaran cruise !

⛵️ Check prices and availability!

2. Moana’s Sunset Cocktail Sail along Oahu’s Waikiki Coast

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (read more reviews ) | TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ⛵️ Book it now!

Hawaii is famous for its incredible sunsets , and one of the best ways to experience the sunset for yourself is by taking an evening catamaran cruise off the coast of Waikiki Beach!

Upon arrival at the central meeting point, you’ll board the catamaran for a barefoot sail.

The cruise starts at 5:00 PM, which is the perfect time for getting out on the water to watch the sky change colors as the sun begins to set.

As you make your way out to sea, you’ll get incredible views of the Honolulu skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and Diamond Head (which is also one of Oahu’s best hiking trails ).

Another highlight of this cruise is the opportunity to spot dolphins and, from December to May, humpback whales. Seeing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is an incredible experience!

You’ll also be rewarded with unparalleled views of the sun setting below the horizon, which makes for a great photo opportunity.

And this cruise includes some drinks – enjoying a drink or two while admiring the scenery is a great way to celebrate during your Oahu vacation!

Book the trip! It was so much fun. The vibes and music were great. The drinks were great quality and reasonable in price after your complimentary drink. Captain Chris and the crew were so sweet and lovely. – Danielle C. ( Read more reviews )

There are a lot of great sunset cruises to choose from, but I think this is the best Waikiki sunset catamaran cruise . With more than 600 5-star reviews, it seems that many other Oahu travelers agree!

3. Marine Life Sail Or Trade Wind Sail with the Manakai Catamaran

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (read more reviews ) | TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour | ⛵️ Book it now!

If you’re looking for the best budget-friendly Waikiki catamaran cruise , look no further than Manakai Catamaran !

There are two different catamaran cruises to choose from.

The first is a morning Marine Life sail, which departs Waikiki at 11:15 AM. This tour is more relaxing than the afternoon tour, and focuses on spotting marine life like dolphins, turtles, and whales as you sail off the Oahu coast.

The second is an afternoon Trade Wind Sail, which departs Waikiki at 1:00 PM. Winds pick up in the afternoon, so you’ll enjoy the thrill of moving through the waters at a faster speed.

Both tours offer incredible sightseeing opportunities. You can choose to sit on the deck for a more relaxing experience, or ride on the net and get splashed!

The cruise price includes the cruise only, making it a cheaper option than some of the cruises that include drinks and food. But, there’s a bar on board if you want to purchase drinks, and you can even bring your own food and drink!

There’s also a maximum of 26 passengers, making this a more intimate cruise than some of the larger ones with 40+ passengers.

Great experience! Amazing staff! We saw a sea turtle! The water was so blue and great weather. Easy access to catamaran from our hotel at Waikiki. Would definitely recommend! Affordable price. – Amy B. ( Read more reviews )

If you’re looking for a fun Oahu experience at a low cost, this is the Waikiki catamaran cruise for you. Make sure to book your cruise in advance – it’s very popular and typically sells out!

4. Private Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling Tour in Honolulu

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (read more reviews ) | TOUR LENGTH: 2-4 hours | ⛵️ Book it now!

Looking for a more intimate Oahu catamaran cruise experience? Consider booking this private catamaran cruise and snorkeling tour !

On this cruise, you will work with the Captains to design the best catamaran cruise for you and your group (up to 6 participants). You can choose from a 2-hour cruise or a 4-hour cruise.

After boarding the catamaran for your private cruise, you’ll sail along the Waikiki coastline towards Diamond Head, stopping for sightseeing opportunities and wildlife spotting .

You’ll even have the opportunity to jump off the boat for swimming and snorkeling!

Since this is a private cruise, you’ll only be on board with your group and the Captains.

Our private catamaran tour and snorkeling was amazing – we should have booked the 4 hour tour! Francisco and Nick made the entire trip feel personalized just for us. I couldn’t imagine going on one of the big snorkel boats after this experience. They made sure we were comfortable and got to see all the things snorkeling. – Kirsten L. ( Read more reviews )

While the price is higher than booking individual public cruises, it’s very reasonable when splitting amongst a group of 6.

Booking a private catamaran cruise is the perfect way to celebrate if you’re visiting Oahu for a special occasion, like a 21st birthday , a bachelor or bachelorette party, or a special family vacation!

5. Friday Night Waikiki Fireworks Catamaran Cruise

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (read more reviews ) | TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ⛵️ Book it now!

Looking for a party-focused Waikiki catamaran cruise? Look no further than this Friday Night Waikiki Fireworks cruise !

Every Friday night, a spectacular fireworks show lights up the Oahu sky from the Hilton Hawaiian Village. And there’s no better way to enjoy the fireworks than from a catamaran cruise!

Aboard the catamaran, you’ll enjoy music and drinks with your fellow travelers before enjoying the fireworks from the water.

One downside to this cruise is that drinks aren’t included in the ticket price. There is a cash bar on board though that serves reasonably priced drinks.

This was the best sail I’ve been. They played music that actually fit the vibe. There was a bathroom available on the catamaran. The drinks were NOT overpriced and the crew was extremely kind. I would definitely go with this same sail again. – Jessica T. ( Read more reviews )

Grab your friends, family, or your significant other, and start your Oahu weekend with a bang aboard this catamaran cruise!

Since the fireworks are only held once a week, there’s a very limited number of spots available. Make sure to book your cruise in advance so you don’t miss out!

6. Oahu Whale Watching Excursion

From December to May, the waters off the coast of Oahu are home to one of the most incredible things you can see in Oahu: the migration of humpback whales.

And what better way to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat than from a whale-watching cruise ?

On this cruise, you’ll board a catamaran (or monohull) from Waikiki for a 2-hour whale spotting cruise.

Whale sightings are guaranteed – if none are spotted, you’ll even get to tour again for free.

As you sail through the waters, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to see humpback whales as they swim, breach, feed, and play around the boat.

Snacks and drinks are even included in the cruise ticket. And the expert guide on board will teach you more about the whales and their migration pattern.

We were so excited and hoped to see at least one whale. We saw so much more! We saw a baby and mama whale, some breaching and tail flipping, a school of dolphins, a double rainbow most of the day, parasailers, surfers, and heard so much interesting information about whales! – Angela O. ( Read more reviews )

7. Waikiki 5 in 1 Deluxe Turtle Snorkeling + Activity Catamaran

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (read more reviews ) | TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ⛵️ Book it now!

Looking for an adrenaline-packed Waikiki catamaran cruise? If so, this snorkeling + activity cruise is for you!

Not only does this cruise include sightseeing off the coast of Waikiki, but it also provides snorkeling and water sports, including a water trampoline, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, a waterslide, and a 30-foot platform for diving into the water from the boat!

All equipment is included in the price of the cruise, including life vests. Plus, snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are included, and you can also bring your own food and drinks if you wish.

You can choose to meet at the pickup spot at Kewalo Basin Harbor or request a pickup from your Waikiki area hotel.

In addition to the fun activities, you can also watch for marine life and enjoy the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Hawaiian coastline.

We all had a great time. We enjoyed the slide and jump and dive platform the most. We saw fish, turtles, and dolphins on the trip. – Julie B. ( Read more reviews )

Waikiki Catamaran Cruises: Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a trip to Oahu, taking a catamaran cruise off the coast of Waikiki is a must for your itinerary.

Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world, and seeing it from the water on a catamaran is a great way to experience the scenery.

Plus, the waters off of Waikiki are filled with wildlife spotting opportunities, from sea turtles to humpback whales and more!

Whether you’re looking for a snorkeling cruise, a sunset cruise, or a traditional sightseeing catamaran cruise, you’re going to have an incredible time taking in the scenery.

Read more about things to do in Oahu:

• The Ultimate Oahu Bucket List: Best Things to Do in Oahu
• The Best Hikes in Oahu
• 19 Free Things to Do in Oahu – Local’s Guide

After traveling outside of the US for the first time while studying abroad, I quickly developed a love for travel and an obsession for exploring as much of the world as possible. Now, I'm on a mission to teach college students, young adults, and anyone else who wants to see the world how to travel while minimizing their expenses and maximizing their experiences.

E Komo Mai to Waikiki Boat Charters.

The largest selection of quality and award winning vessels located in Waikiki. No matter the size of your Ohana, we can find the catamaran, sailboat, or yacht that suits your needs. Our team specializes in Waikiki sunset sailing cruises, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle snorkeling trips, Oahu fishing charters, whale watching excursions, corporate events, ash scattering services, weddings, and much more…

Royal Hawaiian

• 52′ Classic Rudy Choy Catamaran
• Up to 30 Passengers

• 41′ Trimaran
• Up To 45 Passengers

• 40′ Sailing Catamaran
• Up to 12 Passengers

• 70′ Sunreef Catamaran
• Up To 25 Passengers

My Sunshine

• 43′ Sailing Yacht
• Up To 6 Passengers

• 50′ Motor Catamaran
• Up to 49 Passengers

• 74′ Luxury Sportfisher
• Up To 12 Passengers

• 64' Gold Coast Catamaran
• Up to 79 Passengers

Prince Kuhio

• Up to 138 Passengers

• Up to 350 Passengers

USEFUL LINKS

Harbor addresses.

• Ala Wai Harbor 1651 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Kewalo Harbor 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814
• +1 808-657-2178
• [email protected]
• © 2024 Waikiki Boat Charters

Use code "SUMMER20" for 20% off Turtle Canyon bookings for Sustainable Summer!

Holokai Catamaran Adventures

• Clock 9:00am - 11:30am , 12:00pm - 2:30pm

Turtle Canyon Adventure Sail

This morning sail takes you to Turtle Canyon, where you’ll get to swim around Waikiki’s most pristine coral reefs and get up close to turtles, tropical fish and other stunning marine life.

• Clock 3:00pm - 4:30pm

Tradewind Sail

See Oahu from a different perspective at a great value! We’ll follow the trade winds blowing from the northeast, for a spectacular view from the boat as you pass the Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial and Diamond Head Lighthouse.

• Clock 5:00pm - 6:30pm (Oct - Feb) , 5:30pm - 7:00pm (Mar - Sept)

Sunset Sail

Relax and bask in Oahu’s magnificent sunsets on our most popular trip for the fun-loving crowd, the sunset sail often turns strangers into fast friends in an hour and a half.

• Clock 7:15pm - 8:15pm (Oct - Feb) , 7:30pm - 8:30pm (Mar - Sept)

Fireworks Sail

Who doesn’t love fireworks with all inclusive drinks? Kick off the weekend with this fun fireworks cruise and see the Hilton Hawaiian Village fireworks display!

Why Holokai?

When you sail with us, you’ll immediately see what makes us different. From checking in, to setting sail, to returning safe and sound, we strive to provide an incredible experience for every single person who climbs aboard. Our professional, certified, and fun crew goes the extra mile to ensure we provide 5-star service on every sail!

Whether you are looking for an action-packed snorkel adventure, craving a relaxing afternoon cruise soaking in the warm Hawaiian sun while lounging on the nets or maybe make some new friends while marveling at a gorgeous sunset on our all-inclusive Honolulu catamaran sunset cruise. Whatever you are in to, we can accommodate with plenty of Aloha to go around. With the unique opportunity to sail a catamaran right off the sands of Waikiki Beach, be sure to wear shoes you can pop off easily for a fantastic, barefoot, Hawaiian sailing experience. Kama’aina and Military rates available – just give us a call to book!

By the way, did we mention that we validate parking?? We offer validation ($15 for 4 hours) for parking at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk valet.

The Holokai is a beautiful, custom-designed, handcrafted 49 passenger beach catamaran. She was commissioned and splashed in 2015. Holokai is equipped with spacious seating, netted splash area, Bluetooth sound system and a clean and comfortable bathroom. Our professional, fun and accommodating captains and crew are on hand to provide 5-star service and the most memorable experience on the waters of Waikiki!

We have a bar on board with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Beverage options include: juice, water, soda; Bud Light; Corona; a variety of premium craft beers from Maui Brewing Company; a pinot grigio wine; a champagne; assorted hard seltzers; and our house cocktail the famous “Holokai Hooch” consisting of: passion orange guava juice, peach schnapps, and dark Hawaiian rum- a favorite with all our guests!Please keep in mind that all liquor laws apply to our vessel and outside alcohol is prohibited from being brought onboard. We’ve got plenty to keep you going, and we can always add your drink of choice to the bar on any of our private sailing charters! Mahalo for your kokua!

The Adventure of a Lifetime

Awesome experience.

We had a great time at the turtle canyon morning snorkel tour. The crew was super friendly and helpful and it was very safe, even you had never snorkeled before you could enjoy this. We saw half a dozen different turtles, surfacing and all. Awesome experience.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND

Our Waikiki Sunset Cruise did not disappoint! The cruise was one of the highlights of our vacation. We saw a whale and an unbelievable sunset all while enjoying drinks with a great group on the boat. Our captain and bartender were awesome and we highly recommend this experience to all.

PERFECT SUNSET SAIL!

We absolutely enjoyed our sunset sail with Holokai Catamaran! All the drink, view, and crew members were amazing.

AWESOME TOUR!!

So glad I went. We drove all around went swimming and heard all sorts of stories. Thank you for the Great time and service. I highly recommend Hokai Catamaran

Have a Large Group?

For Large Groups, Book a Day Trip on Our Private Sailing Excursion!

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• Sunset Cocktail Cruises (28)
• Sunset Dinner Cruises (11)
• Waikiki Friday Fireworks Cruises (27)

What to expect

Traveler's photos, activity provider, payment / cancellation policy, waikiki sunset booze cruise with 3 free drinks - ke kai catamaran.

Great Staff

Had a blast, love of adventures, available daily, pick-up not available, not accessible.

Check-in at Waikiki Beach

Get ready for a fun-filled sunset sail complete with free-flowing drinks, rhythmic music, and perfect views of Waikiki. Departing right from the heart of Waikiki Beach, you will have the best seats in the house for a Hawaii sunset booze cruise perfect for anyone wanting to have a night to remember.

Transportation add-ons

Pick-up/check-in time & location.

Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location

• Ke Kai Catamaran (Yellow & Purple Boat)

Location, direction and description

• Meet Ke Kai Catamaran (Yellow & Purple Boat) on Waikiki Beach, right in front of Duke's Restaurant beachside of the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort. Tours begin boarding 30 minutes before the timed departure. Please show up at least 30 minutes prior to departure time. Address: Duke's Restaurant in the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort 2335 Kalakaua Avenue #116, Honolulu, HI 96815 Parking is limited in Waikiki and valet parking at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort is not guaranteed. Please allow ample time for parking if you are driving.

Parking information

• Waikiki Parking Recommendation: Paid parking is available at Outrigger Waikiki/Duke's Valet, the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Centre Parkade, or the International Market Place. Parking validation is NOT available.
• Waikiki has many events and we strongly recommend that guests check for road closures, parades, and events and plan ahead to prevent missed reservations.

Important activity information

Restrictions.

• This activity is not wheelchair accessible.
• If less than 6 participants are booked, the activity may not operate.
• Children of all ages can participate in this activity.
• Guests under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult. If you fail to meet the requirement, there will be no refunds.

Additional notes

• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• The activity provider does not assume any responsibility for your valuables and/or personal belongings.
• Gratuity is not included in the price.
• If you are driving on your own, you will be required to pay a parking fee.
• As this cruise departs directly from the beach, you may get wet or have to wade through water to get on or off the vessel.
• The catamaran departs throughout the day and may not have returned at the time of your check-in. Please wait at the Ke Kai sign on the beach, and the boat will arrive shortly.
• On rare days of extreme surf and dangerous shore break, we will operate out of our alternate location at Kewalo Basin Harbor (1125 Ala Moana Blvd). Our agents will notify you for this circumstance and offer different options to accommodate the change in location.
• If you are driving on your own, you will be required to pay a parking fee. Please secure your parking ahead of time and allow enough time to arrive in time for your check-in, 30 minutes prior to departure.
• Infant life jackets are not provided, and only available for guests 2 years old and above. Guests with infants are welcome to bring their own infant-sized life jacket.
• Although this sail is open for all ages, due to the fact that alcohol is served and the sail is considered a "booze cruise," this activity may not be appropriate for children. Please use your best judgment when booking.

Required items to bring & attire

• All guests must be at least 21 years old with a valid government issued photo ID to consume any alcoholic beverages. Guests with questionable forms of identification may be required to show a secondary photo I.D. with a birth date.
• Guests who are prone to seasickness should take a motion sickness preventative one hour prior to departure.

Booking requirements (# of participants, vehicles, hours, etc.)

• You can book a maximum of 49.

Travelers interested in this activity also viewed

Overall rating

This was a great sunset boat ride for our family of five. The staff was freindly and helpful. They made sure everyone was taken care of. Beautiful views of the sunset!

We enjoyed this sunset cruise! The Captain and the crew were so much fun and entertaining!!!! Loved it and will come back and do it again!

Definitely worth the money , time and energy!!

The crew was great . Very welcoming , accommodating and friendly . The music was entertaining and the drinks were perfect ! The water became a little choppy , but the sunset view was still worthwhile and I'd definitely d ... o this again sometime !

Activity Provider Ke Kai Catamaran | Islands Beach Activities, Inc.

• Credit card payment

• • Group of 1-19 people: Any cancellations made after 10:00 local time, 2 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. • Group of 20-49 people: Any cancellations made after 10:00 local time, 4 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.
• • Group of 1-19 people: Any changes made after 10:00 local time, 2 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/ time, package, the number of participants, etc. • Group of 20-49 people: Any changes made after 10:00 local time, 4 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/ time, package, the number of participants, etc. No-Show / Late Arrival Policy *Any no-show or late arrival will be subject to full charge.

Payment Methods

Cancellation Policy

Change policy.

Please visit VELTRA Support page to send an inquiry about this activity.

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• Valid for one (1) booking per account during the designated promotional period.
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Private Sunset Catamaran Cruise Waikiki

Quick details.

• Users Ages: All Ages
• Clock Duration: 2 Hours , 4 Hours
• Tag Tour Type: Private
• Users Capacity: Up to 6 Guests
• Sailboat Vessel Type: 30-Foot Power Catamaran

Private Charter

2 hours | all ages | up to 6 people, 3 hours | all ages | up to 6 people, 4 hours | all ages | up to 6 people, more than 6 people, select a boat from our partner charter boat network, best way to end the day in oahu.

Discover the beautiful views of the ocean, local wildlife, the iconic east side of Oahu, and the sun dipping into the sea as you join us on a private catamaran cruise in Waikiki . We’ll depart from Kewalo Basin Harbor located in Honolulu and make our way up the coastline to Diamond Head, making stops along the way for any turtles, dolphins, or whales we may spot during our journey.

Once at the top of our route, we will find a calm anchorage to relax at and enjoy the Hawaii sunset. Guests are welcome to join me for guided snorkeling and swimming or just dip their toes in the water as we soak in the beautiful afternoon. Lastly, we will watch the sunset in the ocean as we head back to the harbor.

The vessel is exclusively reserved for your party so you are welcome to play your own music and bring any refreshments you would like to enjoy during our time together. I’ll happily be sharing my local knowledge and the cultural history of the area we are traveling in throughout the cruise. There is no better way to end the day!

• Chevron down Highlights
• Small private group allows maximum attention to service and safety!
• Spacious catamaran to lounge on
• Bring your own food and drinks (BYOB)
• Soft drinks, waters, and a large iced-down cooler with extra space provided
• Shaded cabin seating
• Snorkel gear and flotation included
• Bluetooth sound system
• Chevron down Restrictions
• Snorkeling is a physically strenuous activity and requires participants to be in good health.
• Swimming is a required skill to participate in the in-water portion of the tour.
• This charter may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
• Unfortunately, there is no wheelchair-boarding access.

Booked the sunset catamaran for our family. Can not say enough amazing things about the boat, crew, and service they provided. They were very patient with 2 kids snorkeling, answered all our questions, and we even got to see dolphins. Such a wonderful experience, definitely a must do experience in Oahu! You will not be disappointed.

Best thing we did on the islands! Crew was very knowledgeable about the island. We snorkeled with sea turtles and fish. A pod of dolphins unexpectedly joined us on our sunset cruise. I was just lovely. Would 10000% recommend.

This was our second time using Hawaii Ocean Charters we had Captain Sam whom we had in the fall of 2022 and Nick as well. Sam remembered us from our trip in the fall. We were greeted with warm welcomes and after a brief safety refresher we were on our way. We stopped to swim for a little bit. They gave my daughter a mask so she could dive down and see all the fish. They really do a great job to make sure everyone is comfortable and both Sam and Nick were super personable. I would highly recommend using them. If you don’t want to mess with a bunch of strangers on a sunset catamaran this is certainly the way to go.

We had a great sunset cruise! it was so nice having the entire catamaran to ourselves. We could sit upfront on the nets (with a bean bag to support our backs no less) or go up top with the captain for great views and conversation. The crew was great, and we will definitely be doing this tour again next time we are in Waikiki.

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Discover the Beauty of Waikiki on a Private Adventure Boat Charter! Bring your own food and drinks, play your own music, and enjoy a customizable itinerary with no age restrictions.

PLEASE NOTE: We operate RAIN or SHINE.

What guests want to know

What guests want to know.

• Chevron down What is your cancellation policy?

Guests receive a full refund with a minimum of 24-hour notice prior to departure time. Full refunds are also issued in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Guests wishing to rebook or reschedule must give 24 hours’ notice, otherwise, they will not be permitted to alter their reservation or receive any form of refund. *Groups of 20 or larger are required to give 72-hour notice to cancel or modify bookings.

No-shows and guests canceling within 24 hours of departure will be charged full price.

• Chevron down Can I bring my children or infants on board?

Yes, children are allowed onboard our tours. *Although we allow all ages onboard, we do not recommend bringing young children as we are a bar atmosphere and it may not always be suitable for children, parents please be advised.

Infants are allowed however ALL GUESTS must have their own ticket including infants. All guests contribute to our set capacity and we will not be able to accommodate guests who show up with an infant without their own ticket. 

• Chevron down Is there a minimum number of guests?

We do have a requirement of a minimum 6 guests to run on daily tours. If the minimum is not met, we can offer a rebooking to a later tour or date. Although this is rare, it can occur during the slower seasons and specifically our earlier morning tours.

• Chevron down Is parking provided?

Parking is not provided as we are located on the actual beach in Waikiki. However, we recommend parking at either the International Market Place (the best option for space availability/cost/location, entrance on KUHIO AVE), The Royal Hawaiian Shopping Centre (5-8 minute walk from our location, entrance on ROYAL HAWAIIAN AVE), or using the Outrigger Waikiki Valet Parking (best for last-minute parking as it is the closest to us, entrance on KALAKAUA AVE).

• Chevron down Is this activity wheelchair accessible?

Sadly our tours are not considered wheelchair accessible as the vessel boards directly off of Waikiki beach up a railing ladder and can be difficult for those who require assistance up stairs. This boarding process can also get a bit wet and wavy but our team is happy to assist! The boat also has  cabin areas that require a step up or down. Due to our off-the-beach style of boarding, our tours are not considered wheelchair accessible or recommended for those who may need assistance climbing stairs.

• Chevron down When should I arrive for my sail?

Check-in for all sails is strictly 30 minutes prior to departure time, with no exceptions. Failure to check-in 30 minutes prior to departure will result in the loss of your reservation with no option to rebook or refund.

• Chevron down How do I acquire and redeem a voucher?

Vouchers can be pre-purchased as gifts, acquired at events, auctions, and more. All vouchers issued prior to 2019 are no longer valid and will not be accepted. There is only one style of vouchers we accept, issued only by management. They can be redeemed on the 11:30 and 1:30 sails only unless indicated otherwise by management. To redeem a voucher please contact reservations to book your tour. You will be required to text in photos to verify the authenticity of these vouchers, as well as surrender them on arrival for your tour.

*Please be aware that any vouchers issued by “waikikiblonde” are fake and not official vouchers that can be redeemed*

• Chevron down Can I purchase a gift card?

Absolutely, we have e-gift cards available for purchase online. You can choose your amount, and it can be immediately emailed directly to the recipient!

• Chevron down What happens in case of inclement weather?

We operate in rain or shine, so please keep this in mind when making bookings during the rainy season. If we deem the conditions unsafe to operate, we will contact all guests directly to go over options. In the event of extreme surf or unsafe conditions for beach operations, we operate tours out of our alternate location at Kewalo Basin Harbor, weather permitting.

All guests are notified prior to their sail in the event that this occurs.

• Chevron down What should we wear?

Most of the year is very warm and sunny throughout the sails, so we recommend wearing standard beach attire (shirt, shorts, bathing suit, slippers, anything you’d wear for a day at the beach). And be sure to wear your sunscreen!

• Chevron down Will I get seasick?

If you are someone who does regularly experience motion sickness, there is a chance you may become seasick. Many of our guests have had success taking a motion sickness supplement prior to the trip and find that it greatly reduces the symptoms of seasickness and they can still enjoy a beautiful sail in Waikiki. Guests are encouraged to consult their doctors before trying any medical motion sickness remedies.

• Chevron down Will I Get Wet?

Yes. Our boarding process is directly from Waikiki Beach onto our vessel which is parked in the shore break. Guests may only get their toes wet as they step up our ladder, however, waves can also come through during boarding and get more than just their toes wet. During our tours, depending on the wind and waves, water may come aboard and splash guests especially sitting in the forward section of the boat. Our tours are a barefoot boarding and sailing style for the best foot traction and overall safety. If guests are concerned about getting wet on board, please call before booking to inquire about conditions and keep in mind that we are at the mercy of the sea.

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Nizhny Novgorod: A ‘Russian Detroit’ from 19th to 21st centuries (PHOTOS)

Dmitrievskaya Tower through the centuries.

Founded in 1221, Nizhny Novgorod (260 miles east of Moscow) is still one of the most visited and populated Russian cities (it has more than 1.2 million inhabitants). Its ancient kremlin, cozy paved streets with centuries-old buildings (a regular city plan was adopted after Empress Cathrine the Great visited the city in 1767) and scenic views of the Volga River warm the hearts of locals and tourists. By the way, many people confuse it with Veliky Novgorod (established in 859) in the north-west of Russia. In Russian, the word ‘Novgorod’ literally means “new city” and, luckily, there are only two in the whole country: ‘Lower new city’ and ‘Great new city’. One of the oldest and largest automobile plants that produces GAZ cars is still located in Nizhny (Russians often omit ‘Novgorod’) - and that’s why the city is often known as the ‘Russian Detroit’. In Soviet times, it bore the name of main Soviet writer Maxim Gorky , who was born there.

And despite its steel and metal history, today, Nizhny Novgorod has the poetic epithet of the capital of sunsets. We compared some vintage and recent photos of the city.

Dmitrievskaya Tower in 1913 and in 2021.

The stone citadel of Nizhny Novgorod was built in the 16th century around the Chasovaya (Sentry) Hill. Here is the most famous view of the fortress with the Dmitrievskaya Tower. Previously, a moat was dug in front of the tower, which was filled with water. At the end of the 18th century, the moat was filled and the tower sunk about 6 meters into the ground. The tower received its a-la Rus facade only at the end of the 19th century. 

2. National Unity Square 

Skoba square, 1957 / Monument to Minin and Pozharsky nowadays.

On Moscow’s Red Square, there is a monument to Minin and Pozharsky , who were the leaders of the people’s militia against the Polish intervention of 1611. Interestingly, exactly the same monument stands in Nizhny Novgorod! And all because the militia gathered there. City official Kuzma Minin called on all residents to fight and Prince Dmitry Pozharsky was chosen as the militia head. The date of Moscow’s liberation from the Poles (November 4) has been celebrated as National Unity Day in Russia since 2005. In the same year, Nizhny Novgorod’s Skoba Square, where the militia gathered, was renamed ‘National Unity Square’ and a monument to the two national heroes was erected there, as well.

3. Chkalov staircase

View on Nizhny Novgorod kremlin, Dyatlov hills and Chkalov stairs, 1886 and now.

With 560 steps, these are some of the longest stairs in Russia! The site where this staircase was built was called the ‘Volga Downhill’ and was very popular among locals, since it had one of the most picturesque views of the Volga. The stairs, named after a pilot named Valery Chkalov, connect the upper and lower embankments in the historical center of Nizhny Novgorod. Among the architects was Lev Rudnev , who worked in the Stalinist Empire style and designed the Moscow State University and the Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw.

4. Kremlin funicular

Kremlin funicular in operation... and in ruins.

Amazing: At the end of the 19th century, in the center of Nizhny Novgorod, two funiculars operated near the kremlin. They literally worked on water. Imagine a water tank in the car: filled at the upper station, empty at the lower station. When one car went down, the lower one went up under its gravity. They would move at the same time. The funiculars were abandoned in the 1920s, when a tram line was completed. Today, only ruins remain in place of the historical funiculars, although the city administration has already promised to recreate this type of transport. There still is one funicular operating in Nizhny Novgorod, which connects it with the city of Bor on the other side of the Volga River.

5. Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street 

Bolshaya Pokrovskaya street in 1880s and 2021.

The main street of Nizhny Novgorod has undergone many changes over the centuries. Before the revolution of 1917, it was the favorite area of nobles to settle. Along the street, you can still see old stone mansions, theaters, churches. One of the most beautiful buildings is the main state bank built in Neo-Russian style. It was opened for the 300th anniversary of the Romanov house in 1913. At the beginning of the 20th century, a tram line passed there - one of the first in Russia. But, since the 1980s, the street has become pedestrian only.

6. Rozhdestvenskaya Street

Rozhdestvenskaya Street in 1890s and 2020.

A historical tram line has been preserved on the other oldest street, Rozhdestvenskaya. However, now it’s a tourist transport and it operates only in summer. The street has also preserved its appearance since pre-revolutionary times. There, you can see almost all the same buildings that were in Tsarist Russia, including the Stroganov and Golitsyn estates, the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Blinov Passage - the first shopping center outside of Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Construction of the Burevestnik station, 1996 / Burevestnik station, 2009.

Nizhny Novgorod is one of the seven Russian cities with its own underground transport. The metro here was opened in 1985: In Soviet times, only cities with the population over 1 million residents had a subway. It consists of only two lines and sees about 115,000 commuters a day, which makes it less popular than ground transports. In the near future, there are plans to build new stations on the other side of the Oka River.

8. Referees Tower

Before and after restoration, 2021.

The Referees Tower built in the Neo-constructivist style on the embankment of the Grebnoy Canal was built in 1988 for the 2nd All-Union Youth Rowing Games. Over time, it was severely destroyed and only recently restored, for the 800th anniversary of the city. Of course, with cafes and places to relax. It’s beautiful, isn’t it?

9. GAZ automobile plant

The first car assembly plant, 1930 / Gorky Automobile Plant, 2021.

The GAZ (Gorky Automobile Plant) plant in Nizhny Novgorod became one of the first in Russia. Early models of trucks and passenger cars were produced under a Ford license. In the 1920s-1930s, American specialists also helped to build the plant itself and the socialist city for workers In the post-war years, the ‘Volga’ and ‘Chaika’ cars were the most expensive among Soviet cars - a citizen’s dream! These days, the plant still operates, but produces mainly trucks and minibuses.

10. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral 

High water in Nizhny Novgorod, 1890s/ The same district nowadays.

The Cathedral Church of Nizhny Novgorod is located in one of the most picturesque places of the city - on the arrow of the Volga and the Oka rivers. People used to call it ‘fair church’, since its parishioners were merchants who came to fairs from all over the country. It also was only open in the summertime. In the Soviet years, the iconostasis was dismantled for firewood to heat houses and then it was even planned to demolish it altogether and build a lighthouse and a monument to Lenin on the same site. Nevertheless, the cathedral was preserved (in the 1980s, it was restored by volunteers) and, in 2009, was reinstated as the city’s main church.

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