Whale Watching

Skip the crowded tour boats and discover whale watching Honolulu the way it should be experienced – aboard your own private yacht with Tradewind Charters. These luxury sailing adventures depart from Kewalo Harbor, giving you exclusive access to witness Hawaii's magnificent humpback whales without fighting for a spot at the rail.

Every December through May, these incredible 35-50 foot giants make their annual pilgrimage to Hawaii's warm waters. Weighing up to 50 tons, these intelligent mammals return here to give birth and nurture their newborns – a spectacular natural cycle that's been playing out for generations of this endangered species.

Your 2-hour private charter isn't just about whale watching. You'll experience real sailing (even take the helm if you're feeling adventurous), plus frequent encounters with dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays, and eagle rays. The captain will anchor at an exclusive spot perfect for snorkeling, turning your whale watching Honolulu adventure into a complete marine experience.

With departures at 6AM, 8AM, 10AM, 2PM, and 4PM, you can easily find a time that works. Want to stay out longer? Extensions beyond the standard 2-hour duration are available.

Three vessel options accommodate different group sizes: sailing yacht from $595 for up to 6 passengers, sailing catamaran from $995 for up to 12 passengers, or power catamaran from $1,495 for up to 49 passengers. All charters leave from Honolulu's Kewalo Harbor.

The beauty of going private means no rushing, no crowds, and no sharing your whale encounters with strangers. Plus, you'll get full refunds for cancellations made 72 hours ahead or weather-related operator cancellations. This is how locals would choose to experience Hawaii's marine life – intimately and on your own terms.