Living Ocean Tours
About
You'll find some of Oahu's best ocean adventures right here in Honolulu with Living Ocean Tours. This local crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, and their genuine aloha spirit shows in everything they do. What sets them apart? Small groups mean you're not just another tourist on a crowded boat – you actually get to connect with Hawaii's incredible marine world.
Their six tours hit all the highlights you're hoping for. The Turtle Canyons Snorkel Excursion is pure magic – imagine swimming alongside Hawaiian green sea turtles in crystal-clear waters where pristine coral reefs stretch as far as you can see. If you're here on a Friday, don't miss their Waikiki Fireworks Cruise. There's something special about watching those fireworks light up the sky from the water, with Diamond Head silhouetted in the background.
The sunset cruises are where Living Ocean Tours really shines. Picture this: you're out on the Pacific as the sun melts into the horizon, painting the sky in colors that no camera can quite capture. Their deluxe snorkel and wildlife tours take it up a notch, giving you those up-close encounters with Hawaii's diverse marine life that make for the stories you'll tell for years.
After years of navigating these waters, they've built a solid reputation for keeping guests safe while delivering unforgettable experiences. They're committed to protecting our ocean too, which matters when you're exploring such a precious ecosystem. The intimate group sizes mean better wildlife viewing and personalized attention – exactly what you want when you're making the most of your time in paradise.
Activities (6)
Turtle Canyons Snorkel Excursion
This 2-hour turtle canyons snorkel excursion Honolulu delivers exactly what it promises—close encounters with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles as they glide above vibrant coral reefs, often surfacing right beside you to breathe. With a 5-star rating from 6048 Google reviews, this tour offers an unforgettable underwater adventure. The adventure starts with a scenic 20-minute cruise from Ala Moana Harbor to Waikiki's most celebrated snorkeling spot. Our experienced crew gets you fitted with quality gear and shares essential underwater tips before we reach the canyon. Once we arrive, confident swimmers can jump right in, while first-timers benefit from our on-board "snorkel school" to build comfort and technique. What makes this experience special isn't just the turtles—though watching reef fish clean their shells in that natural symbiotic dance never gets old. Professional in-water guides stay with your group, pointing out marine life you might otherwise miss and ensuring everyone feels secure. The underwater photography opportunities here are phenomenal, especially when curious turtles drift past your lens. The return journey often brings bonus wildlife sightings. During winter months (December to April), we frequently spot spinner dolphins and humpback whales. You'll have time to process the morning's magic while enjoying complimentary snacks, sodas, and juice on deck. Everything's included—snorkeling equipment, safety vests, life jackets, and refreshments. Kids under 16 need adult supervision, and we don't recommend this turtle canyons snorkel excursion Honolulu for pregnant travelers or those with heart conditions. Check-in starts 15 minutes before departure at 1125 Ala Moana Blvd Slip B1 Honolulu, HI US 96814. Bring towels, cameras, and reef-safe sunscreen. With full refunds available for cancellations made 24 hours ahead (7 days for private charters), this professionally guided adventure offers an accessible gateway to Hawaii's underwater world alongside our most beloved sea creatures.
Waikiki Sunset Cruise BYOB
There's something truly special about watching the sun melt into the Pacific from the water, and Living Ocean Tours' Waikiki sunset cruise BYOB makes it happen without breaking the bank. Departing from Kewalo Basin, this 1 hour and 30 minute adventure lets you bring your own drinks while cruising Oahu's most iconic coastline. The vessel itself is a gem—featuring upper and lower decks plus that distinctive Titanic-style bow that everyone loves for photos. As you glide past the Waikiki Coast, Diamond Head rises majestically in the distance while the sky transforms into those legendary Hawaiian sunset colors we locals never tire of seeing. What sets this cruise apart is the BYOB flexibility. Instead of paying cruise ship prices for drinks, pack your own favorites in the cooler with ice that the crew provides. They'll also keep you refreshed with complimentary cold juices, sodas, water, and light snacks throughout the journey. Just remember—no glass containers allowed, so grab canned beverages before heading out. The spacious design means you'll find your perfect sunset-watching spot, whether you're planning a romantic evening or celebrating with the whole family. Onboard restroom facilities keep everyone comfortable during the cruise. Check-in happens 15 minutes before departure at 1125 Ala Moana Boulevard, Slip B1. If you're bringing alcohol, don't forget valid ID (21+ required). Winter evenings can get breezy on the water, so toss a light jacket in your bag along with hat and sunglasses. With refundable tickets offering full refunds when canceled up to 48 hours before departure, this Waikiki sunset cruise BYOB in Honolulu gives you the flexibility to plan around Hawaii's unpredictable weather. It's honestly one of the best ways to experience Oahu's pristine waters without the tourist markup.
Deluxe Snorkel and Wildlife Cruise
This 2.5-hour deluxe snorkel and wildlife cruise from Honolulu's Slip B1 at 1125 Ala Moana Blvd delivers everything you want in a Hawaiian ocean adventure. You'll cruise past Waikiki's stunning coastline toward Diamond Head while keeping eyes peeled for graceful sea turtles and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. What sets this trip apart? Rainbow Reef — an exclusive snorkeling spot where you won't fight crowds from other boats. The crystal-clear waters here showcase vibrant coral formations, and experienced in-water guides ensure you spot the reef's hidden gems safely. High-quality snorkeling equipment comes included, so you can focus on the underwater magic. Between snorkel sessions, dive into pure fun with the 2-story waterslide and bouncy water trampoline. The lily pad floating platform offers a perfect spot to soak up those coastal views while catching your breath. Light snacks, sodas, and juice keep everyone energized, with alcoholic beverages available at the onboard cash bar. The return cruise extends your water time beyond typical Waikiki snorkel trips, maximizing your ocean experience. Professional guides accommodate all skill levels with snorkel vests and life jackets provided. Check in 15 minutes early and bring towels, cameras, reef-safe sunscreen, plus cash or card for drinks and tips. This deluxe snorkel and wildlife cruise Honolulu experience starts from $79 per person — exceptional value considering the combination of premium snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and exclusive water activities. Cancel up to 48 hours ahead for a full refund, making this the smart choice for your Hawaiian marine adventure. From the moment you step aboard until you dock back at the harbor, this comprehensive ocean playground delivers memories that'll last long after your tan fades.
Waikiki Whale Watching
Here's your chance to witness one of nature's most incredible spectacles – humpback whales on their annual winter migration to Hawaiian waters. This Waikiki whale watching tour in Honolulu departs from Kewalo Basin Harbor for a memorable 1.5-hour cruise along the stunning Waikiki coastline. These magnificent creatures travel thousands of miles from polar regions to mate and give birth in Hawaii's warm tropical waters, creating perfect conditions for unforgettable wildlife encounters. Your journey begins with a comprehensive safety briefing and educational presentation about Hawaii's humpback whales before boarding a specially designed double-decker vessel. The boat's spacious bow area offers multiple viewing spots with excellent sightlines, while the knowledgeable crew shares captivating insights about humpback whale behaviors throughout your adventure. What makes this experience truly special? During favorable conditions, you'll actually hear whale songs through the onboard hydrophone – an underwater microphone that adds an extraordinary auditory element to your Waikiki whale watching experience in Honolulu. Evening departures at 5pm provide an added bonus: spectacular Hawaiian sunsets on your return to Kewalo Basin Harbor. The tour operates during peak whale season to maximize your chances of spotting these remarkable marine mammals. Perfect for guests ages 3-99, each cruise accommodates up to 45 people (note: not wheelchair accessible). Your experience includes the whale watching cruise, restroom facilities, and a whale guarantee – no sightings means you can return on a future trip at no extra charge. Check-in starts 30 minutes before departure at 1125 Ala Moana Boulevard, Slip B1. Don't forget sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, and a light jacket for comfort. Enjoy peace of mind with flexible cancellation policies: full refunds when canceled 48 hours ahead for regular bookings or 7 days for private charters.
Sunset Cruise Waikiki - Cash Bar
There's something truly special about watching the sun melt into the Pacific from the deck of Living Ocean Tours' vessel. Their sunset cruise Waikiki with cash bar departs from Ala Moana Harbor's Slip B1, offering an intimate 90-minute journey along Honolulu's most famous coastline. The spacious 50-foot double-decker boat catches eyes with its distinctive Titanic-style bow and caps capacity at just 45 passengers—you won't feel like cattle being herded around. As you glide past the shoreline, Diamond Head crater provides that postcard-perfect backdrop while Waikiki Beach stretches out below. The vessel's thoughtful design gives everyone great views, whether you're relaxing on the upper deck, mingling at the main level's onboard bar, or claiming a spot at the open bow. Keep your cameras ready—these waters are alive with Hawaiian green sea turtles and dolphins that love putting on a show. If you're visiting between December and April, you might catch migrating humpback whales breaching in the distance. It's the kind of moment that makes you forget about everything back on land. The crew stocks cold beverages, juices, sodas, water, and light snacks, though you're welcome to bring your own food. Just remember that BYOB isn't allowed—grab your drinks from the cash bar instead (bring ID if you're 21+). Families with kids 3 and older fit right in, making this sunset cruise Waikiki - cash bar Honolulu experience perfect for celebrating with multiple generations. Check-in starts 15 minutes before departure at 1125 Ala Moana Boulevard. Pro tip from someone who's done this route countless times: pack a light jacket during winter months—ocean breezes can get chilly once that sun disappears behind the horizon.
Friday Night Waikiki Fireworks Cruise
Here's the thing about Friday nights in Honolulu – while tourists crowd the beaches for the Hilton Hawaiian Village's weekly fireworks show, locals know the best seats are actually on the water. Living Ocean Tours' Friday night Waikiki fireworks cruise gives you that insider's perspective from their custom 50-foot vessel, watching Hawaii's only weekly pyrotechnics display unfold right above you. The one-hour cruise departs from Kewalo Basin (1125 Ala Moana Boulevard) and positions you perfectly in Waikiki's calm waters for unobstructed views. You're not just watching fireworks – you're seeing Honolulu's entire illuminated coastline spread out like a postcard. The boat's smart design accommodates up to 45 passengers across multiple levels: 10 seats on the upper deck, 40 on the main deck (split between sun and shade), plus bow standing space for 10 more. Cold drinks, water, and light snacks come with your ticket, while alcoholic beverages are available for purchase if you want to toast the evening properly. The crew handles safety briefings before departure and keeps things running smoothly throughout. A few practical notes from someone who's done this cruise: take rideshare to avoid Kewalo Basin's limited parking, and if you're prone to seasickness, grab some preventative measures beforehand (though Waikiki waters stay pretty calm). The experience welcomes ages 5-99 but isn't wheelchair accessible. Starting from $49 per person, this Friday night Waikiki fireworks cruise in Honolulu books up quickly – especially during peak season. Reserve ahead and remember their 48-hour cancellation policy for refunds. Trust me, watching those fireworks reflect off the water while Diamond Head looms in the background beats any beach blanket view you'll find on shore.