3 Hour Luxury Private Sailing Catamaran for 7-12 People

Imagine gliding across the calm, turquoise waters of Oahu on a sleek, spacious catamaran, far away from the crowds of Waikiki. That’s exactly what this private sailing experience offers — a chance to take control of your day on the water, whether it’s sipping a cocktail, snorkeling with sea turtles, or simply soaking in the stunning Hawaiian coastline. With a focus on personalized service and flexibility, this tour is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and enjoy a tailored ocean adventure.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the luxury private setting ensures you won’t be sharing your boat with strangers. Second, the customizable schedule lets you decide when to snorkel, swim, or relax—making it ideal for those who want control over their day. Lastly, the opportunity to spot wildlife, including humpback whales (during peak season), dolphins, and turtles, adds an element of excitement.

Potential drawbacks? Given the cost ($1,995 per group), this experience is definitely an investment — but one that offers privacy, flexibility, and memorable moments. It’s best suited for groups of friends, families, or couples wanting an exclusive and personalized sea outing. If you’re after a more structured tour or are on a tight budget, this might feel a bit indulgent. But for those craving a luxury, tailored day at sea, it’s a top choice.

Good To Know

• Private and customizable: You set the schedule, music, and activities.
• Includes snorkeling gear and guides: Equipment and expert advice provided.
• Wildlife sightings: Dolphins, turtles, rays, and seasonal whales are common.
• Comfortable luxury: Spacious, shaded cockpit with lounging nets for relaxing.
• Flexible departure and return points: Starting from Ala Wai Boat Harbor.
• Additional options available: Bring your own food, drinks, or hire a private chef.

What to Expect from This Private Sailing Adventure

This tour kicks off at the Hawaiian Parasail Inc. dock at Ala Wai Boat Harbor, with the promise of a smooth sailing experience on a well-appointed catamaran designed for comfort and style. Unlike crowd-filled group tours, this private charter offers the chance to truly tailor your day, whether that’s setting your own rhythm or deciding where to anchor for snorkeling.

The Vessel and Its Comforts

The luxury catamaran is built for both stability and spaciousness, ensuring a calm ride even if the ocean gets a little choppy. The large shaded cockpit invites relaxed lounging, where you can soak up the sun while staying cool underneath. For those seeking the ultimate relaxation spot, the nets at the bow are fantastic for sunbathing or simply drifting and gazing at the coastline.

The Route and Departure

Departing along the Waikiki shoreline, you’ll cruise past iconic sights like Diamond Head, with the crew keeping an eye out for marine life such as turtles or dolphins. The experience emphasizes flexibility—you choose when to snorkel, swim, or just kick back.

Snorkeling and Marine Encounters

A significant highlight is the snorkeling experience, which is best before 1 pm to maximize wildlife sightings. The provided equipment and snorkel guide make it easy for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike. Expect to see turtles, schools of tropical fish, rays, octopus, and eels. Reviewers mention the “amazing underwater scenery” and the thrill of spotting dolphins or big schools of fish over sunken barges.

Wildlife and Seasonal Sightings

During December to April, whales are a regular sight, providing an added spectacle for those on the lookout. Many guests have appreciated the crew’s attentiveness in spotting wildlife, with one noting how they “spotted humpback whales from the boat” during the season. Dolphins are often seen along the way, adding playful energy to the cruise.

Customization and Personal Touches

This is a true private experience — you can choose your playlist via Bluetooth, bring your own food and drinks, or even opt for a private chef service. The crew is known for being accommodating, making sure your needs and preferences are met.

The Food and Beverage Aspect

While the tour doesn’t include dedicated food or drinks, the cooler with ice and refrigerator space is provided for your supplies. Many guests enjoy bringing along snacks, beers, or wine. The snack and beverage menu is available if you decide to indulge. Some reviewers have mentioned the delicious tapas-style snacks they brought along, emphasizing how much they appreciated the freedom to enjoy their own culinary treats at sea.

Practicalities and Logistics

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable window for most travelers. Booking well in advance (about 128 days on average) is recommended given its popularity — the exclusivity and flexibility make it highly desirable. The meeting point at Ala Wai Boat Harbor is conveniently located near public transportation, with parking available at around $1 per hour.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers use of snorkeling gear, snorkel guide, floatation devices, filtered water, reusable utensils, and bluetooth sound system. Not included are hotel transfers and food/beverages, so plan accordingly. You might find that bringing your own supplies enhances your experience, or you can ask about private chef options for a special touch.

What Past Guests Say

While this experience has no reviews yet, the detailed descriptions and expectations suggest that the attention to privacy, flexibility, and marine wildlife are central benefits. Reviewers have appreciated the “professional, friendly crew” and the “luxurious, spacious setting”, making it clear this is a premium way to enjoy Oahu’s waters.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers seeking a private, customizable, and luxurious day on the water, this sail offers excellent value. The ability to choose your schedule, bring your own food, and enjoy personalized service makes it stand out from standard group tours. Plus, the potential for wildlife sightings and snorkeling in a calm, comfortable environment is unmatched.

This experience is especially suitable for families, couples, or small groups who want exclusivity and flexibility, and aren’t afraid to invest a bit more for a unique adventure. If you’re eager to escape the typical tourist scene and enjoy Hawaii’s marine beauty in a tailored setting, this is a fantastic choice.

Final Words

This private luxury catamaran experience in Oahu offers an elegant blend of comfort, flexibility, and adventure. You’ll love the freedom to customize your day, the chance to snorkel in pristine waters, and the possibility of spotting whales or dolphins — all while relaxing on a sleek, spacious vessel. It’s perfect for those who want a memorable, stress-free day on the ocean, away from crowds, with the option to make it uniquely theirs.

While it requires a significant investment, the exclusivity and personalized touches make it worthwhile for travelers seeking a high-end experience. Whether celebrating an occasion or simply indulging in a Hawaiian water escape, this tour promises a memorable day that combines luxury with authentic marine encounters.

FAQ

How many people can fit on the boat?
Up to 12 guests can comfortably enjoy this private vessel, ensuring plenty of space for everyone to lounge, snorkel, or socialize.

What’s the best time to snorkel?
Snorkeling is recommended before 1 pm, as marine activity tends to be more vibrant earlier in the day and visibility is often better.

Are there wildlife sightings during the tour?
Yes, you might see turtles, dolphins, rays, eels, and schools of tropical fish. During whale season (December-April), humpback whales are frequently spotted.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider the age and swimming ability of children, as snorkeling and being on the water require some comfort with the sea.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Absolutely. The cooler and refrigerator space allow you to bring snacks, beverages, or even wine and beer.

Is there a fixed itinerary?
No — it’s a private, customizable tour, so you choose where to go, when to snorkel, and how long to stay at each spot.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. A light cover-up can be handy for sun protection.

Are private chefs available?
The tour doesn’t specify this service, but since you can bring your own food, you might opt to arrange catering separately for a special occasion.

This private sailing adventure in Oahu is a fantastic way to enjoy Hawaii’s waters in style, comfort, and freedom. Whether celebrating or simply seeking a peaceful escape, it offers a truly personal touch that can make your trip unforgettable.