Private 5 Hour Charter on board our yacht in Waikiki

Our review focuses on a private 5-hour yacht charter along Waikiki’s shimmering shoreline, offered by Ocean Therapy Charters. Although we haven’t personally been onboard, the details and guest feedback paint a vivid picture of what you can expect—an intimate, luxury experience suited for those craving a personalized day out on the water.

What immediately stands out about this tour are the exclusivity, the opportunity for underwater adventures, and the stunning scenery you’ll enjoy. With only up to six guests, this trip promises a relaxed and tailored atmosphere—perfect for small groups, families, or couples. The experience combines the thrill of snorkeling or scuba diving with the comfort of a private cruise, all while enjoying Hawaii’s natural beauty.

A potential consideration is the price point—at $2,800 for a full day, it’s an investment, but one that many reviews suggest offers excellent value given the private, customizable nature of the trip. If you’re after a luxury, crowd-free adventure with VIP treatment, this charter could be just right. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to explore Waikiki’s waters without the hustle and bustle of larger boat tours.

This experience is best suited for those seeking a private, flexible, and upscale ocean outing. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just wanting to enjoy Hawaii’s marine life in peace, it offers a unique way to see the coastline and marine ecosystem up close.

Good To Know

• Private Experience: Small group of up to six ensures personalized attention and intimacy.
• Versatile Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, and relaxing on deck are all options.
• Luxury and Comfort: High-quality catering, VIP treatment, and flexible itinerary choices.
• Wildlife Sightings: Dolphins, whales, and other marine life are common sights.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Use of snorkeling and scuba gear included, making it hassle-free.
• Complete Flexibility: You choose whether to snorkel, swim, or simply enjoy the views.

Why You’ll Love This Waikiki Yacht Charter

The first thing to highlight is the exclusivity. With just your group onboard, the experience feels more like a private retreat than a typical tour. From the start, you’ll appreciate how the private setting allows for a flexible itinerary that can be tailored to your preferences—whether you want to snorkel over vibrant reefs, explore a historic shipwreck, or simply lounge and sip drinks while watching the sunset.

The scenery is genuinely breathtaking. As you cruise along Waikiki’s coastline, the views of Diamond Head and Honolulu’s cityscape provide a stunning backdrop. The boat’s vantage point lets you soak in the Hawaiian sun, the rugged coastline, and the deep blue ocean stretching in all directions.

Marine encounters are a highlight. Guests have reported encounters with playful dolphins and the chance to see whales, especially during migration seasons. Snorkeling gear is provided, and reviewers often mention how easy and enjoyable it is to explore the underwater world. One guest even described Captain Chris as remarkably knowledgeable about local marine life—making the snorkeling experience both fun and educational.

Food and drinks add to the experience. The charter offers a variety of refreshments, including bottled water, juices, and iced tea. The catered meals—sandwiches, fresh fruit, and vegetable platters—are simple yet satisfying, making it easy to stay nourished without interrupting the vibe. If you wish to bring alcoholic beverages, the tour is BYOB, allowing for personalized celebration.

Safety is clearly a priority. All staff are certified lifeguards and Emergency First Responder trained, providing peace of mind during water activities. This is especially reassuring for those new to snorkeling or scuba diving.

The only notable downside might be the cost. At $2,800, this is a premium experience, but the reviews suggest that the quality and level of service justify the price. For travelers seeking a luxurious, private day on the water, this experience offers excellent value.

Detailed Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins at the Ocean Therapy Charters dock in Honolulu, making it conveniently accessible from Waikiki. The meeting point is at Front Row Slip 65, on Ala Moana Blvd, which is close to public transportation, simplifying logistics for visitors.

First stop: Waikiki coastline. The boat departs along the southern shores, giving guests an immediate taste of Hawaii’s iconic shoreline. The captain will work with your group to decide on activities—whether it’s snorkeling, scuba, swimming, or just relaxing with drinks.

Snorkeling and scuba diving. The core of the experience is exploring the vibrant underwater world. The use of snorkeling and scuba gear is included, and guests have praised how straightforward it is to enjoy these activities even if they’re not experienced. The reefs and shipwrecks nearby serve as fascinating underwater scenery, with marine life sightings common—through reviews, we learn that guests often spot reef fish and are guided by knowledgeable staff.

Wildlife encounters. Being on the water increases the likelihood of seeing dolphins or whales, especially during migration seasons. One reviewer specifically noted that their trip with Captain Chris was filled with marine life sightings, making it a memorable highlight.

Sunset and relaxation. The flexible itinerary allows you to decide whether to stay out until sunset or return earlier. Watching the sun dip behind Diamond Head from the deck is a memorable moment, and many guests appreciate the privacy to enjoy these panoramic views without the crowds.

Catering. Throughout the trip, snacks and drinks are available, and the meal service keeps everyone energized. If you bring your own alcohol, you can personalize your celebration—be it a romantic sunset toast or a lively gathering.

What Makes It Stand Out?

Unlike larger, more generic tours, this private charter emphasizes customization and personalized service. The ability to tailor your day means you can prioritize what interests you most—whether it’s snorkeling over coral reefs, exploring a shipwreck, or simply lounging with a cocktail.

The high staff-to-guest ratio ensures attentive service, and the fact that guides are trained emergency responders adds an extra layer of reassurance. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the crew are—particularly Captain Chris, who guests describe as remarkably knowledgeable about Hawaiian marine life.

The vessel itself is described as comfortable and well-equipped, with snorkeling and scuba gear readily available. The boat’s design allows for easy access to the water, making it suitable for all skill levels.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended—most travelers book about 38 days ahead, indicating high demand.
• The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, providing ample time for multiple activities or simply relaxing.
• The price of $2,800 is for the entire group, making it a good value for couples or small groups who want an exclusive experience.
• Parking fees are minimal at $1 per hour if you drive yourself.
• Since the tour is BYOB, plan to bring your favorite drinks to personalize your experience.
• Confirmations are received immediately, and weather can impact the trip—poor weather will lead to rescheduling or a full refund.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This yacht charter appeals most to travelers looking for a private, intimate experience away from the crowds. It’s ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or families wanting a safe and flexible water adventure. Because of the customizable itinerary, it suits those interested in marine life, water sports, and scenic views.

Those seeking luxury with a personal touch will find this tour fits their needs perfectly. It’s also well-suited for anyone comfortable with water activities or willing to try snorkeling or scuba diving in a relaxed, supportive environment.

Final Thoughts

The private Waikiki yacht charter offers an exceptional way to experience Hawaii’s coastline in style. With its focus on personalized service, marine wildlife encounters, and stunning scenery, it exceeds what many traditional boat tours provide. Although premium in price, the small-group intimacy, flexibility, and attention to safety make it a compelling choice for those wanting a memorable, upscale ocean adventure.

If you’re after a day that combines luxury, natural beauty, and marine exploration, this yacht charter could be the highlight of your Hawaii trip. Perfect for celebrating, relaxing, or simply discovering Hawaii’s waters in an exclusive setting.

FAQ

Can I choose activities during the tour?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible, allowing you to decide whether to snorkel, scuba dive, swim, or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes use of snorkeling and scuba equipment, bottled water, juice, iced tea, and a catered meal of sandwiches, fresh fruit, and vegetable platters.

Is alcohol allowed onboard?
Alcoholic beverages are not included but are BYOB, so you can bring your own drinks to customize your experience.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, giving plenty of time for water activities and relaxing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ocean Therapy Charters, 1651 Ala Moana Blvd in Honolulu, and returns to the same location.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The trip can be rescheduled or refunded if canceled due to poor weather.

This private yacht experience offers a fantastic blend of luxury, adventure, and personalized service—all set against the stunning backdrop of Waikiki’s coast. Whether celebrating a special moment or simply craving a peaceful escape on the water, it promises a memorable Hawaiian day out.