Two Tank Wreck and Drift Dive in Oahu

Planning a scuba adventure in Oahu? This Two Tank Wreck and Drift Dive offers certified divers a chance to explore Hawaii’s marine treasures in a manageable half-day. If you’re craving the thrill of navigating historic wrecks and gliding along vibrant walls with currents, this experience packs a punch.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it combines wreck exploration—a favorite among many divers— with a drift dive through stunning underwater scenery. Second, the small group size (max 14 travelers) promises personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe. Lastly, the tour offers the opportunity to improve your Nitrox skills onboard, adding a practical skill for future diving adventures.

However, it’s not for absolute beginners—you must be Open Water Certified or higher—and it requires good physical fitness. If you’re comfortable with advanced diving and want a mix of history and natural beauty beneath the waves, this could be just right. Perfect for those who love marine exploration, wrecks, or simply want an active, memorable day in Hawaii’s ocean.

Good To Know

• Suitable for certified divers with Open Water certification or higher
• Includes all scuba gear and light snacks on board
• Offers wreck exploration in Maunalua Bay plus a drift dive
• Opportunity to refine Nitrox diving skills during the trip
• Limited group size enhances personalized service
• Cancels freely with 24-hour notice if weather or minimum numbers aren’t met

A Deeper Look at the Experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day Under the Sea

This about 4.5-hour excursion is designed for divers who appreciate efficiency and value. It begins early, with a prompt departure at 8:00 am from Honolulu’s Island Divers Hawaii at 7:30 am, giving you plenty of time to settle in and gear up.

Once onboard, the crew—experienced and friendly—takes you out to explore one of several wrecks in Maunalua Bay. Known for its calm, protected waters, the bay offers a variety of wreck sites that are well-suited for advanced divers. The exact wreck chosen depends on daily conditions and tides, which means each trip can offer a slightly different underwater landscape.

The first stop is typically the wreck site, where you’ll get to see what remains of historic ships or other structures, often teeming with marine life. The wrecks serve as artificial reefs, attracting schools of fish, colorful invertebrates, and sometimes even turtles or rays. One reviewer mentioned being impressed by the abundance of marine activity around the wrecks, making every moment visually engaging.

After exploring the wreck, the boat moves to a second site for the drift dive. This is where the experience shines: with the current gently pulling you along sea caves, deep walls, or rocky outcrops, you’ll enjoy the sensation of effortless gliding while soaking in the stunning scenery. The drift dive offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate Hawaii’s underwater topography and marine biodiversity from a relaxed perspective.

The Marine Environment and Wildlife

Divers have reported a vibrant array of marine life on these dives. The wrecks often host schools of tropical fish, and some reviews highlight the chance to see turtles or even dolphins in the distance. The drift dives provide a sense of freedom, with many noting the beautiful sea caves and towering walls that showcase the dramatic underwater geology.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Bring

All scuba equipment is included in the tour price—this is great for travelers who don’t want to worry about hauling gear or renting locally. The gear is generally well-maintained, and the boat crew is happy to assist with any adjustments to ensure comfort and safety. If you bring your own gear, you’ll receive a discount, which could save you some money if you prefer your familiar setup.

Light snacks and water are provided onboard—perfect for rehydrating and refueling between dives. Remember, sunscreen and towels are not included, so pack your own if you wish to stay protected and dry post-activity.

Group Size and Personal Attention

With a maximum of 14 travelers, this tour emphasizes a more intimate experience. This smaller crew size enhances safety and allows for personalized guidance, especially important during wreck exploration and drift diving, which require good buoyancy control and awareness of surroundings.

Timing and Logistics

Arriving at the meeting point by 7:30 am ensures a punctual start, and the departure at 8:00 am gets you back in time for the rest of your day. The tour is near public transportation options, making it accessible without a car. The meeting point, Island Divers Hawaii, is centrally located in Honolulu, making it convenient for most travelers.

Price and Value

At $191.25 per person, this tour offers good value for a comprehensive two-tank experience that combines history, scenery, and marine life. Including all gear and snacks, the price seems fair, especially considering the small group setting and the opportunity to improve your Nitrox skills.

Authentic Insights from Diver Experiences

While the official reviews are limited, one diver mentioned, “The crew was very knowledgeable and attentive, making sure everyone was comfortable and safe.” Others highlighted the diversity of sites, noting the wrecks were “full of marine life” and the drift dives offered “beautiful views of caves and walls.” Such comments suggest a well-organized, enjoyable outing tailored for certified divers who enjoy a bit of history and adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for certified divers seeking a half-day adventure that combines wreck exploration with scenic drift diving. It’s perfect if you prefer small group outings with personalized attention and are interested in honing technical skills like Nitrox diving. Given the focus on advanced diving, it’s best suited for those comfortable with current, depth, and buoyancy control.

Travelers looking for a relaxed, well-organized dive in Hawaii’s protected waters—without the hassle of equipment rental or long excursions—will find this tour a practical choice. It offers a rich, balanced mix of history, marine life, and scenic diving that caters well to enthusiasts who enjoy more than just a simple snorkeling trip.

The Sum Up

If you’re a certified diver ready for a memorable day exploring Hawaii’s underwater history and scenic walls, this Two Tank Wreck and Drift Dive is a strong contender. The combination of wreck explorations and drift dives provides variety, excitement, and fantastic photo opportunities. The small group size and inclusive gear rental make it a convenient, value-packed option for those wanting a personal touch.

This tour is especially suited for divers who appreciate a bit of adventure, the chance to see marine life up close, and the opportunity to sharpen technical diving skills in a beautiful setting. While it’s not a beginner activity, if you’re comfortable with your open water skills and seeking an active, rewarding dive, this experience will likely leave you with lasting memories of Oahu’s underwater world.

FAQ

Do I need to be certified to join this tour?
Yes, you must be Open Water Certified or higher to participate, as it involves advanced diving features like wreck and drift diving.

What’s included in the price?
All scuba equipment is included; light snacks and water are provided on the boat. You’ll need to bring sunscreen and a towel.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, with an early start at 7:30 am and return around midday.

Can I bring my own gear?
Yes, you can bring your own gear for a discount, which is helpful if you prefer your familiar equipment.

Where do we meet?
At Island Divers Hawaii, 377 Keahole St STE E101, Honolulu. It’s accessible by public transportation and central in Honolulu.

What kind of marine life might I see?
Expect schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and possibly rays. The wrecks tend to be lively with marine activity.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The wrecks, caves, and walls provide excellent photo opportunities, especially with good visibility.

How many people are on each trip?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and attentive guidance from the crew.

This detailed look at the Two Tank Wreck and Drift Dive in Oahu demonstrates it as a well-rounded, exciting choice for certified divers eager to explore Hawaii’s underwater marvels with comfort, safety, and a touch of adventure.