For marine enthusiasts, the Sail and Turtle Snorkeling Tour in Waikiki is a must-try. This 5-hour adventure lets you explore vibrant underwater ecosystems, swimming alongside captivating sea turtles and potentially spotting majestic whales. With a small group size, personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, and all necessary equipment provided, it’s an exhilarating experience you won’t soon forget. But what truly sets this tour apart – and why you’ll want to book your spot soon…
Good To Know
- The Sail and Turtle Snorkeling Tour in Waikiki is a 5-hour adventure that includes snorkeling, marine life spotting, and a maximum group size of 35 participants.
- The tour provides snorkeling equipment, safety vests, an in-water lifeguard, and a cooler for personal drinks and snacks.
- The meeting location is at Ala Wai Harbor behind the Prince Waikiki Hotel, and guests must arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled activity.
- Highlights of the experience include opportunities to spot fish, turtles, and possibly whales, as well as friendly and informative guides.
- The tour has a high overall satisfaction rating, with a 95% recommendation rate from travelers, despite some mixed feedback regarding wildlife sightings and crew attentiveness.
Overview of the Tour
The Sail and Turtle Snorkeling Tour in Waikiki offers participants the opportunity to explore the waters off the coast of Oahu.
This 5-hour adventure takes guests aboard a boat to snorkel and spot marine life, including turtles and potentially whales. The tour includes all necessary equipment, safety supervision, and refreshments.
With a maximum group size of 35, the experience emphasizes personalized attention from the crew. Priced from $99 per person, the tour has received excellent reviews, with 95% of travelers recommending it.
Guests praise the crew’s hospitality and the chance to encounter Oahu’s stunning underwater world.
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Inclusions and Restrictions
The Sail and Turtle Snorkeling Tour in Waikiki includes snorkeling equipment, safety vests, and an in-water lifeguard and guide to ensure guests’ safety and enjoyment.
Guests can also enjoy bottled water and a cooler with ice for their own drinks and snacks.
However, the tour doesn’t include:
- Transportation to the meeting point
- Swimming lessons (basic swimming ability required)
- Food provided by the tour
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.
Infants must sit on laps, and a moderate physical fitness level is required with no serious medical conditions.
Meeting and Pickup
Guests meet for the Sail and Turtle Snorkeling Tour at 1 Holomoana St, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA, picking up at Ala Wai Harbor behind the Prince Waikiki Hotel.
Guests must arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled activity. The tour returns to the same meeting point. Arriving early ensures participants don’t miss the departure and can complete the necessary safety briefing.
Guests handle their own transportation, with options including Uber, Lyft, biking, or walking. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and it’s located near public transportation.
Highlights of the Experience
Opportunities to spot fish, turtles, and even whales captivate guests on this snorkeling adventure. The crew’s expertise and attentiveness ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all, from beginners to experienced snorkelers.
Key highlights include:
- Friendly, informative guides who provide thorough safety training
- Chance to see a variety of marine life, including the iconic Hawaiian green sea turtle
- Memorable experiences suitable for families, with activities tailored to various age groups and skill levels.
Guests consistently praise the tour’s convenient location, well-maintained equipment, and the crew’s ability to create an unforgettable day on the water.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
According to the available information, guests have provided a mix of positive and negative feedback on the Sail and Turtle Snorkeling Tour in Waikiki.
Many praised the crew’s hospitality, the boat’s beauty, and the snorkeling experience, highlighting the opportunity to see turtles and dolphins.
However, some guests reported not seeing the expected wildlife and felt the tour didn’t meet their expectations. The crew’s attentiveness was also questioned in certain instances.
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Cancellation Policy and Confirmation
Though the Sail and Turtle Snorkeling Tour in Waikiki offers a memorable experience, the tour operator provides guests with a flexible cancellation policy. Guests can receive a full refund for free if they cancel up to 24 hours before the tour.
This policy allows for:
- Stress-free planning, as travelers don’t have to worry about losing their money if plans change.
- Flexibility to accommodate last-minute schedule adjustments.
- Confidence in booking, knowing they can get a full refund if needed.
Plus, the tour confirmation is received at the time of booking, and guests can choose to reserve now and pay later, providing further convenience.
Safety and Crew Professionalism
The Sail and Turtle Snorkeling Tour in Waikiki prioritizes guest safety, with an experienced and attentive crew dedicated to ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience.
Prior to departing, the crew provides comprehensive safety training, equipping guests with the knowledge and tools to navigate the waters confidently.
During the tour, lifeguards closely monitor the group, ready to assist if needed.
Guests consistently praise the crew’s professionalism, citing their warm hospitality, deep knowledge of the area, and attentiveness to individual needs.
The crew’s commitment to safety and guest satisfaction is a hallmark of this highly-rated Waikiki adventure.
Suitability for Families and Non-Swimmers
The Sail and Turtle Snorkeling Tour in Waikiki is well-suited for families and non-swimmers alike.
The tour’s features make it an enjoyable experience for all ages and skill levels:
- The crew provides thorough safety training and attentive supervision, ensuring non-swimmers feel secure.
- Snorkeling equipment, including safety vests, is included, accommodating those unfamiliar with the activity.
- The tour’s family-friendly atmosphere and memorable wildlife sightings create an engaging outing for both children and adults.
With these considerations, the Sail and Turtle Snorkeling Tour caters to a wide range of participants, making it an excellent choice for a fun and safe day on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Do Turtles Appear During the Snorkeling Tour?
Based on reviews, guests often spot turtles during the snorkeling tour, though sightings aren’t guaranteed. Many travelers highlight seeing turtles as a highlight of the experience, though the frequency can vary.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear if I Prefer?
Yes, guests can bring their own snorkel gear if they prefer. The tour provides standard snorkeling equipment, but allows guests to use their personal gear if they wish to do so.
Is There an Option to Purchase Food and Beverages on the Boat?
The tour includes a cooler with ice for guests to bring their own drinks and snacks. However, no food or beverages are provided by the tour operator. Guests can BYOB (no glass) to enjoy during the excursion.
Can I Request a Specific Time or Departure Location?
Yes, you can request a specific departure time or location for the tour. The tour operator offers flexibility in scheduling and pick-up to accommodate guests’ needs. However, advance notice may be required to arrange these customizations.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
The tour has no specific minimum age requirement, but it states that infants must sit on laps. Guests of all ages are welcome, though a moderate level of physical fitness is necessary to participate in the snorkeling activities.
The Sum Up
The Sail and Turtle Snorkeling Tour in Waikiki offers an unforgettable adventure for marine enthusiasts. With personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, guests can explore vibrant underwater ecosystems and spot turtles and potentially whales. The tour includes essential equipment, ensuring a safe and memorable day on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-time adventurer, this tour is suitable for all experience levels, making it an excellent choice for families and solo travelers alike.
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