Sightseeing Cruises

Waikiki Marine Life Tour

Catch a front-row view of whales from a glass-bottom boat, no snorkel needed, on this 1-hour cruise that glides along Oahu’s stunning South Shore.

Expect views of Diamond Head, coral reefs, a sunken shipwreck, sea turtles, dolphins, tropical fish, and (in season) humpback whales.

It’s a rare chance to watch whales in the wild while also getting a peek at the ocean life beneath your feet.

Fun fact: Humpback whales can slap the water with their tails so loudly that the sound can be heard miles away underwater.

Daytime cruise aboard the Haleiwa Queen

1-hour tour

Glass-bottom viewports

Whale watching

Drinking water

Food

TOTAL DURATION1 hour
Timeline
Map
1 Boarding point
Hawaii Glass Bottom Boats dock
Get direction
Sights covered
Waikiki Beach

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Spot humpback whales and vibrant marine life on a 1-hour Waikiki glass bottom boat cruise.

Getting started

Get to the Hawaii Glass Bottom Boats dock in Waikiki and check in near the main entrance. After a quick ticket validation, step aboard the Haleiwa Queen for a brief introduction from the crew before departure.

What to expect

This sightseeing cruise along Oahu’s South Shore offers a look at Hawaii’s underwater world through glass-bottom viewports. During whale season (November–May), witness migrating humpback whales as they pass through Hawaiian waters.

Features

Glass-bottom boat: Observe live tropical reefs and a notable shipwreck, all visible beneath your feet for a clear view of the Pacific Ocean floor.

Marine wildlife: Spot sea turtles, eels, reef sharks, dolphins, and schools of tropical fish as you cruise along the coastline.

Whale watching (Nov–May): Experience the thrill of seeing humpback whales—sometimes even hearing their songs—during their annual migration.

Family-friendly: Children aged 0–2 ride free, making this cruise accessible for families with young kids.

What to bring

If you’re prone to motion sickness, take your go-to seasickness medication about two hours before the cruise.

What’s not allowed

Motorized wheelchairs and scooters can’t come aboard.

Please leave large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage at home.

Smoking, vaping, and e-cigarettes aren’t allowed on the boat.

Alcohol and illegal substances are also strictly off-limits.

Accessibility

You’re welcome to bring a collapsible wheelchair or walker if needed.

Just a heads-up, the ramp to the boat isn’t fully wheelchair accessible, so guests need to be able to step up, walk across the ramp, and step down into the boat before being seated.

Additional information

Whale sightings are seasonal, your best chance is between November and May.

Getting to the harbor is on you. Transportation isn’t included, so plan your ride and aim to get there at least 15-min early.

Infants aged 2 and under can cruise for free with a parent.

The tour needs at least 10 guests to run. If that number isn’t met, you can reschedule or get a full refund—totally your call.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please arrive at the boarding point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your cruise to avoid any delays.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

Boarding point

Board your cruise at Hawaii Glass Bottom Boats.

Address: 1025 Ala Moana Blvd Slip F21, Honolulu, HI 96814, United States.

Get directions to the boarding point

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