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Dolphin Excursions – Wild Dolphin Encounter

Head along Oahu's west shore aboard Naia I in search of wild spinner dolphins, then stop for reef snorkeling before enjoying lunch and drinks on board.

Your experience

About Dolphin Excursions - Wild Dolphin Encounter

Head out from Oahu’s west side aboard Naia I for a small-group wildlife cruise focused on dolphins, reef life and the changing ocean conditions of the leeward coast. Spinner dolphins are often seen in these waters, with naturalist guides following federal viewing guidelines while helping you understand what you are seeing along the way.

During whale season, humpbacks may also appear offshore, adding another layer to the trip. When conditions are right, the day can include snorkeling over reef areas where tropical fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles are commonly found.

The smaller-group setup keeps the experience relaxed, with plenty of time for photos, wildlife watching and time in the water before heading back to shore.

Tour Highlights

  • Look for wild spinner dolphins year-round
  • Chance to see humpback whales during whale season
  • Possible sightings of bottlenose or spotted dolphins
  • Snorkel at reef sites with tropical fish and sea turtles when conditions allow
  • Small-group wildlife experience along Oahu’s west side

Tour Inclusions

  • Snorkel gear (mask, fins, snorkel, life vest) including prescription masks
  • Deli lunch and beverages served in an insulated cooler bag (menu below)
  • Dry bags plus shared ice and soft coolers for any extra snacks or drinks you bring

Lunch Menu – Build Your Own Sandwich

Bread Choices: Multi Grain, White, Spinach Tortilla Wrap, No Bread
Protein Choices: Turkey, Tuna, Peanut Butter & Jelly (strawberry), Black Beans (wrap or salad only), None
Cheese Choices: Cheddar, None
Veggie Choices: Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Pickles (list all desired)
Condiment Choices: Mayo, Mustard, Oriental dressing for wrap or salad (contains soybean oil)

Before you go

Special Instructions

Meeting details, important notes and helpful information for your experience.

Where & When

Tour times:
Tour 1: Check in at 7:00 am. Boat departs at 7:30 am and returns at 10:30 am.
Tour 2: Check in at 10:30 am. Boat departs at 11:00 am and returns at 2:00 pm.

Check in at the Waianae Boat Harbor, 85-491 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, Hawaii 96792 (next to Spinners Cafe).
View Map

Roundtrip transportation from Waikiki or Ko Olina:

Roundtrip transportation is available at no extra cost. Pick-up and drop off is only available at hotels in Waikiki or Ko Olina. Not all hotels in Waikiki can be utilized by the tour vans, and if not, pick-up will be within walking distance to your hotel. The exact pick-up time and location will be emailed with your confirmation. For the first tour, Waikiki hotel pick-up is between 5:30 am and 6:00 am (return to Waikiki is between 1:00 pm and 1:30 pm). For the second tour, Waikiki hotel pick-up is between 9:00 am and 9:30 am (return to Waikiki is between 4:00 pm and 4:30 pm).

Restrictions

Children must be at least 4 years old.

Special Notes

Guests may bring their own lunch and beverages on board.

Operation Days

Daily

Duration

3 hours

Capacity

16

Equipment

Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins and life vest) is provided, but bringing your own gear is encouraged. You may also purchase a brand new set to take home with you. Wet suits are available to rent for $10 at check-in.

Vendor

This activity is operated by Dolphin Excursions.

A closer look

See the experience

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Questions about this activity?

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