Waikiki
The family had a fantastic time. Made great by the team on board.
I cam back for the aftsrnoon sail.
I participated with my mother, who was a bit anxious about swimming in the sea. Thanks to Chieko-san, who held my mother's hand throughout and gently encouraged her, my mother was able to relax and enjoy snorkeling until the end.
I truly appreciated the thoughtfulness in guiding us at my mother's pace. Being able to see fish together with my mother in the ocean became a lifelong memory.
Thank you so much, Chieko-san and Dan-san.
海で泳ぐことに少し不安がある母と参加しました。ちえこさんが終始母の手を引き、優しく声をかけながらリラックスさせてくださったおかげで、母は最後まで安心してシュノーケリングを楽しむことができました。
母のペースに合わせて案内してくださった心遣いが本当にありがたかったです。母と一緒に海の中で魚を見られたことは、一生の思い出になりました。
ちえこさん、ダンさん、本当にありがとうございました。
I participated in July, and after being in the sea for about an hour, I was advised that it would be better to wear a suit because it gets cold. I requested a rental for that day. When I got out of th
7月に参加しましたが、1時間ほど海にいると寒くなるのでスーツを着用した方がいいですよとおすすめいただき当日レンタルを希望しました。海から上がってみると、確かに着ていなければ体が冷え切っていたなと思いま
この度はツアーにお越しいただき、ありがとうございました。泳ぎが不安だったとの事ですが、お母様も大丈夫、上手に出来ていましたよ。ハナウマ湾の綺麗なお魚達を楽しんでいただけて、しかも最後まで頑張っていただけて、私も嬉しかったです。またハワイに来る機会がありましたら、また一緒に泳ぎましょうね‼︎ いつでもお待ちしております。
本当にありがとうございました。Mahalo‼︎ Dan&Chieko
In the early morning, the water temperature is low, so a wetsuit is recommended. It was very easy to swim. Additionally, the detailed explanations made me feel at ease. I was able to see many fish and thoroughly enjoy snorkeling. I would like to request Chieko as my guide again! ❣️
朝早い時は水温が低いのでウェットスーツがオススメです。とても泳ぎやすかったです。
また、丁寧な説明で安心。たくさんの魚を見ることができシュノーケルを堪能できました。
また、チエコさんにガイドをお願いしたいです❣️
この度はツアーにお越しいただき、ありがとうございました。たくさんのシマハギと一緒に泳げて楽しんでいただけたかと思います。またハワイにお越しの際には一緒に泳ぎましょう‼︎ 次回は沖の方もご案内できればと思っています。いつでもお待ちしております。ありがとうございました。Mahalo‼︎ Chieko
It was an awesome family experience for all ages. The crew was amazing. The knowledgeable captain and staff took us to all the right places we saw turtles and dolphins. Lots of fish. They know all the names of all the fish so it was also educational. Highly recommend!!!!!
This time, we participated with a group of ten people. Most of us were first-time snorkelers, so we had some anxiety, but the responses to our inquiries were very polite, which made us feel at ease about joining.
We were unsure about renting wetsuits until the last minute, but it turned out to be a great decision for everyone. There were moments when we swam near rocky areas, and thanks to the buoyant wetsuits, we could enjoy ourselves without worry.
On the day of the event, our hotel was split into two locations, but they sent two cars to pick us up, allowing us to meet up smoothly on the way to Hanauma Bay.
Our guides, Chieko and Dan, were incredibly helpful. They kindly encouraged us, who were nervous about swimming, and guided us by holding our hands, which allowed us to enjoy snorkeling comfortably until the end.
Unfortunately, we didn't get to see any sea turtles, but we were able to swim with many colorful fish, making it a precious experience that will be a lifelong memory.
When we visit Hawaii again, we would definitely like to request your services. Thank you very much!
今回は10人で参加させていただきました。
私たちのほとんどがシュノーケリング初体験だったため、不安もありましたが、問い合わせの際にはとても丁寧に返信していただき、安心して参加することができました。
ギリギリまで迷っていたウェットスーツも、全員レンタルして大正解でした。岩場の近くを泳ぐ場面もあり、浮力のあるウェットスーツのおかげで安心して楽しむことができました。
当日はホテルが2か所に分かれていましたが、2台の車でそれぞれ迎えに来ていただき、途中で合流してスムーズにハナウマ湾へ向かうことができました。
ガイドのチエコさん、ダンさん、本当にお世話になりました。泳ぎに不安があった私たちにも優しく声をかけながら、手をつないで誘導してくださったおかげで、最後まで安心してシュノーケリングを楽しむことができました。
残念ながらウミガメには会えませんでしたが、たくさんのカラフルな魚たちと一緒に泳ぐことができ、一生の思い出になる貴重な体験となりました。
またハワイを訪れた際には、ぜひお願いしたいと思います。ありがとうございました。
I think a wetsuit is necessary. I recommend renting one.
ウェットスーツは、必要だと思います。
レンタルするのをおすすめします。
この度はフラのお友達の皆様とお越しいただき、ありがとうございました。朝の引き潮タイムでしたので透明度もよく、波の影響も少なく、初めてシュノーケリングを体験されたお客様にはやりやすかったのではと思います。皆様に安心して泳いでいただけて良かったです。是非またハワイにお越しの際にはリピートしていただければ嬉しいです。また一緒に泳ぎましょう!! お体に気を付けて、皆様が大好きなハワイのフラを楽しんでお続けくださいね。本当にありがとうございました。Mahalo‼︎ Dan&Chieko
Hannah was our instructor for myself and my two kids first trip to Oahu. I wanted for us to try out snorkeling in a more controlled environment and I’m so glad I stumbled across this option because it was great! Hannah was super friendly and informative and we had a great time. Definitely book this if you’re a little uneasy about snorkeling and want some more experience that isn’t tossing you into the open ocean 👍🏻
The beach was so beautiful and the water was clear. We enjoyed snorkeling.
Beach was so beautiful and water was clear. We enjoyed snorkeling.
Extra towels are recommended for laying out and sunbathing.
Bring extra towels to lay out and sunbathe
We had a tour with six people, guided by Chieko and Dan, who took us around Hanauma Bay. They provided attentive care, which made us feel safe and allowed us to enjoy the experience.
We were able to see many fish and even an eel, and the hour flew by. However, it did get a bit cold towards the end. I think a wetsuit is essential.
Making our own reservations, arranging transportation, and waiting in line to rent equipment and suits, as well as storing valuables, can be quite a hassle. With this tour, everything was arranged without any worries, and we were guided according to the day's conditions. The pick-up and drop-off were direct.
Thank you, Chieko! I had a great time. Thank you very much.
6人のツアーにチエコさんとダンさん二人ガイドがついて、ハナウマ湾を案内してくださいました。きめ細かく良く面倒を見てくださったので、安心して楽しめました。
沢山の魚や、ウツボなど、見ることができて、あっという間の1時間でした。が、最後は、寒くなってきました。ウェットスーツは必須だと思います。
自分で入場予約枠確保して足を手配したり、現地で並んで機材やスーツを借り、貴重品預けるのはのは、かなり面倒。これらが何の心配も無く、手配されていて、その日のコンディションに合わせて案内してもらえます。送迎も直行直帰でした。
チエコサン、お世話になりました。とても楽しかったです。ありがとうございました。
I think it's better to rent a wetsuit in May, although there is an additional fee.
ウェットスーツ、別料金ですが、5月は借りた方が良いと思います。
この度はツアーにお越しいただき、ありがとうございました。ハナウマ湾を楽しんでいただけて、良かったです♪ハナウマ湾のお魚達はあまり逃げませんので、お魚の種類も豊富ですし、お魚ウォッチングには最適な海なんです。呼吸に問題がなければあっという間ですね。また是非ハワイにお越しの際はツアーにリピートしてください。またお会いできます事をお待ちしております。本当にありがとうございました。Mahalo‼︎
Had a great time with our instructor and tour guide. He made it very easy very quick to get in the park. Usually when you go to a new place, you don’t know where you’re going. Told us where to go. What to do pick us up. Drop us off skip some lines. It was just an awesome time. Had a blast definitely would recommend my nephew and his wife are coming next month and I am telling him to go nowhere else.Veltra
Thank you guys. You all did great! hope we see you again. Dan.
Overall, I was quite satisfied.
First of all, being able to see a sea turtle up close was the biggest highlight, and it was worth participating just for that. I thought there might be some luck involved depending on the ocean conditions, but we were able to encounter them, which really boosted my excitement.
Also, it was great that I could enjoy the experience even with almost no English skills. The guide's explanations were simple, and they were conveyed well through gestures and the overall atmosphere. As long as I understood the basic flow, there were almost no situations where I felt lost.
全体的にかなり満足度高かったです。
まずウミガメを至近距離で見られたのが一番大きくて、これだけでも参加した価値は十分ありました。海のコンディションや運次第な部分もあると思っていたけど、しっかり遭遇できてテンション上がりました。
それと英語がほとんどできなくても問題なく楽しめたのも良かった点です。ガイドの説明はシンプルで、ジェスチャーや雰囲気で十分伝わるし、最低限の流れさえ分かっていれば困る場面はほぼありませんでした。
The restroom near the meeting place is too dirty to use. It's better to change and use the restroom beforehand.
集合場所近くにあるトイレは汚すぎて使えません。着替えやトイレは予め済ませて来た方がいいです。
A trip with a 60-year-old couple and their daughter.
I appreciate the guide's efficiency and thoughtfulness. I'm glad we finally got to meet the sea turtles.
I usually don't get car sick, but I did get seasick.
60歳夫婦と娘の3人旅
ガイドさんの手際良さや気遣いに感謝してます。念願のウミガメさんにも会えてよかったです。
普段、車酔いしたことありませんでしたが、波酔いしました。
この度はご家族様でツアーにご参加いただき、ありがとうございました。楽しんでいただけてとても嬉しく思います。ウミガメさんにも会えてよかったですね。波酔いはよくあることですので、次回は事前に酔い止めを飲んでいただければ大丈夫ですよ。またハワイにお越しの際にはお会いできますことをお待ちしております。本当にありがとうございました。Mahalo!!
I was truly moved to see natural fish and coral reefs right nearby while swimming. However, the sea was cold at 7 AM in January, so I couldn't stay in for long... I think it would be enjoyable around 10 AM when the sun is fully up.
泳いでいるすぐ近くを天然の魚や珊瑚礁を見ることができ、本当に感動しました。
ただ、1月の朝7時の海は寒くて、長時間は入っていられませんでした…。
日が登りきった10時ごろなら楽しめると思います。
If you're experiencing this in winter, I recommend bringing a jacket or a larger towel that you can wrap around yourself.
冬に体験されるなら、上着や羽織れる大きめのタオルを持参することをお勧めします。
Hanauma Bay was really beautiful and probably one of my favorite places on the trip. The view was amazing, and I took a lot of nice photos just by lying on the grass and looking at the ocean. It felt super relaxing and peaceful. I also saw some really cool fish, which made it exciting and different from just a normal beach.
There were a few things I didn’t like though. The rocks in the water made it kind of hard to walk, and sometimes it hurt my feet. I also didn’t enjoy snorkeling that much, but that was mostly because I felt sick. I think it would actually be really fun if you feel okay.
Be careful when putting on sunscreen and don’t get it too close to your eyes because it really hurts. Also, watch out for mongoose because they might steal your food. I saw it happen to people sitting near us. Overall, Hanauma Bay is an awesome place and I would recommend going.
Dan was amazing, we had a marvelous time, Dan was patient, knowledgeable, friendly, and fun!
definitely worth the money
Thank you guys. You did great! Hope we see you again.
Dan and Chieko (?) from Hawaii Blue Divers were amazing! This particular company made the entire process our family of 3 as easy as it could be- no need to worry about anything! We had a great ride to and from Hanauma bay, we didn’t have to fuss over securing admission tickets (which I hear are a pain), we were provided with everything needed included tram rides to and from the entrance to the bay. Which was so appreciated after snorkeling 🤿. Dan was incredibly attentive and helpful to me (a scared of natural water, fear of drowning, and uncoordinated 44 year old), as well as to my 9 year old daughter who knows basic swimming concepts but is not yet a full swimmer. We were personally guided and had such a great experience. I cannot speak highly enough of these folks. Incredibly attentive, adaptive and knowledgeable. We clearly had chosen the right company to go with from the ease of entering the park before a HUGE line of white vans, not having to walk down to the bay or back up, snacks and water provided, and no need to deal with the hassle of renting equipment. We didn’t need to do anything beside show up to our pick up spot and have required cash and a change of clothes. They offer wetsuits and I highly recommend getting them for a bit more warmth, protection from getting scratched by coral, and added buoyancy. Make sure to have a good breakfast and hydrate before going, take clothes or a cover up to wear/change into, think about waterproof pouches for phones (not required as Dan did great with photos), towels, and enough cash to pay the entrance fee, rent wetsuits, and provide a BIG tip because you’ll be grateful for the experience. Expect to be tired and thrilled because it is a great snorkeling tour of the bay. Thank you Dan and Chieko!!!
Get the wetsuits!
Thank you guys. You all did great! Hope we see you again.
I participated in the tour in late March. It was quite cold since it was early in the morning and cloudy. I can't speak much English, but the tours with Japanese guides are quite expensive, so choosing this tour was the right decision. Even if you're worried about your English, you can just check the meeting time for the return trip with a translation app, and there won't be any problems. Hanauma Bay is a place that has value in "going there itself," so it's important not to have excessive expectations about the sea. If you're looking for an environment filled with tropical fish, you should go to Guam or Miyako Island. In that sense, I don't think snorkeling tours are very meaningful, especially the expensive ones with Japanese guides. It's particularly tough when it's cold because you can't swim at your own pace. That's why this tour, which only includes transportation, makes sense. That said, the price feels a bit high considering it only covers the entrance fee, group transportation, and mask and fin rentals. However, since it's just a group transportation tour without any special individual services, I believe tipping is basically unnecessary.
3月後半に参加。早朝でかつ曇りだったのでかなり寒かったです。英語がほぼ話せないですが、日本人ガイド付きツアーは割高なので、このツアーにして正解でした。英語が不安でも、帰りの集合時間だけ翻訳アプリで確認すれば問題なし。ハナウマ湾という場所は「行くこと自体」に価値がある場所であって、海自体に過度な期待は禁物です。熱帯魚がそこら中にいるような環境を求めるなら、グアムや宮古島に行くべき。そういう意味で、シュノーケリングツアーはあまり意味がないと思います。日本人ガイド付きの高価なツアーなら尚更です。特に寒いと自分のペースで泳げないので、余計に辛くなります。だから送迎のみのこのツアーは理にかなっています。とは言え、価格は入場料別で、グループ送迎+マスク・フィンレンタルだけの内容の割に、値段はやや高めに感じました。ただグループ送迎のみのツアーで、特段、個別のサービスはないため、チップは基本的に必要ないと私は思います。
Since there are many shallow areas, it's better to borrow life jackets (but please carefully consider if you need one for each person). Fins are designed to be worn barefoot, so marine boots are not n
浅瀬が多いのでライフジャケットは借りた方がいいです(但し人数分必要かはよく吟味してください)フィンは素足で履くタイプなので、マリンブーツは不要です。このツアーに参加する限りパスポートは持参不要です。
We had an amazing time. Aiden, Zack ,Caleb and the captain Justine were all so amazing. They made our experience so welcoming and comfortable. MUST TRY
I think you can swim from the morning in the summer, but the mornings in March are still cold and tough. However, once the sun comes out, it's not that cold, so it might be better to swim in the afternoon during winter. Even in the shallow areas, you can see a lot of fish and swim close enough to them. I also got to see a seal, which was fun. It was a shame that one of the snorkels was broken.
夏場は朝から泳げると思うけど3月の朝はまだ寒くて辛かった。でも日が出てからはさほど寒くないので冬場は午後がいいかも。浅瀬でも沢山の魚をみれて手が届きそうな距離で一緒に泳げます。アザラシにも会えて楽しかったです。シュノーケルが一つ壊れてて残念でした。
If you're going in March, it's a good idea to bring sweatshirts and similar clothing. I also think you should have swimwear and rash guards as a precaution against the cold.
3月に行く方はスウェットなど持って行った方がいいです。水着もラッシュガードとか寒さ対策した方がいいと思います。
Meeting at the hotel, you can board directly from the beach behind the hotel, and you'll be back in the heart of Waikiki before noon, making it very time-efficient. The snorkeling time is about an hour in the area with sea turtles, and afterwards, we went sailing near Diamond Head. We also saw dolphins. I think this tour is just right for those who feel that spending a whole day in the ocean is a bit much.
ホテル集合~そのままホテル裏のビーチから乗船、お昼前にはワイキキ中心部に戻れるのでとても時間の効率がよいです。シュノーケルの時間はウミガメのいるエリアで賞味1時間ちょっと、その後はダイアモンドヘッドの前あたりまでセーリング。イルカも見れました。丸1日使ってガッツリ海に入るのはちょっと・・・という感じの方には丁度良いツアーだと思います。
All explanations are in English. Turtle Canyon is about 10 meters deep, so if it's your first time snorkeling, it might take some courage since you won't be able to touch the bottom.
諸々の説明は英語のみです。タートルキャニオンは水深10mくらい、足はつかないのでシュノーケルが初めての方は勇気いると思います。
It was easy to get to the boat departing from Waikiki Beach, which is very close to the hotel. The boat was larger than I expected, and even though it was raining that day, there was a covered area inside the boat, which was a relief. Due to the rain, we couldn't see any sea turtles, but we did see plenty of beautiful fish. Although it was raining that day, the waves weren't particularly strong, and I usually don't get motion sickness, but I felt a bit seasick, so I think it's a good idea to take some motion sickness medication beforehand.
ホテルからすぐ近くのワイキキビーチから出航するので移動が楽でした。
船は予想より大きくて当日は雨でしたが屋根付き船内もあり、助かりました。
雨のせいか、ウミガメは見ることができませんでしたが綺麗な魚はたくさん見れました。
当日は雨は降っていたものの特段、波の強い日ではなく普段は乗り物酔いもしない私ですが、少し船酔いしましたので酔い止めは飲んでおいたほうが良いかと思います。
As mentioned in the product description, only English-speaking staff are available. Additionally, there is no consideration for those who are not confident in English. Therefore, for those who are anx
商品説明にもありますが英語スタッフのみです。また、英語が苦手な方への配慮も一切ありません。よって不安な方は日本語対応の他のツアーをオススメします。
★Reasons for a 3-star rating
This is a type where you wrap something around your waist instead of wearing a life jacket. It can be dangerous for elementary school children who lack swimming skills. In fact, children and elderly individuals returned to the boat early. After the tour, I translated the English waiver I signed on-site, which stated that participants should be skilled swimmers.
This is not suitable for children, those who are not good at swimming, or people who are afraid of deep water.
Just when I was feeling disappointed, a sea turtle came close to the boat, and I was thrilled to see it up close. My husband and son seemed to have a great time snorkeling and watching the sea turtle. After that, we enjoyed a long sailing time taking in the scenery, and it seemed like we were looking for whales. We were able to see a whale in the distance, which got the whole family very excited.
I had planned to make a separate reservation for whale watching, but I canceled that and was able to schedule something else, which turned out well.
Sailing was a great experience.
★3の理由
ライフジャケットではなく浮くものを腰に巻き付けるタイプです。小学生のお子さんは泳力がないと危険です。実際、子供や高齢の方は早めにボートに戻っておりました。その場でサインした英語の免責書をツアーが終わってから翻訳したところ熟練した泳ぎができる人の参加とのこと書いてありました。
子供や泳ぎが苦手な人、深い海が怖い人には向きません。
残念だなと思っていたところ、ウミガメが船に近づいてきてくれてしっかり見る事ができて喜びました。主人と息子はシュノーケルでしっかりウミガメ見れたようです。その後、セーリングの時間が長く景色を楽しんでいたあと、どうやらクジラを探しているようで、遠目にですがクジラまで見る事ができ家族みんな大興奮でした。
ホエールウォッチングも別に予約するつもりでしたがそちらはキャンセルし、別の予定を入れられたので良かったです。
セーリングは良い体験でした。
Please do not overexert yourself if you are with small children or elderly individuals. There are a few staff members available, but there is no special consideration for small children. When the wind
小さい子や高齢の方は無理しないでください。スタッフ数人いますが小さい子がいても特別に配慮とかはありません。
風強いとこのタイプの船でもかなり揺れます。酔い止めは必須だと思います。
We participated as a family of three, and instructors Chie and Dan provided a lot of thoughtful care, allowing us to enjoy snorkeling safely and comfortably. Thank you very much. It was great to see a sea turtle as well. The wetsuits had good buoyancy, making it easy to enjoy.
家族3人で参加、インストラクターのちえさん、ダンさん、沢山の気配りをして頂き、安心、安全にシュノーケリングを楽しめました。ありがとうございます。ウミガメにも会えて、良かったです。ウエットスーツは浮力があり、楽でした。
Feel free to consult with the instructor!
インストラクターの方には、遠慮なく相談しましょう!
Thank you for joining the tour. I'm glad that your whole family enjoyed it. I hope you will consider repeating the experience when you visit again. Let's meet again at Hanauma Bay. Thank you. Mahalo!!
この度はツアーにお越しいただき、ありがとうございました。ご家族様皆様に楽しんでいただけて良かったです。また皆様でお越しの際にはリピートしていただけたらと思っております。ハナウマ湾でまたお会いいたしましょう。ありがとうございました。Mahalo‼︎
The guide was very friendly and wonderful, and they took us snorkeling all around Hanauma Bay. However, considering the fee to enter the ocean, the water clarity was low, and there were only dull-colored fish, which was disappointing given my high expectations for snorkeling. It was the morning sea, after all... But the guide was amazing!
とてもフレンドリーで素敵なガイドさんで、ハナウマ湾をくまなく?シュノーケリングしてくれました。ただ、お金を払って入る海の割には透明度が低く、魚も地味な色の魚ばかりで、期待が大きかっただけにシュノーケリングは残念でした。朝いちの海なのに…。でも、ガイドさんは最高!でした。
If you're going to pay to enter Hanauma Bay, I think you'd be much better off snorkeling at an unnamed beach in Miyako Island, where you can encounter much more colorful and beautiful tropical fish.
ハナウマ湾にお金を払って入るなら、宮古島の名もない海岸でシュノーケリングした方がよっぽどカラフルで綺麗な熱帯魚に会えると思います。
Thank you for joining the tour. Upon checking the conditions for 10/10, it seems that the water clarity was low in the morning due to high tide. Hanauma Bay tends to have better visibility during low tide, so for customers looking for clearer water, I recommend visiting during low tide on that day rather than focusing on the difference between morning and afternoon. I will do my best to ensure that you can see colorful fish next time, and I look forward to seeing you again when you visit Hawaii. Thank you very much. Mahalo!!
この度はツアーにお越しいただきありがとうございました。10/10を確認しました所、その日の午前は満ち潮でしたので透明度が低かったのかと思います。ハナウマ湾は引き潮の時の方が透明度は高いですから、透明度を望むお客様には午前と午後の違いではなく、その日のうちの引き潮の時を選んで来ていただければと思います。次回こそはカラフルなお魚達を見ていただけますように頑張りますので、またハワイへお越しの際にはお会い出来ますことをお待ちしております。ありがとうございました。Mahalo!!
**Positive Points:**
- If you have any questions before participating, you can get detailed information via email (as other participants had inquired beforehand).
- On the day of the event, photos from the activity are uploaded to Facebook, allowing you to download them at no extra charge (this was mentioned in reviews and communicated on the day, but it would have been reassuring if it was clearly stated on the website).
- Since the instructor is knowledgeable about Hanauma Bay, you can efficiently snorkel based on the previous day's information and the sea conditions of the day.
- After participating, you get a snack from a selection of snacks and a cold bottle of water (this was quite nice as it helped satisfy a bit of hunger).
- You can borrow a mat that resembles a mat, so you don’t have to sit on the ground.
- There were no additional charges for participating alone (some other tours do charge extra).
- Instead of being lured by the price into an English tour or a shuttle-only tour, going with someone familiar with Hanauma Bay made the snorkeling experience efficient and easy to understand (initially, I planned to join the English tour because it was cheaper).
**Areas for Improvement:**
- I had no complaints about my participation.
- As mentioned above, it would be reassuring if the website stated that you can receive photo data via Facebook.
- Especially in winter, it would be good to have a wetsuit rental plan available from the start (though Veltra might not be able to offer this option, carrying cash is becoming less common overseas, so it would be convenient to avoid searching for cash or exchanging money during participation).
- It would be very convenient if entry fees that must be paid in cash could be paid in advance, including the entry fee.
- It might be good to mention that there is a possibility of a multinational group rather than just Japanese participants (I was aware of this possibility from the reviews and had no resistance to participating in such a tour, but some people might assume it’s only for Japanese participants and feel dissatisfied).
- Since water is provided after participation, it’s a good idea to bring some water with you if you want to hydrate before the event.
- One hour goes by quickly, so a plan that allows for about two hours of swimming would be great.
I decided to participate the day before and submitted a reservation request on a whim, but I received prompt communication regarding the pickup time and location, which was helpful. On the day of the event, there were three participants, including myself, and we snorkeled in pairs. I hadn’t planned to borrow a wetsuit, but since the instructor, Chieko, mentioned she would be wearing a winter wetsuit, I borrowed one at the last minute. If I hadn’t borrowed it, I might have had to give up due to the cold, so I think it’s especially good to borrow one from the start in winter.
I believe there are multiple snorkeling tours at Hanauma Bay, but I was unsure about whether I would receive underwater photo data for this tour. Reviews mentioned that it could be downloaded via Facebook, so I participated with some apprehension, but they uploaded it afterward. As others have noted, you can’t press buttons on your phone underwater. I was able to take photos with a GoPro, but if you want to take pictures with your phone, you need to change the settings to use the side button for the shutter instead of the screen, which is not possible unless you do that. If that’s not possible, it’s better to give up on taking photos and enjoy the actual scenery. Also, since fish and sea turtles move, video is the most enjoyable format.
Although it wasn’t mentioned in the instructions, you can record underwater videos by timing it right: take your phone out of the water, press the record button, and then put it back underwater. To stop recording, take the phone out of the water again. If you want to record videos, that method is reliable.
The age and experience
【良かった点】
・参加前に疑問などがあればメールなどで詳しく教えてもらえる(同じツアーの参加者の方が事前に問い合わせなどを行っていたため)
・当日参加した際の写真のデータをフェイスブックにアップしてくるため追加料金なしでダウンロードできる(クチコミでの記載や当日参加時に教えてもらえましたがベルトラにしっかりと書いていなかったように思うので記載があれば安心できたかと…)
・ハナウマ湾に精通したインストラクターと一緒のため前日の情報やその日の海のコンディションで効率よくハナウマ湾のシュノーケリングができる
・参加後に小腹が空くが複数のスナック菓子からお菓子が一つもらえ冷たい水がもらえる(少し小腹を満たせるためかなり嬉しかった)
・参加前にゴザみたいな感じのマットを借りれるので地べたに座らなくていい
・1人参加でも追加料金がかからなかった(ほかはかかるツアーもある)
・値段につられ英語のツアーや送迎のみのツアーに参加せず、ハナウマ湾に精通した人と一緒に行くことで当たり前だが効率的にシュノーケリングができわかりやすい(最初は安いため英語ツアーにする予定だった)
【悪かったというか今後に向けて】
・参加した不満はなし
・上にも記載したが、サイトにフェイスブックで写真のデータがもらえると記載があれば安心
・特に冬は最初からベルトラでウエットスーツ貸し出しプランがあればよいかと(ベルトラがその選択をできないかもしれないが、海外でも最近現金を持ち歩くことがあまりなく、参加時に現金を探したり両替せずにすむため)
・上とかぶるが絶対に入場料が現金で必要なら入場料込みで事前に支払いができたらとても楽
・日本人限定ではなく多国籍になる可能性があると記載があってもいいかなと思った(口コミを見てその可能性があるとわかっていたしそのようなツアーに参加することに抵抗もないが、人によっては日本人限定と思い込み不満に感じる人もいそう)
・水がもらえるのは参加後のため、参加前に水分補給をしたい場合は少し持参しておくとよい
・1時間はあっという間のため2時間ぐらい泳ぎっぱなしでもよかったためそんなプランがあればよいかと
前日に参加を決めダメ元で予約リクエストを入れましたがピックアップ時間や場所についてすぐ連絡を頂け助かりました。
当日は自分を含め二組の計3名参加でシュノーケリングは2名で行いました。
ウエットスーツを借りる予定はなかったのですが、インストラクターのちえこさんも冬用のウエットスーツを着用すると言っていたので急遽借りましたが借りていなければ寒さでリタイアしていた可能性もあったので特に冬は最初から借りておくと良いと思います。
また、ハナウマ湾のシュノーケリングのツアーは複数あると思いますが自分がこのツアーに参加するか迷った点が水中写真のデータがもらえるか分からなかった点です。
口コミにはフェイスブックでダウンロードできたと書いていたので恐る恐る参加したらあとでアップしてくれていました。
携帯はほかの方も記載していますが水中ではボタンを押せません。自分はGoProで撮影できましたが、携帯で写真を撮るには画面上ではなくサイドボタンでシャッター切る設定などに変更しない限り無理なのでそれが無理なら最初からあきらめ実際の光景を堪能すると良いと思います。また、魚やウミガメは当たり前ですが動くため動画が一番楽です。
案内にはありませんでしたが水に浮いたタイミングや携帯だけ海から出し動画の録画ボタンを押し水中に戻す→動画終了時は再度水中から携帯をだし動画を停止することで水中の動画を撮ることは可能です。もし動画を撮りたい人はその方法なら確実です。
参加者の年齢や経験の有無は運です。そして、その日の海のコンディションや場所によって見える光景もあるため短時間でポイントを押さえまわれるのは非常に効率がいいです。
ただ、正直1時間は短くもっと見たい気持ちはありました。(人によってはしんどいかも…)
また、ウミガメを見れなくても魚や海の中は十分綺麗です。参加した際には3匹ほど見れましたが全て運なので、見れたらラッキーと思って参加すると見れた時の喜びが倍増します!
最後に早朝と昼前のツアーがあると思いますが、次回自分が参加するならば早朝を選びます。早朝に参加し帰宅前には入場ゲートに渋滞が起きていましたが早朝ならそんなことはなくすぐはいれます。そして参加後にホテルで休憩し夕方から出かけたりできるため非常に楽に感じました!
また、ハワイに行くことがあればぜひ参加し体験したいツアーでした。参加を迷っている人は時期により満員とかで参加できない可能性もあるため、参加をお勧めします!
- Rent a wetsuit in winter.
- Videos are recommended over photos taken with a mobile phone.
- Having a GoPro is even better.
- Make sure to get enough sleep and maintain your condition.
・冬はウエットスーツを借りる
・携帯での写真撮影より動画がおすすめ
・GoProがあるとよりよい
・睡眠はしっかり取りコンディションを整える
Thank you for joining our tour. On that day, you were the only two who swam, so you must have swum quite far out, but it seems you wanted to swim even more (laughs). You have quite a bit of stamina! The types of fish you can see and whether you can meet sea turtles depend on the ocean conditions, and since they are natural creatures, it varies every day. Regardless of the situation, we always choose the best course at that time and ensure your safety. We look forward to seeing you again when you visit Hawaii. Thank you very much. Mahalo!!
この度はツアーにお越しいただき、ありがとうございました。あの日は泳いだのがお二人様だけでしたのでかなり沖までたくさん泳いだはずでしたが、それでももっと泳ぎたかったのですね(笑) かなりの体力をお持ちのお客様ですね。どんなお魚を見れるかやウミガメに会えるかなどは海の状況も関係しますし、自然の生き物ですので毎日違います。どんな状況下でもその時の一番良いコースを選んで、いつも安全に案内させていただいております。またハワイにお越しの際には是非お会い出来ますことをお待ちしております。本当にありがとうございました。Mahalo‼︎
The scenery and the driver were great, but during this time of year, it gets quite cold in the early morning, so I wouldn't recommend it too much. It was so cold that I could only swim a little. I envied those who went in the afternoon. I wish they would at least schedule the tours in the afternoon during winter.
景色もドライバーさんも良かったが、この時期は朝早くは冷えるのであまりオススメではないです。寒いので少ししか泳げませんでした。昼から行ってる人が羨ましかったです。
せめて冬はツアーを昼からで組んでほしい。
It was a surprisingly chilly morning for Hawaii. Initially, we signed up without needing wetsuits, but the day before, our guide contacted us and advised that it would be quite cold in the morning, so it would be better to wear wetsuits. My husband and I, both over sixty, along with our daughter, participated in the tour. From the pick-up to entering the bay and snorkeling, our guide was with us the entire time. While our daughter is experienced, it was our first time, and I personally had some physical limitations, which made me anxious at first. However, thanks to the guide's help and instruction, I was able to get used to breathing and managed to complete an hour of snorkeling. It was truly a valuable experience. I highly recommend this tour to those who have never tried it before, so don't hesitate to join as a beginner!
ハワイにしては冷え込む朝で当初ウェットスーツ不要で申し込みしたが前日にガイドさんから連絡いただき、当日朝相当寒くなるのでウェットスーツ着用した方が良いとアドバイスもらい私ら還暦過ぎの夫婦と娘1人ので3人で参加しました、送迎から入湾、シュノーケルまでガイドさんが付きっきりで対応してくれました,娘は経験者ですが私ら夫婦は初体験だった更に私は身体的ハンディがあり初めは不安で一般でしたがガイドさんのヘルプと指導により呼吸には慣れが必要ですが何とか1時間やり切ることが出来ました。本当に貴重な体験をすることができました。未体験の方は初心者だと臆せずに
このツアーに参加されることをお勧めします。
Wetsuits are not only good for protection against cold and injuries, but they also help with buoyancy in the water, so it's advisable to wear them.
ウェットスーツは寒さ怪我対策だけで無く,水中の浮力の助けになるので着用が良いでしょう。
Thank you for participating in the tour. It's winter in Hawaii now, so the water temperature is at its coldest during this season. Wearing a wetsuit is very effective for warmth, and especially for those who are new to snorkeling, it helps with ease of swimming and buoyancy. You all did a great job with your breathing, so next time you might be able to swim smoothly on your own without holding my hand. The first time snorkeling can feel the most challenging, but with each attempt, you will become more accustomed and skilled. I look forward to seeing everyone again on the tour when you come back to Hawaii. I was really happy that you all persevered until the end. Thank you very much. Mahalo!
この度はツアーにご参加いただき、ありがとうございました。ハワイも今が冬ですので、水温は一年の内で一番冷たいシーズンです。保温のためにも、また特にシュノーケリングが初めての方には泳ぎ易さや浮力の確保のためにもウェットスーツはとても有効なんですよ。呼吸は皆様とてもお上手でしたから、次回は私と手を繋がなくてもご自身お一人でスイスイ泳げるかもしれませんね。シュノーケリングは1回目が一番難しく感じますが、回を重ねる毎に慣れて上手になっていきます。またハワイにお越しの際にはツアーで皆様にお会いできるのをお待ちしております。最後まで頑張っていただけて、私も嬉しかったです。本当にありがとうございました。Mahalo!
We participated in a tour that included a shuttle service to Hanauma Bay and a snorkeling set, with three people including a 12-year-old child. The pickup time was early in the morning. It was still dark outside, and I was worried about being out so early, but shortly after arriving, dawn broke. We were able to see a wonderful sunrise, which was the perfect start to the day.
Snorkeling was first thing in the morning, and there were plenty of fish. Although there were times during the day when it was cloudy, it didn't matter, and we still had a great time seeing lots of fish.
On this day, there were no other Japanese participants in the tour besides us. However, that wasn't an issue at all.
Additionally, we could borrow life jackets on the spot by asking the tour staff. Please note that these are cash only.
We considered renting a car to get there, but I think it was better to avoid the hassle of reservations and enjoy the convenience.
I would definitely like to participate in this tour again.
ハナウマベイシャトルサービスシュノーケルセットのツアーに、12歳の子供を含む3人で参加。
ピックアップの時間は早朝。
まだ外は暗く、こんなに朝早く?と心配になりましたが、到着して間もなく夜明け。素晴らしい朝焼けを見る事ができて、最高の一日のスタートでした。
シュノーケリングも朝イチで、魚が沢山いました。日中曇りになる時間も有りましたが、
それでも問題なく、沢山のお魚を見ることができて楽しかったです。
ツアーは、この日は、日本人は私達以外いませんでした。だからといって問題はないです。
また、ライフジャケットも、ツアーの方に言えばその場で借りる事ができました。
これらは、現金のみになります。
レンタカーを借りて行く事も考えましたが、
便利さと、予約などの手間が省けてよかったと思ってます。
また、参加したいツアーです。
Although it was just a shuttle service, I really appreciated the effort to help us get in early to Hanauma Bay, which requires a specified entry time.
送迎だけですが、入場時間の指定が必要なハナウマベイへ早く入れるためにがんばってもらえて、とても助かりました。
Wonderful experience swimming with the turtles. But I was struggling with light headedness and nausea. The lifeguard and crew were so caring and sensitive. They encouraged me to stay out in the water as long as I felt confident but then took me back to the boat via the surf board when it was too much. I was given a ginger ale to sip on and the team frequently checked on me. Always encouraging and supportive. I never felt shamed or ridiculed. Thank you
The hosts were knowledgeable, accommodating, and so kind. We loved the stress free experience.
Thank you guys,
Hope we see you again.
Dan and Chieko