Oahu Two Tank SCUBA Diving Boat Tour for Beginner Divers - Waikiki Dive Center reviews, Oahu tours & activities, fun things to do in Oahu | HawaiiActivities.com

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Find out more here

Oahu Two Tank SCUBA Diving Boat Tour for Beginner Divers - Waikiki Dive Center

Overall Rating

4.91 4.91 / 5

Reviews

35 reviews
Post a review

Amazing Diving Experience for Beginners

Reviewed by: Rachel, 2023/07/07

Waikiki Dive Center delivered an exceptional diving experience. Let me begin this review by stating that I was genuinely terrified to scuba dive before this experience. I had no prior certification or training classes under my belt. As a complete beginner, I received comprehensive instruction alongside fellow novices in basic skills on dry land before embarking on the boat to the dive site. Moreover, the dive center provided an ample selection of equipment for trial, including fins and wet-suits of varying sizes.

Once everyone confirmed the fit of their gear, we were transported via a clean and well-maintained bus to the boat that would ferry us to the diving site. The boat itself was well-stocked with water and snacks. Upon reaching the dive site by boat, divers were organized into groups based on skill level. Each group, consisting of 1-4 divers, was accompanied by a seasoned instructor. Novices such as myself were able to practice our skills at the ocean's surface while fully geared up.

My group's instructor, Nick, displayed remarkable patience and a genuine concern for the safety of each diver, effectively assuaging my nervousness. He consistently ensured that each diver was doing well through hand signals and emphasized the importance of equalizing pressure to prevent discomfort or injury. Furthermore, although not directly assigned to my group, instructors Abby, Chad, and Yoshi were tremendously helpful and displayed an unwavering commitment to safety. The rules and regulations were clearly explained multiple times, ensuring that everyone was well-informed.

Since the dive "package" we opted for included two oxygen tanks per person, I used the first dive/tank as a warm-up, which significantly enhanced the enjoyment of the second dive. Additionally, I was thrilled to bring my Go-Pro along for the second dive, capturing breathtaking pictures.

Overall, I thoroughly relished this experience and wholeheartedly recommend it, particularly to beginners.

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2023/07/03
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

We saw a turtle!

Reviewed by: Anirudh, 2023/01/07

You're in great hands with Chad. He was an excellent instructor and underwater guide. He was very thorough in prepping us. We were able to see a lot of cool stuff, including a turtle!

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2023/01/02
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

2 Tank Scuba Review!

Reviewed by: Derek, 2022/09/24

Rachel was absolutely amazing! The first dive we saw lots of fish and the second dive was even better with a shark and turtle hanging out together! All 3 instructors (Rachel, Josh and Nick) were all very helpful and knowledgeable! The Captain took us to 2 great spots and an experience we will never forget! Thank you to the dive center and all the staff for amazing memories!

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2022/09/22
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Best time EVER!!

Reviewed by: Antonio1982, 2022/04/23

even though I couldn't make it all the way to the bottom scuba diving cause I couldn't get my breathing/hyperventilating under control I still had the best time ever just being able to experience what I did. The small Asian girl and both guys as well as the captain were awesome and the two in the water instructors were patient and encouraging. They def made it a good time and an experience in Hawaii that will last a lifetime. thank you Waikiki Dive Center. we will be back again our next trip to Hawaii. 5 STAR SERVICE!!!

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2022/04/22
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Good times

Reviewed by: Doug, 2021/12/25

I took my daughters and one of their friends out for diving experience. Even though the instructors tried and tried to help them they couldn’t seal their mask and became sea sick. This was no fault of the dive instructors or dive company. My daughters still had a good time snorkeling.
My daughter’s friend and I dived and enjoyed the experience. Make sure you tip the instructors and captain well, it is a lot of work to make this adventure happen and they deserve it.!

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2021/12/02
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Scuba diving

Reviewed by: Jeff Henry, 2021/11/30

We totally enjoyed having Lauren as our diving instructor who was very encouraging and knowledgeable throughout the entire time. The entire crew was very professional and the captain of the boat Winter was amazing also. We definitely recommend this place if you are interesting in scuba diving.

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2021/11/28
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Nice people, but prepare for motion sickness

Reviewed by: Jess, 2021/08/03

I really liked all the staff members there. They were very kind, nice, and try best for you. However, the equipment they use such as car or boat is very old and small, which made me have a severe motion sickness and I could not do scuba diving at all. Total activity lasts about 4 hours but you actually scuba dive for less than 45 mins in total (there were two dives) I think. You wait like an hour at the shop them preparing, take their van to go to harbor, wait for them to get ready at the boat.. I expected all the preparation should be already ready for us, but wasn't, which was fine I guess. Anyway, I personally wouldn't do it again, but my husband enjoyed and saw cool stuff, and seemed like other people also enjoyed.

  • what you see under the sea

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2021/07/21
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Two Tank Intro Dive Review

Reviewed by: John, 2019/07/26

Waikiki Dive Center is a small dive shop that works with both beginners and experienced divers. The boat is small (no bathroom). We had 7 divers on the boat, including instructors. Water is provided, but you must bring your own food.

Since this was my sixth time diving (not certified), they did a quick review of skills with me, but I did not need much instruction. My dive instructor pointed out some interesting sea creatures including a small octopus (too fast for me to get a picture). Lots or turtles at this dive site.

Only down side was the second dive was at the same site, but we did explore more on the 2nd dive.

I am considering going back there to get certified.

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2019/07/18
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Great time with our three kids! For their first time diving, I couldn't have asked for a better experience!

Reviewed by: The Hall family , 2019/05/06

Liz was great. She and the other staff were super friendly, knowledgeable, attentive, and helpful. She gave us a couple of nice dives....we didn't have to do a thing, the crew took care of all the hard work of loading tanks and equipment, so just got to have fun. 10 out 10 would do again!

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2019/05/03
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Amazing Scuba and Snorkling outing!

Reviewed by: Woolley Family, 2017/05/18

From check in with the staff at the office to Our instructor Christian and Captain Steve and the rest of the crew, the whole day was outstanding! Great instruction, kindness, patience, and clean equipment.

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2017/05/15
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Great Time Diving!

Reviewed by: Brent, 2017/05/09

I had a great time diving. It had been a long time since my last dive so I considered myself a "beginner". Great staff and very helpful every step of the way.

I highly recommend them!

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2017/04/15
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Excellent Dive Shop

Reviewed by: Jeryn, 2017/04/29

Really truly awesome, friendly, and knowledgeable people. Honestly they were just as cool as the actual diving experience. If I'd been able to spend more time on the island I would have just completed my certification through them. 5 stars.

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2017/04/07
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Highly Recommened

Reviewed by: Caleb, 2017/04/15

This is my first time with the Waikiki Dive Center. Amazing and Unforgettable experience.

Although it is introductory scuba diving, the instructor will actually give you freedom to swim around while accompanying you based on your needs and previous experience. (Other company's instructor will actually hold your tank while diving, which is annoying)

99% safe and they will never force you to do anything uncomfortable.

Highly Recommended.

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2017/03/22
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Lots fun!

Reviewed by: James, 2017/02/28

It's a bit difficult to understand specialized vocabulary in English. But still had fun! The driver who picked me up said they will have Chinese version handbook very soon.

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2017/02/25
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Easy going and organized

Reviewed by: MTK, 2017/02/03

Nice professional group of divers all eager to take us newbies down! They took the time to ensure we were all feeling safe and comfortable. Great bunch of people.

  • Getting ready to hop in the water

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2017/01/30
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Experience of a life time

Reviewed by: fcevallos, 2017/01/05

If you must do 1 thing in Hawaii then chose this one and forget everything else! This is a true experience of a life time. There is nothing above ground that could get similar to this Dive.
I had never done this before and my wife and I decided to try it for the first time. The instructors are super knowledgeable and will show you each and every step of the way. From the very basic hand signals used under water all the way down to show you an octopus once you are at the bottom of the ocean.
I brought a gopro camera with me but I forgot to get the case to go below 33feet under water so I couldn't take any pictures myself but the instructor took one of us and sent us via Facebook.
These guys are amazing and I would love to do it again; in fact, we are going to do Scuba Diving again in Florida and the Bahamas since we loved it so much

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2016/11/27
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Amazing adventure

Reviewed by: Mike and Virginia, 2016/12/17

As first timers we were naturally nervous. The instruction was so reassuring. I would definitely do it again.

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2016/11/27
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Great experience

Reviewed by: Daniel , 2016/09/08

Very friendly and knowledgable staff at Waikki Diving. I would recommend this to anyone that loves the water or has interest in becoming a certified diver! Thanks for the great day!!

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2016/09/05
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

The most amazing dive ever

Reviewed by: Nicole, 2016/06/03

What a great day. We swam with turtles and saw reef sharks, octopus, moray eels and beautiful fish. The visibility was incredible and as a certifued diver the best ive ever experienced. Amanda our guide was fantastic and we felt very safe. Wouls do it again definitely!

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2016/05/31
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

awesome experience

Reviewed by: john, 2015/06/06

As a beginner diver. The instructors were great. Patient and understanding. The underwater experience is something everyone should put on their bucket list. It's A WHOLE NEW WORLD down there

Rating:
Attended as:Friends
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

awesome experience

Reviewed by: john, 2015/06/05

The instructors were great. Very patient with me and the beginner divers. Eventually I was the only beginner diver that made it to the bottom of the ocean. Unbelievable experience with sea turtles and the other marine life. It's a whole new world down there

Rating:
Attended as:Friends
Activity Date:2015/06/03
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Awesome Scuba Dive!

Reviewed by: Marisa, 2014/06/09

All-in-all, I recommend this tour from Waikiki Dive Center. They have great instructors!

When I first walked into the dive shop it was fairly clean, but a little disorganized. The displays were a little difficult to reach and could be made better by putting out a single style and have customers ask for a size from the stock to sell in the back.
Everybody there was pretty nice, and very laid back. It was busy so I could understand that things were running late.
Once we got our gear, our driver Waylon took us to the boat at Kewalo Basin. He was friendly and nice to talk to but this is for scuba diving so don't expect a flamboyant tour bus operator.
The initial instruction was done by Gracie. She was really nice and did a great job at explaining things to keep everyone safe and having a good time. This was my first time and I had a little anxiety, but the breathing in scuba diving really is like yoga breathing. It was very calming, a different world in the ocean. I kind of felt like an astronaut. We had two dives, and everyone was very helpful in instructing us. Lacey worked with my group. She was nice and very much about safety for us newbies. We saw all kinds of sea critters. I took it easy and did the 'yoga' breathing and it turned out quite well.
If you want your scuba certification, Waikiki Dive Center is a great place to get it. This first intro dive counts towards it, so you're practically half way there already.
Nice people + Nice scuba diving = Awesome!

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

awesome experience in Waikiki

Reviewed by: Jude, 2014/01/05

We had scuba diving in Waikiki. It was more than awesome to do scuba diving in waikiki beach, swimming with sea turtle. It seemed sea turtle family . So excited seeing sea turtle under the sea.

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2013/12/09
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Everyone Should Do This!

Reviewed by: The Tsuji Family, 2014/01/04

We loved everything about this place. The experience was very personal the group was only 5 people. I have only been 10 times and it was my husbands first time it was slow enough for beginners but we still covered a lot of water. We saw so many turtles and even got to hold an octopus that out instructor found under some rocks. It was in unforgettable experience!

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Everybody ware good

Reviewed by: Tsutomu Fukui, 2013/12/25

It was so good for me.
Specialy I had experienced 9 m depth.

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2013/12/21
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Fantastic Day Out

Reviewed by: Scott Taylor, 2013/10/08

Had an absolutely great day. I have only done one other dive about 20 years ago, so I booked an introductory 2 tank dive. The instruction by Bob was excellent. There was just myself and 1 other customer on our first dive then on the second we were joined by another instructor. We had encounters with Scorpion Leaf Fish, Moray Eels, Star Fish and not forgetting the best of all, the Octopus, which decided to attach itself to Bobs face. We were allowed to touch many of the different species under the close observation of our instructors. We spent at least 20-25 mins on the first dive and probably 30-35 minutes on the second. A truly memorable day from collection from my hotel to being dropped back off again. Wish I'd done it at the beginning of my holiday to then get certified from PADI. I'll just do it the next time.....

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2013/10/05
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Amazing

Reviewed by: LindaMae, 2013/08/06

I had so many questions about this tour that I called Veltra 7 times- and each time the gentleman was kind and courteous and told me to call back if I had any more questions. It was easy dealing with this company and very affordable.
Thank you for making this experience memorable. My whole family thanks you!

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2013/08/01
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Mrs.

Reviewed by: Mr. Anonymous, 2012/09/30

Booked this activity for my husband and new son-in-law. They both had a wonderful time.

Rating:
Attended as:Families with Young Children
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Excellent Diving!

Reviewed by: Mr. Anonymous, 2011/08/28

Waikiki Diving Centre has good equipment and a good boat. Capt. Dave and Dive Instructor Marco were fun, friendly and professional. Dove on "Sea Tiger" wreck ... awesome dive to deck level at 100' and then to Horseshoe Reef ... Saw a Dragon Eel there ... very rare and very cool. Don't know how Marco found it buried in a coral hole but he did and made sure we all got a look.
Only 6 experienced divers on this outing ... excellent diver to guide ration. Was a great trip!

Rating:
Attended as:Friends
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Just dive in

Reviewed by: Maj Juul, 2011/07/13

Apparently I was affraid of diving, but didn't know until I was already in the water with the gear on. But the instructor was vere understanding and did the things in my pace. Actually he held my hand during the entire dive. I've definetly overcome my fear of diving and enjoyed the fish and turtles. Absolutely magnificent.

Rating:
Attended as:Friends
Was this comment helpful? [Yes]

Oahu Categories