West Oahu Snorkel Cruise, Marine Life & Dolphin Watch Expedition from Waianae reviews, Oahu tours & activities, fun things to do in Oahu | HawaiiActivities.com

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West Oahu Snorkel Cruise, Marine Life & Dolphin Watch Expedition from Waianae

Overall Rating

4.79 4.79 / 5

Reviews

62 reviews
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Amazing experience

Reviewed by: kris, 2021/09/20

Saw a pod of dolpins. swam with sea turtles and we had rare sighting of a HUGE pod of pilot whales, maybe about 30-40 of them !

Reply from activity provider

Mahalo for taking the time to sum up your experience with us. We hope to see you out here again. :) Lisa

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2021/09/18
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Best experience ever

Reviewed by: Hayu, 2021/08/10

I think I came to Hawaii for this. This made me like Hawaii! The first thing I did after iClouding every video of dolphins was buying a shirts that says i love hawaii. I saw so many dolphins and knew that they are much more adorable than i have thought of. They are very curious that they circle around humans, and come really close to boat.

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2021/08/08
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Must do

Reviewed by: Jessica, 2019/04/14

Very memorable experience. We enjoyed it and would go again, they do not teach you how to snorkel so I would look up tutorials before you go. Just so you can get more out of it. They have a photographer on board that takes pictures you can pay for.

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2019/04/03
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Wonderful

Reviewed by: Abigail, 2019/04/07

It was a great experience! Everyone was great! We really enjoyed seeing the dolphins! We also saw a sea turtle! It was definitely a fun day for us!

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2019/04/04
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Definitely worth the 5:30 am pickup

Reviewed by: Mike, 2019/02/18

Don’t worry about the early pickup to get you to the west side of Oahu. After swimming with dolphins and seeing at least 10 whales including a mother and calf, you will be wide awake. Sleeping is for the shuttle back home after such a fun-filled adventure. Do it, you won’t regret it!

Reply from activity provider

Mahalo Mike for your kind feedback. We hope to see you guys again, bright and early. :) Lisa

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2019/02/15
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Amazing

Reviewed by: Maria, 2019/01/13

We went on this tour in the morning, and it was definitely one of the best experiences I’ve ever had!!

Reply from activity provider

We are so glad you enjoyed your time with us. We do hope to see you again for another open ocean adventure out on the West Side of Oahu. :) Lisa, Op. Mgr.

Rating:
Attended as:Friends
Activity Date:2019/01/10
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Highly recommend!

Reviewed by: Trevor Stokes, 2018/06/04

Great family excursion! Absolutely fantastic trip with knowledgeable, informative and passionate crew. Friendly and relaxed. Swam with dolphins twice and saw several sea turtles. Our captain even found a second pod of dolphins so we could see another type. Watched spotted dolphins leaping into the air in our wake and even spotted a reef shark! Can't recommend highly enough!

Reply from activity provider

Mahalo Trevor for taking the time to give us a review. We hope to see you again out there :) Lisa

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2018/06/01
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Awesome!

Reviewed by: Julia, 2018/05/17

-very professional
-super friendly instructors
-we saw dolphins, turtles and fishes
-breathtaking view
-underwater pictures
-enough time to explore the faszinating nature
-interesting facts about dolphins and the island itself

I would definitely do it again - I had a fantastic time!!



Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2018/05/14
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Possibly the most memorable experience on our trip!

Reviewed by: Sandy R, 2018/05/14

This trip exceeded my expectations. We swam with dolphins several times. One pod consisted of 16 dolphins. And we probably saw 50 green sea turtles. Outstanding! The crew went above and beyond to make sure everyone had a great experience. I was saying good bye to my pictures as my camera sank into the coral below. Then Paul dove at least 25 feet underwater to retrieve it. Who could have expected this amount of attention? . As a bonus, he made his pictures available for everyone on board. Thank you, thank you!

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2018/04/20
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Excellent

Reviewed by: Joanne Peters, 2018/01/20

Beautiful water with dolphins and whales and an excellent staff. I’d do it again. Food was exceptional

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2018/01/17
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Fantastic day!!!

Reviewed by: Lisa Macklem, 2018/01/07

This was just a terrific day from start to finish. We were picked up on time, and everything was exactly as advertised. We saw turtles, swam with the dolphins, and saw approximately 8 whales too! It was the first time snorkeling for both my husband and myself and the staff was terrific. Emmanuel picked us up and took care of us for the whole day. Our captain was terrific, making sure that we saw all those whales and had plenty of time for snorkeling with the dolphins and then over a wonderful coral reef. Photographer Justin was also terrific - making sure to get great pictures of everyone who wanted them. HIghly recommend this tour and company! Friendly AND professional!

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2018/01/04
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Absolutely sensational experience

Reviewed by: Trish Foxall, 2018/01/04

Wow, wow, wow. This was the experience of a lifetime for me and my family. We really hit the jackpot. Within minutes of leaving the harbor we came across some Humpback whales frolicking with some dolphins - this was breathtaking. We then swam with sea turtles and had an amazing experience with a pod of approximately 50 dolphins. I honestly believe we had luck on our side because we couldn't have asked for a more amazing experience. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable and made the tour even more enjoyable. I can honestly say this was the highlight of our holiday and would recommend this company to everyone.

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2017/12/29
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Fun time!

Reviewed by: Nichole , 2017/10/28

we were fortunate to see 2 species of dolphins, a humpback whale and sea turtles! The 3 women who were on board- the photographer, the captain, and our tour guide were all super friendly and knowledgeable. If you are looking to see Koran of fish in the water and sea life, this is not the tour but if you are looking to see some mammals and hop in the Ayer from time to time then this is it!

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2017/10/25
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Em, Jenna and Paul- AMAZING!

Reviewed by: Danielle , 2017/08/28

Our experience from start to finish was exceptional! The shuttle ride started with a wonderful ride from Emanual- she was friendly and conversational, making our time feel like it was spent with a friend. She was knowledgeable about the Island and told us interesting things. She suggested we rent a car and we did- the next day! Thanks Em so worth it! On the boat Em and Captain Jenna were wonderful. Our teenager got a little sick but they didn't give up on her, with their words of encouragement and support we set sail. Our 8 year old was afraid and because of you two ladies she got in and snorkeled with an 80year old turltle. Words can express that magic of that experience! We are eagerly anticipating the pictures photographer Paul took. Your attention to detail and obvious dedication to your craft is remarkable. Thank you team dolphin excursion for loving what you do and sharing that with my family. Mahalo!

Reply from activity provider

Mahalo Danielle for your kind words and taking the time to share. I will alert Capt. Jenna, Emanuelle, and Paul to your review so they may fill their soul with candy. We hope to see you again! Lisa, Operations Manager for Dolphin Excursions Hawaii.

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2017/08/25
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Dolphin swim

Reviewed by: Debra Cooper, 2017/08/04

This activity was okay. It was hard to see the dolphins when they did swim near us underwater because we had to wear life vests which kept us at the surface. The snorkeling in this side of the island(at least the part we were taken to)is not as good as other parts. The crew was nice and the food at the restaurant was good. I was not happy that one of our fellow passengers took one of our beach towels. They belonged to the condo we were staying in and I had to replace it.

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2017/07/09
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Snorkeling with dolphins and fish

Reviewed by: VScott, 2017/06/27

I'll start with the positive.

The crew is young and enthusiastic. Everyone had smiles and was helpful with the gear.

This is a great excursion for tourists and beginner snorkelers. Great vivews of the Eastern part of the island and a pleasant swim with sea life. The crew teaches everyone how to use the equipment and will help people in the water. They spend about 20 minutes at each site so, for experienced snorkelers, it can be a little dull.

The hotel pickup was on time and the driver was good. The van is new and the ride was smooth.

You will be visiting with Spinner Dolphins. They are small dolphin and swim in pods of 30. The captain knows their favorite spots and will make sure you get to swim with them. By law, you will need to be wearing a life jacket to do this part of the swim. We got to see two pods. It was delightful. This tour company was knowledgeable about dolphins and is conerned with their safety.

We stopped at two more snorkeling locations. The fist stop was a small cove and the second had turtles.

The lunch at the Spinner cafe was good. I had the breakfast burrito and it was tasty and well prepared. The menu is small but the portions are big. The pancakes looked really good.

The reason for my 3 stars is not the quality of the company but an incident I had. The crew should be better trained in basic fist aid. I ended up treating myself with the supplies I keep in my bag. After asking if I was okay, no one helped or checked on my for the rest of the trip.

I would recommend this for people visiting Ohau and beginner snorkelers.

Reply from activity provider

Warm Aloha,

Thank you very much for taking the time to post about your experience. We are sorry to hear about your incident.
Your feedback has been shared with the activity provider to better serve future guests.

Mahalo Nui Loa,
VELTRA Customer Support

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2017/06/26
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Professional trip

Reviewed by: Marjo, 2017/05/06

This trip was good. We got the feeling that We are in good, professional hands. The guide really knew what she was talking about (highly trained) what you don't see always. The boat was good to This trip. It was easy to see and go to the sea and safe, comfortable to sit while driving. The lunch was average and facilities quite poor but it worked okay. We did see dolphins but not so close. They We scared by other group and another boat. That was dissapointing. But We did see some whales also.

  • A little humps far away

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2017/04/13
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Dolphin Excursion

Reviewed by: Fritzie Zamora, 2017/05/02

Had the best time! The entire family enjoyed! I so recommend this particular tour and admire the crew who made sure we had a great experience while respecting the environment.

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2017/04/29
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Highly Recommened

Reviewed by: Caleb, 2017/04/15

This is my second time and I will still recommend it to my friends.

Saw the dolphins up close and it was fun.

Very safe and effortless.

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2017/03/23
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Experience of a lifetime

Reviewed by: Yang, 2017/04/12

Everything we hoped for and more. Check-in was fast and easy; they even have presc. Goggles. The staff (Capt Jenn and the two Nikki's) were helpful and provided excellent customer service. We saw dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.

Must do when in Oahu.

Rating:
Attended as:Families with Young Children
Activity Date:2017/04/08
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Dolphin Excursion

Reviewed by: Ian, 2017/03/28

Skipper, photographer, and crew member were great and funny. Was a great experience and we were the first ones in the water so that was great.
Would highly recommend this tour.

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2017/03/25
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Highly recommend this tour

Reviewed by: Kelly - Sydney, 2016/12/24

We had an amazing time on our Dolphin tour. Staff were friendly and knowledgable. Loved that it was a small group, and we were able to swim with the Spinner Dolphins and Sea turtles. Also lucky enough to see Bottle Nose Dolphins and Humpback whales too. Only downside was getting a bit sea sick. The staff looked after my phone while I fed the fish and took a great selfie

  • Crew selfie while I fed the fish

  • Go pro selfie.

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2016/11/28
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Totally worth it!

Reviewed by: Kami, 2016/11/11

The crew was great and so was the experience. I would recommend it if you are in the area.

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2016/11/08
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Such a wonderful experience!!!!!

Reviewed by: Susan, 2016/11/08

It was amazing to see these incredible creatures in their natural environment. I almost can't describe the feeling I felt when we were swimming above them.

The crew was amazing, educated, patient, and most of all incredibly organized they were and genuinely cared about the animals safety and well being. We were observers, not there to disrupt these amazing creatures.

This is one of the classiest tours I have been on and believe me I have been on a lot not only in our country but several others. You need to experience this tour!

Reply from activity provider

Mahalo Susan for joining us and taking the time to write this awesome review. We look forward to your return! - Lisa

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2016/11/04
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Amazing experience

Reviewed by: Cory, 2016/10/10

The dolphin excursion was amazing. We learned so much about dolphins and enjoyed snorkeling with them. The staff was so friendly and helpful. They even have a photographer taking pictures. This is a must do activity and me and my children can't wait to go back and do it again.

Reply from activity provider

Mahalo for your feedback and we appreciate you joining us. We look forward to your return. :) Lisa

Rating:
Attended as:Families
Activity Date:2016/10/06
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A awsome day

Reviewed by: Mark, 2016/08/27

The tour was great. We saw dolphins an turtles. Thanks to the whole team for this awesome experience

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2016/08/09
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2nd Time...Still AMAZING EXPERIENCE!

Reviewed by: Suzette Spilsbury , 2016/08/20

Hubbie and I experienced our 1st Hawaiian snorkel with this amazing team in Oct 2015, trip this Aug August we knew we had to stay with Dolphin Excursions...saw MORE THAN BEFORE! It was a Disney Movie...Finding Nemo in real life! SO GLAD TO HAVE USED DOLPHIN EXCURSIONS!!! No other company can give the same friendly, professional and helpful staff to make sure you WILL experience Spinner Dolphins and become almost a part of the Pod!

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2016/08/09
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Turtles are still slow in the water, works for this activity..

Reviewed by: -PAUL-, 2016/05/30

First time doing this. Thoroughly enjoyed it between the dolphins and turtle. I found a turtle by my lonesome, shared with everyone, but I guess there was more action somewhere else. I swam with the turtle as it slowly rose up to surface to get a breathe of air that took no more than one second. Then it went on its way. I don't have pictures of that experience to share, but I did have a go pro recording the whole time. So I have that to take with me the rest of my life.
Needs to said, there is a catch. If you want more interaction with mammal sea life, there is another activity that gets your first hand, up close and personal. However you are in a control environment. Whereas this activity is in the ocean; wildlife, so more than dolphins and turtles to experience(depending on the time of year too).

If I am allowed to edit this post, and also allow to post a hyperlink to a YouTube video, I will post that turtle swim.

  • Right before we jumped in the water

  • Vast mountain landscape is something you can never get bored looking at

  • After we docked, looking east from the harbor.

  • Ditto

Rating:
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Activity Date:2016/05/28
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As advertised.

Reviewed by: Simon and Ivy, 2016/05/15

OK. Nothing special. It's as advertised. I would recommend it.

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2016/05/05
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Amazing experience!

Reviewed by: Robert P., 2016/01/24

We did the early excursion and were happy we did as our group only had 9 people and I felt we were able to see more activity. We rented wet suits since the water was just a bit cooler than our liking, and they worked great. The views on the way to the snorkeling spot are breathtaking as you see the sunrise behind a mountain range. We saw several whales and could hear their chatter in the water, an indescribable experience. We snorkeled with tropical fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Then, we enjoyed a delicious lunch. Only wish we had more time.

The crew and shuttle driver were great! They even returned our beach towels, which we forgot at Spinner's. This excursion definitely under promised and over delivered.

We paid $50-$60 for the professional photographs, which was well worth it to us as it was impossible to capture everything. Can't wait to see them in a couple weeks!

  • Breathtaking!

Rating:
Attended as:Couples
Activity Date:2016/01/22
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