Guests can see and swim with pods of Spinner Dolphins as they play in shallow protected bays and nurse their young. 
  

Part 1:  Viewing Spinner Dolphins and Humpback Whales

We begin as Nai'a I departs from Waianae Boat Harbor and travels along the scenic west coast in search of Spinner Dolphins. Take some of the most incredible photographs of your vacation as the Spinners come to visit you and perform their superb aerial stunts. Few people have the opportunity to see these spectacular displays. Occasionally, we encounter Bottlenose Dolphins and Spotted Dolphins too.

In winter, dolphins share the waters with mighty Humpback Whales.  The Nai'a I is fast and maneuverable, to get you out to the whales quickly.  You'll have plenty of time to experience their breaches, fin and tail slaps. The boat's maneuverability also allows us to easily shift position for the best possible viewing, and it's low profile makes the view unforgettable. Even a baby whale (calf) appears to be enormous from your perspective.  Other whale species often visit our waters from time to time like Pilot Whales. 

Part 2: Swimming with Dolphins

Playtime and photo opportunities with the dolphins includes our in-water program, known as 'The Drop'.  If the dolphins are awake and playful, we conduct The Drop, allowing guests to safely get wet with the dolphins and experience the sights and sounds of dolphin play from a unique underwater perspective. 

Imagine this: You're in the water, with a mask and snorkel  and suddenly you are surrounded by Spinner Dolphins casually swimming by you chatting amongst each other, as they go about their business.  This is an ocean safari that can not be experienced in a park. 

For novice snorkelers, a professional guide will instruct you, giving advice and educating you about dolphin behavior. Snorkeling and safety gear is provided.

The Drop is successful 90% of the time on our 8:30 morning session.  The dolphins are most playful during the early mornings, so if being in the water with dolphis is most important to you; we recommend you make reservations for the 8:30 am excursion.  Tours that depart after noon (when available) only have about a 50% success rate.

Part 3: Snorkeling with Tropical Fish and Sea Turtles

Snorkeling takes place among some of Hawaii's most pristine reefs, teeming with colorful fish and inquisitive Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. Snorkeling during the winter months is weather and surf dependent. More time is added to viewing whales if snorkeling is not possible.

Learn More

Click on the links below to learn about: 		Click here to make reservations.
  • Before June 15 and after Sept 30, One Excursion offered daily with departure at 8:30AM with hotel pickups between 6:30 - 7:00 a.m. Check in is at 8:00 am at the Waianae Boat Harbor located on the west shore of Oahu, off Hwy 93.
  • Later excursions depart after 12 p.m. and are customized upon request.  Please contact us by calling directly if you are interesed in a later excursion time. 
  • Excursions are lead by seasoned island naturalists with years of experience on the Waianae Coast.
  • Personalized, unhurried excursions are our specialty.  Excursions last 3 hours and are limited to 22 guests.
  • Bottled water, juices, fruit, cheese, yogurt and gronola bars are included in the price and offered while on board our vessel. 
  • Cost is $105 per adult, and $75 per child, with a 10% discount if you meet us at the boat harbor.
  • Summer Schedule between June 15 and Sept 30:  Two morning trips daily at 7:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.  Hotel pick ups will start at 5:45 a.m. for the 7:30 tour and 9:00 a.m. for the 11 a.m. tour.