Oahu Two-Tank Wreck and Reef Dive from Waikiki: Shipwrecks, Reefs & Practical Prep
Board a USCG‑certified boat from Waikiki for two guided dives: a historic wreck and a lively local reef. This small‑group trip emphasizes safety, professional gear, and close accompaniment by licensed dive professionals—ideal for certified divers seeking accessible wreck dives near Honolulu.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring your certification card
Evidence of current open-water certification is required for wreck and reef dives—no card means no dive.
Plan flights around diving
Do not fly within 18 hours after diving; longer if multiple dives or deep profiles are planned to reduce DCS risk.
Protect the reef
Use reef‑safe sunscreen and maintain neutral buoyancy to avoid touching coral; Hawaii law requires staying near your guide.
Prepare for motion
Take seasickness medication before boarding if you’re prone to nausea—Pacific swells can be significant offshore.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning reef drifts near Kewalo Basin for calm conditions and cleaner surface intervals
- •Shoreline viewing spots at Magic Island for pre- or post-dive sunsets and local lei stands
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtle (honu)
- •Hawaiian reef fish like surgeonfish and parrotfish
Conservation Note
Operators follow Hawaii conservation rules—staying with guides, avoiding coral contact, and using reef-safe products helps protect fragile benthic communities.
Many of the local wrecks began as 20th-century naval or cargo vessels; over decades they have become artificial reefs that now support diverse marine communities.
What to Bring
Certification card & logbookEssential
Proof of certification and logged dives are mandatory for wreck dives and boat manifests.
Mask, snorkel, fins (personal)
Personal fit improves comfort and reduces fogging; rental gear is available but fit varies.
3–5 mm wetsuit (or 5+ mm in winter)Essential
Thermal protection keeps you comfortable on two-tank days and during surface intervals.
Surface signaling device (whistle/SMB)Essential
Required for surface safety and to communicate with the boat in current or low-visibility conditions.
Common Questions
Do I need to be certified to join this trip?
Yes. This tour is for certified divers only—bring your current certification card and logbook; evidence is checked at check-in.
What wrecks will we dive?
Typical wreck dives include the Sea Tiger, YO-257, or the San Pedro; the operator chooses sites based on conditions and permits.
Can beginners join with an instructor?
Private instructor options may be available by request, but standard trips require certification; contact the shop to book a private guide for extra bottom time.
What is the no‑fly rule after diving?
Plan to wait a minimum of 18 hours after diving before flying; longer waits are advised for deeper or repetitive dives to minimize DCS risk.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for surface swims, gear handling, and multiple descents; comfortable with basic dive skills and some finning.
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