Waikiki Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise — Diamond Head Reefs & Marine Life Viewing
Glide from Kewalo Basin toward Diamond Head and peer through glass-bottom viewports at coral gardens, a shallow shipwreck, and frequent turtle and dolphin sightings. A 60‑minute, family-friendly cruise that pairs easy access with marine commentary and on-deck shade.
The Experience
Before You Go
Check in early
Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure at Slip F21 to secure priority boarding and get settled on deck.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Apply mineral-based sunscreen before boarding to protect coral and reduce glare on the glass panels.
Bring a light layer
Open water can be breezy even on warm days — a windbreaker or light fleece keeps you comfortable on the bow.
Camera prep
Use a polarizing filter and steady your camera against the railing to reduce surface reflection in photos through the glass.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stand at the bow when passing the shallow shipwreck — currents often concentrate fish there, improving visibility through the glass.
- •After the cruise, walk to the Ala Moana Park shoreline near Magic Island for quieter reef viewing and local food trucks.
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtle (honu)
- •Spinner dolphin
Conservation Note
Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid feeding marine life, and follow crew instructions to minimize disturbance to coral and wildlife.
Diamond Head (Lēʻahi) is a volcanic tuff cone formed by explosive eruptions; Kewalo Basin evolved into a small boat harbor in the 20th century and remains a working marina beside Waikiki.
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the coral ecosystems visible from the boat.
Sunglasses with polarizing lensesEssential
Cuts glare and improves visibility through the water surface for clearer views.
Light wind layer
Blocks the open-ocean breeze that can be stronger than onshore air.
Compact camera or smartphone with polarizer
Captures underwater vistas through the glass; polarizer reduces reflections.
Common Questions
How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts about 60 minutes, with boarding at Kewalo Basin Slip F21 and a return to the same dock.
Will I definitely see turtles or dolphins?
Marine life sightings are common but cannot be guaranteed; conditions and animal movement are beyond the crew’s control.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The cruise is suitable for most visitors but the operator cannot accommodate power wheelchairs; there is one step to board.
When is the best time for whale watching?
Humpback whales visit Hawaiian waters primarily in winter (December through April), so book then for higher odds of whale sightings.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels — minimal mobility needed; one small step to board.
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