2.5 hrs
Duration
All
Minimum Age
Oahu
Island
Haleiwa
City

North Shore Oahu Whale Watching – Morning or Sunset

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Season: December – May

There is very few whale-watching tours in Haleiwa; as a matter of fact, we are the only commercial sailing catamaran on the whole North Shore.

You will not find a gaggle of boats competing for whales. Avid and apathetic whale watchers alike would both agree that sailing the North Shore of Oahu in search of whales is done best on the Sailing Cat.

The only commercial sailing catamaran on the entire North Shore

Chance to get up close with a breaching whale.

North Shore sunsets are the best, and there is no better place to watch them than from the deck of the Ho’o Nanea. The sunset hours are a magical time.

With the winds calm, the sun turns golden and paints the sky in a palette of hues and colors that seem almost unreal. There is no way you cannot be taken by it. The clean ocean air, vast sky, and unbelievable sunset colors connect you with nature and give you a feeling of relaxation and happiness that most people don’t experience anymore. A sunset sail will calm your mind and let you breathe again. So join us and reset your senses!

 

North Shore Oahu Whale Watching
Adults
Age 13 and over
$85
Children
0-12 years old
$65
 
 
 
Sunset 
Adults
Age 13 and over
$70
Children
0-12 years old
$55

All cruises and tours have a 24-hour notice of cancellation policy. Any cancellation with less than 24 hours notice will not receive a refund. 20% fee for rescheduling within 24-hour period. Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation.

Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances (i.e. lack of participation) Weather conditions are decided at the boat harbor.

Private charters require 168-hour (7 Day) notice for refund. 20% fee for ALL canceled Private tours.

Where do you sail from and where do you go?
We operate out of Haleiwa Harbor, on the North Shore of Oahu. We sail along the North Shore and out into the deeper waters. We do not circumnavigate Oahu or sail around to the West Side. This would be a very long sail with rough upwind sailing on the way home.

How far is Haleiwa from Waikiki?
It’s about 1 hour driving time from Waikiki, via H1 and H2. Please see our Contact page for more information.

What time of year can I expect to see whales in Hawaii?
The humpback whales migrate to Hawaii from December to May every year. Whale watching tours in Hawaii are during these months. Exact start and finish of the season varies each year, depending on when the whales make their migration.

How close do we get to the whales?
You will see breaches blows anywhere from miles away to a hundred yards off the side of the boat. Sometimes even closer, but that would be only if the whales move in on their own for a closer look. We always do our best to provide you with a great vantage point for observation without harassment to the whales, as the coast surrounding the Hawaiian Islands is supposed to be their peaceful winter sanctuary. And being chased and herded by motorboats is not the whale’s idea of fun.

Do you have Hawaii snorkeling tours all year round?
No, we do not have Hawaii snorkeling tours year round. The snorkeling Hawaii tours are during the summer months (June-Sept) , and the whale watching Hawaii tours are during whale season, which is December to May. The whale watching tours do not include snorkeling.

What kind of experience do I need for a snorkeling or whale watching tour?
None! The only things you need to enjoy our sailing trips are a sense of adventure and an appreciation for the ocean. We will provide all snorkeling gear and safety instructions.

Do you always see dolphins?
We often see dolphins, but not every day. Like all wild animals, it is up to them when they want to be seen. On lucky days they will come right up to the boat and play.

Can I bring my children with me on my sailing trip?
Of course! We have special rates for children. Whale watching in Hawaii is a wonderful family adventure. It is also a great educational experience for all members of the family.

Why is there an age restriction?
We do not have an age restriction. Our boat is friendly to all ages, but we do require children to wear a life jacket. And infants to be held at all times by a life jacket wearing adult. We provide all life jackets on board.

Do you provide lunch and beverages?
All of our tours include complimentary beverages. Our 4 hr. morning snorkel tour includes a complete deli lunch.

What should I bring on my Hawaii sailing, whale watching, or snorkeling tour?
Be prepared for lots of fun! You should be prepared for the warm Hawaiian sun and the occasional passing shower. Please bring a light jacket, your camera, sunscreen, a hat, and your bathing suit.

Is there anything else to do in the area for those in my party that are not going on the boat?
Absolutely. The harbor is surrounded by beautiful public beaches. The harbor is located within walking distance of lots of great shops, eateries, and site seeing in Haleiwa town.

Whale Watching