Morning Wildlife Cruise
Morning Wildlife Cruise
Fun-filled tour with Hawaii Glass Bottom
Take advantage of calm ocean conditions and crystal clear waters on the perfect trip for any wildlife enthusiast. Explore tropical reefs and shipwrecks that are home to honu (sea turtles), eels, reef sharks, dolphins, and schools of tropical fish. The mornings on Oahu’s South Shore offer are perfect for looking through glass-bottom boat viewports. This is the most peaceful time of day to cruise on the Pacific Ocean and see the iconic Waikiki beach boardwalk.
During whale watching season (November – May), humpback whales migrate through Hawaiian waters to mate and calve; you may be able to catch a glimpse or two of these majestic creatures on your cruise. We’ve seen them put on spectacular shows for us. You might even hear them sing!
Perfect for large or small groups, book a fun-filled tour with Hawaii Glass Bottom Boats for your family or friends while visiting Hawaii. It’s a great activity for convention groups, employee appreciation days, military group outings, and local school field trips. We also offer wedding photo tours showcasing you on your wedding day against the beautiful backdrop of Oahu’s coastline.
We look forward to sharing our unique perspective of Honolulu with you, above and below the surface.
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We provide water on all cruises. You are also welcome to bring your own food and drinks (including adult beverages) on any of our cruises. We even have coolers with ice that you can use.
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Expect to see local reef fish, turtles, eels, beautiful living reef formations, and the famous South Shore of Oahu. You get spectacular views of Waikiki, Diamond Head, and the cityscape of downtown Honolulu. Sharks, dolphins, and whales may also be seen depending on the season.
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Passengers with mobility issues need to be able to take a step across from the dock to the boat in order to board, and then guests can then be immediately seated. Our crew can assist if needed — just make sure to arrive a little bit early! Once on board, there is plenty of space for all our guests. Walkers and collapsible wheelchairs can be brought on board. Motorized chairs or scooters are not allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are you located?
We’re in the Kewalo Basin Harbor, about a 15 to 20-minute drive from most resorts in Waikiki. For GPS purposes, our address is 1009 Ala Moana Blvd Honolulu, HI 96814. The Haleiwa Queen is docked at slip F26.
Look for the BIG RED SIGN that says Hawaii Glass Bottom Boats.
You can find it at the front of the harbor along Ala Moana Boulevard, close to the entrance near the cross street at Ward Ave.
Do you provide transportation from Waikiki?
No. You must make your own arrangements to meet us at the Kewalo Basin Harbor. There is plenty of cheap parking at the harbor, or you can take a taxi or app-based ride share service like Uber and Lyft.
What kind of boat is it?
The Haleiwa Queen is a 50-foot power catamaran with glass viewing ports on the bottom so you can see what’s going on underwater without ever getting wet!
Is the boat handicap accessible?
Passengers with mobility issues need to be able to take a step across from the dock to the boat in order to board, and then guests can then be immediately seated. Our crew can assist if needed — just make sure to arrive a little bit early! Once on board, there is plenty of space for all our guests. Walkers and collapsible wheelchairs can be brought on board. Motorized chairs or scooters are not allowed.
What do we see aboard the glass-bottom boat?
Expect to see local reef fish, turtles, eels, beautiful living reef formations, and the famous South Shore of Oahu. You get spectacular views of Waikiki, Diamond Head, and the cityscape of downtown Honolulu. Sharks, dolphins, and whales may also be seen depending on the season.
Is there a bathroom on board?
Yes, there is one marine head on the boat.
Are any food or drinks provided?
We provide water on all cruises. You are also welcome to bring your own food and drinks (including adult beverages) on any of our cruises. We even have coolers with ice that you can use.
When is the best time for whale watching?
Whale watching season runs from November to May.
Do you allow swimming or snorkeling on your cruises?
We do not allow guests to swim on our regular public cruises. That said, if you book a private charter, you can opt for a swim or snorkel stop.
Bree W wrote a review Mar 2021
Spokane, Washington
We went on a morning cruise starting at 7am with our 1.5 year old and 7 year old. It was fun for the entire family!! We didn’t get to see many animals but got to see a sea turtle and a glimpse of a whale, which made it all worth it. Beautiful views of Waikiki and Diamond Head. Our son also spotted lots of fish under the glass area of the boat. It was a favorite for all of us so far on O’ahu! 10/10 would recommend. Kid friendly!
Amber P wrote a review Feb 2021
Los Angeles, California
Fantastic experience! Very knowledgeable people and we had a blast! Saw multiple types of fish, ship wreck, and lots of turtles