Founded by lifelong waterman Captain Francesco Forti, Hawaii Ocean Charters invites you to experience Waikiki the way locals do—on the open ocean with plenty of aloha. Our small-group catamaran tours and private charters feel pers...
This snorkeling operation clearly gets what travelers want: small groups and guides who genuinely care about your experience. The crew members get called out by name constantly in reviews, with Adriana, Haley, Sam, Moss, and Kelsey earning particular praise for being knowledgeable, attentive, and creating a welcoming atmosphere. People love that these aren't cattle-call tours with dozens of passengers fighting for space. Instead, you're looking at intimate groups where guides can give individual attention, help nervous swimmers feel comfortable, and actually show you where the turtles are hiding rather than just pointing vaguely at the water. The wildlife viewing seems to be genuinely impressive, with multiple reviewers mentioning they saw tons of turtles at Turtle Canyon, colorful reef fish, and occasional bonus sightings like spotted eagle rays, seals, and dolphins. Several people specifically recommend booking the earliest morning departure to beat the crowds at the snorkeling sites. What really stands out is how the crew handles challenges: when guests feel seasick or anxious about getting in the water, the team takes time for one-on-one support without making anyone feel rushed or like they're inconveniencing the group. The vibe is professional but fun, and even hesitant snorkelers and solo travelers report feeling completely at ease. If you want a personalized experience over a mass-market tour, this looks like an excellent choice.
This was a great tour. Saw dolphins, turtles, fish and even octopus. The staff were top notch. Helped make the trip memorable and also took beautiful photos of us. Highly recommend.
Justin Hansen
May 24, 2026
This was a great tour. Saw dolphins, turtles, fish and even octopus. The staff were top notch. Helped make the trip memorable and also took beautiful photos of us. Highly recommend.
Justin Hansen
May 24, 2026