Sailing & Snorkeling Adventures with Moana Sailing Company in Honolulu - Honolulu

Sailing & Snorkeling Adventures with Moana Sailing Company in Honolulu

Honolulueasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels, including families and seniors; basic swimming skills recommended for snorkeling trips.

Overview

From snorkeling with turtles to cocktail cruises beneath Hawaiian sunsets, Moana Sailing Company crafts unforgettable ocean adventures off Honolulu’s coast. Discover what sets this standout local outfitter apart.

Details

Located along the vibrant shores of Honolulu, Hawaii, Moana Sailing Company offers a suite of distinctive ocean-based adventures for visitors craving a fresh perspective on Waikiki’s legendary marine environment. With a modern, well-maintained fleet designed to maximize comfort and ocean visibility, Moana Sailing Company crafts experiences that weave together scenic sailing, wildlife encounters, and sociable gatherings on the water. Their offerings range from the tranquil early morning Sunrise Sail to the festive Friday Sunset Cocktail Sail & Fireworks Cruise Combo, each promising a unique way to connect with the Pacific Ocean.

One standout is the Moana Snorkel & Sail Adventure, a hands-down favorite for seeing Hawaiian sea life up close. Guests routinely spot colorful reef fish, graceful sea turtles, and, in rare out-of-season moments, humpback whales breaching not far from the boat. The crew’s attentiveness—highlighted by friendly lifeguards in the water—ensures every participant, from first-timers to families with young children, enjoys a safe, memorable dive into Hawaii’s underwater world.

Beyond snorkeling, the company’s sunset and night cruises deliver a seamless blend of relaxation and communal energy, often enhanced by live bartending and easy conversation. Moana’s Starlit Boat Party and holiday-specific events like the Waikiki Fireworks 4th Of July Boat Party transform the ocean into a vibrant social scene against the backdrop of Pu‘u Ualaka‘a and Diamond Head. These smaller, carefully curated trips keep the vibe intimate, giving travelers space to absorb Hawaii’s natural grandeur without the usual crowds.

What truly distinguishes Moana Sailing Company is their combination of personalized service, local marine expertise, and varied itineraries that invite visitors to experience Waikiki’s coastline beyond the usual tourist lens. Whether you’re here for a serene sunrise, a lively leap into tropical reefs, or a spirited evening under Hawaiian skies, Moana offers a refreshing, immersive way to savor one of the world’s most iconic waterfront cities.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Best Seating

Get to the dock at least 15 minutes before departure to secure your preferred spot on the boat, especially for sunset and fireworks cruises.

Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect your skin and the marine ecosystem by using sunscreen that’s safe for coral reefs during snorkeling trips.

Wear Water Shoes or Slip-Ons

Boat decks can get slippery or hot; water shoes will keep your feet comfortable and safe, especially when entering the ocean for snorkeling.

Secure Valuables

Limit onboard belongings and keep electronics in waterproof cases to avoid damage during water activities or unexpected splashes from waves.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Look for the less-trafficked coral gardens off the Mokulua Islands during snorkeling trips.
  • Attend the Starlit Boat Party for a unique nighttime perspective of Honolulu’s coastline.

Wildlife

  • Green sea turtles (honu) often swim near the snorkel sites.
  • Humpback whales are commonly seen migrating offshore in winter months.

History

Traditional Hawaiian sailing techniques influenced modern charter operations in the area, with Moana Sailing Company upholding respect for local marine culture.

Conservation

The company emphasizes reef-safe practices and encourages guests to minimize impact by using eco-friendly products and following responsible wildlife viewing guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour (sunset)
Early morning
Twilight during fireworks cruises

Best Viewpoints

  • Side seating on the boat for unobstructed ocean views
  • Bow of the boat during calm waters
  • Deck area during sunset cocktails

What to Photograph

Sea turtles and reef life
Humpback whales breaching
Sunset colors over Diamond Head and Waikiki shoreline

Recommended Gear

Reef-safe sunscreen

Essential

Protects your skin and the coral reefs during extended sun exposure aboard and in the water.

summer specific

Lightweight swimwear

Essential

Stay comfortable for sailing and snorkeling with quick-drying and breathable fabric.

summer specific

Waterproof phone or camera case

Keep your devices safe from splashes and saltwater during aquatic adventures.

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is important, especially on sunny, warm sail cruises.