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No Cage Shark Snorkel

Location: North Shore, Oahu
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Tour Highlights

Step off the boat and slip into the deep blue and be face-to-face with sharks in their natural habitat. No cage, no barriers, just you, the open ocean, and one of Hawaiʻi’s most powerful encounters

  • Swim cage-free with Galapagos and Sandbar sharks in the open ocean
  • Enjoy in-water support from a dedicated safety diver
  • Join a small-group North Shore tour with only six snorkelers per drop
  • Learn shark behavior and safety from trained marine professionals
  • Snorkel in deep-blue, 100-ft visibility waters three miles offshore

Quick Local Tip: Sharks often start deep and rise slowly as they warm up to swimmers, so don’t stress if they’re hard to spot at first. If you’re one of the last to slip in, you’ll usually catch them cruising closer to the surface, making that first step off the ladder feel a lot easier.

What to Expect

Check-in takes place directly at the boat in Haleʻiwa Harbor 30 minutes before departure. After meeting the crew and going over safety protocols, you'll head out on a 15-minute boat ride, traveling approximately three miles into the deep blue waters off Oʻahu's North Shore.

Once the boat reaches the designated shark zone, the mood shifts as the crew delivers an informative briefing on shark behavior, biology, and proper snorkeling techniques. The atmosphere is focused, yet relaxed, designed to ensure every guest feels confident and comfortable before entering the water.

In groups no larger than six, you'll descend the ladder and into the open ocean, where visibility often stretches for 100 feet or more. Beneath you, Galapagos and Sandbar sharks cruise effortlessly through the current. Occasionally, Tiger sharks may make an appearance, and depending on the season, you might spot pelagic fish like tuna or mahi mahi gliding in from the deep. With no cage separating you from the marine life, this experience offers a direct and powerful perspective on these misunderstood predators.

A trained safety diver is in the water at all times, keeping a watchful eye on both the sharks and the snorkelers. The crew adapts the experience to meet each guest’s comfort level whether it’s your first time in the open ocean or you’re an experienced free diver.

During the winter months (roughly November to April), humpback whales migrate through Hawaiian waters, and their haunting songs often echo through the water while you swim—a surreal auditory experience layered over the visual spectacle.

Back on board, you’ll have a chance to dry off, hydrate, and reflect on the experience. For those who opted for the photo package, a professional photographer will have been capturing your moments from start to finish. Images are delivered digitally after the tour. Guests are also welcome to bring their own cameras or GoPros to document the dive.

Included

  • 15-minute narrated boat ride from Haleʻiwa Harbor
  • Small group experience (max 6 snorkelers)
  • Knowledgeable captain and marine-educated crew
  • Shark safety and behavioral briefing
  • In-water safety diver for all snorkelers
  • Snorkel mask, fins, and wetsuit top provided
  • Bottled water onboard
  • Optional professional photo package available
  • Ride-along tickets available (limited capacity)

Requirements

  • Guests must be 12 years or older to snorkel
  • Check-in is required 30 minutes before departure
  • Tour operates on a strict schedule; late arrivals cannot be accommodated
  • Must be comfortable swimming in open ocean conditions
  • Please bring: towel, sun protection, and any personal cameras (GoPros welcome)

Duration

2 hours

Address

Haleiwa Harbor, HI 96712

Cancellation Policy

Customers will receive a full refund or credit with 48 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation.