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Haleiwa Catamaran Whale Watching

Location: North Shore, Oahu
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Tour Highlights

Experience the thrill of whale season from the deck of the only commercial sailing catamaran on Oʻahu’s North Shore, where humpbacks cruise, breach, and sing in one of the most active whale corridors in Hawaiʻi. With an uncrowded boat, expert crew, and the freedom of true sailing, this tour puts you closer to the magic of these giants than you ever imagined.

  • Sail aboard Hoʻo Nanea, the North Shore’s only commercial sailing catamaran
  • Frequent 50ft humpback sightings with blows, tail slaps, spy hops, and dramatic breaches.
  • Morning calm or afternoon tradewind sailing: Choose between glassy, still oceans or an exhilarating sail under full canvas.
  • Hear whale songs in real time through the onboard hydrophone
  • Small, uncrowded groups for better views, personalized attention, and a more natural encounter with wildlife.

Quick Local Tip: When the captain says, “Watch for the footprint,” look for a perfectly smooth, glassy circle on the ocean surface. Whalers used to think it was from the oil off the whale's skin, but it's the displaced swirl left behind after a dive. Spotting footprints helps you predict exactly where that humpback will resurface, often giving you the best photo of the whole trip.

What to Expect

In the morning the water is calm and the blowholes linger in the air. This is the best opportunity to see multiple whale sightings before the wind comes up. It is easier to find whales and slowly get closer to them when the ocean surface is still smooth before the mid day winds.

By the afternoon the tradewinds are blowing and the sailing is fun! This 40ft Catamaran was originally built for speed and has been converted into a whale watching boat. So as the main sail is raised, the jib goes up, and we sheet in, get ready for fun on the ocean. We will sail towards the whales as we glide along the ocean.

This North Shore catamaran charter was chosen as the best whale watching on Oahu because of it’s personalized attention, uncrowded boat, and fun and informative crew. During whale watching season the ocean boils with activity from the humpback whales and marine life.

The Catamaran

The 40ft Ho'o Nanea is the perfect boat for whale watching. It is just the right size to keep you close to the ocean, but big enough to be a safe and stable viewing platform. There is a cooler full of non-alcoholic refreshments and a bathroom onboard the boat. We are the only commercial sailing catamaran on the whole North Shore. You will not find a gaggle of boats competing for whales. 

The whales do not get frightened or disturbed by our boat because most of the time we are under sail. When we do motor, the small outboard engines are very quiet and unobtrusive. Our underwater hydrophone lets you hear the singing, clicking and moaning that goes on between the groups of humpbacks. It is a truly amazing experience!

Included

  • Frequent Humpback Whale, Dolphin, and Turtle Sightings
  • Friendly and Knowledgable Crew
  • Informative Tour teaching about Hawaii's Humpback While Migration
  • Coast Guard Approved Life Jackets on board
  • Non-Alcoholic Beverage Refreshments
  • Bathroom Onboard
  • Bring Your Own Beer / Alcohol Permission
  • Enjoyable Sailing off the underdeveloped North Shore

Duration

2.5 hours

Address

  • Please meet us at our boat in the Haleiwa Boat Harbor. For GPS, we recommend that you use the "Haleiwa Joe's Seafood Grill" or harbor address: 66-105 Haleiwa Rd., Haleiwa, HI 96712. Our boat is located next to the 2 story grey building in the middle of the harbor.

Cancellation Policy

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. There is a 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 dock. Private charters require 168-hour (7 Day) notice for refund. 20% fee for ALL canceled Private tours. Contact us anytime to inquire about cancellations or reschedule.