Sail into Adventure with Hawaii Nautical Honi Olani

If you’re dreaming of a scenic, unforgettable sailing adventure along Oʻahu’s stunning coastline, Hawaii Nautical Honi Olani is one of the best ways to see the sights. This sleek, luxury catamaran offers a range of ocean experiences — from seasonal humpback whale watching to relaxing sunset sails — all set against the backdrop of the Kona coastline’s natural beauty. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply soaking in the sea breeze, Honi Olani delivers a smooth, upscale journey across Pacific waters, blending comfort, adventure, and the spirit of aloha.

A Legacy Rooted in Aloha

Hawaii Nautical Honi Olani is a locally owned company that’s been making waves since 2005. With a deep respect for Hawaiian culture and marine life, their mission goes beyond tour operator. They’re certified by the Sustainable Tourism Association and committed to marine conservation and reducing their carbon footprint. Their crew often participates in reef cleanups and they run all tours with reusable or compostable materials. Hawaii Nautical operates islandwide serving many harbors across Oahu and the Big Island, highlighting their extensive service network. The Honi Olani, one of their signature vessels, sails out of Kewalo Basin Harbor near Waikīkī and offers a polished yet laid-back vibe.

@IslandCruiseLove: “The crew on Honi Olani made us feel like family. Smooth sailing, great music, and unreal sunset views. #OahuVibes”

About Hawaii Nautical Honi Olani​

Hawaii Nautical is one of Hawaii’s largest ocean-activity providers, operating islandwide and serving many harbors across Oahu and the Big Island. With a fleet of vessels islandwide, Hawaii Nautical prioritizes service, safety, and the spirit of Aloha. The company respects the ocean and the ecosystem, following strict guidelines to protect marine wildlife and promote coral reef health. Hawaii Nautical is committed to sustainable practices, such as not feeding fish, honoring the host culture, and supporting local communities.

Tours on Hawaii Nautical

The tours available at Hawaii Nautical Honi Olani​ are more than just a boat ride — it’s an experience. Here’s a breakdown of the adventures available aboard this 53-foot sailing catamaran:

• Whale-Watching Tours — From December through March, thousands of humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii. Enjoy a whale-watch tour along the stunning Kona coastline, offering a unique encounter with humpback whales. They even offer a guarantee: If you don’t see a whale, you can cruise again for free on a trip of the same or lesser value.
• Sunset Cocktail Cruise — This is the top pick for couples, groups, and solo travelers. Set sail from Waikīkī as the sun begins to dip below the horizon. You’ll glide past Diamond Head while sipping on tropical cocktails and soaking in the golden hour.
• Snorkel Sails — Perfect for families and wildlife lovers, this daytime cruise brings you face-to-face with Hawaiian green sea turtles at a protected reef just off Waikīkī. Snorkeling gear is included, and the crew provides safety guidance, making it accessible even for beginners.
• Friday Night Fireworks Sail — Every Friday, the sky over Waikīkī lights up. This tour offers front-row seats to the weekly fireworks display. Book in advance — this trip sells out fast.
• Private Charters — Celebrating a wedding, birthday, or reunion? You can book the entire vessel for a private event. Customize your sail with catering, music, and onboard service.

What to Expect Onboard

The Honi Olani is modern, comfortable, and clean. There’s an open-air deck with seating, onboard restrooms, and a shaded cabin area. A friendly and knowledgeable crew guides each tour and offers insights into Hawaiian marine life and geography.

Complimentary beverages (including locally brewed beer and island-style cocktails) are served on most tours, and light snacks are often available. Snorkeling tours include sanitized gear, flotation devices, and reef-safe sunscreen.

@TropicTides: “I’ve done a lot of tours in Hawaii but nothing beats the vibe on the Honi Olani. Crew was fun, music was great, and they even had veggie snacks. #greentravel”

Safety and Security

Hawaii Nautical prioritizes the highest level of safety. The company treats guests like ohana, the Hawaiian word for “family,” which permeates everything they do. The catamaran’s design provides stability and smooth sailing, making it an ideal vessel for whale-watching tours. Additionally, Hawaii Nautical follows strict guidelines to protect marine wildlife and promotes coral reef health, ensuring a safe and responsible whale-watching experience.

Preparing for Your Tour

Booking with Hawaii Nautical Honi Olani is easy, but it’s smart to plan ahead, especially during peak travel seasons. Here are a few helpful tips:

• Reserve early: Book directly through Hawaii Nautical’s website to secure your spot and check current schedules. Fridays and sunset sails are in high demand.
• Arrive 30 minutes early: Tours depart from Kewalo Basin Harbor, just outside Waikīkī. Parking is available, but ride-shares or walking from nearby hotels is a stress-free option. For tours departing from Honokohau Harbor, check in at the Hawaii Nautical Slip located in the Outer Basin.
• Pack smart: Bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen (required for snorkeling), sunglasses, and a light jacket for the evening sails.
• Consider seasickness: If you’re sensitive to motion, take medication at least 30 minutes before boarding.
• Double-check tour times: Afternoon and sunset tours change seasonally based on the time of year and sunset hours.

Why Choose Hawaii Nautical

There are plenty of boat tours on Oʻahu, but few combine sustainability, professionalism, and that special aloha feeling like Hawaii Nautical does. With an emphasis on protecting the ocean and giving guests a meaningful, safe experience, it’s a tour that offers more than just a great photo op — it creates lasting memories.

Pair Your Sail with Other Waikīkī Adventures

After your cruise, you’re in a prime spot to explore the rest of Honolulu. Make it a full day by checking out nearby Waikīkī Beach, grabbing a poke bowl at the Kewalo Harbor Fish Market, or strolling through Ala Moana Beach Park. Kailua Kona is also a prime spot for various marine activities and tours, offering a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and nautical adventures of the area.

Other great activities nearby include:

• Visiting Diamond Head Crater, one of Oʻahu’s most iconic hikes
• Taking a surf lesson at Waikīkī Beach
• Exploring local art at the Honolulu Museum of Art
• Sampling island favorites at the Honolulu Farmers Market

How to Book

You can book directly through Hawaii Nautical, which provides full details on each tour, current prices, and availability. Some third-party travel sites also offer bookings, but for the most up-to-date information, the official site is your best bet. Pro Tip: If you’re staying at a hotel in Waikīkī, ask the concierge — they often have discount codes or direct connections with Hawaii Nautical.

When to Go

Oʻahu offers beautiful sailing weather year-round, but winter months (December through March) often mean slightly cooler temps and more humpback whale sightings. Summer is ideal for calm waters and extended daylight hours. Whale-watching tours are seasonal and typically run from November through April — check availability when booking.

Connect With the Culture, Respect the Ocean

If you’re visiting Oʻahu and want to feel the wind in your hair, see turtles in their natural habitat, or catch the fiery streak of a Hawaiian sunset, a sail aboard the Hawaii Nautical should be at the top of your list. It’s more than a boat ride — it’s an open invitation to experience the ocean the Hawaiian way. Pack your sense of adventure, a good pair of sunglasses, and your aloha spirit.