Kaneohe Sandbar Morgen Schnorcheltour

My friends booked this trip. They had been to Kaneohe, before kayaking. They thought this time that renting a pontoon boat for the four of us would be the way to go. So, we drove from Waikiki, to enjoy the day snorkeling. We arrived at the harbor, which was pretty empty as it was a week day and therefore had plenty of parking. In front of our car an ‘open party boat’ docked and disgorged what seemed like hundreds of guests: in actuality only about 30. I was not looking forward to being on a boat with so many people. That wasn’t in fact our chartered boat that we’d be going on. Our boat was on the other side of the dock. Although smaller it was plenty spacious for the four of us and perhaps could have held maybe ten people. It was clean and looked in perfect shape - it was in that word, perfect. A man was on the boat and ready for us to board. He was our skipper for the day. His name was (is) Barry. He was a great captain and possessed a wonderful personality. Just having him take us out would have been a worthwhile trip. But it got even better. Barry, took us to the sandbar and anchored us in about three feet of water. We saw many green sea turtles on the way. As we got ready he went over to the ‘storage barge’ and brought over a paddle board for us to play with . We walked around on the sand bar and settled in. Next we snorkled. Captain Bruce, does provide equipment if needed. We brought our own. We swam along the drop off along the reef where we saw many species of fish and even more turtles. After returning to the boat a good variety of snacks and drinks were provided. Close to the time we needed to be back we cruised the sandbar. Barry, had previously seen manta rays in the last week or two, so we went in search of them. We were not disappointed and saw a dozen or so rays displaying courtship behavior at the surface. Although not a part of the planned outing, we were also treated to many varieties of military aircraft at low altitude practicing take-offs and landings at the local military installation. It was an amazing day and I would HIGHLY recommend Captain Bruce Charters. Especially if you are lucky enough to have Barry, as your skipper.

We have been to Hawaii dozens of times and this may have been the coolest thing we have ever done. The sand bar is such a fun place and depending on the tide can be as shallow as barely covering your feet! The tour guides were so kind and professional. We went paddleboarding and snorkeling even though it was a breezy day. Highly recommend.

It was amazing, the crew member were nice! Worth waking up super early to go. Would definitely do it again!

The crew for this excursion was great! The short boat ride to the sandbar was well organized. Paddle boarding and walking the sandbar was beautiful and memorable. By far, the highlight for my family was snorkeling off the sandbar. So much live coral, turtles and fish life with excellent clarity. Conditions were better than Electric Beach, Sharks Cove and Hanauma Bay. I grew up in Hawaii but this was my first ever trip to the sandbar at 65 years of age. Well worth it!

Amazing experience! The crew is super helpful and extremely friendly! Loved it all from start to finish!

We had a fantastic time exploring and playing. We had so much fun doing water activities and viewing underwater creatures. Captain and the crew were very attentive and ensured safety. They ensured everyone got to see turtles and in fact they headed a participant back just when we were being called back to the boat after discovering he didn’t get to see turtles. There was plenty of snacks and drinks. Gears were complete - eye gear (with or without prescription which was helpful to those who wear glasses), and mouth pieces. The attention to detail was superb and attention to safety and ensuring everyone had fun was commendable!

The reef snorkeling is absolutely stunning and a must do!!!

It was a great experience with my family. The staff was helpful (Robin). The boat came with a lot of snacks and drinks to keep you fueled for the journey. The sandbar was beautiful. We saw a lot of fishes and turtles during the snorkelling portion. For the kid, there is even a floatation device with a glass window on it so that even if he wasn't a strong swimmer, he can still enjoy the snorkeling experience. The day we went, the current was very strong, you have a life jacket, but be ready to swim!

Excellent in every aspect from intake to disembarking

It’s possible the weather could be colder than expected so bring an extra layer. Incredible location and the team is really good. Overall a really amazing experience.