honolulu star whale watching cruise

Star of Honolulu - Dinner and Whale Watch Cruises

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Star Casual Sunset and Show Cruise

Pacific Star Sunset Buffet and Show

Three Star Deluxe Sunset Dinner and Show

Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner and Jazz

Independence Day Cruise

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

STAR OF HONOLULU - DINNER AND WHALE WATCH CRUISES - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Star of Honolulu - Dinner and Whale Watch Cruises

• See all photos

Star Casual Sunset and Show Cruise

Pacific Star Sunset Buffet and Show

Three Star Deluxe Sunset Dinner and Show

Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner and Jazz

Independence Day Cruise

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Star of Honolulu - Dinner and Whale Watch Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Star of Honolulu Whale Watch Cruise

I’ve written about my past experience at the Star of Honolulu’s five-star dinner cruise.

I’ve also made an article about whale watching which, if you’ve read it , explains that whales migrate to Hawaii every winter, making for some excellent whale watching adventures in the months of December to April.

This time, I’m putting the two together since we got invited to the Star of Honolulu’s afternoon whale watch cruise!

Being the Star of Honolulu, they had much more to do than stare at the deep blue.

The cruise included a buffet lunch, entertainment, and fun activities for when no whales were around.

As you know (since you’ve read my last blog post on the ship, of course), the Star of Honolulu is a four-level cruise ship and the largest vessel that operates out of Hawaii.

Their sunset dinner cruise, which I had the pleasure of experiencing earlier this month, is one of the most popular attractions in Honolulu.

During the winter months when the whales are in, the boat also goes out in the morning and afternoon for whale watching cruises.

In the Star’s signature tradition of giving you everything in one cruise, there was much more to do than just search the Pacific Ocean for the visiting leviathans.

We were invited to the afternoon whale watching cruise, so we embarked at noon.

The cruise started with an introduction and greeting by the captain, followed by a short briefing about whales by the on-board naturalist.

The introduction was friendly and informative, not only on the humpback whales we hoped to spot, but also on Hawaii’s marine life in general.

Everything about the Star of Honolulu is professionally done, and this whale watch, though more casual than the dinner cruise, is no exception.

Even after the briefing on whales, the crew and naturalists were always around to offer help, advice, or information on whales, watching, and anything else.

The morning and afternoon tours can be upgrades to include a breakfast or lunch buffet, depending on what time of departure you’ve chosen.

We went out on the afternoon cruise, so we had a lunch buffet served right on the ship.

We got a sneak peek to check out the buffet set up before the lines opened up around 12:30 p.m.

The line started with sweet bread and taro bread rolls.

It continued with the salad bar, which included greens, lomi salmon, and tofu poke, entrees such as seasoned rice, fried noodles, chicken, and white fish.

Following that was the prime rib station, warm and freshly cut. The carver was quite generous, and condiments for the meat were nearby.

Last—and certainly not least—was the dessert station, featuring freshly made brownies and coconut cake…

…and finished with fresh papaya and pineapple.

All-you-can-eat dessert stations are truly the pinnacle of human civilization.

Drinks were also available for purchase, but I was there on professional capacity , after all.

After taking pictures, I was late to get back in line, so it took a while for me to grab my food and return to my seat.

Almost as soon as I left the buffet line, I heard gasps of my fellow passengers and the naturalist got on the mic to announce our first whale sighting of the day!

By the time I had gotten back to my seat to set down my (very, very full) plate, the whale had disappeared.

Anyone going to see a natural phenomenon has to, at one point, contend with the fact that nature isn’t dedicated to pleasing you.

Sometimes lava just doesn’t flow, clouds obscure your sunset view, or it literally rains on our parade.

It’s like that with whale ( and dolphin ) watching: sometimes you get a spectacular once-in-a-lifetime experience, other times, well—it’s called  once -in-a-lifetime for a reason.

On our cruise we were lucky that a mother and a calf were hanging around where we decided to stop and watch.

When I say “we” I mean “the ship as a whole” rather than me specifically, because I saw nothing but a ghost of a wisp of a blowhole spray. And I was too slow to catch it on camera, too.

On the one hand, the fact that I couldn’t see whales was disappointing. On the other hand, the cruise itself was pleasant enough that I didn’t really mind at all.

In addition to the buffet lunch (which was amazing, by the way), there were also activities for passengers to take part in during the cruise back to the harbor.

People could learn how to play the ukulele, dance hula, or string a flower haku lei (worn on the head rather than the shoulders).

The most fun part of the cruise was when all the people who took part in the activities then performed for the rest of the ship: the hula dancers dancing to the impromptu ukulele band while wearing the haku made by everyone else!

It was a good time for everyone, whales or no.

For those of you who really want to see whales, peak season is in February every year.

While the biggest concentration of whales is in the shallow water between Maui, Lanai, and Molokai, you can generally spot them on any island. Kauai visitors should try the West and South coasts including Kalalau and Poipu areas, those on Oahu should try the West side, and Big Island guests should stick to the North and Eastern shorelines (Kohala to Hilo).

If you’re on Oahu and want a fun day activity, especially with a group that isn’t completely jazzed about seeing wild marine life, you should definitely book a whale watching cruise with the Star of Honolulu .

Read on for more pictures of our fun morning cruise!

Having grown up in Honolulu, Jason writes for HawaiiActivities to help share the beauty of the islands with visitors.

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star of honolulu

Early Bird Whale Watch Cruise

C ome aboard Oahu's largest shoreline cruise vessel, the Star of Honolulu, and enjoy a morning whale watch cruise. The Star has a 60-foot high observation deck and four walk-around decks that are perfect for whale watching.

schedule 2 hours

• retail $49.00
• discount $45.00

Star of Honolulu - Dinner and Whale Watch Cruises

• See all photos

Star Casual Sunset and Show Cruise

Pacific Star Sunset Buffet and Show

Three Star Deluxe Sunset Dinner and Show

Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner and Jazz

Independence Day Cruise

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Star of Honolulu - Dinner and Whale Watch Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Wonderous Oahu Whale-Watching Tours

Are you wondering when is the best time to see whales in oahu keep scrolling to find out everything you need to know about oahu whale season, including the best oahu whale-watching tours..

Oahu whale-watching tours are a popular and exciting way for visitors to experience the beauty of Hawaii’s majestic sea life.

From the comfort of a boat, you’ll be able to observe these gentle giants as they breach, spout, and swim in the ocean. 

The tour operators are well-experienced, so you can rest assured that your experience will be enjoyable and safe.

Plus, the tour guides are full of interesting information about the whales and their behavior. So if you’re looking for a unique way to explore Oahu, then a whale-watching tour is your best bet. 

Here are some of the best Oahu whale-watching tours all over the island! 

Popular Oahu Tours/Activities

• Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (this is a fun adventure with the prettiest views)
• Full Pearl Harbor Tour (this is the BEST way to do everything at Pearl Harbor)
• Hawaii Bucket List Tour (you get to pick where you stop on this custom Oahu circle island tour)
• Toa Luau (this is my all-time favorite Oahu luau)
• CLIMB Works Ziplining (this is the longest zipline on Oahu)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Oahu Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Hawaiian Village (this is our favorite Waikiki resort because of the amazing pool area and nearby restaurants)
• Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa (this is a splurge that is totally worth it)
• Royal Hawaiian Hotel (this is a luxury resort in Waikiki that is pink and gorgeous)

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu itinerary complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Best oahu whale-watching tours.

On a whale-watching tour, you’ll have the chance to spot these majestic creatures from the comfort of a boat and take in the stunning views of the island’s coastline. You’ll also learn about the different species of whales that live in the area and their behaviors and habits. 

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, whale-watching tours in Oahu are sure to be unforgettable experiences.

So grab your binoculars and get ready for an amazing adventure as you go on any of these Oahu whale-watching tours! 

1. Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise from Kewalo Harbor

This Oahu whale-watching tour starts in Waikiki and is about two hours long. This whale-watching cruise is only available from December 15th to April 15th, as it is prime whale spotting time. If you don’t see a whale during your tour, you get to go again for free! 

There are multiple times to choose from, both in the morning and afternoon, making it a great choice. It is also more affordable than other options as well, so if you are on a budget, this is the whale-watching tour for you!  Check the latest rates and availability .

2. Star of Honolulu Waikiki Morning Whale-Watching Cruise

From January to March , book one of the best whale-watching tours in Oahu aboard the Star of Honolulu. This is another tour that guarantees that you will see a whale, or you get a free trip to try again. 

You will depart from Aloha Tower and set sail on a huge boat that has four different observation decks to see the whales. This tour will give you plenty of space to roam around and have your own adventure. 

It is a very family-friendly whale-watching cruise that takes off in the morning for a few hours and makes for a perfect way to start your family trip to Hawaii!  Check the latest rates and availability .  

3. West Oahu Whale Watch Cruise from Waianae

This is one of the few whale-watching tours on Oahu that is on the west side of the island. You will set sail from Waianae Harbor on an eco-friendly tour to explore the Humpback Whales’ natural environment on this side of the island. It is a great way to see other parts of Oahu you might not have seen before too! 

Whale sightings are guaranteed, or you can set sail again for free, so you will know for sure to see some of these beautiful creatures.

This tour can fit up to 80 guests aboard their 65-foot catamaran and is another great Oahu whale-watching tour during your trip to Hawaii.  Check the latest rates and availability .

4. Honu Lani Waikiki Whale-Watching Sailing Cruise

With these Honolulu whale-watching tours , you can take off either in the morning or afternoon, making it a great whale-watching cruise on Oahu for those who like to sleep in. Hop aboard the Honu Lani Catamaran and have 360-degree views of the whales! 

This tour is about two hours long and is only available from December until March. Like most whale-watching tours, if you don’t see a whale for some reason, you get to go again for free!  Check the latest rates and availability .

5. Prince Kuhio Honolulu Whale Watch Cruise

On this Oahu whale-watching cruise aboard the Prince Kuhio , you will have a nice, relaxing morning cruise, watching for these magnificent creatures, all the while enjoying a delicious breakfast. Choose from french toast or a short rib breakfast bowl and a cup of Kona coffee. 

You will sail along the Waikiki coast and see stunning views of Diamond Head, as well as a variety of sea life, while you search for some whales. If you don’t see any whales, you can always go again for free!  Check the latest rates and availability .

6. Waikiki Whale Watching Experience aboard the Majestic

With three observation decks, this is another one of the best Oahu whale-watching tours to go on! The Majestic feels like a yacht and will take you on a very smooth sailing during this three-hour tour. 

An expert naturalist also joins you aboard this whale-watching experience to teach you all about these fascinating creatures while you watch for them.  Check the latest rates and availability .

7. North Shore Oahu Private Morning & Afternoon Whale Watching Cruise

If you want a more secluded and romantic whale-watching cruise for your honeymoon , try this private whale-watching tour . You will set sail on a smaller, 31-foot boat with up to six people and go explore the North Shore for a few hours. 

You can choose to leave in the morning, mid-day, or afternoon, depending on your itinerary and preference. You will explore waters that are a part of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.  Check the latest rates and availability .

8. Oahu Whale-Watching Excursion

Head out on this whale-watching excursion during the months of December to May and enjoy sailing along the ocean to spot some Humpback Whales. If you don’t see a whale, you can always come back and go again! 

This tour is a few hours long and comes with snacks and drinks too! The captain will share all about the magnificent creatures and Hawaii as you explore what the ocean has to offer.  Check the latest rates and availability .

9. Oahu Catamaran Cruise: Wildlife, Snorkeling, and a Hawaiian Meal

If you don’t have much time and want to snorkel, whale-watch, and do other fun Oahu activities, this tour does it all . You will have a local guide along this cruise to take you to the best spots to spot some whales, dolphins, turtles, and other incredible sea life. 

Spend a few hours snorkeling and seeing the marine life, and then enjoy a delicious Hawaiian meal as you cruise back to the island. This whale-watching tour is in Ko Olina, which will show you the west side of the island. 

There are 3 different tour times, morning, afternoon, and sunset, to accommodate all your needs. It is the perfect tour if you want to explore all Oahu has to offer during a very short trip to Hawaii.  Check the latest rates and availability .

10. Afternoon Waikiki Glass Bottom Boat Cruise

For a unique Oahu whale-watching cruise, hop aboard this glass-bottom boat cruise ! Along this quick tour, you will have the opportunity to see whales, turtles, and dolphins. Look below the ocean to see even more marine life while you sail with the glass bottom! It is a great way to see tropical fish and coral without even touching the water. 

Because it is only an hour long, it is a great way to explore the ocean, catch some whales, and quickly get back to the other fun things to do in Oahu! This tour takes off from Waikiki and is very convenient and an affordable option as well.  Check the latest rates and availability .

11. Waianae Coast Snorkel Cruise with Dolphin and Seasonal Whale Watching from Oahu

During the winter months, head over to Waianae and go on a snorkel and whale-watching cruise ! This is an eco-friendly tour that will take you on a journey throughout the waters, teaching you about the beautiful marine life you see. 

Because it is a smaller boat, only 15 people will be on the tour, making it a more private and fun experience! After seeing some dolphins and whales, you’ll head to an incredible reef to snorkel with fish and even some sea turtles! 

The west coast of Oahu is usually not very crowded, making it an even better place to explore the tropical fish and creatures in their natural habitat.  Check the latest rates and availability .

Oahu Whale Watching FAQs

Any of the winter months are considered Oahu whale watching season. Usually, January or February are the best whale-watching months on the island of Oahu. 

Whale watching in Oahu, Hawaii, is some of the best out of all the islands of Hawaii! Go on an Oahu whale-watching excursion to see these incredible creatures up close! 

While you can see whales all over the island of Oahu, the best side of the island to see whales is usually by Hanauma Bay or the North Shore. 

Every year, humpback whales migrate to Oahu to feed and breed during the winter months. This is one of the best times to observe them and the perfect opportunity to experience their majestic beauty up close. The Honolulu whale watching season is usually from December until May. 

Whale Watching Tours in Oahu Wrap Up

Oahu humpback whale watching is quite an adventure. Get ready to have an unforgettable time as you witness some of the most beautiful creatures in the world on any of these Oahu whale-watching tours! 

Looking for more things to do on Oahu? Check out the best Oahu sunset cruises , where to see turtles on Oahu , and the best Oahu snorkeling tours !

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

CALL US 808-983-7739

WHALE WATCH CRUISES

Faq for star of honolulu whale watch cruises.

Federal regulations prohibit us from approaching within 100 yards (90m) of a humpback whale. Whales may approach us; we are very careful to avoid injury to whales in such cases.

Outside food and beverages are not allowed onboard. However, if you are purchasing a cruise without a meal, ask your reservationist or any crew member about meal upgrade options and they’ll be happy to assist you.

Yes, we may ask you to present a valid photo ID. Alcoholic beverages may only be served to guests 21 years and older.

Yes. Smoking is permitted outside on the fourth deck after departure.

Pets are not allowed. We follow the American Disabilities Act guideline for service animals which allows those that are individually trained to do work or perform physical tasks for people with physical or mental disabilities. Animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as a service animal under the ADA.

To inquire about a lost item, please call  808-983-7730  as soon as possible. We are not responsible for lost or stolen personal property left behind, but we will do our best to locate your lost item.

Onboard, ask for complimentary 100% herbal ginger capsules to help settle your stomach. Take these at your own discretion. Don’t hesitate to ask any staff for assistance.

Safety is our first priority. The captain may alter the cruise route for the comfort and safety of our guests. In very rare cases, a cruise may be canceled due to severe weather. If a cruise is canceled, every attempt will be made to contact you to reschedule your cruise, or you may call  808-983-7730  using your confirmation number as a reference.

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Educational Whale Watch Cruises for Hawaii’s Schools

FREE Whale Watch Cruises for Public Schools (Grades 2-5)

The Star of Honolulu is proud to offer fully sponsored, free educational Whale Watching Cruises now through March 31, 2024 for Hawaii schools, grades 2-5 who qualify.

This exciting educational excursion promotes marine awareness to young keiki with an opportunity to search for Humpback whales aboard Hawaii’s largest sight-seeing vessel. The cruise includes a briefing by the Captain, Naturalist demonstration, whale facts narration, a hands-on display and more. The Whale Watch Cruise departs at 8:45AM and returns at 10:45AM from pier 8 Aloha Tower Marketplace. (Regular $49 adult, $29 Child age 3-11). Note: Whale guarantee is not included.

Qualifications :

• Hawaii’s public school children, grades 2 – 5.
• One or more of your students would not otherwise be able to afford this educational cruise.
• The group is up to 50 per cruise. Space is based on our availability and conditions and may be limited on certain days.
• The group meets 1 Adult for every 5 Students supervision ratio.

How to Apply: Fill out an application and submit to Star of Honolulu Cruises & Events, 2 weeks in advance of requested cruise date. Note: Transportation is not included with these programs

To apply click here

Special Whale Watch Rate of $18 per person for Public & Private Schools (Grades 2-5) For student groups who do not qualify for full sponsorship or for larger group sizes, take advantage of our Special Education Rate. See qualifications below.

Qualifications:

• Hawaii’s public or private school children, grades 2-5.
• Maximum of 100 per cruise. Space is based on our availability and conditions and may be limited on certain days.