What to Bring on a Snorkel Cruise in Hawaii
One of the most common questions we hear is, “What should I bring on my snorkel cruise?”
Great question! and we’re happy to help you come prepared so you can relax, have fun, and make the most of your time on the water along the beautiful Wai’anae Coast.
Here’s a simple checklist of everything you’ll want to have with you before you step aboard.
Towels:
We recommend bringing your own towel so you can dry off and stay comfortable after your snorkel. While we provide all your snorkeling gear, towels are not included, so a quick stop to grab one from your hotel or beach bag is always a good idea.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen:
Sunscreen is a must when spending time on the ocean, especially on the west side of Oʻahu, where the sunshine can be strong and bright.
To help protect our coral reefs and marine life, we ask all guests to use reef-safe sunscreen. If you forget yours, no worries we carry trusted local brands like Kōkua Sun Care and Raw Love at our check-in desk for your convenience.
Swimsuit (and a Change of Clothes):
Be sure to wear or bring a swimsuit so you’re ready to jump right in. If you’re sensitive to the sun, we highly recommend a rash guard or UPF sun shirt for extra protection while snorkeling.
We also offer sun shirts in our shop, and you’re welcome to purchase one at check-in before your tour. Bathrooms are available on board if you’d like a place to change before or after your swim.
Hat and Sunglasses:
Extra sun protection is never a bad idea. A hat and sunglasses will help keep you cool and comfortable while relaxing on deck and enjoying the views of the Wai’anae Coast.
Camera or Phone:
You’ll definitely want something photo-ready. From huge mountain backdrops and colorful fish to dolphins, turtles, and maybe even whales in season, there are plenty of moments worth capturing.
ID and Wallet:
Please remember to bring a valid ID, especially if you’d like to enjoy a cocktail from our onboard bar.
And while tipping is always optional, it’s greatly appreciated if you feel our crew made your experience extra special. Our team works hard to create a safe, fun, and memorable adventure for every guest.
What We Provide On Board:
One of the best parts about joining a Ko Olina Ocean Adventures snorkel cruise is that we take care of almost everything for you. So you can simply relax and enjoy the day.
Snorkel Masks:
We provide high-quality snorkel masks in all sizes, from kids to adults. We also offer prescription lenses, so even guests who wear glasses can enjoy clear views of the underwater world.
Fins:
Fins make swimming easier and more enjoyable, even for strong swimmers. They help you move smoothly through the water with less effort, and we highly recommend wearing them during your snorkel.
We carry a full range of sizes and our crew will help you find the perfect fit before you enter the water.
Life Jackets:
For everyone’s safety, life jackets are provided for all guests. Children under 12 years old are required to wear them at all times as an extra safety precaution, giving parents peace of mind while the whole family can enjoy the water.
Lunch & Drinks
A tasty lunch is included on your cruise. We offer delicious options that you can choose from when booking, all prepared fresh the day of your tour by our wonderful kitchen team.
We also provide plenty of refreshments to keep you hydrated and happy, including juice, soda, and water.
For guests 21 and over, we also offer a full bar featuring local favorites like Maui Brewing Company beers, along with wine, champagne, and our signature boat cocktails make the perfect way to toast a beautiful day on the water.
Ready to Snorkel?
With just a few personal items and a sense of adventure, you’ll be all set for an unforgettable day on the ocean.
We’ll handle the rest. The gear, the food, the drinks, and the friendly local crew so you can focus on exploring the reef, spotting marine life, and soaking up the beauty of Ko Olina and the Waianae Coast.
We can’t wait to welcome you aboard.