Small-Group Dolphin Turtle & Whale Safari w/ Marine Biologists
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 57 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Small-Group Dolphin Turtle & Whale Safari w/ Marine Biologists worth booking?
Small-Group Dolphin Turtle & Whale Safari w/ Marine Biologists is a 3.3-hour experience in Oahu, United States, from $245 per person. It scores 70 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 57 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 70 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (57)
- Duration
- 3.3 hours
- From
- $245 per person
Leave the crowds behind. Small 10 guest, semi-private groups. Departures 7 and 11 am. Private bathroom, shade, comfort and speed to go where dolphins, turtles, whales, flying fish, and even pilot whales roam free. Every
What you get
About this experience
Leave the crowds behind. Small 10 guest, semi-private groups. Departures 7 and 11 am. Private bathroom, shade, comfort and speed to go where dolphins, turtles, whales, flying fish, and even pilot whales roam free. Every outing is customized in real time to wildlife conditions and your group’s interests—no rigid loop, no rushed timeline. *Ethical opportunities to swim with wild dolphins—and sometimes other whale species *Safari-style exploration covering diverse marine habitats, above and underwater *Expert biologist guides share real science and island storytelling *Flexible, guest-centered itinerary based on live ocean conditions *Deep respect for wildlife—no chasing, no crowding *This isn’t a party cruise or a packaged attraction. It’s a deeply personal ocean experience—ideal for families, photographers, and nature lovers.
What's included
Included
- Snacks
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Carbonated beverages
Not included
- Gratuities
- Towels and Refillable Water Bottle
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Oahu
Please meet us a the A Pier gate of the Waianae Small Boat Harbor Free Parking
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Please meet us a the A Pier gate of the Waianae Small Boat Harbor Free Parking
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Sat, Sun
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Wild Side Specialty Tours, LLC
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Infants must remain in carriers/slings
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
- You may be in offshore waters and restricted from medical care (beyond first-aid) for extended periods of time
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 57 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
57 verified traveler reviews for Small-Group Dolphin Turtle & Whale Safari w/ Marine Biologists. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Best thing we did on Oahu
They are a small, family owned company. One boat, one captain, two guides for snorkeling, marine life spotting, answering questions. There were only 5 passengers on our tour (2 small groups) and we all agreed that we wanted to see whales even though it wasn’t whale season. We literally found sperm whales first thing when we reached the open ocean! We had an opportunity to swim with spotted dolphins and watch them from the water. We passed up reef snorkeling (it was two days post storm and the water was cloudy near shore) to watch spinner dolphins (so MANY little performing show offs!!) for a long time and then found some mating green sea turtles to cap off the trip. The Hawaiian snacks were so good that we went to the bakery to buy more on our way back to Honolulu. We took advantage of the offer to purchase their professional shots of the animals we saw (I take trash photos and was way too busy watching the whales to run back down for my phone) and they are really spectacular. Truly a wonderful tour and the highlight of our time on Oahu.
Response from the operator: Mahalo for this wonderful review! You pretty much described exactly what we hope a day with Wild Side feels like. And sperm whales first thing in the morning?! During our rare wildlife season, we always say you never quite know what is waiting offshore, but that was a particularly memorable start. We also love that everyone chose more time with the spinner dolphins over a post-storm reef snorkel. Following the wildlife and conditions rather than a rigid itinerary is one of the advantages of keeping our groups so small. But perhaps the greatest endorsement of all: you tracked down our local bakery afterward for more snacks. 😂 We completely understand. Thank you for choosing our little family-owned operation and for trusting our crew with one of your Oʻahu days. Knowing it became a highlight of your trip means a great deal to all of us. Warmest aloha, The Wild Side Team
via Tripadvisor
Dophins, sea turtles and more
The captain and the two ladies on the boat were the kindest and most outstanding we had on our whole trip. They went out of their way to make sure you had anything you needed. They took photos for us and brought us homemade purple bread with cream cheese frosting plus snacks and a cooler full of juice drinks ect. Lots of fun animal information during down time. We had a snorkel with turtles stop first which was great so we could spend the rest of the time looking for dolphins. We were able to do two jumps in the the spotted dolphins then headed over and watched spinner dolphins on the boat and even saw a monk seal. We had a great time and all agree it was one of our top activities we did on Oahu.
Response from the operator: Mahalo for such a wonderful review! Hearing that our captain and crew were among the kindest and most outstanding people you encountered during your entire trip is about as good a compliment as we could receive. And it sounds like you had quite a day—turtles, two spotted dolphin encounters, spinner dolphins, and even a Hawaiian monk seal! We're also glad the purple ube treats earned a mention. Apparently our wildlife has some competition for the highlight of the tour. :) Thank you for choosing Wild Side and for making us one of your favorite Oʻahu experiences. We'll make sure the crew sees your kind words! Warmest aloha, The Wild Side Team
via Tripadvisor
Must do incredible experience
We had an incredible time with Captain Matt, Alex and Bethany. We had amazing encounters with lots of marine life, including swimming with dolphins, pilot whales, sea turtles, and more. The crew was accommodating, knowledgeable, and fun. They demonstrated great respect for the wildlife while getting us up close incredible experiences. A must do adventure for anyone visiting Oahu.
Response from the operator: Dolphins, pilot whales AND turtles? Apparently the ocean got the memo that you were coming. 😄 We’re so glad you had such an incredible day with Matt, Alex and Bethany. Thank you especially for noticing the respect our crew gives the wildlife—that means a lot to us. Come adventure with us again anytime!
via Tripadvisor
An Unforgettable Eco-Conscious Adventures
We had an amazing morning with the crew. We saw turtles, tons of dolphins (including baby dolphins), one reef shark, and an eagle ray. The waters were some of the clearest waters we've ever swam/snorkeled in. Absolutely beautiful and totally worth it. The team and captain were friendly, knowledgeable, and fun to be with. 5/5.
Response from the operator: Mahalo for your wonderful review—and for calling it an "Unforgettable Eco-Conscious Adventure." We couldn't ask for a better compliment. It sounds like the ocean put on quite a show, from baby dolphins and sea turtles to an eagle ray and even a reef shark! We're thrilled you enjoyed the crystal-clear water and appreciated our crew's passion for sharing Hawaiʻi's marine life responsibly. We hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure. Every safari writes a different story! Warmest aloha, The Wild Side Team
via Tripadvisor
Beautiful gorgeous amazing stunning fantastic
This was an AMAZING once-in-a-lifetime experience! The crew we had was awesome - Mickie, Bethany, and Captain Matt - all made sure we had the best time possible and were so knowledgeable and generous in sharing their expertise. We saw bottlenose and spotted dolphins, birds, fish on the reef, and turtles. The best part was our several interactions with pilot whales (including a tiny baby!) - we were moved to tears. Just stunning and the best vibes. I will do this every time I come to Oahu, can’t wait!
Response from the operator: Knowing that your encounter with the pilot whales moved you to tears is something our crew won't soon forget. Moments like that are why we do what we do. Sharing the ocean with a family of pilot whales—especially one with a young calf—is a truly special privilege. We'll be sure to pass your kind words along to Micky, Bethany, and Capt. Matt. They'll be thrilled to know their passion, knowledge, and enthusiasm helped make your day so memorable. Thank you for appreciating our conservation-first approach and for embracing whatever the ocean had in store. Every safari is unique, and we're honored that this one became a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you. We'll be here whenever you're ready for your next Wild Side adventure. As you said, no two trips are ever the same, and the ocean always has another story to tell. Warmest aloha, The Wild Side Team
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3.3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Sat, Sun
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 20
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 70
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Small-Group Dolphin Turtle & Whale Safari w/ Marine Biologists: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Oahu.
How much does Small-Group Dolphin Turtle & Whale Safari w/ Marine Biologists cost?
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Prices start at $245 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Oahu usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Small-Group Dolphin Turtle & Whale Safari w/ Marine Biologists take?
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Plan for about 3.3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Oahu is not rushed.
Is Small-Group Dolphin Turtle & Whale Safari w/ Marine Biologists worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 70 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 57 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Oahu, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Small-Group Dolphin Turtle & Whale Safari w/ Marine Biologists?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Small-Group Dolphin Turtle & Whale Safari w/ Marine Biologists suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3.3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Small-Group Dolphin Turtle & Whale Safari w/ Marine Biologists?
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Around 20 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Oahu can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Oahu and add a light layer if any part of the 3.3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Small-Group Dolphin Turtle & Whale Safari w/ Marine Biologists start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Oahu within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Oahu?
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On Outty we rank every Oahu experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Oahu: Full or Half Day Grand Circle Island Tour, Oahu Small-Group Circle Island Tour with Turtle Snorkeling, Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Oahu?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Oahu?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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