Wild Side Specialty Tours +808.306.7273
FAQs2019-03-21T04:57:22+10:00

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need a Wetsuit?2024-02-15T06:29:50+10:00

Water temp is between 75-82 degrees year-round. It’s usually coldest in spring as the ocean cools over the winter and warmest in fall as it heats over summer. When you are wet, you may get chilly onboard as the movement of the boat creates wind. Don’t forget a towel, they are quite effectively warming when wrapped around you. A rash guard is always a good idea both to protect you from the sun and from any little “stingers” in the water. If you get cold easy in the water, you can always rent a wetsuit the day before at one of the dive shops around the island, such as:

Snorkel Bob’s – https://snorkelbob.com
700 Kapahulu Ave. Honolulu, HI 96816
(808) 735-7944

Aaron’s Dive Shop – http://www.aaronsdiveshop.com
307 Hahani Street Kailua, Hawaii
(808) 262-2333

 

What is the weather like there and what should I wear?2023-01-14T09:18:03+10:00

The weather is usually moderate year-round, typically ranging from the low 70s to upper 80s.  Summer-type clothing, such as shorts, t-shirts, casual pants and sundresses or sarongs are appropriate almost everywhere in Hawaii. There’s plenty of (dry) room to bring jackets.

A hat and polarized sunglasses are also a good idea to protect your face from the sun. And, of course, bring your swimsuits (if under clothes you’re ready to jump in quickly), towel, reef-safe sunscreen and cameras!



What is your cancellation policy?2023-01-14T09:26:38+10:00

In short, cancellations made within the 10 days before departure period and “no shows” will be held responsible for the full price.  If we cancel the charter, we will either attempt to reschedule or you will be refunded in full.

Our decisions to go out, cancel, put people in the water (or not), or return to the dock are all carefully considered on an ongoing basis for each and every charter. We will always make our decisions based on “safety first”, and then what is in the best interest of our guests and the marine life. If we return to the dock early, a fair compensation may be provided.

What time do we leave and what is the approximate return time?2024-02-16T07:46:46+10:00

Half days average 3+ hours. As we like to beat the wind and sun, check in is at 7am for the sunrise charters and 11:15am for the mid-day charters.  Over humpback whale season (winter), we may add third charters with a 3pm/3:30pm or 4pm check in.

Where are you located and how do we get there?2024-02-16T07:47:05+10:00

Find driving directions to the Waianae Small Boat harbor on our map page.

Due to our limited number of guests (6), to keep costs down and still provide personalized quality – we do not provide a shuttle service.

Our solution, TheBus! We have found the total transportation time to be similar to the shuttles of larger tours with various hotel pick-ups. Driving time to our Waianae location is about an hour; time on TheBus (from Ala Moana Shopping Center), is about an hour and a half. We can also help form car pools if do-able, especially for the trip back.

TheBus world-class public transit system costs only $6 round-trip (kids 5yo and under are cheaper or free) to anywhere on Oahu, including Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, Hanauma Bay, and the Aloha Swap Meet. A month-long pass is only $80 per person. See their rates here 

While we do know that you can make it to us on time using TheBus, we also have different departure times and different charters. Please get detailed information on your specific bus departure by calling TheBus Information desk at (808) 848-5555 open daily from 5:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., or inquire by email at custserv@thebus.org,

You will need to provide the following information:

  • Location you are starting from (we suggest a $10 taxi to the Ala Moana Shopping Center hub– to eliminate transfer and any waiting time between hotel bus and the “C” Express leaving from Ala Moana ).
  • Your intended destination – the Waianae (said “Y-N-I”) Intermediate School, that bus stop is across the street from the Waianae Boat Harbor.
  • Day and Time you need to get there
  • There is also a DaBus Oahu app, check it out, especially if you opt for the month pass! Try this Bus tool also.

Otherwise, check discount rates and reservations for Turo, the air bnb of rental cars here or Uber rates here. We have found that rental prices tend to drop anywhere from 1-4 weeks before travel. The theory is that most people make reservations when they book air and hotel, i.e. months in advance, and never look back. Hence the high rates for advance bookings (this is also true for airfares these days). So I have often found very good prices as trip dates approach. Of course it is always wise to lock a fully-cancelable rate…

What do I need to bring and what are the rates?2023-09-20T03:24:41+10:00

We provide food, drinks, and snacks – these items are listed on the tour descriptions. You can bring anything you’d like, especially if picky eaters or special diets.

Be fully prepared to guard against sunburn, the sun in the tropics is very intense. There is shade on the boat, but glare reflects right on in. Sunglasses (polarized will give you the optimal experience), hats, towels and cover-ups are needed, even in the shade. It is usually best to put SPF 30+ sunscreen on before you leave your hotel room, and again while on your adventure. No spray-on sunscreens please! They over-spray all over the boat becoming a safety hazard, or land on others who may not be appreciative!

We supply snorkel gear, but our supply of fins are geared for “average” adult sizes. Its fine to bring your own equipment if you have, ensuring you a good fit. If you would like to rent equipment while on the islands, we suggest AquaZone – Scuba Diving and Water sports Center 808-923-343 Outrigger Reef Hotel, bottom floor or Waikiki Beach Marriott Shops.

If bringing your own, pack your mask between your clothes so the lens won’t take a beating by the airline’s luggage handlers. If you are bringing fins, pack them near the outside of your bag. Fins are tough and will help protect the more delicate things in the center.

Catamarans are known for their smooth “cut-through-the water” rides. But if there is any possibility for sea-sickness, you may want to start popping ginger pills about a week before the charter date, and/or use sea-bands. Sea bands are elastic wrist bands that work by acupressure, usually available where you would find other motion sickness remedies. They take about 45 minutes to work so put them on ahead of time…

For those who are prone to sea-sickness, always stay out on the deck, looking at the horizon. Avoid going below deck.

Black soles make major scuff marks on boat decks 🙁 But barefoot is fine!

See Rates page for our prices, and please be aware that on top of the quoted price is State tax and harbor fees, and a $5 per person fuel surcharge .

How do I make reservations?2017-05-09T23:19:01+10:00

Best bet is to purchase online (secure site) as often we are on the water and by booking online we will both have written records, or email us at reservations@sailhawaii.com with your availability, or call 808-306-7273. It is best to reserve as early as possible, as last minute bookings are hard to get and/or plan for. We suggest a couple weeks ahead of time, but will accept bookings up to the night before – if space available. Our cancellation policy guarantees you won’t be charged anything if you cancel at least 10 days prior to your departure day. Gift certificates are available, and a great idea for honeymooners, anniversaries, birthdays, Christmas, etc.

Is it hard to get in and out of the water?2021-07-05T04:16:39+10:00

Getting on and off the boat is fairly easy from the dock. While hanging onto the hand railing, you will need to step across the water onto the gunwale of the boat, and then take a few steps down into the cabin.

The ladder on the Alaka’i is similar to getting out of the deep end of a pool.  Some, dare I say “normal”, upper body strength is needed to hoist yourself up out of the water into a standing position. The rungs extend a few feet down under the water, therefore you will be in a squat before pulling yourself out.

People with upper body limitations to rotator cuffs, elbows etc. may have trouble getting out if basically one handed/armed. People who are very wide, or big chested (think Beth on “Dog the Bounty Hunter”) may also have trouble as the ladder is narrow shoulder-width. Note that at a certain point, at least one hand will come off the ladder and grab the rope to finish hoisting out onto the swim platform.

We can always scream ‘SHARK!’

Will I get sea sick?2019-03-22T23:50:57+10:00

Catamarans are known for their smooth “cut-through-the water” rides. But if there is any possibility for sea-sickness, you may want to start popping ginger pills about a week before the charter date, and/or use sea-bands. Sea bands are elastic wrist bands that work by acupressure, usually available where you would find other motion sickness remedies. They take about 45 minutes to work so put them on ahead of time…

For those who are prone to sea-sickness, it may be a a good idea to stay out on the deck, looking at the horizon and getting fresh air.

I don’t want to be shark bait!2017-05-09T20:50:48+10:00

Did you know that “Jaws” is still rated the #1 scariest movie of all times? This movie has really given sharks a bad rap. Less than one shark attack occurs per year on average in Hawaii. This attack rate is surprisingly low considering that tens of thousands of people swim, surf and dive in Hawaiian waters every day. Despite these statistics, shark attacks remain an emotionally charged topic. Although the odds are mighty slim that you would even see one of the shy, elusive and fast becoming endangered creatures, here’s some tips that may help you feel better.

“Sharks have always been feared since time immemorial and shark attacks can be terrible, but they are few and far between. The media greatly hype shark attacks and few people realize how rare they are… almost anything is more likely to kill human beings than sharks. ” PETER BENCHLEY, author of “Jaws”

However, our ocean is home to sharks, albeit the fearsome predators are usually offshore and not near the areas we frequent. Local residents stress, “Anytime you enter the ocean, you just got lower in the food chain.” This again highlights the reason that we don’t guarantee swimming with dolphins. Imagine we see the dolphins acting somewhat sketchy (shark present?), but we have to consider giving money back, return trips, etc., over your safety?

Are there age limits?2024-02-27T09:09:52+10:00

We do offer fabulous family adventures, and respectfully experiencing wildlife in their own environment may positively influence your child’s future attitude and choices toward wildlife and natural resources.

Children count as adults so make sure you book the tour including each person in your party. Not just the adults. And please let us know the ages so we can be prepared with child life vests and snorkel gear. If children 5yo and under, please consult us before booking. Children 5yo and under are usually only allowed on private charters.

There are always risks involved in being on a boat, and those risks can be higher with a younger child or infant. Railings on the bow and side of boat are set for use for ‘normal’ heights and will be out of reach for younger children. Though the back, or ‘cockpit’ of the boat, makes a nicely walled ‘playpen’.

Toddlers (making use of the ‘playpen’) are usually only appropriate on private charters and will need to be on a parents/guardians lap or within their arm’s reach at all times, including in the water. Children under 4 ft will not be allowed to swim in deep water. We strongly suggest kids 5 and under stay in the back of the boat.

Children under 10 will need to be under supervision, one adult to each child.  At all times, including in the water. Adults going into the water with a child (one per child under 10) will need to be an adequate swimmer. Preferably, the adult has snorkeled before. If this is a teaching moment for all, best done on a private charter.

We strongly suggest that you read over our terms and agreements page, paying particular attention to the sections on inherent risks, and minor children.

Please also look at pictures and videos of the boat on the website to see how it is laid out and that your are comfortable with that.

As parents, we trust that you know and are competent to decide what is appropriate for your child, are aware of your child’s temperament and curiosity levels, and are willing to take appropriate risks with their safety.

Minors under 18 years of age must either have a parent or legal guardian present onboard for all activities.

Do we need to be strong swimmers , do you have life jackets?2019-03-21T05:31:59+10:00

We are land based mammals attempting to be marine mammals, so there is a certain liability inherent in this activity. It is imperative that we be made aware of any medical or physical limitations of members in your party, preferably upon booking.

Due to increased visitation, it is becoming increasingly difficult to have that magical one-on-one experience swimming with the dolphins. Behaviors are showing that with increasing frequency dolphins prefer and are more attentive to boats, then to swimmers in the water.

Your best experience may then be to stay on the boat, where you will be able to see the dolphins and their behaviors better, closer, and for longer amounts of time. Given that the dolphins are also very aware of any predators in the water, this may also be the safest route!

Dolphins are often better viewed from the higher elevation onboard. A few feet above the water can make a big difference, and aerial behaviors (spins, leaps, etc.) are always seen better from that elevation! The clarity of the water will still allow you to look down and effortlessly observe the dolphin’s underwater antics from the deck or lying on the trampolines.

We do require that everyone who gets into the water wear a provided safety belt (the person in the picture at the bottom of the page is wearing one). We require them for safety and visibility (so we can see you). They are only an inch thick and about 3 or 4 inches wide. They do not hinder swimming since they fit around the waist rather than the torso, and water can pass between you and the belt without restricting forward movement.

That said, and if conditions warrant, calm and strong swimmers do seem to have the highest “success” rate with the dolphins. Those people who seem to have “animal sense”; are alert, observant, good at reading body language, and position themselves correctly (requiring less physical effort), also do well.

Dolphins generally avoid people displaying aggressive (“charging”) behavior. There is an art to the method which is often hard to accomplish in the short 1/2 day time span available. If this is your “life dream” you may want to schedule a few trips to ensure (or increase your odds) that this is realized. Private charters will also give you more personalized attention, and less “competition”.

Snorkeling at the reef is much less “rule” or physically intensive and equally enjoyable with the myriads of tropical fish and turtles. Floaters are welcome! We do all we can to make our passengers familiar and comfortable with snorkeling. However, the best bet is to practice snorkeling at home, the hotel pool, or even the bathtub (!) before you come. Your comfort level in the water will increase dramatically.

Because of the high heat output from the body during active swimming (such as with dolphins), a water temperature of 72 to 75°F is acceptable. With a lower level of activity (snorkeling), a water temperature of 75 to 80°F may be desirable.Ocean temps in Hawaii are normally around 75-76 degrees in the winter and up to 82 degrees in the summer/fall.

Can I swim with the whales?2024-02-20T07:31:01+10:00

In most locations including the Hawaiian Islands, swimming with humpback whales is not allowed. However, we might get in the water near smaller species of whales that we encounter year-round. For ex. pilot whales and pygmy killer whales. Any in water interaction is dependent on their behavior and water conditions.

Do you guarantee whale and/or dolphin sightings?2023-06-11T06:02:51+10:00

As we interact with the marine mammals in their wild state, encounters are not 100% certain. We can guarantee with certainty that you will see either a whale, dolphin, or turtle (usually all three!).

We do feel if we guarantee something (especially something we have no control over like weather or particular wildlife behaviors or species), then the pressure to make it happen becomes foremost. When meeting the guarantee becomes priority, then safety and providing a quality experience become secondary.

Wild Side is “Whale Aware” and a certified partner with WCA, minimizing risks to whales and dolphins. Our experts provide the best, most natural wildlife experience and this almost always guarantees sightings sought (without pressure).

When is the best time to see the humpback whales?2023-02-09T13:59:42+10:00

While Hawaii does have year round whale watching –  the seasonal humpback whale arrival can begins as soon as Fall. The population increases as the season progresses as different classes of whales leave Alaska at different times. For example, females nursing calves leave the Alaska feeding. So although there are many whales and daily sightings come mid-December, the peak population comes a little later (closer to Feb. – March). Likewise, the most action/behavior viewing is also in the Feb. – mid March era.  The single females (now presumably pregnant) are hungry and heading back up to Alaska and similar to “closing time at the bar”, males will be giving a last ditch effort to “catch the gals” (no offense guys)! Soon it will be mostly cows that gave birth this season and their nursing offspring left. It’s a quite and peaceful time of growth, that will soon transform into mom’s teaching and babies practicing breaches and tail slaps. Babies are building muscles and beefing up for that long swim to Alaska.

The best time of day is early morning or later afternoon. Like other mammals, whales tend to be more quiet in the midday ‘siesta’ hours. Not so much that it is hot in Hawaii – but the sun is intense. Also, like other mammals, whales can sunburn too. Humpback whales have lots of protective melanin, but it’s thought that staying a bit deeper and longer under the surface helps to block some of the tropical sunrays. 

Can I touch or “ride” the dolphins?2023-06-11T06:14:42+10:00

Not in the dolphins natural ocean setting, which you will be in. The dolphin’s sense of touch is much more acute than ours and moreover, the act of our reaching out could be considered threatening. Attempting to touch the animals could frighten them away, bringing to an end the possibility of a wonderful encounter.

What about taking underwater photographs?2023-05-14T05:15:35+10:00

Best bet is to leave it to us. You enjoy your journey, and we will document it for you with a photo package.

However we also offer Photography Tours during the calmer summer months. The tours go from deep (sealedges and seamounts) to shallow (coral reef) waters, framing nature above and below the surface. Bring your GoPro or other gear for in-water shots.

Is it legal to swim with wild dolphins?2023-06-11T07:37:33+10:00

Different countries have different rules and regulations surrounding cetacean encounters, invariably with the animals’ welfare in mind.

Here in Hawaii, any in-water interactions with dolphins are usually in deeper water most commonly within large pods of spotted dolphins or (IMHO the much more intriguing) pilot whales. Of course opportunities to do so are dependent on a variety of conditions including weather conditions and animal behavior. Our beloved nearshore Hawaiian spinner dolphins have finally been afforded Federal protection and approaching within 50 yards of them is now prohibited.

Additionally, as a certified partner we adhere to the WCA Global Best Practice Guidance Dolphin and Whale Interactions.

Can I feed the dolphins?2017-05-09T20:12:04+10:00

No, absolutely not. To do so would be to directly interfere with their natural food intake (wild dolphins never eat dead fish), hunting instincts/behavior and their naturally balanced diet.

Is it dangerous to be in the water?2017-05-09T20:11:21+10:00

Your safety is paramount. There is always someone on the boat (if not also in the water with you) watching those in the water.

All participants are given orientation sessions, to become familiar and comfortable with snorkel equipment and the art of dolphin interactions. It is vital that you inform us of any medical conditions o physical limitations that you or members of your party may have.

Spinner dolphins can move at free will if something upsets them or they do not want to be with us. However, we do not want to create such a cause, and will err on the side of precaution at all times.

We will also not let you in the water if we feel the dolphins behavior is at all “sketchy.” This may mean that they sense threat from a predator. We have learned to follow their advice on this. Other reasons we will stay onboard are if the dolphins are traveling (you can’t beat being on the boat for this!).

Can we SCUBA dive with the dolphins?2017-05-09T20:10:27+10:00

While we do use , SCUBA diving is not conducted. Bubbles may act as a deterrent, and horizontal swimming with the added equipment becomes slow and cumbersome in the presence of agile dolphins.

What if the dolphins don’t want to swim with people?2017-05-09T20:09:36+10:00

That’s completely up to the dolphins. Encounters are designed to be at the dolphins pace, on their terms, and at their activity level. It’s not a captive-dolphin swim program, with no choice (likewise it is not a controlled environment). For the dolphins, its stimulating activity. If they’re not enjoying it, we won’t do it.

After almost 20 years of interactions with the resident pod, we have known many of the dolphins since infancy. We know how to read them, and know they will only interact with us if they feel like it. Or more aptly, the better we mimic and follow their lead, the better the encounter.

We limit our encounters to pre-defined areas. That’s sort of like a security blanket for the dolphins. If they move outside of the envelope, we know the encounters are over – we won’t keep at that them.

How long will I be in the water with the dolphins and how long will they stay?2017-05-09T20:09:00+10:00

Because the dolphins encountered are wild animals, no predictions about their behavior (mood) can be made. They are not depending on us for food or other needs, so it is mostly up to them, but also up to our actions how interesting or benign they find us. They may disappear within a few minutes of entering the water, or they may swim in close proximity until you are too cold or tired to swim anymore. We let the dolphins decide when the swim is over. Please trust our judgment on the best encounters for all.

Meeting a dolphin is a life long dream of mine! Is there some sort of activity where I could interact with wild dolphins outside of a “Sea World” type environment?2017-05-09T19:30:15+10:00

Ah, nature at her best, wild and free. The spinners dolphins often swim right up to the boat and display their aerial skills, being quite the show-offs. They also like to catch a “free ride” on the bow, often spraying your dangling toes with their blows or splashes.

We believe this is the best experience, the free swimming dolphins join us because they want to, not because they are fed or coerced in any manner. It may also be possible to slip into the water and swim in the midst of them. There is really an art to this (respect for the animals being vital), keeping in mind that we are now on their terms.

If it is important to you to swim with wild dolphins, than please be equally prepared.

Please see our “swim with dolphins” page, regarding outside influences which we cannot control – but will give 110% to make the most of… Please realize that due to these influences and that we never know how long the “dolphin swim window” will be open, TIMING IS CRITICAL. When we approach the dolphins, please be focused, attentive, and economical in your movements. Be responsible for your connection with the dolphins.

It is not realistic to expect to swim alongside wild dolphins unless you know how to swim and snorkel, are physically and mentally prepared, are able to get up the ladder and back on the boat, and are potentially able to swim a hundred+ yards at a steady pace.

The more comfortable you are both in the water (“in your element”) and with snorkeling, the higher your rate of success will be. Not being either may turn the “dolphin swim” into a snorkeling lesson for you, and can distract from the success of others.

Things to consider for success, comfort, and your safety;

  • Participants must be able to climb a ladder, both sit on a swim step and get up off it, and be able to board and move around the vessel comfortably and with minimal assistance. You must also be able to listen to and follow precise detail, and effectively communicate with the crew.
  • Make sure you are present and attentive for all safety and information briefings.
  • At times the water can be very deep – you will not be wading in from shore – on some occasions, you may not even see the bottom;
  • People have the tendency to overestimate their swimming and snorkeling abilities, and to underestimate their health and/or limitations. If it looks like it may be too much, it probably is.
  • The quicker you can be geared up, the better your odds will be. All gear fitting is done before the boat leaves the dock. Time spent taking pictures from onboard, putting on sunscreen, pulling back your hair, finding safe places for glasses, digging for a towel, neatly folding clothes, etc. rather than gearing up will directly subtract from successful in-water time with dolphins. If we are pressuring you to hurry, its because your success rate is going to decrease with the length of time needed for you to get in the water. Timing is a learned art, please trust us, and for the sake of both you and the dolphins, be ready.
  • Stay focused on the dolphins, where they are, where they are going, how fast or slow they are moving, how fast or slow different pods are moving, activity levels, if you get in and aim for that pod, and you cant keep up, is there another pod behind it? Be responsible for you trip, if you dont know where they are, get your head up and look. If you know where they are, stay with them.
  • Fully grasp the meaning of this profoundly powerful four-word phrase, “Swim with, not at.” Parellel them in every sense of the word. Blend, blend, blend…
  • Also, if really important to you, book more than one trip, or take a multiple day trip. Not only are the odds of getting skunked on two trips unheard of, but EACH time you see the dolphins you will be more comfortable, heighten your interaction chances, really hear our guidance, etc.
  • There are very few places in the world with these types of near shore conditions where swimming with wild dolphins in their natural habitats, by their own choice (no training or feeding) are available.
Can I get a discount?2021-06-13T04:24:42+10:00

Given that we are such an exclusive operation (six guests max), the only discount we consistently offer is a cash discount (you would pay just the retail price listed and skip credit card fees, gas surcharge, etc.) – which is a savings of about 10%, or $20, per person. Let us know ahead of time (the comment box on the reservation form works) if you will be taking advantage of this discount. We will still need your credit card info to hold the spot, but we wont charge it (unless you are a ‘no show’ or what not). You will need to bring pretty much the exact amount (retail price of $205 x # in your party) to the boat on the day of your charter. We don’t have an office or cash register onboard, and may not have change otherwise…

Are your activities ran as separate tours? If not, can someone request to do just one specific activity?2021-07-05T07:32:34+10:00

Most often, we experience all activities offered onboard each charter as we allow plenty of time to do so. There are some seasons that are better for certain activities than for others. For example, big winter waves could lead to to potential snorkeling limitations and humpback whales are usually only seen in winter and spring months (there are other year-round resident whales).

Our vessel may be available to be chartered privately if you would like to stick to a specific activity. The easiest way is just to purchase all ‘seats”. If your party is six people, the Best of the West is already private! You can also book the charter as private and let us know you are open to sharing with others that also, say specifically, only want to whale watch, only want to view pelagic birds, are interested in seeing sharks, etc. If can find the same, they can split the shared private cost with you and the charter and it will be ‘your charter, your way’- if it goes out as private (you would be responsible for full cost) or as a shared cost specialty charter.

What kinds of things we will be able to do or see on this boat tour?2023-11-07T21:51:52+10:00

Embark on an extraordinary Wild Side Specialty Tours charter and prepare to dive into the heart of the Pacific Ocean’s untamed wonders. Here’s a glimpse of the remarkable encounters that await you:

1. Immersive Marine Spectacle: Plunge into the depths of the Pacific, where our own backyard transforms into a vibrant aquatic realm. With your camera in hand, witness the enchantment of green sea turtles gliding gracefully, dolphins playfully leaping through the waves, and whales breaching with majestic grandeur. Marvel at the airborne ballet of flying fish, the elegance of rays, the dazzling diversity of tropical fish, the vibrancy of coral reefs, and the occasional appearance of the gentle giants of the sea, the whale sharks. Join us in an ongoing mission to collect vital data for the preservation of these extraordinary marine creatures.

2. Dancing with Dolphins: In select spots worldwide, you can find the privilege of sharing the sea with truly wild dolphins, unspoiled by human training. Hawaii is one of these exceptional locations. Please rest assured that we approach this encounter with the utmost respect for these sentient beings, and we are selective about when and how we introduce guests to their world. Rely on our experienced team to make the right call, whether to observe these remarkable creatures from the boat or join them in their liquid domain. Furthermore, you may have the opportunity to swim with other captivating marine life, including the serene sea turtles.

3. Year-Round Whale Odyssey: Our whale-watching journeys are a year-round marvel. Guided by our marine biologists and seasoned naturalists, prepare to delve into the realm of these magnificent leviathans. As they grace us with their presence, our experts not only provide captivating interpretations but also diligently gather crucial data on whale populations, their abundance, and their distribution across the islands we explore. Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of these gentle giants in their natural sanctuary.

4. Subaquatic Explorer: Submerge yourself in a world of vibrant marine life as you snorkel above thriving coral reefs inhabited by tropical fish and graceful sea turtles. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned snorkeler, our proficient guides ensure a safe and enlightening experience beneath the waves.

5. Oceanic Education: At Wild Side Specialty Tours, our passion for marine education shines brightly. Our marine biologists and naturalists are dedicated to imparting their profound knowledge and enthusiasm for the ocean’s inhabitants. Each journey is a thrilling educational adventure, leaving you not only with indelible memories but also with a deeper understanding of the marine realm and an unwavering commitment to its preservation. This is the essence of Wild Side – where every voyage is a National Geographic-style adventure into the heart of the untamed sea.

What is unique about your boat tours, compared to ‘everyone else’?2023-11-05T10:36:16+10:00

Our team of marine biologists and trained naturalists share their life’s passions with you; cruising and snorkeling in rural Hawaiian areas and educating the public while protecting the wildlife found.

We (and the animals) prefer the comfort, intimacy and safety of small groups, as compared to the “pile ’em on” busload atmosphere. Likewise, each charter is different than the day before, especially on our premier charters – we do it ‘”your way’ maximizing what you want to do, and what that particular day has to offer – vs. a ‘canned adventure’. Also, proceeds are donated to the Wild Dolphin Foundation to help conserve the animals that we encounter (as gently as possible) and their habitats.

What differentiates Wild Side Specialty’s whale and dolphin tours from other companies – according to one guest’s review, (out of the mouths of babes):

  1. Staff’s passion, love for, and expert knowledge (marine-biologists!) about the marine life – dedicated to conserving the animals we encountered and their habitats, always handling them as gently as possible. While actively participate in efforts to protect and preserve marine life and ecosystems.
  2. Attention to safety, including limiting the number of participants based on safety, quality, and respect for the wildlife encountered.
  3. Willingness to understand and meet guests’ expectations and requests. Each charter with Wild Side Specialty Tours is a customized experience. They do it “your way,” maximizing what you want to do and adapting to what the day has to offer.
  4. The limited number of guests ensuring comfort on the boat, as well as flexibility to make “on-the-spot” decisions in changing situations (this was crucial for swimming with the dolphins!) and personalized attention and itineraries.
  5. Quality over quantity, cruising to remote areas for better encounters and generally staying clear of crowded tourist areas, offering an authentic and pristine marine experience.In summary, Wild Side Specialty Tours excels in delivering an educational, intimate, and flexible marine adventure. Our passionate and knowledgeable team ensures an exceptional guest experience, driven by a commitment to conservation, safety, and exploring unique, off-the-beaten-path locations. Your journey with us is an authentic, personalized, and unforgettable exploration of Hawaii’s marine wonders

IMPORTANT NOTES:

Bananas are considered bad luck on boats all over the world. Please leave them at home!

Although not in any way necessary, if you have a good day on the water, tipping of the crew is appropriate. (10% to 15% is standard)

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