The best time for whale watching in Hawaii is during the winter months, typically from December through April. This is when humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters for breeding and calving.

Our whale-watching tours typically last 2 hours, giving you ample time to spot and enjoy the majestic whales.

The tour departs from Pier C, Slip C-15, 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI, 96814. Please arrive at the gate of Pier C 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

We keep our whale-watching tours small and intimate, with a maximum of 6 guests per tour. This ensures everyone has a comfortable and personal experience.

The most common whales you'll see are humpback whales. These gentle giants migrate to Hawaiian waters each year to breed and give birth. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life during the tour.

While we cannot guarantee whale sightings, the chances are very high during the peak season. If you do not see any whales, we offer a complimentary return ticket for another whale-watching tour.

Yes, our whale-watching tours are safe and suitable for children aged 5 and up. If you plan to bring younger children, please contact us to discuss their participation.

We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket as it can be cooler on the water. A camera or binoculars is also a great idea for capturing the whales in action.

Yes, there is a pay-to-park lot at the harbor. The rate is $2 per hour.

Unfortunately, we do not offer pick-up service at this time. We recommend using Uber or Lyft to get to the harbor easily.

We use a comfortable and well-maintained 32ft Zodiac vessel designed for small group tours. The boat provides excellent viewing opportunities from all sides, ensuring everyone has a good spot to watch the whales.

Yes, our tours are led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the marine life and the behavior of the whales. They will provide you with insights and information throughout the tour.

The whale-watching tour is suitable for participants aged 5 and up. Please contact us if you have younger children or specific needs to discuss accommodations.

Pregnant women are welcome to join the tour, but we recommend that women consult with their doctor beforehand to ensure it is safe for them to participate.

If you have back pain or other health issues, we advise consulting with your doctor before joining the tour. The boat ride is generally smooth, but it’s important to ensure that the tour is appropriate for your condition.

Unfortunately, our boat cannot accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility aids. Please contact us to discuss any specific accessibility needs.

Safety is our top priority. If the weather is unfavorable, we may need to cancel or reschedule the tour. In the event of a cancellation, we will offer you the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

If you are prone to seasickness, we recommend taking motion sickness medication before the tour.

In addition to humpback whales, you might see spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, various seabirds, flying fish and more. Hawaii's waters are rich in marine life, making every tour a unique experience.

Yes, we provide complimentary water and juice during the tour. Additionally, our tours are BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage), so feel free to bring your favorite drinks to enjoy on the boat.

Why are humpback whales in Hawaii?

Humpback whales migrate to Hawaii's warm waters each year from their feeding grounds in Alaska. They come to breed, calve, and nurse their young in the safe and nutrient-rich Hawaiian waters.

How long do the whales stay around Oahu?

Humpback whales typically stay in Hawaiian waters from November through May, with peak sightings from January to March. This period aligns with their breeding and calving season.

What behaviors can we observe from the whales?

During the tour, you may observe various humpback whale behaviors such as breaching (jumping out of the water), tail slapping, spy hopping (poking their heads above water), and singing. These behaviors are part of their communication and mating rituals.

How far out to sea do the whales go?

Humpback whales usually stay within a few miles of the coast while they are in Hawaii. They tend to stay relatively close to shore to protect their calves and take advantage of the shallow, warm waters.

Are there any conservation efforts in place to protect the whales?

Yes, there are several conservation efforts aimed at protecting humpback whales in Hawaii. These include regulations on boat speed and proximity to whales, educational programs, and support for marine sanctuaries. Captain Max Boat Tours adheres to all local and international guidelines to ensure the safety and protection of these magnificent creatures.

How likely is it to see baby whales?

During the peak season, there is a good chance of spotting calves with their mothers. Baby whales are usually seen within the first few hours of the migration period when mothers are nursing their young.

What is the best time of day to spot whales?

Early morning and late afternoon are often the best times to spot whales, as the calm waters and favorable lighting conditions make whale sightings more frequent. However, sightings can occur at any time during the tour.

Do whales visit year-round on Oahu?

Humpback whales are typically present from November through May. While it's possible to see them outside of these months, sightings are less common as they migrate to other regions.

How does the presence of whales affect the local ecosystem?

Humpback whales play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. They help regulate fish populations and contribute to the nutrient cycle through their feeding and migratory patterns. Their presence also supports eco-tourism, which promotes conservation efforts and awareness.

Can I contribute to whale conservation while on the tour?

Absolutely! By choosing responsible whale-watching tours like ours, you help support conservation efforts. Additionally, we encourage guests to follow guidelines such as maintaining a respectful distance from the whales, not feeding them, and minimizing noise to avoid disturbing their natural behaviors.

What should I do if I encounter a whale while on the tour?

If you encounter a whale, please remain calm and quiet. Do not attempt to approach or touch the whale. Our guides will provide instructions on how to safely observe the whales without disturbing them.

Are there any guidelines to protect the whales during the tour?

Yes, we follow strict guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of the whales. These include maintaining a minimum distance from the whales, limiting boat speed, avoiding sudden movements, and minimizing noise. We educate our guests on these guidelines to promote responsible whale watching.