The Best Boat Rentals in Honolulu

Most private charters in Honolulu run about $150 to $500 per hour for smaller sailboats and power cats, with mid‑size catamarans and motor yachts commonly $300 to $700 per hour and large or luxury yachts $800+ per hour. Pricing usually covers the boat, a professional captain (for captained trips), fuel for local cruising, basic refreshments like water, coolers with ice, snorkel gear on swim trips, and a Bluetooth sound system. Taxes, marina parking, and gratuity are typically extra, and minimums of 2–3 hours are common. Sunset and Friday‑fireworks cruises can be slightly higher due to demand.

You’ll find classic sailing monohulls, sailing catamarans, power catamarans for snorkeling and cruising, sportfishing boats, pontoons and deck boats for casual outings, and motor yachts for upscale celebrations. Pick a style based on your group size and plan—catamarans are spacious and stable for swimming days, sailboats are great for a scenic cruise along Waikiki and Diamond Head, and motor yachts add comfort for special occasions.

Both options exist, but most visitors choose a captained charter for a stress‑free experience and local navigation expertise. Self‑operated (bareboat) rentals are more limited and require strong boating experience. If you operate a motorized vessel yourself in Hawaii, you must carry proof you completed a NASBLA‑ and state‑approved boating safety course; operators under 16 must be directly supervised by an adult 21+ who also holds this certification. If you book with a captain, no license is needed.

Common departure points include Kewalo Basin Harbor in Kakaʻako (near Ala Moana Beach Park and minutes from Waikiki), Ala Wai Harbor by the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki, the Honolulu Harbor/Aloha Tower area (often Pier 8 or 9 for larger dinner and sunset cruises), and Keehi Small Boat Harbor near Sand Island and the airport. Your confirmation will list the exact slip and check‑in time—plan to arrive early to park and find your pier.

Expect postcard views of the Waikiki skyline, Magic Island and Ala Moana Beach, and the iconic profile of Diamond Head. Many cruises stop near Turtle Canyon, a reef where Hawaiian green sea turtles are often spotted, and in winter you may see breaching humpback whales offshore. On Friday nights, boats often position for the Waikiki fireworks show. Historic waterfront landmarks like Aloha Tower are also visible on routes that pass the harbor.

Hawaii requires anyone operating a motorized recreational vessel to complete a state‑ and NASBLA‑approved boating safety course and to carry proof of certification on board. This applies statewide out to three miles offshore. Operators under 16 may operate only with direct supervision by an adult 21+ who also holds the required certification. If your trip is captained, you won’t need any license.

Yes—most private charters welcome families. All boats carry U.S. Coast Guard‑approved life jackets, and in Hawaii children 12 and under must wear a properly fitted life jacket while the vessel is underway or anchored offshore. If you need infant or child‑specific sizes, request them in advance. Some high‑speed raft tours have minimum ages (often 5+), so pick a vessel that fits your group’s needs and comfort level.

On many Honolulu charters, BYO snacks and beverages (including alcohol) are welcome, and crews often provide coolers and ice. Glass is commonly discouraged and red wine may be restricted to avoid stains. If you prefer not to pack, ask about simple catering or platter add‑ons, and always bring reef‑safe sunscreen and a small soft‑sided cooler if requested by the captain.

Policies vary by boat. Many private charters will consider small to medium dogs with prior approval, while most shared tours do not allow pets. Service animals are generally accommodated. If your pup is joining, let the captain know in advance; bring a leash, a towel, and a spill‑proof water bowl, and expect a possible cleaning fee.

Honolulu is a year‑round boating destination, but mornings typically bring lighter winds and calmer seas; afternoon trade winds can add chop. Summer on the south shore is usually the calmest for snorkeling, while winter can be breezier with passing showers—and excellent for whale watching. If the captain deems conditions unsafe, trips are typically rescheduled or refunded according to the boat’s listing policy. Because policies vary by owner, review the cancellation terms before you book and consider scheduling early in your stay for flexibility.

Absolutely. Honolulu hosts everything from intimate sunset sails for six to inspected catamarans and yachts for larger private groups. Tell the captain your occasion, headcount, and must‑haves; many boats allow tasteful decorations, custom playlists, and BYO catering. Capacity limits and footwear rules (often barefoot on deck) apply, so confirm details and lock in a date early for weekends and holidays.

You can go year‑round. For the smoothest water and easiest bookings, choose weekday mornings. Summer months often have the calmest south‑shore seas, while December through April is prime for humpback whales. Major boating weekends—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book early, as do event weeks like the Aloha Festivals in September. Friday evenings are popular for the Waikiki fireworks, and sunset cruises any day deliver golden light and cooler temps.

Yes—many captains offer special Friday evening cruises that time the show off Waikiki Beach, typically around 7:45 p.m. in winter and about 8:00 p.m. in summer. These trips depart from Kewalo Basin or Ala Wai and sell out quickly, especially in peak season and on holiday weekends, so reserve early.