The Best Boat Rentals in O‘ahu

Expect small private powerboats and sailboats to start around $150–$250 per hour, with two-hour minimums common. Mid-size cruisers and sailing catamarans usually run $250–$500 per hour, while premium yachts and larger party-friendly vessels can range from $500–$1,200+ per hour depending on size, crew, and season. Prices often include a licensed captain (if listed as captained), fuel for standard itineraries, basic ice and water, and use of snorkel gear on swim trips. Extras can include taxes, harbor or cleaning fees, reef-safe sunscreen, catering, premium beverages, and gratuity for the crew.

You’ll find a wide mix: center consoles and bowriders for quick coastal cruises and snorkeling, sailboats for relaxed days under sail, spacious sailing catamarans for group outings, and motor yachts for luxury sunsets and celebrations. Specialty boats for dolphin- and whale-watching, as well as sportfishing vessels, are also available. Choose the size and style that matches your group, comfort level, and the experience you want on the water.

Most visitors book captained charters because local waters, wind, surf, and harbor traffic are best handled by an experienced skipper. If you prefer to self-operate, you’ll need solid boating experience and may be asked for a state-approved boater safety card plus a resume of your time on similar boats. Owners make the final call on qualifications, and many listings are captained-only.

Popular departure points include Kewalo Basin Harbor near Ala Moana and Ward in Honolulu, Ala Wai Harbor by Waikiki, Ko Olina Marina on the leeward coast, Heeia Kea Boat Harbor for access to Kaneohe Bay and the sandbar, and Haleiwa or Waianae small-boat harbors for North Shore and west-side wildlife runs. Your exact meeting spot will be confirmed after booking.

Classic sights include the Waikiki skyline and Diamond Head (Lēʻahi), turquoise reefs like Turtle Canyon for snorkeling, and the dramatic Koʻolau Range above Kāneʻohe Bay. On the west side, keep an eye out for spinner dolphins year-round and, in season, humpback whales offshore. Sunset trips deliver golden views of Honolulu’s coastline, and clear mornings often mean the calmest seas.

If you book a captained charter, you do not need a boating license. If you plan to operate a motorized vessel yourself, Hawaiʻi requires approved boating safety education for operators of powerboats; owners may request proof of a boater education card and relevant experience. Requirements can vary by vessel, so review the listing and confirm any documents you’ll need before you book.

Yes—families are welcome on most charters. All boats carry U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets, and captains will provide appropriately sized PFDs for children; let the owner know the ages and sizes of any kids in your group. Infants and toddlers are allowed on many boats, but capacity counts everyone on board, including babies. Strollers are typically stowed dockside, and soft-soled shoes are best.

Most charters allow BYO snacks and beverages, and many provide a cooler with ice and bottled water. Some yachts can arrange catering for birthdays or bachelorette trips. Glass is often discouraged, red wine is commonly restricted, and hard liquor may be at the captain’s discretion. Always check the listing’s house rules so you can plan your menu with confidence.

Policies vary by owner. Some boats welcome small, well-behaved dogs with advance approval, while others do not allow pets due to deck materials, wildlife areas, or cleaning requirements. If bringing a pet is important, filter for pet-friendly listings and confirm details such as leashes, potty pads, and any additional fees.

Trade winds and surf can shape the day’s conditions. Mornings are typically calmer island-wide, while afternoons can be breezier, especially on the windward side. Captains monitor marine forecasts and may adjust routes or timing for safety. Each listing has its own cancellation policy, but if the captain determines conditions are unsafe, you’ll usually be offered a reschedule or a weather-related refund per the policy.

Absolutely. Private boats make celebrations easy with built-in scenery and a flexible pace. Many captains can suggest photogenic swim spots, sunset routes off Waikiki, or calm coves near Ko Olina. Tell the owner your occasion, guest count, and any special touches you’d like—such as decorations, playlists, or cake—and they’ll help you tailor the plan. Remember that capacity limits are strict, and every person counts toward the total.

Peak boating season runs roughly May through September, when seas are generally calmer on the south and west shores. Major U.S. boating holidays—Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day—book up early. Notable local dates and summer events in Waikiki can also increase demand. For smoothest water and clearer snorkeling, choose weekday mornings; for photos, sunset cruises are gorgeous but fill fast. Reserve a few weeks ahead for weekends and holidays, and earlier for larger groups or luxury yachts. Whale-watching is best from about December through April.

Two- to three-hour trips are perfect for sunset cruising or a quick snorkel at a nearby reef like Turtle Canyon. Half-day charters give you time to combine cruising, swimming, and wildlife watching, or to reach less-crowded areas. Full-day charters allow unhurried itineraries, more snorkel stops, and leeward or windward runs depending on conditions. Discuss goals with your captain so they can match the route to your timeframe.

Yes—many charters depart Heeia Kea Boat Harbor for the Kāneʻohe Sandbar, a unique shallow area that emerges at lower tides with panoramic views of the Koʻolau cliffs. It’s a popular spot for relaxed swimming and picnicking on the water. Conditions and tides matter, and there are protected zones, so go with a knowledgeable captain and follow local guidelines to keep the reef healthy.