Ocean Joy Cruises

Great crew and views. The food was great and the drinks were plentiful. Super friendly and knowledgeable crew captained by Captain Jim. Lots of dolphins, a few turtles and even a couple of shy whales. The crew photographer did a great job capturing the entire trip! Highly recommended!

My friends and I have recently experienced the Joy of the Kaiolioli. We were having a ladies night aboard the catamaran to celebrate our friends Birthday. Unfortunately I was the one who got sick lol. I knew I would get sick but I just could pass up the opportunity to experience this with my Ladies. The crew was very friendly and professional. I only wish that I hadn’t gotten that sick, other than that I would love to pay them a visit again!

We saw whales and dolphins. Captain Jim was the best. The crew was great and everyone had a great time. The lunch and open bar made the experience even better. Highly recommended. Don’t forget to «check in» on Unilocal to get free bag.

Great snorkel excursion. The crew of the Kai oli oli were excellent. Personable and fun. The spot we went snorkeling had a good amount of fish and turtles. From the Catamaran we saw some false killer whales (rare to see and actually a real animal) and some dolphins too.
The bar after the snorkeling could use some work. For the price of the excursion you could at least hope for some better brands of booze. Montezuma tequila? Come on guys that’s well booze and too cheap. The food was ok. Nothing too exciting but I guess for a boat without a grill it’s the best you can get.
I would definitely go back. Crew member/​life guard Mason was a fun guy to talk to. Energetic and funny. The rest of the crew were attentive and overly nice. It was a pleasure to be in their company.

Friendly and very knowledgeable staff; beautiful views. Wonderful experience for a beginner like myself and/​or experienced like my husband. A MUST if you’re visiting Oahu!

On our trip to Hawaii we went on an Ocean Joy Cruise for a snorkeling adventure. We had contacted Expedia, who arranges many of the activities out here on Oahu, and they highly recommended Ocean Joy… we now know why. Our snorkeling trip was a ton of fun.
Four of us went on this trip (none of us had any experience) and the people at Ocean Joy were very chill. We were picked up near our hotel and rode out to the marina from which the tour started. After check-​in we boarded the twin-​hull boat and started voyaging out to the snorkeling area. Two in our party went snorkeling and the other two stayed on board and availed themselves of the boat ride and the food/​drinks.
As to snorkeling, the Ocean Joy people were good at providing safety instruction and controlling the group so nobody floated off into the horizon. They were perfectly set up to take care of people who have no experience snorkeling… and you should not be afraid to try it with Ocean Joy… they handled our mixed group with aplomb. After instructions, we suited up and went in the water… probably 80 percent of the people went snorkeling and the other 20 percent just stayed on the boat. On our ride out to the snorkeling area they served a light continental breakfast… muffins, bagels, and stuff.
Once there the snorkelers got their instructions and got in the water… by Hawaiian state law everyone wears a life vest. The ones who remained on the boat were then offered drinks… you only get alcoholic drinks at this time if you are NOT snorkeling. So while our peeps snorkeled we enjoyed drinks. Our peeps who snorkeled really had a great time… they were in the water for about an hour before they returned to the boat… and they were never more than 50 to 100 yards from the boat… we saw them for the whole time. It was interesting that those that did snorkel for the first time sort of felt a bit nauseous when they got out of the water… it was that third dimension in movement that got them, but they soon felt fine.
Once back on board, everyone was offered drinks and food… they had a nice little lunch buffet for all aboard as we headed back for our marina. We had chosen the morning snorkeling tour and we recommend it,…by the time you get out there it is 10 am and a perfect time for viewing fish. The afternoon tour starts around 1 pm and is more of a late afternoon adventure. We loved the am activity… we were back to the hotel by 1 or 2 pm and still had the whole afternoon to do something.
This was a neat adventure and is highly recommended.

Really enjoyed their tour. We booked for a party of 6 the night before (not great planning) after calling around to see who had available spots and luckily they were available for the noon tour. We had a car rental, so drove over to the west side of the island from Honolulu. Really easy to find them per their instructions and was also super easy to check-​in. They had us out on the water on time and briefed us before taking off, gave us ginger pills for those who needed them. Was really looking forward to seeing dolphins since we loved our experience on another boat excursion in Kauai last year. Saw dolphins right away for about 5 – 10 minutes but they were sleeping, so we didn’t get to see them being super active as they were in sleep mode. It was still nice to get to see them. Also saw tons of flying fish on our way to the snorkeling spot. They briefed us on the snorkeling gear and safety as we approached the site and had us in the water by a turtle cleaning station. We saw at least 6 turtles ranging from huge to small and schools of fish and coral. It was beautiful and majestic. Lunch afterwards was nothing much to write about, but we didn’t go on the tour for lunch. The fresh pineapple was delicious though and they let us take a plate with us at the end of the tour since there were leftovers. The staff was was really nice and kept the mood cheerful. I really appreciated their time and effort. Oh, and not as expensive as some of the more popular ones on the island so don’t hesitate to call them.

First tour we did when we arrived it was everything I imagined and more. The crew was great helpful and knowledgeable, they answered any question you have and they all made you feel comfortable and safe. The food and drinks were great and the feel on the boat was just relaxed. This is a must do tour you’ll love the experience.

My experience with ocean joy was brilliant from start to finish. Amazing customer service (especially the amazing women on the phone who helped us book, and change, and change again our reservations due to a possible tropical depression) She even managed to get us a last minute shuttle so we didn’t have to pay 80 $ for a taxi! Most people would get frustrated with that, but she was kind and helpful through the whole process). We were taken to clear beautiful water and given the opportunity to see sea turtles and a whole mess of fish. I unfortunately was unaware that I get sea sick, so I didn’t eat, but the staff — including the captain all made sure I was doing okay and provided remedies for the nausea. The sunset was a beautiful sight, and we even got to experience dolphins swimming along side our boat, and jumping! Thanks again to the amazing, knowledgeable, and friendly crew! If I ever get over my motion sickness I will definitely be back!

I’m not sure about the negative reviews on here. Its nature, how you expect to see turtles, dolphins, whales, and fish is beyond me. Is it possible to see them all? Of course. Could it end up being a just boat ride? Sure.
Anyways.
It’s my gf first time back home with me so I wanted to take her on this trip. She was so excited. I told her what ever we see or dont see, lets have a good time. This became one of the highlights so far on this trip for her.
Tip #1
Drive yourself if possible. We drove to Ko Olina instead of taking the bus, best 10 bux spent (Cost to park at the dock). You wake up when you want and get there as early as you like. When the trip is done take off when the trip is done or stop by the other lagoons for a dip.
Tip #2
Treat people like you want to be treated. Yes you paid, but why be a pushy jerk or douche. The crew knows how many people are on board and verify multiple times that everyone has what they need. You are not going to be left out. Chill and wait till they get to you.
The crew is awesome from check in, to folks on the boat, to captain Patrick. We have nothing but good things to say about them. Polite, friendly, and fun. They were even polite to the couple of pushy folks on our trip. Chill folks you’re on vacation.
Tip #3
When you board take a seat near a rail and chill for the ride.
We were fortunate that the ride out (the Morning Calm 8a-​1245p) yielded dolphins, turtles, flying fish, and clear waters. If was funny to see everyone running to each side trying to take pics of nature in action. Like ping pong ballz… ahhaha Captain Patrick knows what he’s doing. He maneuvered the boat so that all sides could get a view and pics, if those folks had stayed put they could have had better shots than over someone’s head. We were almost last to get on, no one was in the front middle of the boat. That’s where we headed. Once out of the no wake zone, we kicked our feet off the side of the boat and watched as the coast went flying past us.
We were able to snorkel for around 45 minutes. My gf was the first to see a large turtle at about 5 yards out from us. We snapped some great pics and let it swim off. Once «turtle» was called out many of the group started to swim quickly to it. I’m not sure what happens in folks minds when they see wildlife, but it was clearly stated to stay a few yards away from them. We watched folks trying to swim up and grab and touch it. Saddened by this we swam away to look at other parts of the reef. The crewmember that was the lifeguard for this trip corrected them once she saw what was going on. There was also tons of fish at the Makaha beach spot we stopped at.
Lunch provided was warm; buns, pork, rice, some kind of pasta salad, teri chicken, and pineapple. Once everyone ran though the line once there was enough for seconds if you wanted. They also provided free juice and soda during the whole trip. Drinks with alcohol were given after snorkeling. As many as you could down on the trip back.
Tip #4
Bring an underwater camera if possible. Our trip was full 44 folks. While the crew does take pics, the show ends up being of everyone. We were in about 4 pics from the boat camera, but about 100 from our own. Great shots underwater and all with just a little planning.
Tip #5
Bring cash to leave a tip and thank the crew when leaving.
In all this was a great trip and we appreciate the effort the crew and captain put in to our time!

I would have loved to take this cruise however the customer service was so awful that I was not able to get far enough to even book it. I called yeaterday asking if there was availability in which the very friendly women told me there was plenty. She answered all my questions professionally and really went above and beyond to help me. After getting a baby sitter and purchasing my groupon I tried to book today however there was no place to put my groupon code. I called hoping to get some help however the receptionist today was rude and extremely unhelpful. She told me I could not book it because it was full. I told her I checked several other dates and was still having the problem (we are talking late September when I know they are not full!). She proceeded to tell me theres never a problem and there’s nothing she can do about it. I kindly asked if I could speak to some one else because she was frustrating me in which she replied «why so they can tell you the same thing.» This is probably just a simple computer glitch however she would not take the time or put the effort in to at LEAST check the schedule or next date availability. I feel very cheated because I know if I was paying the full price there would be availability because that option was there. I will be getting my refund back even if that means taking this to the bbb.

I am from Miami and boat all the time. This is a great little day cruises get away. The snorkeling was amazing and the staff absolutely incredible! I was with my grandmother and they just took great care of her ! I would absolutely recommend. Food is very good as well. Enjoy !

The crew is absolutely amazing! Our family enjoyed our time with them and would recommend doing this when you come to Oahu. We’ve been on another cruise and the catamaran was a bit newer, but honestly this crew was so great, I’d come back again and again! The food was great and they weren’t super strict about portions. Give them a try if you get a chance!!!

This snorkeling excursion was a blast! The crew (Mason, David, Manni and Captain Jim) were so friendly and spunky! They pointed out where to look and what to do in order to make the most of the experience. The fish were so bright and pretty and the turtles were wild! It was crazy to see all the Dolphins from the boat! I can’t wait to download all the pictures Manni took! Also, food and drinks were much better than expected on a boat.
Highly recommend!!!

This is THE BEST tour on Oahu! It has everything from snorkeling, sunset, delicious dinner and an open bar. The evening we went, we chased a pod of whales.
The captain was’nt the friendliest, but he gave us a great ride by checking out the whales for most of the night. He also took us to 2 sites to snorkel at.
The photographer was doing double duty the night we went also working as deck hand. The best was deck hand/​bartender, local girl, Nawai. She ended up giving us the left overs to take home. Yay!

Went to Oahu on Feb 2015 for our family vacation and we signed up with the hotel front desk for this excursion. We have done this in Cabo before so we knew what we were getting into. The lady that recommended it mentioned that it would be a smaller group with about 40 people and staff is very friendly and knowledgable. She said due to the small group, the excursion would be more intimate and personal. And what she said was 100% true. We had about 39 people on the boat and 4 staff members. The crew was super nice, knowledgable and so accommodating. We ha e an 8 year old boy and they let him sit next to the captain while he was steering and they made sure we were comfortable by offering us snacks, drinks, and food. This is the first of 3 snorkeling tours where the staff took the time to explain how to snorkel and how to wear your gear. Little tips that I found to be so helpful. My son saw sea turtles and lots of fish while snorkeling. There is a photographer on board that will snap lots of photos (I would say she isn’t a professional one and some of her shots could’ve been more centered but maybe it’s the moving of the boat). You can get a copy of all the pix taken (they even take underwater pix so that’s great) on a flash drive for $ 40. I love the intimacy and more one on one with a small group because you don’t have to wait in long lines for food and drinks. I’ve been on boats where the line is too long when they serve food and it’s annoying to wait. There was plenty of food to go around and they even ask you to take some home if you want to. My only negative is that I get major motion sickness and due to the boat being not as big as my past excursions I ended up really sick but I got over it.

Five stars, I’d give six if I could.
We were on the Kai oli’oli’ and The crew was literally the nicest people ever. Cap’n buzz, cat, Noah, and gene. You guys were amazing.
Went on the afternoon, grabbed a lite snack before leaving based on another Unilocaler, but no need. There were snacks and cokes on the way to snorkeling.
I had a bad memory of snorkeling from when I went about 15 years ago. Just felt like I was drowning slowly. I must have a face that hates snorkel masks. I’m a pretty stron swimmer, but the extra gear just never seems to function. Well, these guys made something I hated into something I could enjoy. (Tip: if you have facial hair, use Vaseline on your ‘stache).
Saw a ton of fish, held an urchin, and two sea turtles that were so frickin cool.
That alone was a pretty above average start. Once we got out of the water? Open bar and tasty food. (It’s on the boat, it was better than expected). Don’t show up looking to act the fool and have a ‘booze cruise’, but do being your manners and have a really fun time.
So now I’m fed and feeling nice… And then cap’n puts us on this huge pod of dolphins… Like 20 – 30 visible at once, our guide said more like 60 if we could see what was underwater. Jumping! Spinning in mid air! Crossing back and forth in front of the boat! A few tiny little baby ones!!! It was amazing. And full disclosure… I’m not a dolphin nut… At all. I think maybe after this I’m rethinking that.
And then a nice casual ride back to the harbor, with plenty of liquid libations along the way.
I think we spent $ 120 each, which included the bus ride (an hour roughly) from Waikiki. Was the best money I’ve spent on this vacation so far.

This is one of those «value» type of questions. The tour was no doubt enjoyable, even for not-​ideal conditons due to higher than normal winds. Just not sure if it was the best value for the $ 144 each my wife and I paid and the 8 hours invested for only about 30 minutes of marginal dolphin watching and 45 minutes of snorkeling. Plus we didn’t get to see any turtles, which was a top priority for me.
We took the «Afternoon Adventure Cruise» from downtown Waikiki, which included an hour and a half bus ride that I thought was going to be a boat ride or I wouldn’t have taken the tour. That’s how our afternoon cruise from 1−4pm turned into a 10 – 5 affair. The pleasant and complete surprise regarding the bus was, we thought since we were the first pick up then we would be the last drop off, but they dropped us off first! I was shocked and very happy. But anyway, the bus was prompt and comfortable. The boat very nice and crew great, including David and Ana. After we saw some dolphins, we cruised to the snorkeling spot. During the cruise time, we saw the coolest thing that made the whole trip worth it, the flying fish. I tried to get them on camera and if I hadn’t seen them myself I would never have believed it. But there they were, jumping out of the water ahead of the boat and flying a few yards before diving back into the water. It took me a minute to figure out what I was seeing, because it happened so fast each time and they we so small and quick, I would have sworn they were swallows flying at water level in front of the boat. Very cool.
So the snorkeling was challenging because of the winds, but everyone did fine. The water was probably 30 feet deep plus, but there were nice schools of many kinds of fish, more than I had seen in my limited snorkeling experience, so that was nice. I also bought a «Dry Case» water proof sleeve at the dock store that I put my IPhone in — well worth the 40 bucks as it turned my IPhone into an under water video camera. That’s what I used to take the attached pics. The only tip there is the heat sensitive touch screen did not register commands under water, so I had to raise the phone out of the water to start and stop the videos.
After snorkeling we cruised back to the dock and enjoyed the home cooking in the ship and all the blue hawaiians we could drink in the cruise back. The food was very enjoyable. It was like eating in our Samoan aunts home. Pulled pork from a pig roasted in an undergound oven Hawaiian style and some very tasty chicken teriyaki.
So as you can see, we did have a nice time, just not sure if the time and price were commensurate with the experience.

Pricey at over $ 140 per adult, about $ 116 per kid, I believe.
They’ve got a morning, afternoon, and evening cruise. Based on other reviews it sounds like morning is the way to go if you want to see the most activity in the water. We went with the afternoon cruise because I didn’t want to wake up early and go on a cruise at 6:45 in the morning. That just wasn’t gonna happen on my vacation. For the afternoon one we were picked up at our hotel in Waikiki at 11:45. The bus took us to the marina in Ko’Olina a good 30 – 40 minutes away.
The cruise is on a large catamaran with 40+ other people. It was crowded but not so bad that we couldn’t find seats or breathing room on the boat. The ship took us out around the south western part of the island where we saw a pod of dolphins. They were swimming with the boat — to the side and also in front of the ship and didn’t seem to mind us following them.
After a while the ship dropped anchor and it was time to snorkel. We brought our own gear but they provided all the necessary gear for those who didn’t — mask, flippers, and a life vest was required for all to wear. They took the time to give pointers and instructions to those who hadn’t been before. When everyone was ready it was time to jump in and snorkel. We had to swim a little ways to get to the prime spot where octopuses, fish, and even a sea turtle were present. I wouldn’t recommend this trip for first timers because the water was deep and choppy. It also isn’t great for those who aren’t good swimmers since you have to swim a ways to go snorkeling then swim back to the boat. In less than tranquil waters it can be taxing. My six year old went snorkeling for the first time (aside from in a swimming pool) and it was too much for him so I had to take him back to the boat.
After snorkeling we saw a couple whales breach and saw their water spouts. Lunch and drinks were served on the boat with AYCD beverages — Blue Hawaiians, bloody Mary’s, and Margaritas. Lunch consisted of Kalua pork, chicken, rice, and a couple other things. It wasn’t the best food — the pork was watery and mushy. And, obviously on a small boat like that they don’t have the kitchen to do anything but heat up food cooked hours earlier.
The crew was very friendly yet professional. They took pics during the cruise and offered a CD of images for purchase after docking. Based on everything we saw I have to give them high marks. The only real negative was the food, but you don’t sign up for a snorkel cruise based on what you’re going to eat (at least we didn’t). We were skeptical that we were going to see everything mentioned in their brochure or site, but we did, which made it an outstanding excursion.

Today was our 2 snorkeling cruise with Ocean Joy. This is bar far one of the best snorkeling cruises.
Pickup is around 6:15 — 6:45 varies from hotel. A short 45 minutes motor coach ride to Ko’olina Park which goes through the Disney Resort and golf course.
Check in at counter and then you book you boat, but not before a photo.
Nice scenic tour and you will see dolphins, flying fish and sea turtles. Snorkeling last for 45 – 55 minutes. Upon return lunch will be served. Pulled pork sandwiches, rice, Mac salad, green salad, grilled chicken and fruit salad. One more item I forgot the Mai Tai, Blue Hawaiians, beer, can sodas, coffee and tea. I must mention the muffins for breakfast. All very good.
The staff are amazing. Super friendly and very helpful.