n Hawaiian spiritual custom, whales are an essence of the ocean and are important in Native Hawaiian cultural practices, including using the ivory of whale teeth to create highly prized niho palaoa, worn by high-ranking ali’i.
Hawaii’s waters are home to 23 species of marine mammals, of which 22 are cetaceans (whales or dolphins) and one is a pinniped (the Hawaiian monk seal). Of these 22 whale and dolphin species, four (the blue whale, the fin whale, the humpback whale, and the sperm whale),are endangered while all the rest are protected.
Wild Side has been offering marine wildlife focused sailing charters since 1996 and have been involved in research and conservation of the same animals for even more years. The company has built a reputation of sensitivity to the needs of these fellow-travelers, their environments, and habitats. Since these activities are becoming more and more popular, the need to share the awareness (backed by scientific study) of safe parameters becomes essential.
Share tropical Hawaiian waters with these whales (na kohola) and the biologists researching them. Experience first-hand action in pristine whale-rich areas away from the rush of Waikiki and Honolulu. Your photography gear will stay dry, while you view marine life in a non-invasive manner.
Available on all day cruises
You'll see how (and can even help!) to collect data on whales (or other marine life you may come across), and feel good that your booking has contributed to whale conservation. You'll recognize whale behaviors and get insider cutting-edge theories of the meaning of whale breaches, song (heard on onboard hydrophone), pectoral waves and tail slaps, discover Hawaiian cultural significance and more.
The main and most exciting area of study (near Ka'ena Point, but the tour encompasses the entire west coast of Oahu) contains one of the largest and fastest growing populations of the endangered humpback whale on Oahu (they're not just in Maui!).
These leviathans are engaged in reproductive activities that include males forming alliances and competing for access to females with impressive above and underwater displays; and mothers playing with, nursing, teaching and protecting their newly born calves. Other commonly seen behaviors on our whale encounters include playful social interactions - and often the whales keep us mesmerized just by peacefully and blissfully enjoying their "Hawaii vacations" complete with humming their own tunes!
To maximize your adventure and time spent on the water, daily wildlife charters are combined with dolphin and turtle encounters. Reef snorkels are weather-dependant during winter, but whale sightings and dolphin encounters rock!
Having the chance to experience the whales in Hawaii is a very special and highly sought after activity. People never forget the experience and always want to do it again! There are a lot of companies offering great tours. Check the time of year you will be visiting to see if it will be whale season. If you are going to miss the whale season, you can always check out some other great boating adventures. They are all well worth every penny!