FAQs

What is your cancellation Policy?

Cancellations within 72 hours and no-shows will be charged the full price. Customers canceling prior to 72 hours will receive a refund of 100% of the rate. Changes in the number of guests must be made with 24 hours’ notice. If we contact you in regards to your booking needing to be canceled due to weather concerns you will be issued a full refund or the ability to reschedule.  If you have not received contact from us about cancellation, expect your tour to operate and be on time.  To cancel or inquire about a cancellation, please contact us: Call/text: (808) 807-9191, or mariah@pauhanasailing.com 

Do you offer any special rates?

Yes, we offer a kama’aina discount of 10%.  Please contact us to book directly to take advantage of this discount.  Call/text: (808) 807-9191, or mariah@pauhanasailing.com 

Do you offer any guarantees? 

We want you to have a great time!  Our primary goal and focus is your safety.  We will work hard to provide you with an amazing experience.  If for any reason you are not satisfied, please contact us and provide us with feedback you want to share.  We want to know and will listen.

What is the maximum number of passengers? 

We are able to carry 12 passengers on a tour.  Every individual counts as a passenger - even kids and infants. 

Are your excursions suitable for all ages? 

Yes, our trips are absolutely family-friendly for the whole family.  The US Coast Guard requires kids under the age of 12 to wear a lifejacket at all times while on board(we provide the lifejackets).  We have wide decks that are easy to navigate and a comfortable and safe seating area in the cockpit.  Most kids can learn to snorkel as young as 3 and are comfortable in the water.  We also have a magic carpet that makes getting into the water feel more comfortable.

Do we offer snorkeling? 

Yes, we have snorkels and masks on board.  Our crew are trained snorkel guides and can help you snorkel around in the beautiful clear water.

Will I likely get seasick? 

If you are prone to motion sickness, we offer a natural essential oil remedy that can be taken at your discretion.  We recommend taking motion sickness medication for preventative measures, consult your doctor first.  We also recommend sitting outside and avoiding the restroom and cabin area.  Avoid looking at your phone and reading a book as they can amplify the effects.  

Which sunscreen is the best to use? 

No sunscreen is the best sunscreen.  No sunscreen can fully protect you from all of the sun’s powerful rays and all sunscreens involve a chemical process, even mineral and reef-safe sunscreens.  We recommend covering up.  Hats, Buffs, UPF-rated sunshirts that can be worn in and out of the water, minimize the amount of sunscreen needed which is best for you AND the ocean.  Help us preserve our reefs.

How do I know if my sunscreen is “reef-friendly”?

Unfortunately the terms “reef-friendly” and “reef safe” are not regulated, so you can’t always trust products with this description.  It’s important to check active ingredients.  The following ingredients are the ones to definitely avoid:

Oxybenzone (illegal in Hawaii)
Octinoxate (illegal in Hawaii)
Octcrylene
4-methylbenzylidene camphor
PABA
Parabens
Triclosan

We also recommend sticking to lotions and staying away from sprays and mists especially those that contain titanium dioxide as it can be harmful to your health if inhaled. 

Is there shade on the boat? 

Yes, we have a large and comfortable cockpit that is completely shaded and we have shade clothes around the entire perimeter to provide additional shade protection.  

Are flotation devices required? 

We require you to wear a flotation device while snorkeling.  We will provide you with a lifejacket to use.  The boat is also equipped with USCG-certified lifejackets.

What happens if the weather is bad? 

Our primary goal is your safety. We can’t guarantee sunshine.  Not every day is sunny and we don’t always cancel for rain.  We will cancel if the conditions are not safe to run.  In this case, we will work with you to reschedule or issue a refund.

Where is the best place to snorkel off Waikiki? 

Turtle Canyon is a well-known snorkel spot off Waikiki, but unfortunately, it has become an extremely busy place.  The great thing about a private charter is that we can go anywhere and there are lots of places full of turtles, schools of fish, octopuses, rays, and eels along the Waikiki coast.  Most days we have good water clarity in Hawaii.  It’s good fun to jump in the water with a mask and snorkel and swim around and we have an excellent crew to help you identify wildlife swimming about in the coral.

Is there parking available close to where we board?  

Yes, there is free and paid parking available in the marina. Paid parking is $1/hr.  The Prince parking garage also has spots available for the marina for $1/hour on the first couple of floors.  

When do you see whales? 

Every year humpback whales migrate from Alaska and Canada back to Hawaii arriving sometime in December and they start migrating north again in late March and April.  Their primary reason for coming to Hawaii is to mate and give birth.  We look forward to whale season every year as they are majestic animals to see in the water especially watching mama and baby.

Can we swim with the dolphins? 

We adhere to dolphin SMART guidelines of not approaching dolphins closer than 50 yards.  Swimming with the dolphins can be seen as harassment so we don’t offer swimming with dolphins.  We do see dolphins quite often while on tour and will definitely see them from the boat.

Will we see dolphins?

There is always a chance to see dolphins and going on an excursion in the morning will increase your chance.  We will likely see the playful spinner dolphins.

Can we swim and snorkel with the turtles? 

Yes, you can swim and snorkel with turtles.  NOAA and DLNR require for your safety and the turtles’ that you keep 10ft (3 meters) distance at all times.  Observation is great, but keep a respectful distance at all times and absolutely no touching a turtle.

Do you have bathrooms?

Yes, we have a bathroom on board with an electric flush that you can use at any time.

When is the best time to book a tour?  

The earlier the better to make sure you secure your charter.  Hawaii is beautiful to visit year-round.  Depending on what you would like to do will affect what time of day you might want to book.  Mornings are a calmer time on the water and it is an excellent time for wildlife viewing.  The middle of the day is a great time for swimming and snorkeling and sailing.  Seeing the sunset is stunning from the water and a great time to book if you would like to enjoy some food and drink and relax while watching the sun go down.  Friday night fireworks are also amazing to see from the water.  On Friday, it can be fun to add Friday night fireworks to your sunset tour.

What should I bring with me? What should I wear? 

We will gather your shoes upon arrival and store them in a basket on board with us.  Wear anything that is comfortable.  If you plan to swim, wear a suit.  Bring a towel and sunscreen. There is privacy on board if you choose to change into a suit after we depart.  Hats, BUFFs, sun shirts, cover-ups are excellent to bring to help protect your skin.  The sun is strong here and sunburns happen very quickly on the water. There is room to store your bags inside.  If you don’t order food and drink through us, bring food and drink.  We have a cooler with ice and additional refrigeration.  We do have filtered water and filtered bubbly water on board available at all times.  If you come for an evening tour, an extra layer or light jacket is always good as it can get cool when the sun dips below the horizon.  

Is gratuity included?

Gratuity is not included in the original booking price.  The crew always appreciates this kind gesture.

Do you offer food?

Yes, we offer a full food and drink menu.  We will ask when you book your charter if you would like to add on food and drink.  We need your final order and payment a full 48 hours before departure. 

Am I able to bring my own food and drink?

Yes, we have a cooler with ice and refrigeration for any food and drink you would like to bring.

Are you able to accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, we can accommodate dietary restrictions.  Please let us know your needs and we will work with you.