This isn’t a theme park stunt—it’s the real Pacific, no cage, with Galapagos and sandbar sharks gliding just feet away. Led by trained marine biologists, this 90-minute experience takes you offshore from O‘ahu’s North Shore for a guided snorkel in open water. The crew walks you through shark behavior, ocean safety, and conservation insights before you even jump in, and once you're floating above 400 feet of water, the adrenaline takes care of the rest. It's safe, respectful, and surprisingly meditative—one of those rare tours that changes how you see the ocean. Must be a confident swimmer.
"Amazing experience, NOT SCARY AT ALL! I loved everything about this from getting into the water to the crew."
Verified Review
GUEST REQUIREMENTS
For ages 8+, group size limited to 6 guests.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Moderate swim strength and snorkel experience required
WHAT TO BRING
Towel, Reef-safe sunscreen, (snorkel gear provided)
CANCELLATION POLICY
Changes or cancellations must be made 48 hours prior via email.
WHAT GUESTS ARE SAYING
4.9★ from 100+ reviews on TripAdvisor
Guests consistently describe this shark dive as one of the most unforgettable things to do on Oʻahu. Many first-timers mention feeling surprisingly calm thanks to the crew’s clear instructions and reassuring presence in the water. Travelers love the small group vibe and the chance to swim cage-free alongside Galapagos and sandbar sharks in crystal-clear open ocean. Reviews often praise the crew’s deep knowledge of marine life, the educational focus, and how respectful the experience is toward the animals and their habitat. Many say they walked away not just with incredible photos, but with a fresh sense of wonder for Hawaiʻi’s marine ecosystems.
"One of the best experiences ever! The staff was well prepared and thoroughly went through what to expect and ensured our safely the entire dive. If you ever visit Oahu, this is a must do activity."
Verified Review
Group Size & Style:
- Small group charter (minimum 3 guests per trip)
- Cage-free open ocean snorkeling and freediving with trained marine biologists and safety divers
What You’ll Do:
- Meet your crew at Haleiwa Harbor and board the Deep Blue vessel
- Ride out to clear offshore waters where Galapagos, sandbar, and other shark species gather
- Get a detailed safety briefing and marine science intro from your crew — all trained biologists
- Enter the water directly from the swim platform and hold onto a safety line while observing sharks up close
- Spend about 30–45 minutes in the water, always supervised by safety divers
- Optionally purchase professional photo or video packages to capture your experience
- On the ride back, your crew shares conservation tips and marine life facts — you might even spot turtles, dolphins, or whales along the way
Inclusions & Notes:
- Snorkel mask and fins provided (or bring your own)
- Professional crew with deep local knowledge of sharks and Hawaiian marine life
- Small group experience for maximum comfort and safety
- Photo and video packages available for an extra fee
Requirements:
- Minimum height: 4 feet
- Must know how to swim and have some snorkel experience
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Motion sickness medication recommended if you’re prone to seasicknessDeep Blue Eco Tours is a locally owned operator dedicated to ocean conservation and education. Led by a crew of trained marine biologists, this North Shore team specializes in safe, cage-free shark diving that helps guests connect with Hawai‘i’s marine life in a respectful, low-impact way. Every tour blends adventure with hands-on marine science, leaving guests with a deeper love for the ocean and its wildlife.
Meet at: Haleiwa Small Boat Harbor, 66-105 Haleiwa Rd, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Check-in: Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Look for the Deep Blue Eco Tours vessel docked at the harbor — crew will guide you on board and provide a full safety briefing. Shared charters require at least 3 guests; trips are confirmed 48 hours in advance.Cancelation Policy:
If the customer cancels their tip 48 hours before the trip time we will proceed with a full refund. Customers must reach us via phone call, text, or email.
If there is a cancelation due to bad weather we can either fully refund or reschedule the trip to another date and time.
FOLIO TRAVELOGUE
Face to Fin: Swimming with Sharks Off O‘ahu
There’s a moment—when you’re holding the safety rope, floating in the open Pacific, and a 10-foot Galapagos shark glides into view—where your brain catches up with your body and realizes: this is actually happening. No cage. Just you, a deep breath, and the deep blue.
The tour kicks off at Haleiwa Harbor on O‘ahu’s North Shore, where the Deep Blue crew—made up of trained marine biologists—gets everyone briefed and comfortable before heading out to sea. The boat ride is short but exciting, with the water getting deeper and bluer by the minute. Before you enter the water, the guides give a calm, clear rundown: what sharks you might see, how to behave, and how they’ll be supporting you every second.
I thought I’d be terrified, but floating eye-level with sharks in the open ocean? It was pure awe.
Once you're in, it's not fear that hits—it’s awe. The sharks move with grace, not aggression, and the crew stays close, keeping things safe and relaxed. You might also see dolphins or sea turtles on the ride out or back, but even if you don’t, the experience of sharing space with apex predators in their natural environment is unforgettable.
Back on board, the crew helps everyone come down from the high with stories, marine facts, and real talk about how we can all help protect the ocean. There are optional pro photo or video packages available, but most people come back with something even better: a story they’ll tell for the rest of their lives.
