Catamarans—multi-hulled watercrafts well-known for their stability—have a long and illustrious history as popular vessels operating all across the Pacific Ocean, and the Makani Catamaran provides a sophisticated spin on this classic form. Docked out of Kewalo Basin Harbor, the Makani Catamaran is a modern luxury yacht, built at a cost of nearly two million dollars. The Makani Catamaran is available for guided tours and private charters, and it features indoor and outdoor seating, a fully stocked bar, and a dedicated sunbathing area.
Makani Catamaran Popular Tours
The Makani is a custom-built, contemporary catamaran staffed by a dedicated team of experienced professionals. The vessel is available for private charters, but most Oahu visitors choose to join one of Makani Catamaran’s two most popular tours—which are headlined by the Fun in the Sun Sail and Honolulu City Lights Sunset Sail. They also offer an exclusive Friday Night Fireworks Cruise. Makani Catamaran tours enable visitors to see Oahu from a unique perspective—or just relax and unwind under the sun in style, if that’s more to your liking. What’s more, most Makani Catamaran cruises result in passengers being able to see a number of turtles and dolphins in action across the shimmering waters of the Pacific—and when the season is right, you can sometimes even witness a humpback whale or two during your journey.
Fun in the Sun Sail
This two-hour excursion departs twice daily and is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of Oahu from an entirely different perspective. You’ll want to have your camera at the ready as you soak up the spectacular views of Waikiki, Diamond Head, and the rugged peaks of the Koʻolau Range.
Honolulu City Lights Sunset Sail
This two-hour evening cruise takes you on a scenic ride along the beautiful coast of Oahu. Along the way you’ll bask in remarkable views of Diamond Head, Waikiki, and the city lights of Honolulu. As the sun sets over the open ocean, you can enjoy delicious tropical-flavored cocktails in a fun and friendly atmosphere.
Makani Catamaran, Things to Know & Insider Tips
*It may sound simple, but you’re not going to want to forget your sunglasses and sunscreen for either the Fun in the Sun Sail or the Honolulu City Lights Sunset Sail. Nobody wants to have the time of their life cruising the coast of Oahu only to wake up the next morning with the world’s worst sunburn!
*If you’re hoping to see a humpback whale during your Makani Catamaran experience, be advised that this is only possible seasonally—and even then nothing is guaranteed. If you have your heart on this type of sighting, you’ll want to do some research into how best to make this possible, but do note that humpback whales are most active in the area between November and April, generally speaking.
*If you’re planning to go on the Honolulu City Lights Sunset Sail, you may want to bring a light jacket with you. Even if the day has been a scorcher, as the sun starts to go down and the wind whips in your face across the open water, things might get a bit chilly, so it’s better to be safe than sorry!
*Drinks and snacks are available for purchase aboard the Makani.
Is Makani Catamaran the Tour Company for You?
If you’re looking to get out on the Pacific Ocean and feel the sun on your face as you gaze back in awe at the many wonders of Oahu’s iconic coastline, then one of the Makani Catamaran experiences might be right for you. In particular, their sunset cruise can be an especially relaxing (and/or romantic!) excursion. Neither the Honolulu City Lights Sunset Sail or the Fun in the Sun Sail is going to be the type of guided tour where you interact at length with your guide or learn about the history and culture of the sights and sounds of the area via a knowledgeable narration. However, most participants tend to report back that their time on the Makani Catamaran was a real blast.