North Shore Shark Cage Dive Oahu
- Duration1.5 hours
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Overview
This North Shore boat trip takes you out into the deep blue water off Oahu to see Hawaii's wild sharks up close. Choose the shark cage dive, where you spend about 20 minutes in a sturdy aluminium cage in the water with snorkel gear provided, or the spectator option to watch from the boat deck without entering the water. The trip lasts around 90 minutes, and a guide gives a full safety briefing. You do not need to be a strong swimmer for the cage dive.
Highlights
- Boat trip off Oahu's North Shore to open, deep-blue water
- Cage dive option: about 20 minutes in the water with sharks, snorkel gear included
- Spectator option to watch from the boat without entering the water
- Small-group style trip with a guide and safety briefing
- Cage holds up to eight people at once
- You do not need to be a strong swimmer
- Possible sightings of turtles, dolphins and, in season, humpback whales
Full Description
Oahu's North Shore and Haleiwa
The North Shore is the surf capital of Oahu, a long stretch of coast famous for winter waves, beach parks and the laid-back town of Haleiwa. Boat trips leave from the area's small harbour, and the ride out shows a very different side of the island: green cliffs, empty beaches and open sea.
If you are searching for shark cage diving on Oahu, the North Shore is where these tours run. The water offshore is deep and clear, with visibility that can reach about 200 feet, so the sharks are easy to see from the cage or from the deck.
The shark cage dive
For the cage dive, you put on a mask and snorkel and climb into an aluminium cage floating beside the boat. The cage holds up to eight people, and staff make sure everyone can hold on and see. You have about 20 minutes to watch sharks pass just inches away, and the sharks you may see can be well over ten feet long.
You do not need to be a strong swimmer, because salt water makes you buoyant and you simply stay inside the cage. Wild sharks cannot be scripted, so the number of animals varies, but the crew know the area well. Bring an underwater camera if you have one.
Spectator option: boat only
If you would prefer to stay dry, the spectator option lets you watch the sharks from the boat deck. This option does not include entering the cage or the water. It suits people who want to see the sharks but are not ready to go in, and you can share the trip with friends who dive.
Depending on the option you choose, the price and the equipment differ. Spectators enjoy the same boat ride, the same guide commentary and the same sea views. Being on the deck also gives you a good position for photos of the cage and the animals.
Marine life and planning your trip
On the way out and back you may see Hawaiian green sea turtles and spinner dolphins, and in winter humpback whales pass the North Shore. These sightings depend on the season and the day, but they add value to the ride.
Wear swimwear under your clothes, and bring a towel, sunscreen and a hat. The trip lasts about 90 minutes and is affected by weather and sea conditions. Hotel pickup is not included, and the drive from Waikiki takes about an hour, so allow time to reach the meeting point.
Itinerary
- Check in and safety briefingMeet the crew at the meeting point on your confirmation and receive a safety briefing.
- Boat ride to the shark areaCruise along the North Shore coast into deep water, watching for turtles and dolphins.
- Cage dive or spectator timeEnter the cage for about 20 minutes with snorkel gear, or watch from the deck.
- Sea life viewingLook for turtles, dolphins and, in season, whales on the way.
- Return to the harbourSail back to the harbour after about 90 minutes in total.
What's included
- Shark cruise on the boat
- Shark viewing from the boat deck
- Services of a guide and crew
Not included
- Cage dive and entering the water
- Food and drinks
- Tips (optional)
Is this right for you?
Great for
- Families with children — a child price for ages 3–12
- Anyone who wants to see it from the water
- A short visit — about 1.5 hours
- Travellers who want a proven choice — rated 4.8/5 by past travellers
Think twice if
- You want a private tour — this one is shared with other travellers
- You get seasick easily
Not suitable for
- People with heart conditions or serious health problems
- Pregnant women
- Guests who are afraid of water or of sharks (the spectator option may suit them)
- Anyone prone to severe seasickness
Meeting point
The trip starts at a meeting point in Oahu's North Shore area. The exact location and check-in time are on your booking confirmation. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan for about an hour's drive from Waikiki and arrive at least 15 minutes early.
Important information
- The trip lasts about 90 minutes; check availability for start times.
- The cage dive option includes about 20 minutes in the cage, with snorkel equipment.
- The spectator option does not include entering the cage or the water.
- Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and a hat.
- You do not need to be a strong swimmer for the cage dive.
- Food, drinks and tips are not included.
- Hotel pickup is not included.
- Trips may be changed or cancelled due to weather and sea conditions.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the North Shore shark cage dive cost?
The price depends on the option you choose, cage dive or spectator. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for each, so you can see the total before you book.
How long is the trip?
The trip lasts about 90 minutes, and the cage dive is about 20 minutes of that time.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. The drive from Waikiki takes about an hour.
What is the difference between the options?
The cage dive puts you in the water in a cage with snorkel gear. The spectator option lets you watch from the boat only.
Is shark cage diving safe?
The cage is made of aluminium and the crew give a full safety briefing and supervise the whole time. As with any wild-animal activity, follow all instructions.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
No. Salt water makes you buoyant and you stay inside the cage.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Age and size limits apply for the cage dive. Please contact us before booking for children.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear swimwear and bring a towel, sunscreen and a hat. Masks and snorkels are provided for divers.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Often yes, when space is available. Choose your date on this page to see current times.
What can I see besides sharks?
You may see turtles and dolphins, and in winter humpback whales, depending on the day.
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