Pack Right for a Day on the Water
A whale watching tour on Oahu is an unforgettable experience, and packing the right things helps you stay comfortable so you can focus on the whales. You will be out on the open ocean for a couple of hours, often in the cooler winter months of whale season, so a little preparation goes a long way. Here is exactly what to bring on your Oahu whale watching tour.
Dress in Warm Layers
This is the tip that surprises the most people. Even in sunny Hawaii, it can feel cool and breezy out on the open water, especially with the wind and spray, and whale season falls in the cooler part of the year. The trick is to dress in layers you can add or remove.
- A windbreaker or light jacket to block the wind and spray.
- A warm layer underneath for the breeze offshore.
- Long pants or a light layer over your legs for comfort.
You can always take a layer off if the sun warms you up, but you cannot add one you did not bring.
Sun Protection Still Matters
Even on a cool, breezy day, the Hawaiian sun is strong and reflects off the water from every angle. Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the ocean the whales call home, along with sunglasses and a hat. It is easy to underestimate the sun when the wind keeps you cool, so apply and reapply throughout the trip.
Gear to See the Whales
A few items make spotting whales far more rewarding. Binoculars are wonderful for getting a closer look at spouts and distant breaches, and a camera with a good zoom lens helps you capture the action, since boats keep a respectful distance from the whales. Keep your camera secured with a strap, and consider a waterproof pouch to protect it from spray. Watching a whale leap through a good lens is a memory you will treasure.
Comfort Essentials
Finally, pack a few things to keep you comfortable for the whole trip. Bring water to stay hydrated and a small snack for energy. Most importantly, if you are at all prone to motion sickness, take a remedy or some ginger candies before you board, since the open ocean can be bumpier than the calm shore. Feeling good keeps your eyes on the horizon instead of the rail.
Ready to Meet the Whales
With warm layers, sun protection, binoculars and a camera, and a few comfort essentials, you are all set for a wonderful day of whale watching on Oahu. Dress for the cool ocean breeze, protect your skin, and keep a motion-sickness remedy handy. Do that, and all that is left is to watch the horizon for that first misty spout and the giant that follows it.