Why This Guide Exists

Most people who book a private charter have never done it before. The questions are always the same: What do I wear? Will I get seasick? What’s included? Can I bring food? This guide answers all of them — clearly and honestly — so you can focus on enjoying every minute on the water.

Step 1: Booking Your Charter

Island Jewel operates from Kewalo Basin Harbor at 1025 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu — about 10–15 minutes from most Waikiki hotels. When you book, you’ll choose your date, start time, and duration (minimum 2 hours). The charter is entirely yours — no strangers, no shared decks.

You can reach the team at (808) 807-4800 or via the contact form on the website. Booking early is strongly recommended, especially in peak season (December–April and summer months).

Step 2: Getting to Kewalo Basin

Kewalo Basin Harbor sits between Ala Moana Beach Park and Kakaako Waterfront Park on Ala Moana Boulevard. It’s a 10-minute drive from most Waikiki hotels, or a 20-minute bike ride along the waterfront. Uber and Lyft are reliable options. The crew recommends arriving 15 minutes early to check in, get a safety briefing, and get settled before departure.

• Paid parking is available at the harbor ($1/hour)
• Rideshare pickup/dropoff is easy right at the marina entrance
• Look for the Island Jewel at Slip F11, front row

Step 3: What to Bring

Step 4: What’s Included on the Island Jewel

Your charter rate covers the boat, captain, and crew. Here’s what comes standard:

• Snorkel gear for all guests (mask, fins, snorkel)
• Beach towels and sun chairs
• Light snacks and beverages
• Ocean floats
• Full-service kitchen access
• GoPro photos — complimentary

You are welcome to bring your own food, drinks (no glass), and any extras you’d like for the occasion.

Step 5: The Day of Your Charter

You’ll arrive at Slip F11, check in with the crew, and receive a quick safety briefing. Then you set off. The captain will suggest a route based on conditions that day, but the itinerary is customizable — let the crew know what you’re hoping for.

Typical charter days include sailing along the Honolulu coastline, anchoring to swim or snorkel, spotting wildlife, and soaking up the views of Diamond Head from the water. The crew is there to make it seamless — you don’t need to know anything about sailing.

About Seasickness

The waters off Honolulu’s south shore are generally calm, especially in the morning. The Island Jewel is a 40-foot catamaran, which by design is far more stable than a monohull sailboat — two hulls mean significantly less rocking. That said, if you’ve ever felt motion sickness on boats or in cars, take precautions:

• Take over-the-counter Dramamine or Bonine at least 1 hour before departure
• Eat a light meal beforehand — don’t sail on an empty or overly full stomach
• Stay on deck in the fresh air and focus on the horizon if you feel any nausea
• Ginger chews and Sea-Bands are popular natural alternatives

Gratuity

Gratuity for the captain and crew is not included in the charter rate but is warmly appreciated. The industry standard is 15–20% of the charter cost. It can be given directly in cash or arranged when booking.

One Last Thing

First-time charter guests almost universally say the same thing when they step back onto the dock: “I wish we’d booked longer.” If your schedule allows, consider a 3 or 4-hour charter rather than the minimum 2. The extra time on the water makes a meaningful difference.