Charter Guide

Your complete guide to booking the perfect Hawaiian fishing adventure

Private vs. Shared Charters: Choosing Your Adventure

The decision between a private or shared charter is the single most critical factor that will shape your day on the water. Understanding the trade-offs is essential for a successful adventure.

Modern fishing charter boat with happy family holding their catch at Hawaiian harbor

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Private Charter

When you book a private charter, you rent the entire boat and crew for your group alone (typically up to 6 passengers).

✅ Pros:

• Personalized experience tailored to your group
• More space and comfort - the boat is yours
• Flexibility in fishing strategy and timing
• Keep more of your catch
• Control the atmosphere and pace

❌ Cons:

• Significantly higher cost
• You pay whether the boat is full or not

Best For: Families with kids, serious anglers with specific goals, corporate groups, special occasions

🤝 Shared Charter

A shared charter means you book individual spots on the boat, joining other anglers to fill the trip.

✅ Pros:

• Most economical way to go deep-sea fishing
• Split costs with other passengers
• Good for solo anglers and couples

❌ Cons:

• Generalized, one-size-fits-all approach
• Crowded conditions with strangers
• Risk of last-minute cancellation
• Catch divided equally among all passengers
• Unpredictable group dynamics

Best For: Solo anglers, budget-conscious couples, flexible schedules, first-time deep-sea fishing

Pricing Guide: What to Expect

Deep-sea fishing in Hawaiʻi is an investment. The high costs of fuel, boat maintenance, insurance, and top-tier gear mean that charter prices reflect the expense of operating in these world-class fisheries.

💰 Additional Costs to Consider:

• Hawaii General Excise Tax (~4.7%)
• Crew tip (15-20% customary)
• Fish cleaning fees (if offered)
• Fuel surcharges (some operators)

🏙️ Oʻahu

Shared (per person):

4-Hour Trip: $299-$425

Private (whole boat):

4-Hour: $1,250-$1,775

6-Hour: $1,399+

8-Hour: $1,800-$2,495+

🌺 Maui

Shared (per person):

4-Hour Trip: $87-$197

Private (whole boat):

4-Hour: $1,050-$2,592

6-Hour: $1,950+

8-Hour: $2,600-$3,264

🏔️ Big Island (Kona)

Shared (per person):

4-Hour Trip: $155+

Private (whole boat):

4-Hour: $699-$1,000

6-Hour: $949-$1,100

8-Hour: $1,185-$1,600+

🌿 Kauaʻi

Shared (per person):

4-Hour: $175-$250

6-Hour: $230-$350

Private (whole boat):

4-Hour: $600-$1,023

6-Hour: $950-$1,346

8-Hour: $1,500+

Note: Prices are estimates based on available data and are subject to change. Always confirm current pricing with the charter operator.

Before You Book: 10 Essential Questions

A quick conversation with a charter captain before booking can ensure your expectations align with their operation. It empowers you as a consumer and starts the trip off on the right foot.

1. Catch Policy

What is your specific "keep the catch" policy? Ask about different species and sizes.

2. Target Species

For private charters, can we target specific species, or will we be trolling generally?

3. Cancellation Policy

What are the rules for weather-related cancellations or if your plans change?

4. Additional Fees

Are there fuel surcharges or fish cleaning fees to avoid surprises?

5. What's Included

Confirm that tackle, bait, ice, and bottled water are provided.

6. Experience Level

How long have you and your crew been fishing in these waters?

7. Family Friendly

Is your charter well-suited for families with children and beginners?

8. Slow Fishing Days

What happens if the fishing is slow? Good captains are honest about no guarantees.

9. Fishing License

Do guests need licenses? (Answer should be no - boat's license covers you)

10. Gratuity

What's the customary tip for the crew? (15-20% is standard in Hawaii)

The Angler's Checklist: What to Bring

Charters provide all fishing gear, but you'll need personal items to ensure a comfortable and safe day on the water.

🧥 Clothing

• Light layers - can be 10-20° cooler on water
• Light jacket or windbreaker
• Soft, rubber-soled shoes
• No bananas! (serious fishing superstition)

☀️ Sun Protection

• High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen
• Polarized sunglasses
• Wide-brimmed hat
• SPF lip balm

🥤 Food & Drinks

• More water than you think you need
• Plenty of snacks and meals
• No glass containers allowed
• Cooler space with ice provided

💊 Seasickness Prevention

• Dramamine or Bonine (night before + morning)
• Stay hydrated
• Don't fish on empty stomach
• Keep eyes on horizon

📱 Personal Items

• Camera in waterproof pouch
• Personal medications
• Cash for crew tip
• Cooler in car for taking fish home

⚠️ Important Rules

• NO BANANAS - serious fishing superstition
• Respect the crew and their vessel
• Follow all safety instructions
• Be ready to learn and have fun!

🚫 The Golden Rule: NO BANANAS

This may sound strange, but bringing bananas on a fishing boat is considered extremely bad luck by captains worldwide. Whether you believe it or not, respecting this tradition shows respect for the crew and their vessel.