Oahu - Underwater Exploration Observer-like Experience
 

I am going to Oahu in November and am looking for an underwater experience where I can be submerged and explore the ocean life while not getting my head too wet. I originally wanted to go snorkelling but I am not a very strong swimmer and I have horrible eye sight and cannot wear contacts. Through my research I came across Underwater Scooters where I would sit on this vehicle that has a water tight helmet. I have found two different businesses that provide this experience (BOB's Underwater Scooter Adventure, Island WaterSports Hawaii) but are not very responsive to my emails.

Has anyone used these two businesses before (BOB's Underwater Scooter Adventure, or Island WaterSports Hawaii)? Can anyone recommend an alternative activity or business that provides an underwater exploration experience where I can wear my glasses?

I've done helmet dives on the Great Barrier Reef, and I don't know if I'd recommend wearing glasses during one. You don't get to go too deep and don't really see much. I think a better alternative for you would be a mini-submarine tour like this one: https://tinyurl.com/y9sxf4f4. You could also do a glass-bottom boat like this one: hawaiiglassbottomboats.com.

And I also had horrible eyesight at one point but still quite enjoyed snorkeling. With a mask on (even a non-prescription one ... though those also exist), your vision actually improves tremendously underwater because the water magnifies everything. But if you aren't a strong swimmer and are relatively uncomfortable underwater, I don't know that an underwater scooter would solve your issues. You need the confidence to get up to the surface if something goes wrong. And when I did my helmet dive, I found the large, heavy helmet hard to balance. I can't imagine riding on a scooter with one.

Did you know that the snorkle rental shops can rent you a prescription mask? They are experienced with that.

For your first snorkle it might be good to go on a small group tour so they can help with any problems.

I think you might enjoy the Oahu Atlantis Submarine Adventure; price is reasonable (and there are coupons) and you won't get your hair wet.