Barrel Jet
While on DK’s back, Diddy can use his patented jetpack to allow the duo to hover for a short distance. This is a move for DK and Diddy as a way to cover long distances to get to an out-of-reach platform.
Cane Bounce
When DK is accompanied by Cranky Kong, the elderly Kong will use his cane as a pogo stick, which can be useful for accessing tall platforms and defeating enemies. This ability allows you traverse spiked floors without receiving damage.
Cane Swipe
This is a great defensive weapon against underwater enemies. Swim next to an enemy with DK, then with Cranky on his back you will have the ability to smack incoming enemies over the head, like he did to Donkey Kong so many times in the past.
Helicopter Spin
This can be used with DK and Dixie as a very useful maneuver to reach higher or out-of-reach platforms. Dixie will spin her hair like a helicopter propeller, which boosts the two characters up into the air to reach tall platforms.
Jet Blast
Diddy can perform a similar move similar the Barrel Jet underwater. This move fires the jets on Diddy’s jetpack, propelling the two characters forward as a speed boost.
Kong POW
This can only be used when Donkey Kong has a supporting character and the Kong POW meter is completely full. Once this occurs, press 
or 
to perform the special ability. Donkey Kong and his partner can turn all enemies on the screen into items. When DK is paired with Dixie a Kong POW turns enemies into yellow hearts, while Cranky turns them into banana coins and Diddy will turn them into Red Balloons.
Kong Roll
The Kong Roll can only be performed by Donkey Kong while he is accompanied by a supporting character. Donkey Kong rolls like a barrel while the supporting character runs atop his rolling body. This attack can take out several enemies in a row.
Ponytail Propeller
The Ponytail Propeller is an incredible useful ability underwater, and at times it is the only way to reach certain areas in a level. Dixie will use her hair as a propeller as a speed boost, and this is the only move powerful enough to pass through strong currents.