Maalaea Harbor: Sunset Sail on a Charming Hawaiin Catamaran

Maalaea Harbor offers a unique opportunity to experience Maui’s stunning coastline from the deck of a charming Hawaiian catamaran. Aboard the ‘Winona,’ guests can soak up the sunset, spot marine life, and savor local delicacies – all while the knowledgeable crew provides engaging insights into the island’s natural wonders. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Maui regular, this intimate sailing adventure promises to create memories that will linger long after the final rays of the day have faded.

This experience made our article of 6 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Maalaea.

Key Points

• Experience a sunset sailing cruise from Maalaea Harbor aboard the spacious and stable "Winona" catamaran, the only Hawaiian-built vessel for this tour.
• Enjoy an intimate experience with a maximum capacity of 30-40 passengers, ensuring personalized attention from the experienced crew.
• Indulge in an open bar with local beverages and Hawaiian-style appetizers while listening to island-style music during the 2-hour tour.
• Witness vibrant marine life, including the possibility of seeing spinner dolphins and whales (December-April), and learn about Maui’s resilience from the crew.
• Capture scenic photo opportunities in a lovely atmosphere and benefit from the catamaran’s smooth and stable ride.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

Visitors can experience a beautiful Sunset Sailing Cruise and Whale Watching (Dec-Apr) on a Small Charming Hawaiian Catamaran, "Winona."

The tour lasts 2 hours and departs from 233 Maalaea Rd, Coral Gardens, with check-in at 4:00 p.m. A reserve now & pay later option is available, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The catamaran’s maximum capacity is 30-40 passengers, ensuring comfort and personalized attention. Guests can enjoy an open bar, Hawaiian pupu, island-style music, and parking validation.

Vessel and Capacity

The "Winona" is the only Hawaiian-built, spacious catamaran that hosts the sunset sailing cruises.

With a maximum capacity of 30-40 passengers, the vessel provides comfort and personalized attention.

Key features of the Winona include:

1. Two restrooms for passenger convenience.

2. A floating Tiki Bar for refreshments and ambiance.

3. Ample space for moving about and taking in the scenic vistas.

4. A smooth, stable ride thanks to the catamaran design.

The modest capacity ensures an intimate and enjoyable experience for all aboard the Winona during the sunset sailing adventure.

Amenities and Inclusions

The sunset sailing cruise aboard the "Winona" includes a variety of amenities and inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

Guests can enjoy an open bar featuring locally brewed beer, seltzers, Hawaiian cocktails, soft drinks, juice, and water. Hawaiian-style pupu (appetizers) are served on board.

Island-style music sets the mood, while an experienced captain and crew provide personalized attention.

Parking validation is included, and hotel pick-up and drop-off options are available.

Whether seeking refreshments, culinary delights, or just a relaxing atmosphere, the "Winona" has everything to make the sunset sail a memorable one.

Wildlife and Scenic Experience

Beyond the culinary and refreshment offerings, the sunset sail aboard the "Winona" also provides opportunities to witness the island’s vibrant marine life. Guests may spot spinner dolphins, whales (during the December-April season), and other sea creatures.

The crew shares stories of hope and perseverance, highlighting Maui’s resilience post-wildfires. The experience offers:

1. Chance to see diverse marine life

2. Awesome photo opportunities in a lovely atmosphere

3. Engaging narratives from the experienced crew

4. Resilience of Maui’s natural environment

The sunset sail on the "Winona" delivers a well-rounded experience that goes beyond just the amenities.

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Important Information

Some key points to consider for the sunset sail include the vessel’s accessibility and potential seasickness.

The catamaran isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and infants must sit on laps. While the experience aims to be enjoyable, some passengers may experience seasickness. Over-the-counter medications are recommended to manage this.

The sunset sail on the charming Hawaiian catamaran "Winona" has received positive reviews, with guests praising the attentive crew, clean boat, and overall pleasurable experience.

Booking in advance is advised, as spots are limited to 30-40 passengers for a personalized and comfortable journey.

Customer Reviews

According to the 2 customer reviews, guests have praised the attentive and friendly crew, the cleanliness of the boat, and the overall enjoyable experience on the sunset sail aboard the "Winona" catamaran.

The reviews highlight the following:

1. Friendly and knowledgeable crew who shared stories of hope and perseverance.

2. A clean and well-maintained vessel with comfortable amenities.

3. A lovely atmosphere with beautiful scenic views and photo opportunities.

4. An overall 5/5 rating, noting the great value for the price.

Booking and Reservation

Guests can reserve their spot on the Sunset Sail at Maalaea Harbor quickly and easily. They’ve the option to reserve and pay later, which provides flexibility.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for last-minute changes. The check-in time is 4:00 p.m., and the 2-hour cruise departs from 233 Maalaea Rd, Coral Gardens.

Bookings are limited to the catamaran’s 30-40 passenger capacity, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. With a convenient reserve now, pay later policy and generous cancellation terms, securing a spot on this popular sunset sail is hassle-free.

Getting to Maalaea Harbor

Maalaea Harbor is located approximately 10 miles south of Kahului, Maui’s main airport.

Visitors can access the harbor by:

Getting to Maalaea Harbor is easy – just drive along Honoapiilani Highway, turn onto Maalaea Road, and use the free parking lot nearby.

1. Driving along Honoapiilani Highway and turning onto Maalaea Road.

2. Using the free parking lot at 233 Maalaea Road, near the Coral Gardens.

3. Arriving at least 30 minutes before the scheduled 4:00 PM check-in time.

4. Taking advantage of the hassle-free hotel pick-up and drop-off options, if available.

With clear directions and ample parking, getting to the convenient Maalaea Harbor location is a breeze for a relaxing sunset sail aboard the "Winona" catamaran.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pets Allowed on the Cruise?

Pets are not allowed on the Sunset Sailing Cruise. The vessel has a maximum capacity of 30-40 passengers, and the crew cannot accommodate animals on board for the safety and comfort of all guests.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Passengers?

The minimum age requirement for passengers is not specified in the provided details. There are no mentions of age restrictions, only that infants must sit on laps during the sunset sailing cruise.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

No, passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks onboard. The tour provides an open bar with locally brewed beer, cocktails, soft drinks, and Hawaiian-style appetizers as part of the experience.

Is the Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?

The cruise is not wheelchair accessible. The details state the tour is "Not suitable for wheelchair users." Passengers with mobility challenges may have difficulty boarding and navigating the catamaran.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Cruise?

The cruise doesn’t offer an option to extend the 2-hour duration. However, the company may accommodate requests for a longer sail if passengers inquire in advance, subject to availability and additional fees.

The Sum Up

The sunset sail aboard the "Winona" catamaran offers an enchanting experience at Maalaea Harbor. With a small group size, passengers can enjoy local beverages, Hawaiian-style appetizers, and stunning views as the sun dips below the horizon. The knowledgeable crew enhances the experience by sharing insights about Maui’s marine life. Whether you’re spotting dolphins and whales or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, this sunset sail is a must-do activity during your Maui visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: