The Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Whale Watching Tour offers an exciting 2.5-hour adventure for those seeking an unforgettable ocean experience. Visitors can explore the vibrant marine life within the crystal-clear waters of Molokini Crater before embarking on a thrilling whale watching journey aboard a fast inflatable boat. With the chance to witness the majestic humpback whales up close, this tour promises an exhilarating encounter that may just leave you yearning for more.
Key Points
- A 2.5-hour tour offering 1 hour of snorkeling at Molokini Crater and 1.5 hours of whale watching, priced from $151.27 per person.
- Seasonal availability from December 15 to April 15, with a fast and maneuverable boat used for the journey.
- Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to observe colorful fish, with opportunities for close encounters with humpback whales during the boat passage.
- Recommended items include hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, and sunscreen, while the tour is not suitable for certain individuals.
- Overall rating of 5/5 based on positive customer feedback highlighting incredible whale sightings and an enjoyable boat ride.
Tour Overview
The Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Whale Watching Tour is a 2.5-hour activity priced from $151.27 per person.
It’s available seasonally from December 15 to April 15. Travelers can expect to spend around an hour snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Molokini Crater and 1.5 hours whale watching and boat passage.
If conditions are unfavorable, the tour may select a shoreline alternative. Snorkeling gear and beverages are provided.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, non-swimmers, and those prone to seasickness. Participants must check in 15 minutes before departure.
Looking for more options in Kihei? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Experience Highlights
Snorkeling the crystal-clear waters of Molokini Crater offers the chance to observe a vibrant array of colorful fish.
The tour also includes:
-
Whale watching opportunities during the boat passage to and from the snorkeling site, where guests may spot humpback whales, including mother/calf/escort pods.
-
A fast and maneuverable rigid-hulled inflatable boat for the journey.
-
Complimentary snorkeling gear and beverages provided by the tour operator.
Recent sightings have included close encounters with whales, such as a mother lifting her calf out of the water, creating memorable experiences for participants.
Tour Itinerary
Approximately 1 hour is spent snorkeling the crystal-clear waters of Molokini Crater, with the remaining 1.5 hours dedicated to whale watching and the boat passage to and from the snorkeling site.
The tour schedule is flexible, and if conditions aren’t favorable at Molokini, an alternate shoreline location may be selected.
Recent tours have provided memorable experiences, including close encounters with humpback whales, such as witnessing a mother lifting her calf out of the water.
Memorable experiences included close encounters with humpback whales, such as witnessing a mother lifting her calf out of the water.
Participants are advised to arrive 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth start to the tour.
Participant Guidelines
To participate in the Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Whale Watching Tour, guests should bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water.
The tour isn’t suitable for:
-
Pregnant women
-
People with back problems
-
Non-swimmers and those prone to seasickness
Guests must check-in 15 minutes before departure.
This exhilarating 2.5-hour tour offers the chance to snorkel in Molokini Crater and spot humpback whales, but participants should be prepared for the physical demands and potential seasickness risks.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
Based on 3 reviews, the Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Whale Watching Tour has an overall rating of 5/5. Travelers praise the incredible whale sightings, including a mother lifting her calf out of the water. While some suggest preparation to capture better photos, the overall experience receives overwhelmingly positive feedback.
| Positive Feedback | Areas for Improvement |
| — | — |
| Incredible whale sightings | Photo opportunities |
| Enjoyable boat ride | – |
| Well-organized tour | – |
The tour’s perfect 5/5 rating underscores its ability to deliver an exceptional whale watching and snorkeling experience in Maui.
- Maui: Turtle Town Sunset Glow Snorkel With Optional Photo
- Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Whale Watching Tour – 2.5 Hours
- South Maui Premier Kayak and Snorkel
- Maui: Kanaio Coast Rafting & Snorkeling Adventure – 4 Hours
- Private Luxury Hana Tour in 7 Passenger SUV
- Wailea-Makina: Sea Caves, Molokini Snorkel & Turtle Town
Snorkeling at Molokini Crater
The crystal-clear waters of Molokini Crater provide an ideal snorkeling experience for participants.
The crystal-clear waters of Molokini Crater provide an ideal snorkeling experience for participants.
This unique volcanic crater offers a vibrant underwater ecosystem teeming with colorful fish and marine life.
Snorkelers can:
-
Observe schools of tropical fish, including parrotfish, butterflyfish, and Moorish idols.
-
Spot other aquatic creatures like sea turtles and manta rays.
-
Admire the crater’s distinctive lava rock formations and stunning visibility.
The tour’s high-speed boat ensures a quick and comfortable passage to the snorkeling site, maximizing time spent in the water.
With provided gear and expert guidance, guests can fully enjoy the wonders of Molokini.
Whale Watching During Boat Passage
As the boat traverses the waters en route to Molokini Crater, passengers can expect to encounter majestic humpback whales. The tour offers an opportunity to spot these magnificent creatures, including mother-calf and escort pods, during the boat passage. The likelihood of sightings is high, as the tour operates during the peak whale watching season from December 15 to April 15.
| Whale Watching Experience | |
| — | — |
| Mother-Calf Pods | Observe the tender bond between a mother whale and her calf. |
| Escort Pods | See the protective escorts that accompany mother-calf pairs. |
| Breaching | Witness the impressive sight of a whale breaching the water’s surface. |
| Close Encounters | Enjoy close-up views of whales during the boat’s maneuverable passage.
Boat Ride on a Rigid-Hulled Inflatable
Aboard the fast and maneuverable rigid-hulled inflatable boat, passengers can expect an exhilarating ride to and from the snorkeling site at Molokini Crater.
This boat type offers several advantages:
-
Agility – Its nimble design allows the boat to navigate the waves with ease, providing a smooth and thrilling experience.
-
Stability – The rigid hull and inflatable sides ensure a stable and secure platform for passengers to enjoy the views and spotting wildlife.
-
Comfort – Ample seating and protection from the elements keep guests comfortable throughout the journey.
The boat’s speed and maneuverability are key to maximizing the time spent at the prime snorkeling location and increasing the chances of encountering whales during the passage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may not be suitable for young children, as it’s not recommended for non-swimmers and those prone to seasickness. However, the operator’s policy on child participation is unclear, so it’s best to check with them directly.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?
Participants can bring their own snorkeling gear, but the tour operator provides snorkeling equipment as part of the experience. Using the provided gear is recommended to ensure proper fit and functionality for the tour’s activities.
How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Activity?
The tour’s schedule allocates approximately 1 hour for snorkeling and 1.5 hours for whale watching and boat passage. The total duration of the tour is 2.5 hours.
Is There a Professional Photographer on Board?
The tour does not mention the presence of a professional photographer on board. Passengers are advised to bring their own cameras to capture the whale sightings and underwater views at Molokini Crater.
Do the Tour Operators Provide Any Food or Meals?
The tour operators provide beverages for participants, but do not offer any food or meals. Travelers are advised to bring their own snacks and refreshments to enjoy during the tour.
The Sum Up
The Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Whale Watching Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning Molokini Crater and witness the majestic humpback whales. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and thrilling boat ride, this 2.5-hour adventure is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable ocean experience on Maui. Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast or simply want to marvel at the whales, this tour delivers an exceptional value-for-money experience.
You can check availability for your dates here: