The South Maui: Molokini Snorkeling Adventure is a captivating 5.5-hour excursion that departs from Maalaea Road. Priced at $178.95 per person, this tour offers a continental breakfast, lunch, and the chance to take in the vibrant marine life of the Molokini Crater. Guests can also swim alongside the graceful Hawaiian green sea turtles at Turtle Town, all while enjoying the amenities of the Calypso, Hawaii’s premier triple-deck catamaran. With safety measures in place and expert guidance, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and aquatic explorers alike.
This experience made our article of Discover 16 Great Snorkeling Experiences In Maui.
Key Points
- A 5.5-hour tour from Maalaea Road, Maui, including snorkeling at Molokini Crater and swimming with Hawaiian green sea turtles at Turtle Town.
- Molokini Crater offers vibrant coral formations and tropical fish, suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers in crystal-clear waters.
- The Calypso, a triple-deck catamaran, provides glass-bottom viewing, water slides, and easy water entry and exit for a comfortable experience.
- Certified lifeguards, an onboard naturalist, and comprehensive safety orientation ensure the safety and enjoyment of the tour.
- The tour is not recommended for individuals with heart problems or seasickness, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Overview of the Molokini Snorkeling Adventure
The Molokini Snorkeling Adventure is a popular 5.5-hour tour that departs from Maalaea Road on Maui. For $178.95 per person, guests embark on an exciting journey to explore the crescent-shaped Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.
The tour includes a continental breakfast, lunch, and opportunities for whale watching. Participants have 2.5 hours to snorkel and view marine life within the protected Molokini Crater.
Then, they swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles at Turtle Town. The tour’s experienced crew, certified lifeguards, and onboard naturalist ensure a safe and informative adventure.
Into underwater exploring? These other snorkeling spots in Maui might work for you
Exploring the Molokini Crater
Situated within the Alalākeiki Channel, the crescent-shaped Molokini Crater offers a unique snorkeling experience unlike any other in Hawaii.
This volcanic crater, partially submerged underwater, is home to an abundance of marine life, including vibrant coral formations, schools of tropical fish, and the occasional Hawaiian green sea turtle.
Snorkelers can explore the crater’s crystal-clear waters, marveling at the diverse ecosystem teeming with life. The calm, protected waters inside the crater provide an ideal environment for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike, making it a must-visit destination for any ocean enthusiast visiting Maui.
Encounters With Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
After exploring the vibrant underwater world of the Molokini Crater, the Molokini Snorkeling Adventure takes visitors to Turtle Town, where they can swim alongside the iconic Hawaiian green sea turtles. These gentle creatures are a highlight of the tour, as guests have the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. The calm, clear waters of Turtle Town provide an ideal environment for snorkeling and spotting turtles as they gracefully glide through the ocean.
| Turtle Facts | | |
|————–|—|—|
| Species | Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle |
| Average Size | 3-4 feet |
| Lifespan | 50-80 years |
| Diet | Seagrass and algae |
Onboard Amenities and Facilities
Calypso, the only triple-deck catamaran in Hawaii, provides ample onboard amenities and facilities for the Molokini Snorkeling Adventure.
The vessel features a glass-bottom viewing area, allowing guests to observe the vibrant marine life below. Eleven easy-access stair points make entering and exiting the water a breeze.
For thrill-seekers, the boat boasts two water slides and a jumping platform. After snorkeling, guests can rinse off in one of the two freshwater showers and use the three onboard restrooms.
Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as available alcoholic options, ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
More Great Tours NearbySafety Measures and Guidance
The experienced captain and crew provide a comprehensive site orientation and detailed snorkeling tutorials to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.
Certified lifeguards are present in the water during the snorkeling activity to monitor guests and provide assistance if needed.
The onboard naturalist is also on hand to help with marine wildlife identification and to share their expertise about the local ecosystem.
Guests must sign an online waiver prior to the tour, and certain restrictions apply – the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with heart problems or seasickness, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Maui Pineapple Farm Tour in Haliimaile
- Small-Group Road to Hana Adventure Tour With Pickup & Lunch
- Haleakala Sunrise Spectacular: Legendary Views + Local Breakfast
- Molokini Snorkeling Adventure Aboard Calypso From Maalaea Harbor
- 7-Line Maui Zipline on the North Shore
- Turtle Town Snorkel With Photo and Video
What to Bring and Considerations
To make the most of the Molokini Snorkeling Adventure, guests should bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, towel, and biodegradable sunscreen.
It’s also a good idea to bring cash for any additional purchases. The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with heart problems or seasickness, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Dietary needs should be noted at the time of booking. Guests must complete an online waiver before the tour, and the minimum drinking age is 21 years old.
Following these considerations will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Dietary Accommodations and Restrictions
How do dietary accommodations and restrictions work for the Molokini Snorkeling Adventure? Guests with dietary needs must note them at the time of booking.
Guests with dietary needs must note them at the time of booking for the Molokini Snorkeling Adventure.
The tour offers the following:
-
Vegetarian options for lunch
-
Unlimited soda, juice, and water
-
Alcoholic beverages available for purchase ($3 each)
Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with heart problems or seasickness.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Guests are required to complete an online waiver before the tour, and the minimum drinking age is 21 years old.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
What do customers have to say about the Molokini Snorkeling Adventure? Based on 422 reviews, the tour receives an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
Customers highlight the organized and friendly crew, the good food, and the large boat with ample space. Many also report positive experiences with marine life sightings.
The tour seems to deliver on its promises, providing an enjoyable snorkeling adventure at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.
With the high ratings and favorable feedback, this tour appears to be a popular choice for those seeking a memorable snorkeling experience in Maui.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?
Yes, participants can bring their own snorkeling gear. However, the tour also provides high-quality snorkeling equipment, including masks, snorkels, and fins, for those who don’t have their own gear.
Is the Molokini Crater Accessible Year-Round?
The Molokini Crater is accessible year-round, though access may be limited during periods of high surf or strong winds. Conditions are generally best from spring through fall when waters are calmer.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes?
There are no additional fees or taxes for the Molokini Snorkeling Adventure. The listed price covers all costs, including breakfast, lunch, and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase separately.
Can I Book This Tour as a Solo Traveler?
Yes, solo travelers can book this tour. The tour information states there are no restrictions on solo travelers, and the reviews mention the tour being suitable for individuals.
How Long Is the Boat Ride to the Molokini Crater?
The boat ride to Molokini Crater takes around 1 hour. The tour itinerary indicates that after the initial check-in and safety briefing, the first stop is Molokini Crater, where passengers will spend approximately 2.5 hours snorkeling and viewing marine life.
The Sum Up
The South Maui: Molokini Snorkeling Adventure offers an unforgettable 5.5-hour experience, with a delightful continental breakfast, lunch, and the chance to witness magnificent marine life while snorkeling in the stunning Molokini Crater. Guests can also enjoy swimming with Hawaiian green sea turtles at Turtle Town, all aboard the Calypso, Hawaii’s only triple-deck catamaran, equipped with various amenities for comfort and safety during the adventure.
📍 This experience made our list of the 16 best Snorkeling Experiences in Maui
More Helicopter Tours in Maui
- Molokai & Maui Scenic EcoStar 130 Helicopter
- Complete Island 60-Minute Helicopter Tour
- Hana Rainforest Helicopter Flight with Landing from Maui
- Doors Off West Maui and Molokai 45 minute Helicopter Tour
- Hana Rainforest and Haleakala Crater Helicopter Tour
- Kahului: Doors-off West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tour
More Tours in Maui
- From Ka’anapali: West Maui Half-Day Snorkel Tour w/ Food
- Pearl Harbor and Oahu Circle Island Tour FROM MAUI
- Ma’alaea Harbor: Whale Watching Tour Aboard Power Catamaran
- Maui: Semi-Private 3 Hour Eco-Raft Turtle Snorkel Tour
- Maui: Sunset & Dinner Tour to Haleakala National Park
- Maui: Beginner Discovery Scuba Dive Excursion from Lahaina
More Tour Reviews in Maui
- From Ka’anapali: West Maui Half-Day Snorkel Tour w/ Food
- Maalaea: West Maui Snorkeling & Sailing Day Trip with Lunch
- From Kaanapali: Afternoon West Maui Snorkeling w/ Drinks
- Pearl Harbor and Oahu Circle Island Tour FROM MAUI
- From Kihei: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town Snorkeling
- South Maui: Molokini Wild Eco Adventure from Maalaea Harbor
Still browsing? Here are more Maui experiences we've covered recently
- From Ka’anapali: West Maui Half-Day Snorkel Tour w/ Food
- Maalaea: West Maui Snorkeling & Sailing Day Trip with Lunch
- From Kaanapali: Afternoon West Maui Snorkeling w/ Drinks
- Pearl Harbor and Oahu Circle Island Tour FROM MAUI
- From Kihei: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town Snorkeling
- South Maui: Molokini Wild Eco Adventure from Maalaea Harbor
- Ma’alaea Harbor: Whale Watching Tour Aboard Power Catamaran
- Maui: Semi-Private 3 Hour Eco-Raft Turtle Snorkel Tour
- Maui: Ka’anapali Luxury Sunset Cocktail Sail with Open Bar
- Maui: Best of Maui/Haleakala – Sips, Sites & Bites
- Maui: Sunset & Dinner Tour to Haleakala National Park
- Maui: Beginner Discovery Scuba Dive Excursion from Lahaina