One can’t help but be captivated by the allure of Wailea-Makina’s natural wonders. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure, immersing visitors in the crystal-clear waters where they’ll encounter vibrant marine life. From the breathtaking sea caves to the world-renowned Molokini snorkel sites, including Turtle Town, this 5.5-hour experience offers a chance to truly connect with the beauty of Hawaii’s coastal treasures. With all necessary equipment provided and a continental breakfast and lunch included, the stage is set for an enjoyable and comfortable journey.
Key Points
- This 5.5-hour tour explores Maui’s natural wonders, including snorkeling in Molokini’s crystal-clear waters and encountering marine wildlife like spinner dolphins and sea turtles.
- The tour includes snorkeling at various locations, such as the backside of Molokini and the Kanaio Coast, where sea caves can be explored.
- Participants can expect to see diverse marine life, including endangered sea turtles and spotted eagle rays, during the respectful observation of wildlife.
- The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, a continental breakfast and lunch, and all necessary snorkel gear, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
- Restrictions include no pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or non-swimmers, and prohibited items such as smoking, plastic bottles, and feeding animals.
Tour Overview and Pricing
What can visitors expect from the Wailea-Makina: Sea Caves, Molokini Snorkel & Turtle Town tour? This 5.5-hour adventure takes guests to some of Maui’s most stunning natural wonders.
Priced from $216.14 per person, the tour includes snorkeling in Molokini’s crystal-clear waters, exploring sea caves, and encountering sea turtles and other marine life.
Advance booking is recommended, as the tour is likely to sell out. Visitors can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before and a reserve now, pay later option.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, breakfast, lunch, and snorkel gear.
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Snorkeling Experience
The tour’s snorkeling experience offers visitors the chance to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Molokini, a unique crescent-shaped volcanic crater.
Adventurers can:
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Explore the backside of Molokini, a favorite spot for advanced divers
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Encounter sea turtles and spotted eagle rays near lava fingers
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Drift snorkel at various locations, including the outer reef and La Perouse Pinnacle
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Potentially spot spinner dolphins, including babies, who may approach snorkelers
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Discover the sea caves along the Kanaio Coast.
The snorkeling locations may vary based on weather conditions, providing a dynamic and adaptable experience.
Wildlife Encounters
During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to encounter a variety of marine wildlife. Potential sightings include spinner dolphins, which may even approach snorkelers in the water.
Visitors may encounter spinner dolphins that may approach snorkelers during the tour, offering a chance to observe these marine creatures up close.
Sightings of endangered sea turtles are also common along the Kanaio Coast. Though protected, these gentle creatures can often be spotted near the lava fingers.
The tour’s snorkel locations, including the backside of Molokini and the outer reef, increase the chances of seeing diverse marine life like spotted eagle rays.
Visitors are reminded to observe wildlife respectfully and not interfere with these protected species.
Inclusions and Amenities
This 5.5-hour tour includes a continental breakfast and lunch served onboard.
The tour also provides beverages and all necessary snorkel gear. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, so there’s no need to worry about transportation.
While gratuities aren’t included, guests are free to tip the crew at their own discretion. The tour is well-equipped to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants.
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Onboard meals: continental breakfast and lunch
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Beverages and snorkel gear provided
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Hotel pickup and drop-off included
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Gratuities not included
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Photography encouraged, especially in sea caves
Preparation and Restrictions
Although participants are encouraged to bring certain items like sunglasses, hat, and camera, the tour has several restrictions.
Pregnant women, individuals with back problems, non-swimmers, and those prone to seasickness aren’t allowed on the tour. Smoking, plastic bottles, feeding animals, and touching plants are prohibited.
Vegan or gluten-free options are available upon request. Participants must check-in 30 minutes before the departure time.
While photography is encouraged, especially in the sea caves, the Molokini snorkel spots may vary based on weather conditions.
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- Wailea-Makina: Sea Caves, Molokini Snorkel & Turtle Town
Departure and Check-in
Guests must check in at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. This is crucial to ensure a smooth start to the tour and allow time for the crew to provide a safety briefing.
Be sure to check in 30 minutes early to allow time for safety briefing and a smooth start to the tour.
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Arrive early to avoid delays or missing the boat.
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Bring a valid photo ID for check-in.
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Review the list of prohibited items before departure.
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Ensure you have all necessary personal items and equipment.
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Be prepared to sign liability waivers and receive your snorkel gear.
The tour departs on time, so punctuality is essential for participants to fully enjoy the Wailea-Makina adventure.
Photography Opportunities
The Wailea-Makina tour offers fantastic photography opportunities, especially within the mesmerizing sea caves along the Kanaio Coast.
Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the dramatic lava formations, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant marine life. The sea caves provide a unique and sheltered environment for photographers to experiment with different lighting and perspectives.
The tour also allows ample time for guests to photograph the iconic Molokini crater and its diverse array of coral and tropical fish.
With the stunning Maui coastline as a backdrop, this tour is a photographer’s dream.
Molokini Snorkel Spot Variation
The Molokini snorkel spots may vary based on the prevailing weather conditions. Guests should expect some flexibility in the specific snorkel locations during the tour.
Snorkel spots at Molokini may change due to weather conditions, so guests should expect flexibility in tour locations.
While the tour aims to visit the backside of Molokini, a favorite for advanced divers, the exact spots may shift:
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Outer reef locations may be explored depending on water clarity and ocean conditions.
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La Perouse Pinnacle may be visited for drift snorkeling.
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Lava fingers near Turtle Town could be a habitat for sea turtles and spotted eagle rays.
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Sea cave exploration along the Kanaio Coast may be adjusted based on swell and accessibility.
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Dolphin encounters near Makena are also weather-dependent.
Ask Away
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may not be suitable for young children. It’s recommended for those 12 and older due to the snorkeling and potential seasickness. Parents should assess their child’s abilities and comfort level before booking.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear?
You can bring your own snorkel gear, but the tour provides high-quality snorkel equipment. Using the provided gear ensures proper fit and function, and avoids any issues with bringing your own equipment.
How Many People Are Typically on the Tour?
The tour typically accommodates between 12 to 25 passengers. The exact group size can vary depending on demand and availability, but the boat has a capacity to ensure a comfortable and personalized snorkeling experience for all participants.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
The tour does not offer any specific discounts for seniors or students. The standard price of $216.14 per person applies to all participants, regardless of age or student status. Customers can check the tour’s website for any potential promotional offers or seasonal pricing.
Are Underwater Photos and Videos Allowed?
Photography is encouraged on the tour, especially in the sea caves. Underwater photos and videos are allowed, as long as they don’t interfere with the snorkeling experience or disturb the wildlife.
Final Words
The Wailea-Makena tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Maui’s natural splendor. From the breathtaking sea caves to the vibrant Molokini snorkel site and Turtle Town, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience. With all necessary gear and meals provided, travelers can simply relax and soak in the beauty of the Hawaiian waters and wildlife. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the mesmerizing moments.
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