One of the most famous snorkel spots in Hawaii, the sunken u-shaped volcano crater of Molokini is a marine sanctuary with stunning visibility of up to 180 feet, colorful coral, and plenty of tropical fish. On this half day morning cruise, you'll stop at Molokini which is only accessible by boat, as well popular Turtle Arches off the South Maui coast. You'll have a good chance of seeing large sea turtles, dolphins, whales (Dec-April), underwater lava arches, and varied marine life.
The friendly and knowledgeable crew will get you properly fitted with premium gear, educate you about the marine life you’ll be seeing and the local geology, provide a "Learn to Snorkel" class for beginners, and give special attention to any younger ones with the Junior Naturalist Program. You'll also enjoy a hot lunch grilled onboard with complimentary drinks including an alcoholic beverage, as well as a continental breakfast.
WHY THIS OPTION OVER OTHERS
Customer Rating:
5 out of 5 stars
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Maui Revealed guidebook:
One of the best snorkel spots in the entire state.
Lonely Planet guidebook:
Molokini: Hawaii’s Top 20 Attractions. One of the Best Snorkeling Spots on Maui. Fascinating volcanic crater extremely popular with travelers, thrilled by steep walls, ledges, manta rays, turtles, and abundant fish.
The water is calmest and clearest in the morning, so don't fall for discounted afternoon tours -- go out early for the smoothest sailing and best conditions.
Cruise Operator: These boat tours do it right, offering snorkeling lessons and wildlife talks.
Fodor's guidebook:
World-famous Molokini Crater is the most popular snorkel cruise destination in Maui. Visibility is generally outstanding and fish are incredibly tame.
Moon guidebook:
Top Highlight. There isn’t anywhere else in Hawaii where you can find water this clear.
Smaller Raft Tours: The food won’t be as good as on larger boats, and the bathroom situation can often be tight.
Typically it's a 65’ double-deck catamaran which includes easy access to the water via a snorkel entry platform, a small water slide, freshwater showers, male & female bathrooms, and both outdoor and indoor shaded seating.
It's about 45-55 minutes. Turtle Arches (the second stop) is in the vicinity just off the South Maui coast.
Special attention is given by a certified naturalist to any younger ones to ensure they are learning and inspired, including games to learn about marine life.
It’s about 2 hours of snorkel time (1 hour at each stop).
Please note that the snorkel stops are subject to conditions. In a small minority of cases, Turtle Arches may be too rough to enjoy, in which case the boat will either extend the time at Molokini or head to West Maui for snorkeling at Olowalu.
Although 2mm thick wetsuit tops are available to rent onboard for about $10, most people do not need it, as the water is a comfortable 73-79 degrees.
Yes. For those who still want to get in the water, in addition to hands-on snorkeling instruction, flotation devices and life vests are provided. For those who do not get in the water, it's still a fun and enjoyable cruise for whale & dolphin watching and for viewing beautiful Maui from the ocean. There is not a separate rate for non-swimmers at this time.
No. The cruise is family-friendly and beginner-friendly. Lots of life vests, water toys, and flotation devices for all.
Electric scooters cannot be accommodated. Collapsible wheelchairs and strollers can be brought onboard, but they most remained collapsed so as to not interfere with other guests. Guests have to be able to walk down a few steps onto the boat or be helped by people in their party. Please note that the bathrooms are not wheelchair accessible.
Yes. For eyeglass wearers, optical masks are available for snorkeling, from -2 to -7.