Top Maui Whale Watching

Experience the magic of whale watching off the coast of Maui with this incredible tour from Ma'alaea Harbor. Spend two-hours cruising the waters with a team of certified marine naturalists and listen in as they unlock the secretes of humpback whales. You'll have the chance to hear whale songs through underwater hydrophones and learn about interactions between these giant marine mammals. Travelers are guaranteed to see whales on this is a once-in-a-lifetime tour or the next trip is free.

This tour departs from the historic Lahaina Harbor to find the majestic humpback whales that frequent the waters surrounding Maui in the winter months. Traveling in a small raft creates an intimate whale watching experience not found on the larger vessels commonly used on whale watching tours. Plus, the raft travels quickly, letting you spend more time whale watching and less time in transit.

Snorkeling in Molokini Crater is undeniably one of the best parts about visiting Maui. Here in this crescent, submerged volcano off Maui’s southern coastline, over 250 species of fish inhabit a world-class reef. Experience water so exceptionally clear you can see down 75 feet, and swim with schools of tropical fish while cruising the vibrant reef. You can also just sit and suntan on the deck, with sweeping views of Haleakala set just off the back of the boat.

The offshore crater of Molokini has some of the best snorkeling spots in Maui—if you can reach them. Thankfully, this half-day snorkeling tour heads straight for Molokini and Turtle Town nearby on a 53-foot (16 meters) Lani Kai II boat with a 20-foot (6 meters) waterslide. Visit two snorkeling locations, get the chance to spot whales, and enjoy onboard breakfast and lunch. Whales sightings are seasonal in nature, from November through April.

Spot humpbacks as they travel through Maui’s warm waters on this 1.5-hour whale-watching excursion. Hop aboard a sturdy raft in Kihei with an expert naturalist as your guide, and jet to the southern coastline, which hosts one of the highest whale populations in Hawaii. Your guide will provide commentary about these fascinating creatures as you see them spout and slap the water. To keep this whale-watching tour intimate, your group is limited to 24 people.

Enjoy a day on the water and combine two great Maui ocean experiences in one. This tour is an opportunity to snorkel at Molokini or another nearby coral reef before embarking on a whale watching cruise in search of humpbacks. As you sail, you can enjoy beverages from the open bar, as well as a delicious lunch.

Over 200 different species of fish inhabit Molokini Crater, and you have the chance to search for them all aboard this Maui snorkeling tour. Inside this ancient volcanic caldera that rises up out of the sea, you might also find manta rays, sea urchins, eels, or even a harmless shark. This tour also stops at a spot called Turtle Town along the Maui coastline, where you have the chance to swim alongside enormous Hawaiian Green sea turtles. Enjoy amenities like a glass-bottom viewing room and snorkeling equipment as well as a buffet lunch on the triple-decker catamaran.

Imagine swimming in a sunken volcano that teems with thousands of fish, while splashing in crystal clear water. On this Molokini snorkeling tour, cruise out to the crater, before jumping in the crystalline waters and scouring the colorful reef. Make a second stop dependent upon conditions, and search for turtles at Turtle Town or a spot named Coral Gardens. This family-friendly Maui activity is one of the island's most popular, and an unforgettable day of exploring the underwater world.

Seasoned guides explain whale behavior on this tour by Maui's only Luxury Super Raft, which gets you out to the whales faster. Maui whale watching runs from December–April when migrating humpbacks return to the marine sanctuary. Depart from Maalaea Harbor and listen for the sounds of these marine mammals via underwater hydrophone.

Observe humpback whales in their natural habitat during their return migration to Maui’s waters December–April. This whale watching adventure by high-speed catamaran provides a front row seat to fin slaps, flukes, and breaches. Underwater hydrophones help you hear whale songs, while the captain and crew provide the commentary. Juices and sodas are available on board to keep passengers hydrated.

Head out to sea for the chance to see migrating whales with this two-hour excursion from Lahaina. Your group will sail off to the waters of the Maui Nui whale sanctuary, a mating and birthing destination for humpback whales. Best of all, you're guaranteed to see the gargantuan sea mammals or you'll get to go on another trip for free.

Get a front-row spot on a whale watching tour by booking this small-group excursion off the coast of Lahaina. While larger whale watching boats are crowded and can make it difficult to get photos of whales, this inflatable raft-style boat gets all passengers close to the water’s surface for a prime vantage point. This makes the trip ideal for photographers and families with kids.

Skip the overcrowded boat tours and enjoy a more intimate experience of Hawaii. Travel to the island of Lanai in the company of no more than 22 passengers. Make snorkeling stops off the island to see tropical fish, turtles, octopus, manta rays, and dolphins. This tour includes breakfast and snacks and your ticket supports active marine research and the work of Maui’s whale entanglement response team.

Sail to one of Hawaii's less-frequented islands on this snorkeling tour form Lahaina to Lanai, or the Pineapple Island. Snorkel beneath 300-foot tall cliffs near Shark Fin and Manele Bay, and look out for sightings of Lanai's resident pod of Spinner dolphins. This tour also includes breakfast and lunch to fuel a full day of fun.

This snorkeling tour of Molokini Crater offers more time on the water and fewer crowds. Depart in the morning and spend roughly half a day on the water with about two dozen fellow passengers maximum—the spacious 50-foot yacht (15 meters) travels at only 60 percent of the allowed capacity. What’s more, the tour features breakfast, lunch, an open bar, and snorkeling in more than one location.

Enjoy stunning coastal views only available from the water during this sailing tour down Hawaii's Au'au Channel. Relax onboard a comfortable, well-equipped sailing yacht with a full captain and crew, enjoying complimentary beverages such as wine, local beer, or soft drinks.

Skip the 150-person cruises and go whale-watching on an intimate vessel—better you for, better for the whales. With your captain at the helm following local reports, you’ll enjoy the Hawaiian views (and talks from the onboard animal behaviorist) until the splashing and spouting distracts your eye. Going out in both calm and choppy waters, with any luck, you’ll get up close and personal with these titanic-hearted creatures.

Catch sight of humpback whiles and other Hawaiian wildlife species during this VIP whale watching tour. Sail comfortably on a crew-staffed boat capped at only 12 passengers, for a more personalized experience. Listen to live whale songs as you scan the waters through a special audio system. Bottled water is included.

This kayak tour is the MOST unique & special way to see the whales, the gorgeous West Maui coastline & ocean wildlife. Get ready to be blown away. Ditch the noise, crowds & boats for a more special experience with your travel group or family. The silent kayaks & small group tours make this kayak tour peaceful, serene & extremely desirable. These Hobie Kayaks make kayaking truly a breeze. Using luxury, HANDS-FREE pedal-drive Hobie Compass Duo kayaks, you glide over the water with ease playing relaxing tunes with a brew & enjoy Maui from a different view. Almost any & all age types can participate due to the pedal-drive nature of the vessel. With steering controlled easy by a nob, it takes the pressure off your arms while you enjoy the special adventure sport of kayaking. Taking you to the best view spots on the West Side, our local guides share local knowledge as we cruise & relax! Our most popular tour to date. **WHALE SEASON DEC-APRIL ONLY, otherwise this is a Scenic Tour ONLY**

Discover Maui’s South Shore on a 2.5- or 4.5-hour snorkel and kayak tour. Led by a local guide, you’ll paddle through the scenic Makena Bay on your choice of single or tandem kayaks. Then, take a dip in the water and explore the underwater world on a snorkel tour. Keep your eyes peeled for green sea turtles and other bright marine life. This family-friendly excursion is suitable for all skill levels, and your guide will provide paddling instructions as needed. Lunch is also included on the 4.5-hour option.

Paddle out from the Maui beaches for a guided, 3.5-hour, small-group kayak and snorkeling adventure. Travel the calm, clear waters along the beautiful Olowalu coastline and enjoy spectacular views of the majestic West Maui Mountains. Then hop into the water and snorkel with endangered green sea turtles and colorful tropical fish. Basic swimming skills are required. All snorkeling gear plus refreshments and snacks are included.

Explore Maui’s beautiful West Shore on this snorkeling and kayaking tour. Led by a professional guide, you’ll paddle past scenic views of the Ukumehame Valley and snorkel over bright schools of fish. This family-friendly excursion includes all equipment, along with your choice of single or tandem kayaks.

Explore Maui’s underwater world with ease on this sea scooter tour. Join a small group on the beach to discover rocky points and white sand beaches along the western coast. Your sea scooter propels you through the water to help you explore underwater coral reefs. See several aquatic fauna and flora and learn to recognize invasive species as well as coral and fish diseases.