Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkel Adventure from Maalaea Harbor
Board the Pride of Maui at Maalaea for a five-hour snorkel trip to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town—two sharply different marine habitats offering exceptional visibility, abundant reef life, and frequent turtle sightings. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and an open bar while experienced crew guide you through safety and reef etiquette.
The Experience
Before You Go
Get to Maalaea early
Check in 30 minutes before the 7:30 a.m. start; parking and two docks can be confusing—confirm you’re on the correct side of the harbor.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Sunscreen with oxybenzone harms coral—apply reef-safe sunblock before you board to protect reefs and avoid having to reapply on the boat.
Consider motion-sickness prevention
Take a nausea medication or use acupressure bands if you’re susceptible; the channel can be choppy on windy days.
Respect marine life
Keep distance from turtles and fish, do not touch coral, and follow crew instructions to avoid fines and protect habitat.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ask crew for the lee side of the boat deck for steady photo angles at Molokini
- •Small sandbar near Turtle Town offers quick stops for wading and close turtle viewing when conditions allow
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle
- •Parrotfish and reef butterflyfish
Conservation Note
Operators enforce strict reef etiquette and limit passenger numbers to reduce crowding; use reef-safe sunscreen and follow crew rules to minimize impact.
Molokini is a submerged volcanic crater formed by prehistoric eruptions; its protected basin has for decades attracted divers and researchers studying coral and reef fish communities.
Photographer's Notes
- • Forward bow for wide seascapes of Molokini rim
- • Starboard rail for downward shots into the crater
- • Deck ladder for close-up turtle photos as they surface
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the reef—apply before boarding.
Mask and snorkel (personal fit)
A familiar mask reduces fog and improves comfort in the water.
Light water shoes or reef booties
Protect feet when boarding and moving on rocky shorelines or ladders.
Light jacket or windbreaker
Mornings and open-ocean legs can be cool and windy—layer up after snorkeling.
Common Questions
Where do I check in?
Check in at 130 Maalaea Road pier next to the US Coast Guard building; walk to the very end of the pier and look for the Pride of Maui.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes—masks, snorkels, and fins are provided; full-face masks are not permitted for safety reasons.
Can children come aboard?
Yes; the boat is family-friendly and has a water slide, but guardians should ensure children can safely use snorkel gear or remain supervised on deck.
What if the weather is bad?
Trips are canceled for unsafe conditions; cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund per the policy.
Is food and drink included?
Breakfast, a freshly prepared lunch, and an open bar after snorkeling are included in the fare.
Can I do SNUBA on this trip?
Yes—SNUBA is offered for an additional charge and requires a short briefing and basic fitness to participate.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Maalaea, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for basic swimming ability and general mobility; you should be comfortable entering and exiting water from a ladder and treading for short periods.
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