Molokini Luxury Snorkel Adventure from Maalaea on the Elua Catamaran
Step aboard ELUA and trade crowded tour boats for a luxury power catamaran bound for Molokini Crater. Expect crystal-clear snorkeling, warm freshwater showers, a BBQ lunch and expert local crew who make safety and comfort the priority.
The Experience
Before You Go
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding and reapply per product instructions to protect coral and avoid greasy masks.
Bring motion-sickness meds if needed
Take preventative medication or wear acupressure bands an hour before departure if you’re prone to seasickness; the trip is on open water.
Arrive early to Maalaea Harbor
Plan extra time for parking and check-in at slip #68; boarding begins well before departure to complete waivers and equipment fitting.
Secure a waterproof camera
Use a waterproof housing or small action camera for better shots; phones without protection risk salt damage when entering the water.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Upper deck seating on the starboard side offers unbroken views of Haleakala during the crossing
- •After the cruise, explore the Maalaea Fish Market for local poke and island snacks
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- •Spotted eagle ray
Conservation Note
Operators follow reef etiquette and encourage reef-safe sunscreen and no-touch policies; limiting anchor damage and managing passenger numbers helps protect fragile coral.
Molokini is the remnant of a volcanic cone formed by eruptions roughly 230,000–300,000 years ago; its crescent shape is the exposed rim of that ancient vent.
Photographer's Notes
- • Upper deck forward for island silhouettes and Haleakala
- • Submerged swim platform for eye-level shots of turtles and reef
- • Starboard side near the crater rim for wide reef panoramas
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects marine life and prevents sunburn during exposed surface intervals.
Rashguard or swim shirtEssential
Provides sun protection and helps prevent chafing from snorkel gear.
Waterproof camera or action cam
Captures underwater life and bright reef scenes without risking your phone.
Light sea-sickness medication or bands
Makes the crossing more comfortable for those sensitive to swell.
Common Questions
Where do you depart from?
The boat departs from Maalaea Harbor; look for slip #68 and the sign for Elua Modern Luxury Yacht.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes—masks, snorkels and fins are provided and fitted by crew members before the trip.
What is the minimum age to join?
Guests must be at least 8 years old to participate in this tour.
Are meals and drinks included?
Yes—breakfast pastries, a BBQ lunch, and an open bar with beer, wine and cocktails are included.
What if the weather is bad?
Tours cancel for unsafe weather; you can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance or if the operator cancels due to conditions.
Can I bring a non-snorkeling child?
Children 8 and older are welcome but must wear a flotation device if they remain on the surface; minors under 21 will be served non-alcoholic drinks.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Maalaea, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be comfortable swimming short distances and entering/exiting from a swim platform.
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