Molokini Snorkel & Maui Whale Watch — 2.5-Hour Express Adventure
A fast, 2.5-hour run from Kihei that combines close-in whale watching with an hour of snorkeling inside Molokini’s clear crater waters. Expect active seas, hydrophone whale song, and a compact, expert-led experience ideal for travelers short on time.
The Experience
Before You Go
Check in early
Arrive 15–30 minutes before departure at the Kihei Boat Ramp (2800 S Kihei Rd) to allow time for boarding and gear fitting.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect Molokini’s coral—use reef-safe sunscreen and apply before boarding to avoid lotions washing into the ocean.
Prepare for motion
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication an hour before departure and choose a mid-boat seat to minimize motion.
Secure your camera
Use a wrist strap or dry bag—deck shots of whales happen quickly and gear can be lost overboard.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Watch from the stern during early morning departures—the light and whale activity often align for quieter encounters
- •If Molokini is too choppy, inquire about sheltered reef stops near Makena for calmer snorkeling with abundant reef fish
Wildlife
- •Humpback whale
- •Green sea turtle
Conservation Note
Operators emphasize reef-safe practices and minimal disturbance to whales; use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral or marine animals, and respect vessel distance rules to reduce impacts.
Molokini is a partially submerged tuff cone formed by explosive eruptions thousands of years ago; Hawaiian waters have hosted seasonal humpback migrations for generations and remain an important cultural and biological corridor.
Photographer's Notes
- • Boat stern for whale-surface shots
- • Deckside while drifting near pods for action shots
- • Over Molokini’s rim for wide-angle reef images
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects coral and prevents sunscreen-related bleaching while keeping you safe from sun exposure.
Sturdy water shoes
Useful for walking on wet docks and boarding the RHIB with traction.
Anti-nausea medication
Useful if you’re susceptible to seasickness on open-ocean passages.
Waterproof camera or phone housing
Allows close-up shots of whales and underwater reefs without risking your device.
Common Questions
Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes—mask, snorkel, and fins are provided; you may bring your own fit-for-you mask for better comfort.
Will we definitely go to Molokini?
Operators aim to reach Molokini but will choose a safer shoreline alternate if conditions or visibility make the crater unsafe.
What are the age limits or accessibility notes?
The tour is suitable for most ages but no child under 4 unless approved; the operator notes wheelchair-accessible transportation and some accessibility accommodations—confirm specifics at booking.
How close do whales get and can we touch them?
Whales sometimes surface within yards of the boat but federal and state guidelines prohibit approaching or touching; crews maintain legal distances and brief passengers on safety.
Is there a refund for bad weather cancellations?
This tour’s policy is all sales final, but the operator cancels for unsafe weather and will not charge if the trip is canceled for that reason—confirm at booking for specifics.
Can non-swimmers participate in the snorkeling portion?
Yes—participants can opt to stay on board during snorkeling, and flotation devices are provided for surface snorkelers; notify staff if you’re a non-swimmer so they can assist.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Kihei, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels but requires ability to board small boats, swim at surface, and manage movement on unstable decks.
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