Advanced 3-Tank Diving at Molokini Crater — South Maui Back Wall, Wrecks & Pinnacles
A full-day, advanced diving program out of Kihei that combines Molokini's famed back wall with deep pinnacles and occasional wrecks — engineered for experienced divers seeking long dives, current work, and high-visibility pelagic encounters.
The Experience
Before You Go
Confirm dive history before boarding
Operators require proof of recent dives and a minimum number of lifetime dives; email your dates and dive count at booking to avoid being denied boarding.
Hydrate and eat lightly before the trip
Long dives and sun exposure dehydrate; drink water and choose a light, carb-focused meal to reduce seasickness and fatigue.
Bring seasickness remedies
Even experienced divers feel swell; take preventative meds or use acupressure bands if you get queasy on small boats.
Pack layered, quick-dry clothes
Mornings at the ramp are cool and wet — a windbreaker or fleece makes the post-dive ride home far more comfortable.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Three Anchors site — quieter wreck dives when conditions allow
- •Makena coastline drop-offs visible from the boat for surface photography
Wildlife
- •Eagle ray
- •Humpback whale
Conservation Note
The area is a regulated Marine Life Conservation District — follow no-touch rules, use reef-safe sunscreen, and respect anchoring and boating restrictions to minimize impact.
Molokini is the remnant of a volcanic crater and has been protected as a marine reserve since the late 20th century to conserve its coral communities and fisheries.
Photographer's Notes
- • Boat deck for backlit whales and wide seascapes
- • Along the back wall for dramatic drop-off shots
- • St. Anthony wreck for structure and schools of fish
What to Bring
Dive computerEssential
Tracks depth and no-decompression time across consecutive dives — mandatory for multi-tank days.
Surface marker buoy (SMB)Essential
Critical for drift dives to signal your position to the boat when surfacing.
3–5mm wetsuit or shorty (seasonal)Essential
Water temperatures vary; a 3mm suit is common, but colder months may require thicker exposure protection.
Mask, fins and primary regulator (or full rental)
Personal fit improves air consumption and comfort during deep or current dives.
Common Questions
What are the certification and experience requirements?
Most operators require advanced certification or equivalent, 30+ lifetime dives, and a dive within the last six months; provide certification level and last dive date at booking.
Where and when do we meet?
Meet at the Kihei Boat Ramp (front near the street entrance) at 6:15 a.m.; three-tank trips typically return around 1:30 p.m.
Are wetsuits and gear available to rent?
Yes — most outfits rent full kits, but bringing your own mask and fins improves comfort and fit.
Can non-divers come along to snorkel?
This specific advanced 3-tank cruise is for certified divers; check operator schedules for snorkel- or two-tank mixed trips.
What marine life might we see?
Expect reef fish and corals, eagle rays, white-tip sharks, and seasonal humpback whales; mantas are rare here but sometimes reported.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; trips may be canceled for bad weather or insufficient divers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Kihei, Hawaii
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
You should be in good cardiovascular condition, comfortable with currents and multiple dives in a day; expect stairs on and off small boats.
Ready to Explore Kihei?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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