Maalaea Sunset Powerboat Cruise: 2-Hour Luxury Tour from Maui
Board a 42-foot Boston Whaler and watch Maui’s coastline go cinematic: Molokini’s rim, Kahalawai silhouettes, and a wide Pacific sunset. This two-hour Maalaea cruise balances luxury, wildlife viewing, and easy logistics for up to six guests.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early to check in
Plan to be at Maalaea General Store 20–30 minutes before departure to complete check-in and boarding comfortably.
Dress in layers and bring a windbreaker
Even tropical sunsets can get breezy offshore—pack a light jacket to stay warm after the sun dips.
Motion-sickness mitigation
If you’re susceptible, take anti-nausea medication 30–60 minutes before departure and sit midship for the least motion.
Respect wildlife viewing distance
Crews will keep distance from whales and turtles—avoid leaning over rails or attempting to touch animals if they surface nearby.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the short trail to the lighthouse east of Maalaea for low crowds and rugged tide-pool views
- •Ask your crew about quiet anchor spots near Coral Gardens where snorkelers find abundant reef fish away from the busy tours
Wildlife
- •Humpback whale
- •Green sea turtle (honu)
Conservation Note
Molokini and nearby reefs are sensitive ecosystems—operators follow no-touch, no-feed rules, and visitors should avoid sunscreen with oxybenzone to reduce reef impact.
Maalaea was a major canoe landing and fishing village and retains one of Maui’s largest petroglyph concentrations; the General Store (1910) reflects the area’s fishing and Japanese immigrant history.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the boat for unobstructed island silhouettes
- • Leeward side when approaching Molokini for reef-to-sky contrast
- • Along the Kahalawai coastline for sunset light on the mountain ridge
What to Bring
Windbreaker or light jacketEssential
Keeps you warm during the cool breeze that follows sunset on the water.
Non-slip deck shoesEssential
Provide secure footing on wet decks and while boarding or disembarking.
Sunscreen and sunglassesEssential
Protects against reflective glare on the water even late in the day.
Waterproof camera or phone case
Keeps your gear safe from spray and lets you shoot close-up wildlife and sunset shots.
Common Questions
Where do we check in?
Check in at The Historic Maalaea General Store, 132 Maalaea Road; arrive 20–30 minutes before departure.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes—this cruise is family-friendly and suitable for most ages, though children should be supervised on deck.
Can we see whales on this cruise?
Yes—during winter months (roughly December–April) humpback whales frequently appear; sightings are common but not guaranteed.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips are canceled in unsafe conditions; you can get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure or if the operator cancels for weather.
Is food and drink provided?
A $15 per-person credit at Maalaea General Store is included; on-board the operator provides water, soda, and juice—additional snacks or upgrades may be available.
How many people on the boat?
The cruise accommodates up to six guests for a comfortable, semi-private experience.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Maalaea, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility to board and move around the boat.
Ready to Explore Maalaea?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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