Molokini Crater 2‑Tank Dive on the K2 Power Catamaran — Maui Scuba & Snorkel Adventure
Step aboard the K2 power catamaran before sunrise and slide into the crystalline waters of Molokini Crater. This two‑tank excursion delivers clear visibility, personal briefings with a 12‑diver limit, and a mix of shallow reef gardens and deeper south‑side walls.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early
Plan to be at the Kihei Boat Ramp 15–20 minutes before the 6:15am meet time to check in and get fitted for gear.
Bring proof of recent dives
You must have dived within the past two years and provide dates — without them you can’t board.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Apply chemical‑free sunscreen before boarding to protect corals and marine life.
Pack motion‑sickness remedies
Morning departures are calmer but bring prevention if you’re prone to seasickness.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Late‑morning stop at the crater’s sheltered interior for surface observation
- •South‑side drop for pelagic sightings and dramatic wall dives
Wildlife
- •Spotted eagle ray
- •Green sea turtle
Conservation Note
Operators follow strict marine‑park rules; use reef‑safe products and avoid contact with coral to minimize impact.
Molokini is a Pleistocene volcanic tuff cone that later became a protected Marine Life Conservation District to manage visitors and preserve reef habitats.
Photographer's Notes
- • Inside Molokini’s crater basin for wide reef shots
- • South‑side wall for pelagics and drop‑off profiles
- • From the catamaran deck during approach for crater rim panoramas
What to Bring
Scuba certification card and logbookEssential
Required to dive and to verify recent dive history.
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the marine environment during surface intervals.
Light windbreaker or fleece
Morning runs can be cool; a thin layer blocks spray on the return ride.
Underwater camera or wide‑angle housing
Captures the crater’s colors and the larger pelagics at the south‑side site.
Common Questions
Do I need to be certified to dive on this trip?
Yes — Open Water (or equivalent) certification is required and you must have dived within the past two years; operators will ask for dates and dive counts.
What is the departure point and time?
Meet at the Kihei Boat Ramp (look for the blue Pro‑Diver boats). Morning departures typically meet around 6:15am; return times vary by tank count.
Is gear rental available?
Yes — full gear rental is available for a fee; operators recommend notifying them of sizes when booking.
Can I snorkel instead of scuba diving?
Yes — many operators accommodate snorkelers on the same boat, though snorkel spots and dive sites can differ.
What are the cancellation rules?
Full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure; trips may be canceled for bad weather or insufficient bookings.
Is Molokini always calm and clear?
Visibility is generally excellent, especially in the morning, but conditions can change; the crew monitors currents and adjusts sites for safety.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Kihei, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — comfortable swimming, ability to carry tanks and perform basic dive skills
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