Molokini Crater 2-Tank Scuba Dive from Kihei — Best Morning Boat Trip
Board a small Pro-Diver at sunrise and descend into the Molokini Crater Marine Preserve on a two-tank guided scuba trip out of Kihei. Expect clear water, steep coral walls, and personalized attention—this early-morning outing is built for visibility and calm seas.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to be at Kihei Boat Ramp by 6:15 a.m.; late arrivals can’t join and mornings are calmer for dives.
Have Recent Dive Info Ready
You must have dived within two years and provide certification details at booking or you cannot board.
Treat Seasickness Proactively
Take anti-nausea medication the night before and morning of the trip if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen and wear a rashguard—this protects your skin and the coral you’ll be hovering above.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •South-side ledges near Molokini offer quieter macro life and fewer snorkel crowds
- •Turtle Town off Makena, usually visited on later tours, is great for surface-only observers
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- •Spinner dolphins near the surface
Conservation Note
Operational limits on anchoring, strict no-touch rules, and reef-safe sunscreen are enforced to reduce diver impacts on fragile coral communities.
Molokini is a partially submerged volcanic tuff cone formed during the Pleistocene; it was later designated a marine preserve to protect its rich reefs.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the boat deck during approach for wide-angle crater shots
- • At the crater rim surface for reflective compositions
- • Along the south outer wall underwater for coral canyon images
What to Bring
Personal Mask and SnorkelEssential
A well-fitted mask improves vision and comfort during surface intervals and dives.
Dive ComputerEssential
Tracks no-decompression limits and air time—critical for two-tank itineraries.
Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and prevents chemicals from damaging coral ecosystems.
Motion-Sickness Medication
Helps prevent nausea on the open-ocean run, especially when winds pick up.
Common Questions
Do I need a scuba certification to join?
Yes—Open Water certification or higher is required and you must provide dates of your most recent dive; without this information you cannot board.
How long are the dives and what depths will we reach?
Typical dives run 45–60 minutes each, with common depths between 40–70 feet depending on conditions and air consumption.
Is gear rental included?
Full gear rental is available for an added fee; inform the operator of your size/age/weight details after booking to ensure proper equipment allocation.
What is the group size?
The trip limits shared tours to 12 divers, providing more personalized attention from dive masters.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before departure; tours may be canceled for weather or insufficient travelers.
Are there accessibility considerations?
This trip involves ladder transfers, surface swims, and secure mobility on a moving boat—it's not recommended for those with serious back, heart, or pregnancy restrictions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Kihei, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for surface swims, ladder climbs, and repeated breathing under pressure; must be comfortable in open ocean conditions.
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