Molokini Crater Catamaran: Half-Day Deluxe Snorkel from Ma'alaea Harbor
Board a deluxe catamaran at Ma'alaea Harbor and head for Molokini’s crystalline lagoon, where clear water, abundant fish species, and a second daily snorkel stop—Turtle Town or a whale-watch—define the half-day experience. This tour pairs premium onboard dining and amenities with knowledgeable crew and reef-safe practices.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to be at Slip #56 at Ma'alaea Harbor 30 minutes before departure—boarding involves a short pier walk and stepping across a gap onto the deck.
Bring a Fitted Mask
Snorkel gear is provided, but a personal mask that seals well reduces fogging and improves underwater visibility.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding and reapply with provided products—coral health depends on it.
Secure Motion-Sensitive Gear
Stow cameras or phones in a dry bag when not shooting—the deck can be slippery and waves splash unexpectedly.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sunrise view from Ma'alaea Harbor boardwalk—quiet before tours launch
- •Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge for shorebird viewing before or after your cruise
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (Honu)
- •Humpback whale (seasonal)
Conservation Note
The site is protected and operators enforce no-touch rules, limited anchoring, and reef-safe products to minimize human impact on coral and reef species.
Molokini is a submerged volcanic cinder cone formed by ancient eruptions on the edge of Maui’s volcanic terrain; local fishers have long known the area for rich feeding grounds.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the catamaran facing Molokini’s rim
- • Above-deck platform looking into the crater lagoon
- • Secondary snorkel site shallow reef in Turtle Town
What to Bring
Personal Snorkel Mask
A well-fitting mask improves comfort and visibility underwater beyond rental gear.
Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects skin while preventing damage to corals; some provided onboard but bring your preferred formula.
Light Windbreaker
Trade winds and open-ocean conditions can feel chilly—layering helps after you get out of the water.
Dry Bag for ElectronicsEssential
Keeps phone, wallet and camera safe from spray and when moving about the decks.
Common Questions
How long is the trip and how much time is spent snorkeling?
The total excursion is about 5 hours; expect two snorkeling stops with roughly 30–45 minutes in the water at each location depending on conditions.
Is snorkel gear provided?
Yes—premium snorkel gear, flotation devices, towels and reef-safe sunscreen are included.
Can I see humpback whales on this trip?
Yes—between December and April routes may prioritize whale-watching; sightings aren’t guaranteed but are common in season.
Are there restrooms on board and accessibility considerations?
Restrooms are below deck accessed via steps; boarding requires walking a pier and stepping across a gap—crew will assist but contact the operator if mobility is limited.
Is food and drink included?
A chef-prepared buffet breakfast and island-style lunch are included, along with a sparkling bar offering mimosas and local beers (ID required for alcohol).
What should I do to protect the reef?
Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral or marine life, and follow crew briefings—these practices reduce harm to sensitive reef ecosystems.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Ma'alaea, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required: ability to walk a pier, step onto a boat, and swim/snorkel for short sessions.
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