Molokini Crater Snorkel Adventure from Kihei — 2-Hour Boat Tour to Maui’s Marine Garden
A brisk 20-minute ride from Kihei delivers you to Molokini’s crescent rim—an underwater garden with glassy visibility, dense coral, and schooling reef fish. This compact 2-hour snorkel tour balances fast ocean fun with practiced conservation etiquette.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early and check waiver
Plan to be at the meeting point 30 minutes before departure and complete the online waiver ahead of time to avoid delays.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Sunscreen that’s labeled reef-safe protects sensitive coral and is required by many operators and parks.
Motion-sickness prep
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication the night before or an hour before departure; the raft ride can be bumpy.
Protect your phone and camera
Use a small waterproof dry bag or floating strap—boats can be wet and there’s limited secure storage.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Turtle Town (alternative snorkeling site frequently visited when conditions shift)
- •Maalaea Harbor boardwalk and small local fish market for fresh poke after your trip
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- •Spotted eagle ray and colorful reef fish like butterflyfish and parrotfish
Conservation Note
Molokini is managed to reduce human impact—follow no-touch rules, use reef-safe sunscreen, and heed crew instructions to protect coral and seabird nesting areas.
Molokini is a volcanic tuff cone formed during Maui’s volcanic past; its sheltered bowl and steep walls created prime reef habitat long used by Native Hawaiians.
Photographer's Notes
- • Boat bow as you approach the crater for dramatic foreground and water color
- • Surface float just above the reef to capture underwater life
- • From the stern ladder for action shots of entries and exits
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects marine life and reduces sun exposure on open water.
Snorkel mask (personal, optional)
Personal masks often fit better than rentals and reduce fogging for underwater photos.
Water shoes or reef booties
Grip on wet docks and protection when walking on boat decks.
Small waterproof dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, ID and cash dry during the ride and when boarding/disembarking.
Common Questions
How long is the snorkeling portion?
The tour includes about 90 minutes of snorkeling inside Molokini Crater; total trip time is roughly 2 hours, extended to ~2.5 hours during winter whale season.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes—professionally fitted masks, fins, flotation belts and a fish ID guide are included; bring your own mask only if preferred.
Can non-swimmers go?
Non-swimmers are restricted to staying on the boat for safety reasons; all participants must be able to climb a vertical ladder.
Are children allowed?
Children 5 years and older can join; minors under 15 must not be unaccompanied and guardians must sign waivers for under-18s.
What about whales during winter?
From mid-December to April the tour often adds whale-watching; crews will adjust the itinerary when whale activity or weather make it worthwhile.
What happens if weather is bad?
The captain will cancel or alter the trip for safety; refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours beforehand or in bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–2.5 hours
Location
Kihei, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: comfortable swimming and ability to climb a vertical ladder are required.
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