Molokini Crater & Turtle Town: Luxury Yacht Snorkel from Maalaea Harbor
Board a luxury catamaran from Maalaea Harbor for a five-hour Molokini and Turtle Town snorkel—breakfast, BBQ lunch, full gear, and guided swims with honu in crystal-clear Hawaiian water. Early departures favor glassy seas and the clearest visibility.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early for boarding
Check in at Maalaea Harbor slip #68 at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding and gear fitting.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen before arrival and reapply after snorkeling to protect coral and marine life.
Prevent seasickness
Take a preventive seasickness medication or use acupressure bands if you’re prone to motion sickness—morning sails are usually calmer.
Mask fit matters
Bring your own well-fitting mask or test the supplied mask in the pool of the boat to avoid leaks that ruin a snorkel session.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Upper-deck bow near the rail for unobstructed Haleakala and West Maui mountain views
- •Turtle Town’s shallow sand pockets—quiet spots where turtles often surface close to snorkelers who remain still
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- •Reef fish such as butterflyfish and surgeonfish; occasional manta or eagle ray sightings
Conservation Note
Operators follow no-touch policies, limit anchoring on reefs, and encourage reef-safe sunscreen and responsible wildlife viewing to reduce human impact.
Molokini is a partially submerged volcanic crater formed during Maui’s volcanic activity; its sheltered inner reef has long been a rich marine habitat and today is managed with conservation-minded visitation.
Photographer's Notes
- • Upper deck facing Haleakala for mountain silhouettes
- • Bow rail for sunrise and open-ocean panoramas
- • Submerged swim platform for close-up turtle or snorkeler perspectives
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the reef—apply before boarding and after swims.
Snorkel mask/snorkel (personal)
A well-fitted mask improves visibility and comfort compared with rental gear.
Light windbreaker or hoodieEssential
Morning sea breeze and post-snorkel chills make a light layer useful on deck.
Waterproof camera or action cam with float
Captures underwater life—use a float or wrist strap to prevent loss at sea.
Common Questions
What is the minimum age to join?
Guests must be at least 8 years old to participate on this tour.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes—full snorkel equipment and life vests are provided; you may bring your own mask or snorkel if you prefer.
Are restrooms and showers available?
ELUA has modern restrooms and dual warm freshwater showers onboard to rinse off after snorkeling.
What happens if weather cancels the trip?
Trips canceled for safety or bad weather are fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours before departure; same-day cancellations may also be issued for unsafe conditions.
Can I drink alcohol onboard?
An open bar is available for guests 21 and older; minors are offered non-alcoholic beverages.
How many snorkeling stops and how long are they?
Expect two guided snorkeling sessions—one at Molokini’s inner reef and another at Turtle Town—each typically 30–45 minutes depending on conditions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Maalaea, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Comfortable standing, basic swimming ability, and light snorkeling experience recommended; not strenuous but requires mobility on deck and in water.
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