Molokini Crater & Turtle Town Snorkel Adventure Aboard Pride of Maui — Morning Snorkel from Maalaea Harbor
Board a spacious maxi catamaran at Maalaea Harbor and spend a glassy-morning snorkeling Molokini Crater and Turtle Town. Expect exceptional visibility, guided safety, onboard meals and a strong chance to see Hawaiian green sea turtles up close.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early and confirm pier
Check in 30 minutes before departure at 130 Maalaea Road and verify which pier your boat is on—the operator runs vessels from opposite sides of the harbor.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply reef-safe sunscreen before arrival and bring a hat to protect skin between swims; chemical sunscreens harm coral.
Bring seasickness remedies
Even on a stable catamaran, morning swells can unsettle sensitive stomachs—consider medication or pressure bands.
Leave full-face masks at home
Full-face snorkeling masks are not allowed for safety reasons—use traditional snorkel gear included on the boat.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Check the boat’s bow early for unobstructed crater rim photos before others descend.
- •Ask the crew about small reef patches near Turtle Town where indicator fish congregate after snorkeling ends.
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu)
- •Reef fish such as parrotfish and butterflyfish
Conservation Note
Operators emphasize reef-safe practices and do not allow touching animals or standing on coral; guests are asked to use reef-safe sunscreen and follow crew directions to protect habitat.
Molokini formed from volcanic activity millions of years ago and today serves as both a protected marine area and a natural classroom for island geology.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the catamaran for crater rim panoramas
- • Underwater near the crater’s shallow ledges
- • Along Turtle Town’s lava fingers where turtles surface
What to Bring
Mask & snorkel (or prescription mask)Essential
Personal gear gives the best fit and clearer shots; the operator provides standard equipment but fit varies.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the reef—apply before arrival to avoid contaminating the water.
Waterproof camera or housing
Wide-angle housings capture crater walls and schooling fish; a float strap prevents loss.
Light rashguard or wetsuit top
A thin layer helps with sun protection and keeps you warmer on windier mornings.
Common Questions
Do I need snorkeling experience?
No expert skills required—operators provide basic instruction and flotation; you should be comfortable swimming and clearing a snorkel.
Are full-face masks allowed?
No. For safety reasons full-face snorkeling masks are not permitted; bring a traditional snorkel or use the boat’s gear.
What is included in the trip price?
Breakfast, lunch cooked onboard, soda, alcoholic beverages from the open bar after snorkeling, and use of standard snorkel equipment are included.
Is this trip good for kids?
Yes—children are welcome and often love the boat’s water slide; flotation devices and instruction are provided for younger swimmers.
Can I use a GoPro or underwater camera?
Yes—bring a waterproof camera or housing; secure it with a float strap or leash to avoid losing gear.
What if the weather is bad?
Trips are subject to cancellation for weather or sea conditions; the operator cancels in unsafe conditions and offers refunds per their policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Maalaea, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic swimming ability and moderate fitness; requires getting on/off a ladder and repeated short swims.
Ready to Explore Maalaea?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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