Molokini Snorkel & Whale Watch from Kihei — 2.5‑Hour Express Tour
A fast, 2.5‑hour run from Kihei that pairs an hour of Molokini snorkeling with 90 minutes of whale watching. Small, nimble boats, hydrophone listening, and local crew narration make this a concentrated way to see Maui’s underwater life and migrating humpbacks.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early for check‑in
Plan to be at Kihei Boat Ramp 15–30 minutes before departure to find parking and check gear at the picnic tables to the right of the docks.
Take motion‑sickness precautions
If you’re prone to seasickness, take meds or use acupressure bands before boarding — the ride is fast and the ocean can chop.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Coral is easily damaged; apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding and reapply with a towel to avoid contaminating the water.
Protect the reef with your fins
Avoid standing on or touching coral; keep fins and hands clear while snorkeling to prevent injury to the reef and yourself.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ahihi‑Kinau Natural Area Reserve (south Maui) — quieter snorkel coves with native fish life
- •La Perouse Bay lava fields and coastal trail for a raw, scenic shoreline walk before or after your trip
Wildlife
- •Humpback whale (seasonal migratory populations)
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
Conservation Note
Molokini and adjacent reef areas are managed to protect coral and fish; use reef‑safe products, avoid touching reef, and follow crew guidance to minimize impact.
Molokini is the remnant of a submerged volcanic cone; the crater and surrounding waters have long been important for Hawaiian navigation and subsistence fishing.
Photographer's Notes
- • Aft deck during approach to Molokini for crater silhouette
- • Bow rail for whale watching when crew points out blows and breaches
- • In the water near the crater wall for fish and coral macro shots
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects coral and your skin during sun exposed time on deck and in the water.
Light rashguard or wetshellEssential
Provides sun protection and a bit of thermal comfort in cooler months and windy crossings.
Motion‑sickness medication or bands
Useful on choppy days or if you’re prone to seasickness on fast boats.
Waterproof camera or GoPro
Captures underwater life at Molokini and whale behaviors from the boat.
Common Questions
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes — snorkel masks, fins and life vests are provided and included in the tour price.
Will we always go to Molokini?
The cruise aims for Molokini, but if conditions are unsafe the crew will select a shoreline snorkel alternative for safety and visibility.
Are children allowed?
Children are allowed, but the operator restricts children under 4 unless approved by reservations; life vests are available for young swimmers.
How close do whales get?
Boats follow NOAA and local guidelines; whales may come quite near but captains maintain respectful distance — the hydrophone enhances listening without approaching animals.
Is the trip wheelchair accessible?
The company lists wheelchair accessibility for transportation and surfaces at the dock, but boarding the small RIB may require assistance — contact the operator for specific needs.
What is the cancellation or refund policy?
All sales are final; tours may be canceled for weather or insufficient travelers with rescheduling or operator-directed alternatives, but refunds are generally not offered.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Kihei, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—basic swimming ability required for snorkeling and the ability to step on/off a small boat.
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