Molokini Snorkeling Adventure from Maʻalaea Harbor Aboard the Calypso
Board the Calypso at Maʻalaea Harbor for a half-day excursion to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town—snorkel pristine reefs, spot honu and reef fish, and relax on a triple-decker catamaran with meals and gear included.
The Experience
Before You Go
Morning check-in is mandatory
Arrive by 6:45 a.m. for check-in—boarding and departure are strict to meet tidal and weather windows.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Oils from conventional sunscreen harm coral—use reef-safe SPF and reapply sparingly before entering the water.
Plan for seasickness
The crossing can be bumpy; take motion-sickness meds the night before or buy Dramamine on board if you're prone to nausea.
Respect the reserve rules
Do not touch coral or wildlife and follow crew instructions—Molokini is a protected Marine Life Conservation District.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Glass-bottom viewing room on the Calypso—great for non-swimmers or photographers
- •Local snorkeling at Makena (Big Beach) or the nearby La Perouse lava fields for volcanic shoreline scenery
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- •Spinner dolphins
Conservation Note
Visitors must not touch or remove anything; using reef-safe sunscreen and following crew guidance reduces human impact on fragile coral ecosystems.
Molokini is a partially submerged volcanic cinder cone created by Maui’s eruptions and designated as a Marine Life Conservation District to protect its reefs and birds.
Photographer's Notes
- • Upper starboard bow of the Calypso for Molokini’s profile
- • Glass-bottom viewing room for reef composition photos
- • Shallow edges at Turtle Town for close-up turtle portraits
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin while preventing chemical damage to coral and marine life.
Fitted snorkel mask (optional)
A personal mask often seals better than rental gear and reduces fogging.
Light windbreaker or long-sleeve rashguardEssential
Morning crossings can be cool and windy; protects against sun and spray.
Waterproof camera or housing
Captures underwater life—consider renting the onboard photographer or camera if you want pro shots.
Common Questions
How long is the boat ride to Molokini?
Expect about a 40–50 minute crossing from Maʻalaea Harbor, depending on sea state and route.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Basic swimming ability is recommended; flotation devices and vests are provided for less confident swimmers.
What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include green sea turtles, reef fish (parrotfish, tangs), spinner dolphins, and various seabirds; sharks and manta rays are possible but sightings are not guaranteed.
Are snorkel gear and meals included?
Yes—snorkel equipment, breakfast, lunch, snacks, and nonalcoholic drinks are included; special dietary requests must be made at booking.
Can children join this tour?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; ensure they meet basic swimming comfort for snorkeling.
What happens in bad weather?
The captain will choose alternate snorkel sites or cancel if conditions are unsafe; full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5–6 hours
Location
Maʻalaea, HI
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to climb boarding ladders and swim short distances; flotation devices available
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