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LahainaDolphin & whale watching

Our most recommended Lahaina Dolphin & whale watching

South Maui: Lanai Snorkel & Dolphin Watch from Maalaea

1. South Maui: Lanai Snorkel & Dolphin Watch from Maalaea

Your eco-friendly wildlife adventure departs out of Maalaea Harbor aboard a 65 foot, double-deck powered catamaran. The journey over to Lanai takes approximately 70 minutes as the captain passes by known wild dolphin habitats before heading to your snorkel destination. Discover an underwater oasis and world-class snorkeling with warm crystal clear waters and vibrant reefs teeming with marine wildlife. Lanai is also famous for its large populations of wild dolphins, plus toothed whales, sea turtles, and the occasional Hawaiian monk seal. On the trip over, be treated to a continental breakfast of fresh island fruit, bagels and cream cheese, and apple danishes along with hot coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and juices. Take part in a guided reef tour with a certified marine naturalist and enjoy a leisurely snorkel. Feast on a barbecue lunch which includes chicken breasts, hot dogs, garden burgers, potato salad, veggie salad, and chocolate chip cookies. There's also all-you-can-drink water, sodas, juices and 1 complimentary alcoholic drink for those 21 and over. 

South Maui: Molokini Snorkeling Adventure

2. South Maui: Molokini Snorkeling Adventure

Embark on a half-day snorkeling adventure on a glass-bottomed catamaran, with breakfast, lunch, and a professional crew included. Look out for all types of Pacific marine life, from dolphins to turtles and coral reefs, in 2 snorkeling spots — the Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.  Begin your tour at Maalaea Harbor to board your boat. Join the crew aboard the Calypso, Maui's newest addition to the fleet, where you can even view the ocean from its glass bottom. Calypso is the only 3-deck catamaran in Hawai'i. Benefit from an easy-to-use stairway in and out of the water, lots of shade, and plenty of Jimmy Buffet music.  Start the day off right with a continental breakfast that includes mixed muffins, pastries, fruit, coffee, tea, and juice. Next, be dazzled by Molokini Crater, located off the south shore of Kihei. Expect pristine conditions as Molokini is a protected marine preserve and bird sanctuary.  See how the extinct volcanic cone provides a home for native Hawaiian marine life such as manta rays, fish, urchins, and sharks, who all swim around the coral through the clear water year-round. Use the provided snorkeling equipment to explore the underwater world.  Take advantage of the 2 water slides to make it more fun, especially for kids. And fret not— a lifeguard is always in the water watching over the snorkelers to ensure their safety. After leaving Molokini, your second snorkeling spot of the day is Turtle Town, where you will swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles amid the calm water and coral. Then, return to the boat for a relaxing deli sandwich lunch. Some of the tour’s top amenities include 2 slides, a jumping platform, 2 freshwater showers, use of snorkeling gear, flotation devices, and restrooms on the boat. There are 11 stair points to get into the water for easy and comfortable access. Wetsuits and underwater digital cameras are available to rent once onboard.

Lahaina: Maui Channel Whale-Watching Catamaran Cruise

3. Lahaina: Maui Channel Whale-Watching Catamaran Cruise

Travel via high-speed catamaran from Lahaina Harbor to the Maui Channel to see the humpback whales, who return to Hawaii for a few months each year to mate and give birth. Get up close to these creatures in their native environment from comfortable table and chair seating. Keep your eyes peeled for whales slapping the surface with their very long side fins, tails, or the strong muscles attaching the tail to the rest of the body. See them spy-hop, when humpback whales come high out of the water to have a look around at the world above. See the majesty of a breaching whale, if you are lucky. This is when a whale rises completely out of the water and crashes down again. Don’t forget to bring your camera and take memorable photos from the shade of a spacious cabin.

From Lahaina: Turtle Town Snorkel Aboard the Quicksilver

4. From Lahaina: Turtle Town Snorkel Aboard the Quicksilver

Spot Hawaii's native marine life in its natural habitat on a snorkel cruise to Turtle Town from Lahaina. Swim past green sea turtles, Moorish idols, and even humpback whales. Enjoy an onboard lunch and drinks. Set sail from Lahaina Harbor towards Turtle Town, aka Mala Wharf (if weather conditions allow). See where, in 1992, a powerful hurricane created an artificial reef and sanctuary where corals and other marine life thrive. Spot Moorish idols, green sea turtles, and saddle wrasse while snorkeling here. If snorkel conditions are not ideal at Turtle Town a.k.a. Mala Wharf, cruise to one of the other premier westside snorkel locations such as Honolua Bay, Airport Beach, or Launiupoko. See Hawaiian green sea turtles, brightly colored tropical fish, and beautiful coral reef formations. During the whale season between December to April, observe humpback whales as they enjoy the warm Hawaiian waters (time permitting). Learn from expert narration about the whales and provide a play-by-play commentary of the whales' behavior as you view them.

Maui: Ka'anapali Wild Dolphin Sail

5. Maui: Ka'anapali Wild Dolphin Sail

Enjoy a 2.5-hour dolphin watching adventure in a luxury schooner sailing vessel. Spot dolphins in their natural habitat and enjoy a bite to eat in an island setting. Set sail and witness some of the local dolphin species in action. Get up close and personal as you spot the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, friendly Bottlenose Dolphins, and the elusive Pantropical Spotted Dolphins. Listen to your on-board, expert guides as they teach you how to interpret their behaviours and share fascinating facts about wild dolphins. Dolphin sightings are guaranteed or you will be invited to go again for free while on your vacation.

Lahaina: Day or Sunset Whale Watching Tour with Naturalist

6. Lahaina: Day or Sunset Whale Watching Tour with Naturalist

Get a front row seat to see Humpback Whales up close. Set out from Lahaina and make your way to the Maui Nui whale sanctuary to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Every winter, Humpback Whales migrate to the waters around Maui to mate and give birth. Hop on a custom-built inflatable raft to enjoy an intimate experience with the whales. Your captain and crew will share information about the whales to give you a full experience. There's even a hydrophone and high-quality speakers on the boat, so you can hear the whales' beautiful songs. This trip is perfect for the whole family. Bring your friends and loved ones and share the awe and splendor of Maui's Humpback Whales together.

From Lahaina: Lana'i Snorkel and Dolphin Adventure Cruise

7. From Lahaina: Lana'i Snorkel and Dolphin Adventure Cruise

On the cruise over to Lanai from Maui you can listen to music and socialize with friends and family while you enjoy a continental breakfast. The captain will keep you entertained by sharing his knowledge of this island paradise and the abundant sea life that makes this area their home. Nearing Lanai you can take in the beautiful coastline views of the remote and luxurious privately owned island. Keep an eye out for spinner dolphins that frequent the area who are known for their acrobatic tricks. At your snorkel destination you can jump into the water from our "jump for joy platform" off the second deck, take the slide, or for the more conservative take the stairs. All lead to warm, crystal clear waters vibrant with marine life and coral gardens. Be among the few to snorkel at remote locations with great visibility, such as Shark Fin Rock and Manele Bay. See a spectacular view of the West Maui Mountains while enjoying a beverage and Quicksilver Crew Trivia on the trip back to Lahaina.

Maui: Guided Whale Watching Tour on Eco Raft

8. Maui: Guided Whale Watching Tour on Eco Raft

Embark on an eco-raft whale-watching cruise in Maui to see Hawaii's native humpback whales in their natural habitat. Learn interesting facts about the whales from your marine naturalist guide, listen to their song with a hydrophone, and snap breathtaking up-close shots. Board an eco-friendly raft in Lahaina Harbor and cruise to see the humpback whales who return to the warm Hawaiian waters every year during the winter months for their mating and calving season. Rest assured that your tour complies with all environmental regulations. Whales are a protected species in Hawaii so the boat will not approach them any closer than 100 yards, but sometimes the whales choose to approach the raft themselves for those up-close encounters. Make use of the underwater microphones provided to listen to the whale song as they communicate while looking for food. Learn more about these creatures from your expert marine naturalist guide and sip on the water provided before returning to Lahaina Harbor.

Clear Bottom Glassy Kayak Rental | Safe and Stable Kayaks

9. Clear Bottom Glassy Kayak Rental | Safe and Stable Kayaks

Experience the ultimate adventure in Maui with a clear bottom kayak rental! Our rental service includes free pickup and drop-off of the kayak at a beach of your choice, making it hassle-free to explore the island's stunning coastline. Our local experts will provide you with recommendations for safe and active marine life spots, so you can witness the beauty of Maui's underwater world up close. A perfect option for families with young kids who may not be comfortable snorkeling yet, as well as for elderly and disabled individuals who may have difficulty getting in and out of the water. Even if you're not comfortable in the water, our clear bottom kayaks allow you to witness the underwater world from the safety and comfort of your kayak. You can still enjoy the beauty of Maui's marine life without getting wet (well you will still get wet, but you don't have to get in the water)! Glide over crystal-clear waters and marvel at the vibrant marine life below you. Our clear bottom kayaks provide a unique and immersive experience, allowing you to see the ocean from a different perspective. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the magic of Maui's underwater world - book your clear bottom kayak rental today!

Maui: Snorkeling and Dolphin Sightseeing to Lana'i Island

10. Maui: Snorkeling and Dolphin Sightseeing to Lana'i Island

Take a ride on the Ocean Wave to the island of Lana'i by comfotable and spacious speedboat. On the way, keep your eyes peeled for Dolphin and Whale sightings, before visiting several snorkeling spots to explore the underwater world of corals and tropical fish. Afterward, enjoy lunch onboard. Meet your guide at the Lahaina Harbor and embark on a sightseeing tour of above and below the ocean's surface. As you ride the 'Au'Au Channel toward Lana'i, feel the Hawaiian breeze and try to spot a Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin. Once you reach the island, discover its miles of sea cliffs and inaccessible coastlines, littered with sea caves, ancient Hawaiian burial sites, and King Kamehameha The Great's favorite fishing grounds. Depending on the wind, swell, and sea conditions, make several stops for snorkeling, giving you the opportunity to take a completely unique and personalized trip. Whether you are a first time snorkeler or a seasoned pro, feel comfortable with all the necessary gear and support needed from the crew. As you plunge into the Pacific waters, discover the lush underwater world, full of Turtles, Tropical Reef Fish, and a variety of corals. After the last snorkeling location, enjoy a delicious lunch onboard the boat, take a freshwater shower, and sit and relax on cushioned and comfortable seats as you ride back to Lahaina.

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What people are saying about Lahaina

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 65 reviews

We booked before we arrived in Hawii and on the day of our excursion all we had to do was check in and when it was time to board they called our name and on board we went. The staff was very friendly and answered all of our questions. One person in our party got sick and while we were in the water they kept an eye on her. We would definitely recommend this excursion. We even got to see a momma whale and her baby.

The crew took great care of us from the moment we boarded until we deboarded. Seats and equipment (including graded goggles for us wearing eyeglasses) are more than adequate making everyone enjoy. The captain knows where to position the boat to get great possibility of successfully seeing whales. The whales put on a show, even breaching from the water. Highly recommended!

Loved the all female crew for this fun excursion! They were very knowledgeable about whales and very cautious of their habitat.

Great boat, great crew, great food….overall a great experience

Our second year going with this company and LOVED it!!!