Pride of Maui Blog

Molokini Crater Marine Reserve is the premier snorkeling destination in Maui and one of the most prized snorkeling destinations in the world. As one of only three calderas (underwater volcanic craters) in the world, Molokini Crater is a once in a lifetime dive that shouldn’t be missed. Pride of Maui is famous for our Molokini snorkel tour because we know just how special Molokini Crater is and we’ve left no detail uncovered to make diving it a spectacular experience for people of all ages and all experience levels. You’ll be able to choose from snorkeling, snuba or SCUBA diving, so that you can have a great experience no matter how much or how little you know about diving.

Our morning excursion is our most popular underwater adventure and the one that people return to year after year. It’s a great way to combine a spectacular tour of Molokini Crater and enjoy a great time snorkeling with Maui’s beloved sea turtles. We know you’ll love your day and we have some tips to help you get the most out of every minute.

Come Prepared

Our flagship, the Pride of Maui is a first class, Maxi Powered Catamaran outfitted down to the last detail, with everything from hot fresh water showers to all the sanitized snorkel gear you could want. But, there are some things you’ll want to bring with you.

Naturally, you’ll need a bathing suit, but you may want to bring a fresh change of clothes as well, as it can get cool on the ocean when there’s a good breeze. You should also bring plenty of sunblock, as you don’t want a nasty sunburn to distract you from the spectacular time you’re having. You’ll also want to have an underwater camera (even a disposable one will do) to capture all of the spectacular sights. Molokini Crater is blessed with some of the most awe inspiring and unusual coral formations to be found anywhere in the world, as well as hundreds of species of fish and marine animals.

Don’t worry about bringing something to eat; we’re going to start your day off right with a delicious island breakfast and some freshly brewed Kona coffee. Later, while you’re having the dive of your life, we’ll fire up the grills and have a lunch feast waiting for you when you’re ready.

Prepare Your Kids

We welcome children on our Molokini snorkel trips and we haven’t overlooked anything when it comes to making sure they have a great time. Our expert crew will show them how to use the snorkel gear and we even have an awesome super slide for them to zoom down later. But there are a few things you can do to help your kids prepare for the day.

Be sure to talk to them about all of the sea life they’ll be encountering. They may see manta rays and even some harmless species of shark and it’s a good idea to let them know to expect them ahead of time and that they’re perfectly safe.

Our second destination of the morning will be Turtle Town, where you and the kids will have a once in a lifetime chance to swim among Hawaii’s beloved green sea turtles. It’s a wonderful experience, but let the kids know that the turtles are a protected species and it’s illegal to touch or chase these gentle creatures, even in play.

You’re going to have a great time diving Molokini Crater and we have a great time helping you to do it!

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Molokini snorkeling tours are the perfect way to make the most of your Maui vacation. Molokini Crater is considered one of the premier locations for snorkeling and diving in the world, due to the breathtaking coral formations and the abundance of tropical fish and other marine life in the area.

Molokini has been labeled Hawaii’s only Island Marine Sanctuary, so it enjoys special protection to keep it in pristine condition. We have tips to help you find the best Maui Molokini tours to make the most of your visit to this now extinct underwater volcano.

Location

The location of snorkel tours will make a big difference in the success of your trip. First, choose a snorkeling tour that heads to one of the premiere spots for snorkeling, such as Reef’s End or Enenue. Both of these areas boast some lovely coral viewing, as well as a high concentration of tropical fish in the shallower waters. Keep in mind that Molokini tours in Maui are available for both snorkeling and scuba diving, so choose the package that fits your preference and ability best.

Lessons Available?

If you are relatively new to the world of snorkeling, look for tours that provide lessons and hands-on guidance for your trip. This is also helpful if you will be heading out to the crater with kids in tow. Some tours specifically advertise that their trips are “child-friendly” meaning they will have the equipment and supervision to keep your entire family safe while exploring the wonders of Molokini Crater. If you are an experienced snorkeler, you can opt for a snorkel tour that allows more time for you to explore the tropical paradise on your own.

Extras to Look for

Because there are many boat tours heading out to the crater every morning, companies sometimes try to make their packages more competitive by throwing in a few extras for the trip. For example, some tours will provide a meal or two and ice-cold beverages to enjoy along the way. Other boats might offer kid-friendly features, like a slide and snacks. Look for the snorkel tour that will meet your specific needs best, to ensure a pleasant adventure for your entire group.

Molokini snorkeling tours are a spectacular way to see the breathtaking views that Hawaiian waters offer. When you choose the right tour for your needs, you can rest assured everyone in your group will come away with vacation memories to treasure for a lifetime.

If you are looking for a spectacular finish to your tropical vacation, a Maui sunset dinner cruise is the perfect solution. Just imagine yourself sitting across the table from your favorite someone, enjoying a breathtaking Hawaiian sunset over tantalizing cuisine and live music. There is no better way to sit back and enjoy all the wonders the islands have to offer than with a Maui sunset cruise.

Types of Maui Sunset Cruises

When shopping for a sunset dinner cruise in Maui, keep in mind that there are many different types of packages available. Some of the cruises offer elegance all the way, with fabulous ambiance and first-class dining options. Others are more casual, combining delicious food with the laid back atmosphere you quickly grow used to in the tropics. If you prefer to skip the expense and calories of a full meal, some Maui sunset cruises offer similar luxury with simple cocktails and appetizers on-board.

In addition to the variations in menus, sunset cruises in Maui also differ in the types of entertainment they provide on-board. Of course, it is hard to compete with a fantastic tropical sunset, but some boats add to the romantic ambiance with live music during your meal. You might even find a sunset cruise that provides a small dance or a hula dancer to keep you entertained during your ride.  Some boats offer whale watching with their Maui sunset cruises – if you travel at the right time of year to catch the whale migration.

What to Expect

When you book a dinner cruise on Maui, find out if the dinners are ordered off a menu, served family style or provided in a buffet. Tables may seat anywhere from two to six people, so you may not be dining alone if your boat typically offers larger tables. Most catamarans offering Maui sunset dinner cruises offer first-class service and some provide an open bar for a single entry fee. Most sunset cruises last a couple of hours, giving guests plenty of time to enjoy the food, entertainment and sunset during their voyage. Many boats also offer stabilizers to keep the ride nice and smooth throughout your trip.

A Maui sunset dinner cruise is the perfect way to start or end your tropical vacation. When you choose the cruise that best meets your personal preferences and budget, you can rest assured that those few hours on the Hawaiian waters will create a lifetime of memories.

No matter how beautiful the tropical scenery of Maui might be, the view below the water is as breathtaking as the view on dry land. One of the best ways to experience the underwater world of the Hawaiian tropics in on-board a Maui snorkeling cruise. There are many options available for a snorkel cruise in Maui today, so we will offer a few tips to help you find the best package for your needs.

What is a Maui Snorkeling Cruise?

When you book a snorkeling cruise in Maui, you get much more than time underwater to see the marine life up close. A quality cruise will often include food, refreshments and a trained guide who will ensure your snorkeling experience is a positive one. Some snorkel cruises on Maui combine the underwater adventure with other forms of entertainment, such as live music, an open bar and even a traditional Hawaiian luau after your boat docks. Shop around to find the cruise that best meets your personal preferences and budget to ensure a truly unforgettable experience.

What Marine Life will I See?

Besides the glorious sunset views on-board your Maui cruise, you will also get to experience the tropical fish and marine life that call the Hawaiian Islands home. Depending on your snorkeling destination, you will discover a plethora of tropical fish species, manta rays and a variety of sharks. Some lucky snorkelers may even espy a shy octopus, bottle-nose dolphin or a sea turtle on their journey. Keep an eye on the coastline to find monk seals, tropical birds and even more sea turtles along the way.

When Should I Go?

Anytime is a good time for a cruise in Maui, but if you set sail in the winter, you might be more comfortable in a wetsuit than a bathing suit. If you would like to combine whale watching with your snorkel cruise, book your trip during the migration season, which generally spans between December and April. Otherwise, you can pretty much book a cruise year-round, and rest assured you will have an enjoyable and successful adventure any month of the year.

Most snorkel cruises on Maui tend to run in the early morning hours, when marine life is most abundant and crowds are less of a problem. While you can find a Maui snorkeling cruise later in the day, most cruise operators advise their visitors to book earlier cruises for the best possible experience. Many cruises offer coffee, juices and breakfast offerings on-board, to help you jump start your adventure in style.

A snorkeling trip in Maui is the perfect addition to your tropical getaway. With an abundance of sea life to explore, and plenty of options in destinations, it is no wonder Maui is considered one of the best snorkeling locations in the world.

Whether you are interested in whale watching, scuba diving or a sunset cruise, Maui has a package just right for you. However, there is something truly special about the ability to customize your vacation plans to your specific party and needs. This is where a Maui private boat charter can enhance your tropical getaway. Private charters in Maui allow you to see the island on your terms, by customizing your adventure exactly the way you like.

Types of Maui Charter Boats

No matter what you are hoping to do and see on the island, you can find a Maui private charter to get you there in style. Some charter companies will offer a variety of boat charters, while others will specialize in a specific type of trip, such as snorkeling or whale watching. Before you book your boat, it is helpful to know what you want to do on your day at sea, to ensure you choose the boat and charter company that will meet your needs best.

Some private cruises in Maui will provide extras in addition to the use of the boat, including snacks, beverages or fishing and snorkeling gear. Some boats will be decked out in luxury, while others will be more befitting the casual crowd. When you are shopping for a private boat charter, ask what is included with the boat rental, to ensure you will be able to accommodate the activities you are interested in easily.

How Maui Private Charters Work

Most private charters in Maui are available for a small group of people that might range in size from six to 30 individuals at a time. If you already have a rather large group that wants to charter a boat for the day, you can simply find a charter company that offers the right vessel size for your needs. However, individuals can also sign on to join an excursion with others that have already rented the boat for their own purposes, if there is still room onboard.

The price for a private charter varies considerably, depending on the size boat you are interested in and the type of excursion you want. Many people find that while the initial cost of a boat rental seems high, when the fee is split between the entire party, a private day at sea becomes quite affordable. When you factor in the ability to tailor your voyage to your specific desires, the value of the trip goes up considerably as well.

Maui private cruises are the perfect way to get the most of your island experience. Whether you want to spend the day snorkeling, deep sea fishing or simply enjoying an island sunset, there is a private charter waiting for you.

If you are in search of the best snorkeling in Maui, you will not be disappointed in your visit to this island of paradise. Maui is surrounded by hot spots for snorkelers and divers, depending on where you want to go and what you want to see. Snorkeling can be just about anywhere on the island, depending on where you go and what you want to see. These five diving hot spots are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to underwater adventure in Maui.

Molokini Crater

This underwater volcano has been listed as a Marine Life Conservation District Seabird Sanctuary. Within the volcanic walls you will find a host of tropical fish, manta rays and even the occasional shark. The clear water makes this one of the best Maui snorkeling locations, because you can easily see the underwater life that calls Molokini Crater home. It is a popular location for beginning and experienced snorkelers alike. Molokini Crater is located just three miles off the Maui coast and is accessible by boat.

Turtle Town

There has been some question as to precisely where Turtle Town is located, but the general consensus is that Turtle Town is located on the southern coastline of the island, between Nahuna Point and Black Sand Beach. This stretch is home to a particularly dense population of sea turtles, thanks to current government protection. Turtle Town is well known for providing some of the best snorkeling in Maui, particularly if these large lumbering creatures are your sightseeing target.

Coral Gardens

Coral Gardens is located in the center of the western Maui coast. This location is also home to a large number of brightly colored fish, as well as some breathtaking coral formations and the occasional sea turtle. Keep your eyes open for crabs, octopus and eels as well. The location occasionally provides a glimpse of humpback whales between the months of December and April, in the National Marine Sanctuary.

Honolua Bay

Honalua Bay is located on the northern end of Maui, and provides plenty of great underwater scenery for visitors. The bay offers a small, sandy beach where you can access the water directly. Because the area is a marine reserve, snorkelers can enjoy spectacular coral formations, sea turtles and large schools of tropical fish. Honalua Bay is not the best snorkeling on Maui due to North swells, when surfing becomes the preferred activity off of this beach.

Five Caves

If you are a good swimmer and relatively experienced snorkeler, Five Caves is another spot for some of the best Maui snorkeling. This area offers a host of caves and crevices where sea life can hide. Located just north of Turtle Town, Five Caves provides glimpses of harmless reef sharks as well as sea turtles. The beach at Five Caves is small and no facilities are offered.

Approximately three miles off the coast of Maui sits an extinct, but no less impressive, volcanic crater known as Molokini. This underwater volcano is now home to a plethora of sea life, as it has been converted to Hawaii’s only Island Marine Sanctuary. Molokini Crater snorkeling offers some of the best underwater viewing around Maui, with a host of tropical fish and marine animals available for your sightseeing pleasure. We have tips to help you make the most of your Molokini snorkeling adventure.

Finding a Location

There are many good locations for snorkeling at Molokini, particularly inside the crater where an abundance of sea life thrives in shallower waters. For example, the interior side of Reef’s End, where the top of the crater is submerged for about 200 yards, is an excellent place to spot Cauliflower coral, as well as a wide variety of tropical fish. Enenue, on the other side of the crater’s interior, is a good place to spot butterfly fish in the shallower waters. The exterior side of the crater is usually reserved for scuba divers, with deeper waters and plenty of ocean treasures to discover in the depths.

When to Snorkel Molokini

Anytime is a great time for Molokini snorkling, but the area is subject to weather conditions from time to time. When the winds become too strong, snorkeling tours often choose an alternative spot to Molokini. However, windy days are few and far between, and most visitors find at least a few days that offer perfect conditions for a Molokini snorkel cruise during their trip. It is also best to visit Molokini Crater in the morning hours, when the fish are most abundant. Many snorkeling tours don’t even offer an afternoon trip to Molokini, so book a morning tour to ensure your cruise includes a visit to the crater.

Marine Life to Look for at Molokini

Molokini Crater offers a glimpse into a huge variety of marine life, including about 250 species of tropical fish, manta rays and a few species of sharks. The crater is also home to some breathtaking coral formations just below the surface of the water. Along the shoreline of the crater, you might spot a monk seal or sea turtle. Because the crater has been labeled a Marine Life Conservation District Seabird Sanctuary, you can also catch a glimpse of a variety of birds flying around the area.

Molokini adventure tours are a wonderful way to make the most of your visit to Maui. With plenty of tours to choose from, you are sure to find the package that best fits your personal needs and skill level. A day of snorkeling is sure to make your tropical vacation complete.