Into Molokini’s Crystal Bowl: Snorkel Molokini & Turtle Arches from Ma'alaea Harbor
Board at Ma'alaea Harbor for a five-hour eco-snorkel to Molokini's glass-clear crater and the underwater lava arches of Turtle Arches. Perfect for families and first-time snorkelers, the trip blends reef education with easy-access snorkeling and lunch aboard.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early
Check in 45 minutes before departure at the Ma'alaea Harbor meeting point to get fitted for gear and attend the safety briefing.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Non-reef-safe sunscreens are prohibited; bring reef-safe SPF or buy it on board to protect coral and comply with state rules.
Protect Your Camera
Use a float strap and a waterproof housing or case — tossable compact housings work best for snorkeling; don’t rely on full-face masks.
Mind Seasickness
Mornings are generally calmer; if you get seasick, take medication before boarding and sit mid-ship where motion is minimal.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Approach Molokini’s windward rim for clear surface shots and chance encounters with schooling fish.
- •Turtle Arches’ submerged lava tunnels offer dramatic underwater lines and quieter waters where honu often forage.
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- •Spinner dolphins
Conservation Note
Operators follow strict reef-protection policies, including a ban on non-reef-safe sunscreen and guided briefings to minimize human impact on coral and marine life.
Molokini is a volcanic tuff cone formed during Maui’s volcanic activity; its protected inner basin and surrounding channels have been used by Native Hawaiian navigators for centuries.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the boat bow at Molokini's rim
- • Underwater at Turtle Arches near the lava tunnels
- • Approach shot back toward Ma'alaea Harbor with West Maui Mountains
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects coral and complies with statewide bans while reducing skin damage in strong sun.
Light waterproof layer or windbreaker
Keeps you warm on the open-channel ride, especially in cooler mornings or trade-wind conditions.
Reef shoes or water sandalsEssential
Protects feet on rocky docks and when stepping on and off the swim platform at shallow reefs.
Waterproof camera or phone case with float
Secures photos while snorkeling; a float prevents losing an expensive device in the swell.
Common Questions
Are snorkel gear and flotation devices provided?
Yes — professionally fitted snorkel masks (optical masks available), snorkels, fins, and flotation devices are supplied for all guests.
Can beginners do this trip?
Absolutely — the tour includes a learn-to-snorkel class, flotation devices, and guided reef tours suitable for first-timers and families.
What about children and infants?
Children must be supervised by an adult; one child ages 4 and under goes free per paying adult but must be listed on the booking.
Is sunscreen provided or allowed?
Only reef-safe sunscreen is allowed; non-reef-safe products are prohibited. Reef-safe sunscreen is available for purchase on board.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips are weather-permitting; the captain may reschedule or cancel for safety reasons and will choose alternate sites if conditions change.
Are full-face masks allowed?
No — for safety the operator does not permit full-face masks on snorkel ecotours and supplies standard snorkel equipment.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Ma'alaea, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to swim short distances and tread water or use provided flotation.
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