Molokini Deluxe Snorkel Excursion — Half-Day Catamaran from Ma'alaea Harbor
Set sail from Ma'alaea Harbor for a five-hour catamaran excursion to Molokini Crater and a second snorkel site—Turtle Town in summer or whale country in winter. Enjoy premium snorkel gear, chef-prepared island meals, onboard cocktails, and a relaxed open-ocean sail back to shore.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early for boarding
Check in at Slip #56 in Ma'alaea Harbor at least 30 minutes before departure to complete paperwork and step safely onto the vessel.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply reef-safe sunscreen before entering the water and reapply only as instructed to protect coral and marine life.
Mind your footing
You’ll walk down a pier and step across a gap onto the boat; wear grippy sandals and accept crew assistance when boarding.
Prep for seas
If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventative medication before boarding and sit midship where movement is least pronounced.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ask the crew for a quieter stern perch during the return sail for unobstructed horizon views.
- •On calm mornings, the catamaran’s shaded daybed is ideal for spotting spinner dolphins along transit routes.
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- •Seasonal humpback whale (December–April)
Conservation Note
Operators follow strict no-touch rules and limit anchoring to protect coral; guests are encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid standing on reef.
Molokini is the remnant of a volcanic tuff cone; the crater and surrounding reef have been managed as a marine life conservation district to protect native species.
Photographer's Notes
- • Foredeck near the bow for wide seascapes
- • Raised netting or bow trampoline for vessel-and-reef frames
- • In-water at the crater rim with a waterproof camera for close reef shots
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and marine ecosystems; often required for reef access.
Waterproof camera or GoPro
Captures underwater life and vessel portraits—use a wrist or float strap.
Light windbreaker
A thin layer blocks spray and cool trade winds on the return sail.
Sturdy deck sandalsEssential
Good grip for walking the pier, boarding, and moving on a wet deck.
Common Questions
Where do we check in for this tour?
Check-in is at Slip #56, Ma'alaea Harbor on Oceanside Pier; arrive 30 minutes before departure.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes—premium snorkel masks, fins, flotation devices, towels, and reef-safe sunscreen are supplied onboard.
Can I see whales on this trip?
Between December and April the captain may divert for whale watching; in summer the second stop often targets Turtle Town instead.
Are meals and alcoholic drinks included?
Yes—a chef-prepared buffet breakfast and island-style lunch are included, along with a selection of alcoholic beverages (ID required).
Is this trip suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Children and non-swimmers can participate; flotation devices and life vests are available, but supervision and basic water comfort are recommended.
What accessibility considerations should I know?
Boarding requires walking a pier and stepping across a gap onto the deck; crew assistance is available but the vessel is not fully wheelchair-accessible.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Ma'alaea, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate—able to walk a short pier, climb steps, and swim/snorkel with flotation; kids and less-experienced swimmers can participate with life vests.
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