2-Hour Molokini Snorkel Adventure

Quick Molokini Boat Trip

Experience the magic of Molokini Crater on this focused 2-hour snorkeling adventure to Maui’s most iconic marine sanctuary. Perfect for travelers with limited time, this tour takes you directly to the crystal-clear waters of this partially submerged volcanic crater, where vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish create an unforgettable underwater experience in one of Hawaii’s most protected snorkeling environments.

Activity Price

129 USD

Duration

2 Hours

Age

Ages 5+

Location

Kihei, HI US

Amenities

Professional Equipment – Premium masks, snorkels, and fins for all guests
Safety First – Coast Guard certified vessel with experienced crew

Special Instruction

Molokini Crater Awaits Your Discovery

Pristine Molokini Marine Sanctuary Access

Snorkel in the protected waters of Molokini Crater, where a unique crescent-shaped volcanic formation creates ideal conditions for marine life observation. With visibility often reaching 200 feet and water temperatures averaging 75-80°F year-round, this marine sanctuary hosts an incredible diversity of Hawaiian reef fish and coral species. The crater’s natural protection from trade winds and ocean swells provides calm, clear conditions perfect for underwater photography and peaceful marine exploration.

Expert Marine Naturalist Guidance

Our certified marine naturalists enhance your snorkeling experience with fascinating insights about Molokini’s geological formation, marine ecosystem, and conservation efforts. Learn to identify native Hawaiian fish species, understand coral reef ecology, and discover the cultural significance of this sacred Hawaiian place. Our knowledgeable guides ensure your safety while maximizing your underwater wildlife encounters and educational experience throughout the adventure.

Premium Snorkel Equipment & Comfort

Enjoy your underwater adventure with high-quality snorkeling equipment including anti-fog masks, dry snorkels, and comfortable fins in all sizes. We provide flotation devices for added confidence and prescription mask options for those who need them. Our well-maintained boat features shaded areas, freshwater rinse stations, and comfortable seating to ensure your complete comfort during this focused Molokini Crater exploration.

Your Molokini Snorkeling Experience Includes

About
Additional information
Pricing
Cancellations

Snorkeling Adventure at Molokini Crater

Explore One of Maui’s Most Iconic Snorkeling Destinations


Duration: 2 Hours (Extended to 2.5 Hours from December 15 – March 30)
Location: 2800 S. Kīhei Rd, Kīhei, HI 96753
Age Range: 6 – 65 years
Group Size: Maximum 19 guests
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
Cancellation Policy: 24‑hour cancellation required before departure


About the Experience

Discover the beauty of Molokini Crater, one of Hawaii’s most breathtaking marine sanctuaries, on this exciting small‑group snorkeling adventure. This half‑submerged volcanic caldera, famous for its crystal‑clear visibility and colorful reef ecosystem, is a must‑see for ocean lovers visiting Maui.

Between December 15 and March 30, your tour is extended to 2.5 hours to include a whale‑watching experience, offering the chance to see majestic humpback whales migrating through Maui’s waters.

Your journey begins aboard the Makena Mele II, a 37‑foot speed raft designed for both comfort and adventure. After a thrilling 15–20‑minute ride, you’ll arrive at Molokini’s protected crescent‑shaped reef, where conditions are ideal for snorkelers of all skill levels. Expect to witness schools of tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and brilliant coral gardens visible up to 100 feet below the surface.

If weather or ocean conditions make Molokini inaccessible, we’ll redirect to Turtle Town, another spectacular snorkeling site along Maui’s southern coast, where calm, near‑shore waters and green sea turtles (honu) await.

Your safety and enjoyment are always our crew’s top priorities, and every trip is planned based on real‑time ocean conditions.


What’s Included

  • Complimentary snacks: Chips and granola bars
  • Cold bottled water and Hawaiian fruit juices
  • High‑quality snorkel masks and tubes
  • Fins (available up to adult size 14)
  • Wetsuit tops to keep you comfortable in cooler water
  • Floating aids including noodles, belts, and other buoyancy gear

    (Please note: life jackets are not provided.)


Itinerary

  • 10:00 a.m. – Check in with the captain and crew at the Kīhei Boat Ramp
  • 10:30 a.m. – Departure for Molokini (firm)
  • 10:45 a.m. – Arrive at Molokini and snorkel for over an hour
  • 11:50 a.m. – Enjoy snacks and refreshments aboard
  • 12:30 p.m. – Return to the Kīhei Boat Ramp and access shore facilities

(Duration increases to approximately 2.5 hours from mid‑December through March during whale season.)


Molokini Crater Highlights

  • Designated Marine Life Conservation District with pristine coral reefs
  • Remarkable underwater visibility reaching up to 100 feet (30 meters)
  • Depths ranging from 10 to 70 feet (3–21 meters), ideal for all levels
  • Sheltered waters with minimal currents for a calm and safe experience

Why You’ll Love It

This tour combines excitement, adventure, and awe‑inspiring natural beauty in just a couple of unforgettable hours. Cruise across Maui’s clear southern waters, snorkel inside a world‑famous volcanic crater, and encounter vibrant marine life firsthand.

From the rush of the speed raft to the serenity beneath the surface, your Molokini Crater adventure promises an authentic, up‑close connection with the Pacific Ocean — the very heart of Maui’s magic.

Check-in Details

  • Check-in Time: 10:00 a.m.

  • Location: Kihei Boat Ramp, 2800 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753.

  • Look for the “Makena Mele II”, a red-colored 37-ft raft boat.

  • Important: There are multiple charter companies and similar-looking boats, so be sure to come to the Makena Mele II.

  • Liability Waiver: All guests must sign and complete the waiver before boarding.

  • When your group is called, proceed to the dock and board the boat.

  • Departure: The boat leaves promptly at 10:30 a.m. (no exceptions). Please plan for parking and possible traffic delays.

What to Bring

  • Light jacket or shawl

  • Swimsuit

  • Reef-safe sunscreen

  • Towel

  • Underwater camera

  • Gratuities for the crew

Special Requirements

  • No unaccompanied minors under age 15.

  • Minors (17 years and younger) must have signed waivers from a legal guardian.

Restrictions

  • Age: Snorkelers must be 6+ years old.

  • Non-swimmers: Restricted to the boat only.

  • Pregnant women: Not allowed to participate.

  • Physical Requirements: Participants must be capable of moderate-to-advanced physical activity.

  • Medical Restrictions: Individuals with recent surgical procedures or chronic back or neck conditions cannot participate.

  • Climbing: Guests must be able to climb a vertical boat ladder and walk down the dock without assistance.

  • Weight Limit: 300 pounds maximum.

  • Health & Safety:

    • Children under 6 are not allowed to join the tour.

    • No elderly or fragile individuals, or those with back or neck problems, are permitted.

Please ensure that you meet all requirements before booking to guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience.

Pricing

  • Adults (Age 13+): US$129

  • Children (Age 5-12): US$99

Cancellation and Refund Policy

  • Full Refunds:

    • Groups of up to 4 require 24 hours’ notice before departure for a full refund.

    • Groups of 5 or more must give 48 hours’ notice for a full refund.

    • Private charters require 7 days’ notice for a full refund.

  • Weather and Mechanical Cancellations:
    Cancellations due to weather or mechanical issues, even within the grace period, will be automatically honored.

  • Cancellation/Change Method:
    Changes or cancellations cannot be made via email. Please text us with any changes or questions at 808-874-1273.

Special Notice

We require a minimum number of bookings for this tour to proceed. Makena Coast Charters reserves the right to cancel the tour if there is a low customer count.

Molokini Crater Snorkeling Questions Answered

  • You’ll have approximately 120 minutes of actual snorkeling time at Molokini Crater. This focused tour maximizes your underwater experience at this world-renowned destination, with minimal travel time and maximum exploration opportunity in the pristine marine sanctuary waters.

  • Molokini Crater is a partially submerged volcanic caldera that creates a natural aquarium with exceptional visibility, calm waters, and abundant marine life. The unique crescent shape protects the area from waves and currents while hosting over 250 fish species and pristine coral reefs in crystal-clear water.

  • Transportation is not included, but we provide detailed directions to the departure location. Most tours depart from Ma’alaea Harbor, which is centrally located and easily accessible from all Maui resort areas. Parking is available at the harbor for your convenience.

  • Yes! Children ages 5 and up are welcome on this family-friendly snorkeling adventure. We provide child-sized equipment and extra safety supervision. The calm waters of Molokini Crater make it an ideal location for introducing young snorkelers to the underwater world safely.

  • Morning tours typically offer the calmest conditions and best visibility at Molokini Crater. The early hours also provide optimal lighting for underwater photography and marine life activity. However, afternoon tours can be equally spectacular depending on weather conditions and seasonal variations.

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