maui whale watching catamaran

KA'ANAPALI

Whale watch.

MORNING MENU

With both morning and afternoon tour times, we were sure to plan our menu with options to please every guest, no matter what time of day. Our 8:00am sail includes a fresh Mom Coon’s 4th generation recipe Cinnamon Roll and fresh fruit, including juicy pineapple slices.

AFTERNOON MENU

Our 10:30am and 1:00pm tour times include turkey or veggie wraps, fruit and a cookie! For guests 21+ (with ID), two adult premium beverages are included on the return sail, as well as soda and fresh, filtered water.

WHALE WATCHING

Whale naturalists.

During your whale watching tour, you’ll get more than just amazing views of the Maui coastline and a front-row seat to whale breaches.  Our onboard whale naturalists will also share fun facts about the humpback whale population and their habitat, providing a truly meaningful encounter for our guests.

ONBOARD HYDROPHONES

For a special unique treat on all our whale watches, our catamarans are also equipped with onboard Hydrophones that we place in the water so guests can take in the beauty of the incredible whales’ songs!

An important part of our ohana’s training, all of our Captains and Crew are also armed with the details of NOAA safe-viewing guidelines, so that we can confidently do our part in protecting the safety of our beloved whale population.

CHECK-IN LOCATION

• Sheraton’s Beach Lawn, Ka’anapali

Check-in with our Crew member in a blue shirt on the lawn in front of the Sheraton, at the end of the Beach Walk. 

**NOTE** If at check-in, surf conditions are deemed dangerous, guests can expect to walk 10-15 minutes north on the beach walk to a safer boarding area. Check-in location will not change.

We will be loading from the beach, you can expect to get wet up to your knees when you board. Please watch the short Beach Loading video below, taken on a small surf day. This tour is NOT recommended for guests with mobility issues. Please consider a tour with a Maalaea Harbor departure.

• 2605 Ka’anapali Pkwy
• Lahaina,HI 9676

Parking is available at the Sheraton Maui for $15. Guests also have the option to park at Whalers Village. Trilogy will not validate your parking pass at Whalers.

*On days when beach loading is not possible due to large surf, we will depart from Maalaea Harbor. Guests are responsible for their transportation to Maalaea Harbor. We will always try to give ample warning if this change must take place.

KA'ANAPALI BEACH LOADING

This excursion loads directly from the sands of world-famous Ka’anapali Beach, and you WILL get wet when loading. Please watch this quick video showing our beach-loading process during medium shore break. Please keep in mind that beach loading requires a certain level of physical fitness.   Guests with injuries or disabilities which impede mobility may find beach loading too difficult or strenuous. It is recommended that guests with mobility issues and parents with small infants , book one of our many tours departing from the Lahaina Harbor. 

WHAT'S INCLUDED

On-board Whale Naturalists

Hydrophones (underwater listening apparatus for whales)

Mom Coon’s 4th generation recipe Cinnamon Rolls and Fresh Fruit (8:00 am departure)

Turkey Deli Sliders, Fruit and a Cookie (10:30 am & 1:00 pm departures)

Non-alcoholic beverages and chilled, filtered water

21+ yrs: two adult premium beverages

Complimentary reef-safe sunscreen if you forget to bring your own

EXPLORE OTHER TOURS

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Luxury Maui Sailing Charters

A voyage like no other.

Exceptional Nautical Experiences

Elite maui excursions on ali’i class yachts.

Embark on an extraordinary luxury experience aboard an Ali’i Class Yacht, where our dedicated crew curates each charter with the warmth of aloha. Enjoy the spacious comfort of our luxury catamarans, complete with shaded cabins, ample deck space, and two restrooms, or experience the refined elegance of our private yachts, ideal for smaller groups. Every adventure is thoughtfully crafted to enrich your connection with Hawaiian culture, wildlife, and cuisine.

Snorkel Sail

Molokini deluxe.

• Upscale adventure with world-class snorkeling, expert staff & luxury amenities
• Gourmet buffet breakfast, lunch & open bar with local beer, wine, sparkling & seltzers
• Premium complimentary snorkeling gear, flotation devices, towels & reef-safe sunscreen

Sunset Dinner Sail

• 5-course sunset dining at sea aboard Maui’s most lavish catamaran
• Full service tabled seating with Top Shelf open bar, specialty wine list and signature local spirits
• Top-Deck upgrades available including exclusive wine pairings and private service

Sunset Cocktail Sail

• Daily sunset sail offering gourmet appetizers & specialty cocktails
• The perfect happy hour at sea, complete with an all-inclusive open bar to enjoy before your dinner reservations
• Family-friendly, great for couples & perfect for groups (recommended for guests 12+)

Champagne Brunch

• 2.5 hour specialty brunch highlighting our Chef's favorite flavors of paradise
• Bottomless bar with premium spirits, specialty brunch cocktails & our signature wine selection
• Select & Private seating upgrades available
• Adults only, must be 18+ to join

Turtles & Tacos

• Luxury snorkeling excursion featuring fresh tacos & guaranteed turtles
• Full open bar with local beer wine, seltzers & spirits
• Great for families, couples & groups of friends

Luxury 6 Passenger

Private charter.

• Authorized Access to Molokini Crater
• Access to Ka'anapali Beach via Water Taxi
• Top-of-the-line snorkel equipment included for underwater exploration

Whale Watch

• Open bar featuring local Maui Brewing Company beers and hard seltzers
• Top Deck Seating upgrades available (only on 1pm departure) with a private naturalist, Moet bubbles, and the best Whale Watching seats on Maui
• Hydrophone for Maui’s best “whale karaoke”

Small Group Adventure Cruises

Snorkel tour.

8+ YEARS OLD

Snorkel and Whale Watch

Snorkel & sunset.

Award Winning Food & Beverage Offerings

Introducing Ali’i Kai

Upcoming events, locals nights, locals night.

Set sail in Hawaii with loved ones, enjoying a beautiful sunset over the ocean. Indulge in gourmet appetizers and an open bar on the Makani Sunset Sail, celebrating Maui’s beauty together. For our State ID holding locals, enjoy a 40% discount. Learn More

Bring the whole family along for an afternoon sail with Santa, paired with hot cocoa, tasty treats, and holiday stories. This special time of year also provides the chance for a whale encounter in the waters off of Maui. Learn More

Maui Songwriters Festival

Join Sony Music Publishing and TuneIn’s ‘The Big 615’ Host Storme Warren with ‘CMT Hot 20 Countdown’ filming crew for a one-of-a-kind snorkeling, whale watching, and sailing experience. Learn More

Valentine’s Day

Spend the most romantic day of the year aboard Maui’s most luxurious catamaran, as you bask in the Hawaiian sunset’s warm glow and dine like royalty. Learn More

Royal Sunset Thanksgiving Dinner

Enjoy a gourmet Thanksgiving feast aboard our famous Royal Sunset Charter while sailing the scenic coast, with exclusive Top Deck seating available for an elevated experience. Learn More

Cyber Monday Sale

Experience the magic of Maui with this exclusive one-day offer – 30% off all Ali’i Class Yachts excursions! Learn More

Why Choose Us

Elevated nautical experiences, gourmet dining.

Indulge in an immersive gourmet dining celebrating ‘ono (delicious) Hawaiian flavors. Our talented chefs create innovative dishes using local ingredients for an authentic and culturally accurate dining experience.

Eco-Friendly Practices

Showcasing our commitment to Mālama ka ‘aina (taking care of the land), our catamarans employ eco-friendly, sustainable practices to minimize our ecological footprint; our yachts, with advanced engines, further enhance fuel efficiency, providing a luxurious and sustainable experience on the water.

UNRIVALED COMFORT AND SERVICE

With spacious seating, premium amenities, an attentive crew, and unparalleled hospitality standards, we ensure your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities throughout your entire journey.

COMMITMENT TO AINA

We prioritize sustainability by sourcing local ingredients and partnering with local brands. Choosing our offerings supports the preservation of our island's natural resources and local economy.

Private Charters

Exclusive luxury experiences, catamaran private charters, luxury 6 passenger private charter, rated excellent by our visitors.

Island Activities

Experience maui, helicopter & air tours, stay connected, subscribe to our newsletter, experience a thanksgiving like no other aboard maui’s luxury catamaran.

This Thanksgiving, treat yourself to a truly unforgettable dining experience aboard Maui’s most luxurious catamaran. Enjoy a five-course meal crafted with the island’s freshest seasonal ingredients, paired with handcrafted cocktails, premium wines, and top-shelf spirits. As you savor every bite, take in the stunning views of a Maui sunset. With exceptional service and gourmet flavors, it’s the perfect way to celebrate Thanksgiving with elegance on the open sea.

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Note to women: If you are pregnant, or attempting to become pregnant, do not dive .

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Complete this questionnaire as a prerequisite to a recreational scuba diving or freediving course. Note to women:

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Thank you for prioritizing safety on your diving adventure with us!

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Maui Snorkeling, Sunset Sails, Whale Watching Tours & Surf Lessons

The best way to see maui, featured maui ocean adventures.

• Hour Glass 2.5 hours
• Calendar Daily / April 15th - Dec 14th

Xpress Snorkel Tour on Maui

This one-of-a-kind Maui snorkeling adventure is the perfect option for customers who want to get to the snorkeling quickly at one of the most unique spots around the island!

• Hour Glass 3.5 hours
• Calendar Daily

Afternoon West Maui Snorkel Tour

Not exactly a morning person? This is the snorkel trip for you. The perfect way to spend the afternoon and not have to wake up early or spend 5 hours on the boat!

• Hour Glass Approx 2.5 hours
• Calendar Daily , Includes Live Music on Wednesdays and Saturdays!

Premium Maui Sunset Cruise with Dinner

Are you looking for a unique dining experience to leave behind the hustle and bustle of the land? Sea Maui’s Sunset Dinner Sail is our premium dining and sailing experience.

Choose Your Ocean Adventure on Maui

Maui snorkeling tours.

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Maui Sunset Tours

Maui private charters, book your vacation adventures in maui today check our availability, introducing the all new sea maui iii, our 65 ft. luxury catamaran departing daily on maui catamaran tours.

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The best way to SEE Maui is SEA Maui!

At Sea Maui, we like to do things just a little differently than the rest. For starters, we’re more like your extended family or new best friends once you’re on board. You’re here to have a good time, learn about the ocean, Maui, whales (seasonal) and all that good stuff. We’re not operated by the corporate suits; we’re a team of like-minded, fun-going, salty sailors that absolutely love our jobs and all the cool people we get to meet! When you come on a trip with us we promise to do everything in our power to make sure you have the time of your life out on the water.

Discover the Sea Maui Difference: Read Our Maui Snorkeling, Whale Watching and Sunset Cruise Reviews

Just returned from Maui. Family and I did a Friday night sunset cruise. Highly recommend this trip. Capt. Phil and crew are top notch. They work hard to make sure you have fun. Great food and drink, whale watching and great views. The crew was very careful loading and unloading passengers at the start and end of the trip. Overall a great time. If you want to sail with a competent and caring crew, then Sea Maui is the place to be.

This was my third catamaran snorkel trip and it was the best one yet! First and foremost the staff was amazing. Throughout the trip the entire crew stayed engaged in conversation, and not just with one person. Hands down best part of my week stay here in Maui! Lunch was fantastic-drinks were flowing-& we made it back in a timely manner! Thank you so much to the crew of Sea Maui for being the best part of my vacation!

I had the joy of going on a Sea Maui trip. The boat was large and the vibe the crew had was amazing. They served us breakfast and lunch with a smile, had great drinks and music, and made us laugh the whole time. I chose to do SNUBA, and it was worth every extra penny. If I went back today, I would use Sea Maui and I recommend them to all of my friends who are going.

The crew and management at Sea Maui always go above and beyond to make sure their patrons have the best experience possible. They serve good food and drinks and have a smaller amount of people they go out with and they offer something for everyone. They are def my go to when I’m looking to get out in the beautiful waters of Maui.

Maui Whale Watching on Luxury Catamaran

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• Whale Watching

2-Hour Luxury Maui Whale-Watching Tour

Opening for season Dec 15th 

Your Whale Watch ticket price includes  heavy appetizers and free drinks

Nothing beats Maui Whale Watching and the experience of being up close and friendly with Maui’s Humpback Whales.  What can make it better you ask?  Departing out of Ma’alaea Harbor on 1 of Maui’s most luxurious sailing catamarans! Whale season in Hawaii is Dec 15th to May 15th

For your comfort on this luxury Whale Watching there will be a maximum of 50 passengers.   A low passenger count makes it easier to go from one side of the boat to another, depending on where the Whales are.

Panoramic Views

On the Ali’i Nui, you can enjoy the “show” from the shaded cabin or up on deck.  The warm Pacific Ocean off  Maui has long been the favored vacation spot of the massive Humpback Whales. Here in Hawaii they mate and have their babies close to shore in the shallow waters off Maui.

Marine Naturalist

A marine naturalist is always on board with fun facts about these gentle giants.  A hydrophone will allow you to listen to the amazing songs the humpback whales sing.

Whale Watch Appetizer Menu

Enjoy an array of gourmet pupu’s (appetizers):

• Imported & Domestic Beer
• Red & White Wine
• Sparkling Wine
• Filtered Water
• Assorted Juice

Transportation to/from Ma’alaea Harbor for an additional cost can be arranged

Additional information.

Maui Sights & Treasures Cancellation Policy: NO refunds or changes within 48 hours of activity unless otherwise stated. A 10% cancellation fee will be applied to all cancellations made outside of 48 hours of the activity.

Please note: We require all bookings to be made at least 48 hours in advance of the event so that we can guarantee your reservation. If you would like to book an event within the next 48 hours, please call us toll free at 1-888-841-9155 and we would be happy to assist you.

Parking at Ma’alea Harbor is now 50 cents an hour. Allow at least 1$ for Parking.

The Ali’i Nui is located on the “Water Side” of the U shaped Harbor. There is plenty of Parking available.

Need Sunscreen? The Ali’i Nui will have Human/Reef Safe Sunscreen available for your use.

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Sail with the whales! Let us be your hosts as you witness these acrobatic creatures in the impossibly clear waters of Maui. Come experience the beautiful island of Maui as we set sail on Maui’s best whale watching tours.

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Join us aboard our Gold Coast catamaran ‘Alihilani for a captivating sail with the majestic humpback whales. Our sailing journey is designed to be in harmony with nature, allowing you to relax to the soothing sounds of the ocean as we glide without motors.

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Set sail on a unique adventure aboard Akialoa, our 54’ performance sailing catamaran, as we explore Maui’s whale-watching paradise. Experience the elegance of pure sailing, basking in the serene sounds of the ocean, with a focus on sailing and minimized motor use.

Whale Watching Maui

Newest Maui Article: Lahaina Gateway

Whale Watching Maui Where, When, How?

Maui whale watch boat cruises compared.

A favorite activity in Maui during the winter is watching the whales.   You can do your whale watching Maui adventures from shore, but you get a closer look if you go out for a couple of hours on a whale watching boat.

If you are staying in West Maui (Lahaina, Kaanapali, Kapalua), take a boat that departs from Lahaina Harbor (or from Kaanapali Beach).  If your hotel or condo is in south Maui (Wailea, Kihei), your boat departure should be from Maalaea Harbor.

About 12,000  humpback whales  come to the waters around Maui at various times between late November and early April.  But they are most numerous from January through March, with about 5000 present at any one time in the peak month of February, so those are your best whale watching Maui months.  The whales come to Hawaii to breed and give birth.  Unlike you and me, they don’t eat while they are in Hawaii.  In the summer they live around Alaska, where they eat krill (similar to shrimp).

Humpback whales come to Maui every winter, and so should we!

See below for a comparison of some of the companies offering whale watching Maui boat excursions every winter, as well as photos and a whale watching video.   Or click for more  things to do on Maui .

Whale Watch Boats – Details and differences to help you decide

Whale watch catamarans.

This is the largest and best-known whale watch company on Maui.  Most catamaran boats are two-level, double-hull, very modern, and larger than boats from other companies.  These boats can carry up to 140 passengers.  Prices here are usually better than boats that take less passengers.

• Maalaea Whale Watching Tours
• Lahaina Whale Watching Tours
• Honolua Sailing & Snorkeling

Maui Custom Charters

Maui Custom Charters offers private whale watches for up to six guests aboard the S/V Artemis or S/V Nova. This experience is ideal for groups hoping to avoid crowds aboard larger tour boats. Since Artemis is a sailing catamaran and Nova is a sailing yacht, excursions aboard these vessels are void of loud engines and diesel fumes— which both humans and whales will agree is a plus. Throughout the tour, the hospitable Maui Custom Charters crew is on hand to offer an interpretation of whale behavior, prepare tasty snacks, and man the hydrophone to listen in on whale songs beneath the surface. In season, the charters depart daily out of Ma’alaea Harbor.

• Private Maui Whale Watch
• Custom Whale Watch Trip

Not only does Trilogy offer excellent service aboard their whale watching tours , but they are industry leaders in ocean conservation— the company was even named Ecotour Operator of the Year in 2017. Trilogy operates a fleet of six stable sailing catamarans that offer panoramic whale-watching views. A marine naturalist is also onboard to share fun facts about Maui’s humpback whales and their sometimes-quirky behavior. What’s more, Trilogy’s catamarans are equipped with hydrophones— underwater microphones— to listen in on whale songs. Trilogy offers whale watches from December 15th to April 15th out of Maalaea Harbor, Lahaina Harbor, and Kaanapali Beach.  

Redline Rafting

This company uses 35-foot high-speed boats that take a maximum of 24 passengers. So they are less crowded than the above boats while sitting you close to the water like on the other small boats.  This boat is more maneuverable and you get a more personal experience than you can get on a big catamaran. The boats depart from Kihei, so if you are staying in Kihei or Wailea, then this boat is more convenient to get to than the others.

Redline Rafting whale watch details, prices, or reservations

The Kai Kanani is a 65-foot luxury sailing catamaran with room for 80 guests. They’re the only boat allowed to moor in Makena, and they conveniently have beach entry from in front of the Makena Beach & Golf Resort. This location is prime because they can get to Molokini Crater faster than anyone else. The Kai Kanani has tours to Molokini for snorkeling, to turtle town, sunset cocktail cruises, whale watching, and private events.  If you are staying at a hotel in Wailea, this is the most convenient boat to take.

This is a smaller company than the above two, so has fewer boats per day.  Their 64-foot catamaran is slightly larger than Trilogy’s, plus they give you food.  Maximum 49 passengers.  You can often find a discounted price by shopping from various activity sellers. They have an 8 AM whale watch that is when the ocean is often less choppy than in the afternoon.

Another small company like Gemini, but with a more luxurious boat.  Their 65-foot catamaran holds up to 49 passengers.  They offer ala cart made-to-order full-service food in an air-conditioned dining room on their dinner-time whale watch.  Some online and local discounts.  This company’s former boat was Kapalua Kai.

Maui Adventure Cruises

These are large rafts, 37 to 49 feet long.  They limit the number of passengers to between 34 and 38.  They are faster than the above larger boats, and you sit closer to the water. So if you want a more adventurous whale watching Maui experience, this may be the right choice for you.

Ultimate Whale Watch

This company uses smaller boats, 30-foot inflated rafts that (like Maui Adventure) go faster than the larger boats of the other above companies.  You sit much lower, close to the water level.  They only take 18 passengers.

Aloha Outdoors

You can rent a small boat and drive it yourself (holds up to six people).

Maui Kayak Whale Watching

Check out this whale watching experience from a few years back off the coast of Olowalu.  Unbelievable! They also offer kayak whale watching in Makena .

Maui Whale Watching Tours are a MUST during whale season (Dec 15th-May 15th).  February is the best month, but you’ll see whales during any whale watch in that period of time.

See the page of  Things To Do In Maui for luaus, whale watching, snorkeling, tours, helicopters, horseback riding, ATV, dinner cruises, parasailing, fishing, zipline, biking, golf, hiking, sightseeing, aquarium, the road to Hana, volcano, Lahaina, lavender farm, beaches, kids and family fun, and more.

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Whale Watching Adventures with Teralani

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our premium Whale Watch Tours, offering three distinct experiences tailored to suit your preferences. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of majestic humpback whales off the coast of West Maui. Our expertly crafted tours promise an awe-inspiring encounter with these gentle giants, ensuring a unique and unforgettable experience.

Our commitment to luxury goes beyond aesthetics, creating an environment of utmost comfort and enjoyment.

Our team of knowledgeable professionals shares their passion and expertise, enriching your journey with valuable insights.

Witness spinner dolphins, snorkel pristine reefs, and encounter humpback whales up close for truly unforgettable memories.

Each adventure is thoughtfully designed to showcase Maui's marine wonders, from snorkeling to whale watching.

OUR WHALE WATCH TOURS

Book your Whale Watch now for the 2024-2025 Whale Season (November  – April)

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WHAT TO EXPECT

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Home Tours Maui Whale Watching Snorkel Tour

Maui Whale Watching Snorkel Tour

JANUARY 1 ST - MARCH 31 ST

Join Pride of Maui's whale watching and snorkeling tour to witness the natural beauty of Maui's oceans.

Maui Whale Watching

Whale Watching Online Price

Whale watching on Maui promises an adventurous and unforgettable experience. As you set sail on the vast Pacific Ocean, expect to witness the North Pacific humpback whales breaching, tail slapping, and elegantly gliding through the waters. These gentle giants migrate to Maui’s warm waters during winter, offering visitors an up-close encounter. Amidst the scenic beauty of the island of Maui, guests will be captivated by the whales’ acrobatics and their soul-stirring whale songs. This tour offers many amenities to enhance your experience:

• Ocean safety devices and state-of-the-art snorkel gear is provided
• A BBQ lunch and open bar is included
• Snorkel and whale watch during peak season
• Snorkel in calm waters with supreme visibility
• Enjoy stunning island and ocean views
• Witness the majesty of the North Pacific humpback whales in their natural environment!

Call Guest Services at 808.242.0955 for Military, Senior, Kama’aina, Group, and Special Rates.

Maui Whale Watching & Snorkel Tour

Maui’s best whale watch value

Exceptional Vacation Value Our Maui whale watching tour is truly an exceptional vacation value. You’ll enjoy a full two-hour whale watch combined with an hour of snorkeling a beautiful coral reef, where the conditions offer the best afternoon snorkeling.

Pride of Maui is the most stable and spacious Maxi-power catamaran on Maui with incomparable amenities including two restrooms, a water slide, submerged boarding ladders, warm showers, a large hardwood bar and over 2500 feet of open deck space.

Maui Whale Watching Every year from December through March, the North Pacific humpback whales migrate to the warm tropical waters of Hawaii. The coastal waters of Maui enjoy the largest concentration of these amazing animals by far. Whale Watching in Maui is commonly considered some of the best in the world. Whale Watching aboard our flagship Pride of Maui is even better.

During your whale watch cruise, these amazing animals will often display themselves in full glory, giving you the ultimate Maui whale watching experience. You may witness a mother whale frolic with her calf, or a full-grown adult breach exuberantly out of the water. Sightings of these playful behemoths, which grow as large as fifty feet and weigh about one ton per foot, are GUARANTEED on our Whale Watch Tour. Whales will be sighted, or your next whale watch tour aboard the Pride of Maui will be complimentary.

January 1st – March 31st

Maui whale season

For more than one reason, the Island of Maui is consistently rated the Best Island in the world. Not only do the visitors and happy locals of Maui know this, but so do the humpback whales. Year after year, the humpback whales travel from cool Alaskan waters all the way to warm Hawaiian oceans for their annual winter breeding.

They are first spotted in Maui’s waters as early as October and their presence gradually increases as more pods and escorts finally arrive in Hawaii just in time for the holiday season. Maui’s Whale Season runs from mid-fall to April. The peak season for watching whales is generally during the latter part of the season: January, February and March.

Humpback Whales

What you’ll see

Common behavior Some common behavior displayed on a whale watching trip includes blowing and spy-hopping. They’ll also slap their tails, which is believed to be an act of communication and to demonstrate their individual strength. Spy-hopping is when the humpback whales come high out of the water to have a look around at the world above.

A mature North Pacific humpback whale averages about 40ft in length and weighs about 40 tons, although they’ve been known to grow up to 16 meters or 52ft long. Their heavy bodies can weigh up to 50 tons; the heart alone is about 400lbs or more. The size of these whales makes them hard to miss, especially when they swim in groups. Female whales are slightly larger and use their size to defend themselves and their nursing calves from the more aggressive males.

Restrictions Data compiled and sponsored by The State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, National Marine Sanctuaries (Hawaiian Islands) and The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The North Pacific humpback Whale is a baleen whale (toothless), which is an endangered and protected species.

Whale watching on Maui is as good as it gets, with the opportunity on any given trip to see numerous animals displaying a variety of interesting and memorable behaviors. Newborn calves, in addition to being adorable, are curious and often bring mom up to the boat for a close encounter. As a protected animal, it is unlawful to approach these majestic animals at a distance of less than 100 yards during a Maui whale watch and we adhere strictly to these regulations.

It is not uncommon for the whales to approach us as we sit idle in the water. Close encounters initiated by the whales are common on a whale watching tour on Maui.

Maui Whale Watching & Snorkeling

Maui Snorkeling

Snorkeling while on a Maui Whale Watching tour is truly the best of both worlds. You’ll get to see North Pacific humpback whales in all their immense glory, while also snorkeling in some of the most diverse underwater worlds. It’s an experience quite unlike any other.

Snorkeling in Maui is an absolute must-experience. You will revel in the beauty and delight in observing the behaviors of tri-colored Moorish idols, rainbow and many more varieties of butterflyfish, ornate angelfish, saddle wrasse, triggerfish, and so much more.

Whale Watch Tour

Why choose us?

Guarantee December is when the whales arrive, and they are not in full numbers until mid-January.

Whale sightings are guaranteed January through March only. Our guarantee includes a free pass for your next whale watching tour if no whales are sighted on your trip. Whale sightings are not guaranteed in December or April due to whale migration patterns during the arrival and departure periods. The whale sighting guarantee is good for free passes only, no refunds or cash value.

Snorkel Gear We provide all of the sanitized snorkel gear that you will need so that you can have the best experience possible while looking for whales and other amazing underwater life. For your convenience, we also have wetsuits available to rent.

Amenities Pride of Maui is BIG, and yes, bigger is better! Her sprawling observation deck offers panoramic viewing free from obstruction and ample opportunities for taking photos.

She comes equipped with a large hardwood bar in the main cabin, Wolf commercial BBQ grills, two restrooms, warm freshwater showers, submerged ladders for easy entry and exit from multiple locations, and a jumbo water slide for fun entries more than 10 feet off the water.

Crew & Safety Your safety, above all, is the most important thing to us. Our owners have been in business for over 40 years, and it shows in our daily operation. Your crew is certified and proficient in life-saving skills and CPR. Captains provide comprehensive site orientation and snorkel lessons right onboard for those with little or no prior experience.

We post lifeguards in the water and on deck for your safety and assistance. Our modern vessel comes equipped with the latest navigation and emergency equipment, and your highly-trained crew is proficient in all aspects of passenger and safe-vessel operations so that you can relax and take it all in.

Interesting Facts

About Humpback Whales in Hawaii

Biology North Pacific humpback whales can weigh anywhere between 25-40 tons (50,000-80,000 lbs), and approximately 1-ton (2,000 lbs) as newborns. They can grow up to 60 feet in length, with the females being the larger sized of the breed. The humpback whale’s upper (dorsal) body is primarily a dark shade of grey, with distinct areas of white on their flippers (pectoral fins) and under (ventral) bellies. On average, the North Pacific humpback whale can live for about 50 years (although there have been accounts of some living up to 90 years), and reach sexual maturity between 5-7 years old. The North Pacific humpback whales feed on small crustaceans, krill, plankton, and small fish, consuming up to 3,000 lbs of food per day. Humpbacks don’t ever feed in Hawaii’s oceans; they only feed during their Alaskan Summers. They focus on storing strength and the blubber that they will live off of during their annual winter migration to Hawaii.

Behavior The male humpback whales are driven to mate with the females and procreate. It is common during the heat of the Maui whale watching season to find large competitive groups (pods) of male humpback whales jousting for the opportunity to mate with a single female. It is quite an exciting experience to watch them as they wrestle with each other for the position to mate.

The female humpback whales with newborn calves are particularly vulnerable to the advances of the males during the Maui whale watching season. Sometimes during our whale watch, we will be mugged (an affectionate term) by a female and her calf, as she uses our large catamaran to hide under in an attempt to ditch the hopeful males. Other times, curiosity causes them to come closer to us. Being mugged by humpback whales while on a whale watch in Maui is the ultimate whale watching experience where photo opportunities give way to cherished memories.

Conservation The original Endangered Species Conservation Act (ESCA) of 1969 has been amended and updated as The Endangered Species Act of 1973. This act was the first of its kind to protect marine species in danger of extinction from common threats including poaching and hunting for sport. Before the act, the humpback whales were maltreated and had no protection. The foreseeable future for the humpback whale species was at a great risk.

Working in conjunction with various marine related non-profits and education-based activity tour companies, the ESCA and the MMPA are responsible for protecting the growing numbers of the magical humpback whale species.

Pride of Maui goes to great lengths to educate guests on the habits and beauty of the humpback whales, as well as to ensure that our practices are at the highest standards of safety for the ocean, marine life, and our guests. All tours are in line with the most recent marine conservation practices. Pride of Maui vessels are top of the line; boat captains and staff are all educated and expertly trained.

Migration Humpback whales migrate 3,500 miles from Alaska to Hawaii every year. It takes them 4-8 weeks to complete this journey. Alaska is their feeding ground, and Hawaii is their breeding and birthing ground. The island of Maui offers sheltered water where the females can more safely give birth and raise their young.

Whales are mammals and the calves are fed with their mother’s milk. While suckling, it is believed they may be safer from predators in the sheltered Maui waters, as opposed to out in the open ocean or less-protected seas.

Whales start migrating to Hawaii in December and leave in April. Past year sightings have been as early as October, with the whales staying in Hawaiian oceans as late as June. The peak time to watch whales in Maui is in February during mating season, with March coming in second.

Mating Humpbacks are still a huge mystery. There have been no recorded sightings of humpback whales mating or giving birth.

During the late season, as the whales are preparing to leave the Hawaiian waters, male bulls come to escort a female and her calves out of the Hawaiian channels. It is quite common to see “competitive pods” of males at this time. These are pods of males fighting amongst each other to win over and impress the females. Male humpback whale competitive pods can be very aggressive, with head slapping, tail slapping, and breaching upon each other sometimes resulting in bloodshed.

Humpback whales are not monogamous! They are believed to be promiscuous breeders, and the males do not play a parental role in the lives of their calves. Genetic testing shows that over the breeding life of an individual female, calves will have different fathers.

Baby humpback whales are in utero for 11-12 months. When born, they can be between 12-14 feet in length, and weigh 1-1/2 tons. Surviving off their mothers 50% fat milk, the calves grow at least 1-inch and gain approximately 100 pounds per day.

Complimentary Lunch & Open Bar

Freshly prepared BBQ lunch

Lunch Your hot-of-the-grill BBQ lunch includes cheese and crackers, big juicy burgers, jumbo hot dogs, potato chips, fresh fruit platter, and ginger shoyu chicken. Be sure to save room for our delicious homemade Macadamia white chocolate chip cookies are baked fresh daily for your enjoyment.

If you have vegetarians or vegans in your party, please give us a call on our customer service line at 808.242.0955, at least 72 hours in advance. Mahalo!

Please note: Our delicious BBQ lunch is served from 3:30pm-4pm after our water activities.

Premium Open Bar Our Premium Open Bar includes ice-cold micro-brewed beer from local favorite Maui Brewing Company (Bikini Blonde Lager, Big Swell IPA). We serve fruit-forward Chardonnay from Napa, crisp citrus Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, and our signature Mai-tais. Non-alcohol beverages include fruit juice, filtered water, and soda.

Requests Vegetarian and gluten free lunch options are available, when you select your entrée at check-out.

Whales Migrate to Maui’s Waters Every Winter

Maui, consistently rated the “World’s Best Island to Visit,” is a haven not only for delighted locals and visitors but also for humpback whales. These majestic creatures journey from chilly Alaskan waters to the inviting Hawaiian oceans annually, seeking warmth for their winter birthing and mating season. As early as October, they grace Maui’s waters, with their numbers swelling throughout the holiday season as more pods and escorts arrive. The Whale Season spans from mid-Fall to April, with the peak whale watching period typically falling between January and March.

• Maui is consistently rated as the best island in the world to visit!
• The North Pacific Whales travel from Alaska to Hawaii every year
• They travel to Maui to birth and mate
• Whales pods start to arrive on Maui around October and throughout the holiday season
• Peak season to whale watch on Maui is January thru March

Is whale watching dangerous?

Maui whale watching is incredibly safe. It’s also one of the most amazing experiences you can have in your life! On a top-rated Maui boat tour on our spacious and stable catamaran, guests feel reassured that safety is always the top priority. Pride of Maui employs an experienced and professional crew that follows ocean safety guidelines and the legal regulations of the NOAA, the U.S. Coast Guard, and Hawaii DLNR’s Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation.

Is it safe to snorkel around whales?

It’s incredibly rare to snorkel around whales. Although snorkeling may happen near whales, we must never forget that the NOAA’s Endangered Species Act protects Maui’s humpback whales . Boat tour operators must keep a safe distance from the whales to ensure their safety and well-being. If you’re snorkeling on the coastline of a Maui beach, the water depth will most likely be too shallow for the whales.

What are common whale behaviors?

While enjoying a Maui whale watch tour, guests will see whale behaviors like blows, spy hops, tail slaps, pectoral slaps, head lunges, peduncle arches, peduncle throws, fluke up dives, and fluke down dives. The most eagerly awaited whale behavior is breaching. It’s truly majestic to see! Guests may also be able to hear the whale songs aboard a Maui Whale Watching tour onboard the Pride of Maui .

Why do whales migrate to Maui in the winter?

The North Pacific humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters every year. They travel over 3,500 miles from Alaskan waters for mating and birthing in Maui’s warm waters. In fact, for the duration of time spent on Maui, the whales do not eat. They migrate back to Alaskan waters in late spring for feeding.

Which species of whales are found in Maui?

The whales most commonly seen by visitors on a vacation to Maui are the North Pacific humpback whales. Many other species of whales are known to frequent the waters surrounding Maui though, like the False Killer Whale, Pygmy Killer Whale, Pilot Whale, and Orca. There have also been recorded sightings of Sperm Whales, which are extremely rare!

Do you guarantee whale sightings?

Yes, we guarantee sightings during whale season (January through March), or your next tour is on us.

How much time will be spent snorkeling?

We will snorkel for about 45 minutes and then head out for whale watching.

rating of guests 5.0

Testimonials

This was an unforgettable experience! The crew were all some of the nicest people on the island. We did the whale watching and snorkeling and it was worth every penny. I wish I could give the crew 10 stars. The boat we were on was no where near as packed as the other boats we saw out there. We saw tons of whales and even a turtle when snorkeling.

This was a great tour! The afternoon started on time and the crew were helpful and friendly. It was actually the last day of whale watching (as the whales move north in April) but we saw humpback whales on the way out to snorkeling at the crater and on the way back! Lunch is provide as described on the website and was delicious! Snorkeling equipment was provided along with vests and jackets. After snorkeling, fresh pineapple was served as well as homemade macadamia nut cookies. What a great afternoon!

My husband and I loved this tour! We had ample time for both whale watching and snorkeling. We saw so many whales including a baby that kept breaching! The lunch was good and the captain and crew were great. Overall it was a perfect experience.

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