From Kihei: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town Snorkeling

Starting from Kihei, this 3-hour snorkeling adventure costs $179 per person and takes you to two of Maui’s most celebrated underwater locations: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town. Led by friendly and knowledgeable guides, you’ll spend your morning floating among vibrant fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles, all aboard a comfortable boat called The Getaway.

Two things we particularly love about this trip are the small group size and the well-organized itinerary. The guides’ genuine enthusiasm and local insights make the experience both fun and educational, while the crystal-clear waters and lush marine life create picture-perfect moments.

One consideration to keep in mind is the physical requirements—participants must be capable of moderate physical activity, and there are restrictions for non-swimmers, seniors, or those with certain medical conditions. This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable in the water and eager to explore vibrant coral reefs or encounter gentle sea turtles. If you’re after an authentic Maui snorkeling experience with reliable guides and stunning scenery, this tour could be a great fit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Two iconic snorkeling sites in one tour, promising variety and memorable marine encounters.
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and safety help.
All necessary gear (mask, snorkel, fins, flotation devices) is included, making it easy to just show up.
Snacks and drinks are provided, allowing for a relaxed, hassle-free trip.
Limited group size ensures personal attention and a quieter experience.
Age and health restrictions mean it’s best for active, water-confident travelers.

Planning more time in Maui? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

The Travel Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off at the Kihei Boat Ramp, where you’ll meet your crew and hop aboard The Getaway. Parking is free and readily available, which removes a lot of logistical stress. Once on board, the crew will give you a safety briefing, help with gear fitting, and answer any questions before heading out to Molokini Crater, about 30 minutes away.

Molokini Crater: The Underwater Saltwater Aquarium

Molokini is a partially submerged volcanic crater that forms a crescent-shaped island. Its sheltered waters are famous for clarity—think swimming in a giant, natural aquarium. Here, expect to see hundreds of tropical fish, including triggerfish and butterflyfish, along with starfish and rays.

One of the things we love about Molokini is the visibility, often exceeding 100 feet. This makes the experience accessible for both first-timers and seasoned snorkelers. The shallow reef teems with colorful coral, which is particularly striking against the open blue backdrop.

Turtle Town: Gentle Giants and Marine Diversity

After your time at Molokini, the boat heads to Turtle Town, known for its calm waters and frequent green sea turtle sightings. Here, you’ll get a chance to float alongside these gentle creatures, a highlight for many visitors. The reefs are vibrant with reef triggerfish, octopus, and butterflyfish, making for an engaging, lively scene.

Several reviews highlight the extraordinary ease of seeing turtles here. One guest remarked, “We got to see turtles, amazing fish, and even heard whales underwater—unreal.” It’s a quiet, slow-paced environment perfect for relaxed snorkeling and wildlife watching.

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Snacking and Rest Breaks

After each snorkeling stop, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved break with sandwiches and soft drinks. The provided snacks are a welcome refreshment, especially after swimming in the warm Hawaiian sun. The crew’s friendly attitude and stories add a personal touch that makes this trip feel less like a touristy rush and more like a shared adventure.

The Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are all the essentials: guide, boat transportation, mask, snorkel, fins, floatation devices, water, soft drinks, and sandwiches. This comprehensive package offers good value, considering the cost covers marine guides, equipment, and snacks.

What’s not included is mainly hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a straightforward, pick-your-own-arrival activity. Pack your towels, sunscreen, and swimwear—though sunscreen isn’t supplied, so bring reef-safe options to protect the marine environment.

Meeting Location & Logistics

Meet your crew at the Kihei Boat Ramp, with two large free parking lots nearby. Look for the boat named The Getaway, operated by Makena Coast Charters. The check-in process is simple, and staff are easy to spot near the restroom and shower area.

Timing & Capacity

Most trips run in the morning, typically around 3 hours, which fits well into a Maui day. The tour needs a minimum of 6 guests to run, so it’s best to book early if your dates are fixed. The boat comfortably fits a small group, which means less crowded, more personalized snorkeling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who enjoy being in the water, with a moderate level of physical activity required. It suits adventurous families with children over 10, as well as couples and solo travelers looking for a relaxing yet engaging day on the water.

If you’re keen on seeing turtles in their natural habitat and experiencing Maui’s vibrant reefs with friendly guides, you’ll find this tour highly rewarding. It’s also a good option for those seeking value for money, considering the included gear, snacks, and the small-group setting.

More Information & Alternatives

While this tour is a standout, there are other options that might suit different preferences, like longer tours or those including whale watching (season dependent). Check out similar experiences such as the Molokini snorkeling trips aboard the Malolo or afternoon snorkel adventures at Coral Gardens.

The Sum Up

This Molokini and Turtle Town snorkeling tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and relaxation. The expert guides, stunning marine scenery, and value-packed amenities make it a favorite among travelers seeking authentic Maui underwater experiences. Whether you’re new to snorkeling or a seasoned water lover, you’ll appreciate the clear waters, friendly atmosphere, and chance to spot marine life in its natural habitat.

For those who enjoy small group tours, a well-organized itinerary, and engaging guides who share Hawaiian sea stories, this trip delivers. It’s particularly well-suited for active travelers comfortable in the water who want to connect with Maui’s vibrant marine environment in a safe, friendly setting.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
No, this tour begins at the Kihei Boat Ramp, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen (reef-safe preferred), and motion sickness prevention if needed. Towels aren’t provided.

Can non-swimmers join?
Non-swimmers are restricted to the boat. Snorkeling participants must be over 10 years old.

What about physical activity?
You should be capable of moderate-to-advanced physical activity. Climbing a boat ladder is required to get on and off.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, snorkelers must be over 10 years old, with children under 15 needing a guardian-signed waiver. No unaccompanied minors below 18.

Is this tour suitable for seniors or pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for elderly, fragile, or pregnant travelers due to physical requirements and safety considerations.

What’s the maximum weight allowed?
The tour has a 300-pound weight limit for participants.

What happens if minimum guests aren’t met?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled if fewer than 6 guests book.

Is there a restroom on board?
While the tour departs from a location with restrooms, facilities on the boat are not specified, so plan accordingly.

Can I see whales on this trip?
Whale sightings are possible, and some reviews mention hearing whales underwater, but it’s not a guaranteed whale-watching trip.

In summary, this snorkeling adventure balances expert guidance, stunning underwater scenery, and good value, making it a smart choice for active travelers eager to see Maui’s marine wonders. If you’re comfortable in the water and want a small-group experience led by passionate guides, this trip will provide you with memorable moments and plenty of photo opportunities.

You can check availability for your dates here: