Maui Snorkel & Slide

Maui Snorkel & Slide: A Fun-Filled Water Adventure with a Splash of Nature

Imagine cruising out of Wailuku aboard a 53-foot boat named Lani Kai II, with a 25-foot waterslide ready for some extra fun, and spending a few hours exploring Maui’s extraordinary marine life. At $130.95 per person for roughly three hours, this tour offers an engaging mix of snorkeling at Coral Gardens, Turtle Town, and often at the famous Molokini Crater—plus, the chance to spot whales from November through April.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the waterslide turns a standard snorkeling trip into a playful adventure suitable for all ages. Second, the small group size (max 65 travelers) ensures a more personal and comfortable atmosphere. We especially appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see sea turtles and whales, which enrich the experience far beyond just floating in the water.

One potential consideration is the weather-dependent nature of snorkeling in open waters. Some reviews mention delays or different snorkeling sites due to weather conditions, so flexibility might be necessary. But if you’re after a relaxed, lively outing with both waterplay and wildlife, this tour hits the right notes. It’s perfect for families, first-time snorkelers, or anyone eager to combine adventure with a bit of education in Maui’s beautiful waters.

Key Points

• Unique boat experience with a waterslide for added fun
• Snorkel at top sites like Coral Gardens, Turtle Town, and Molokini Crater (when conditions permit)
• Wildlife sightings, including turtles and whales (seasonal)
• All-inclusive with lunch, bottled water, soda, and snorkel gear
• Comfortable group size for better interaction and fewer crowds
• Weather-dependent site choices may vary, affecting some plans
• Family-friendly with options suitable for kids and first-timers
• Booking is typically 22 days in advance, indicating good demand

A Deep Dive into the Maui Snorkel & Slide Tour

When we first learned about this tour, what immediately caught our attention was the combination of snorkeling and a waterslide—a playful twist that sets it apart from more traditional trips. This is a half-day adventure designed to give you a satisfying taste of Maui’s underwater world without feeling rushed, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour departs from Maui Snorkeling 101 on Maalaea Rd at 1:00 pm, which means you’ll start your afternoon with plenty of daylight left for water activities. The boat, the Lani Kai II, is notably sizable at 53 feet, offering enough space for comfort and safety. Its large waterslide is a highlight, providing a chance to slide into the ocean repeatedly—something kids and kids-at-heart love.

Most afternoons, the boat heads to Coral Gardens or Turtle Town—both popular Maui snorkeling spots known for their calm waters and vibrant sea life. The Coral Gardens is famed for colorful fish and coral formations, whereas Turtle Town is a haven for sea turtles, often spotted grazing on the seabed. On rare occasions, the tour ventures to Molokini Crater, a volcanic caldera famous for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, although recent reviews hint that this depends on weather and sea conditions.

Snorkeling and Wildlife

Expect to float alongside tropical fish, sea turtles, and possibly whales if you’re there during the season from November through April. Multiple reviews mention guests swimming with turtles or catching glimpses of monk seals, highlighting the rich biodiversity accessible on this trip.

The snorkeling gear is provided, and reviews note that the equipment is in good condition. Some travelers mention that full face masks aren’t allowed, so if you prefer that style, plan accordingly. You’ll want to be comfortable floating on your stomach, as the tour suggests, and willing to get a bit wet—no standing on the boat here, just floating and exploring.

The Waterslide: More Than Just a Splash

The waterslide adds an element of playfulness to the trip. Many reviews rave about it, describing how it amps up the fun, especially for kids. For grownups, it’s a nostalgic reminder of childhood in the ocean. The slide’s 20 feet (6 meters) length provides plenty of laughs and splashy moments.

Food and Drink

Included in the tour are bottled water, soda, and a provided lunch—not gourmet, but good enough for a quick refresh. Reviewers appreciate the attention to dietary needs, with some noting that gluten-free options are available. Since the tour is BYOB, you can bring your own drinks, but they recommend arranging for ice in advance. The lunch features sandwiches and pasta salad, with many reviewers describing it as decent to good after a day in the water.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour caps at 65 travelers, which is fairly intimate compared to larger boats. This smaller group size enhances the experience, allowing guides to interact more personally and ensure everyone has a chance to see the wildlife and enjoy the slide.

The Crew and Experience

Guests consistently praise the friendly, helpful crew—from the captain to the guides—who make safety and fun their priorities. Many reviews mention guides Sydney, Danny, and Captain Jamie as being attentive, knowledgeable, and personable. They’re known for sharing interesting facts and making everyone feel at ease, whether it’s a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned swimmer.

Weather Considerations

A few reviews mention delays or site changes due to weather conditions, which is common in open-ocean excursions. For example, if conditions aren’t ideal, the boat might skip Molokini or visit Olowalu Reef instead. It’s worth noting that cancellation due to weather is possible, and the tour offers full refunds or rebooking options if that happens.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

What truly sets this tour apart are the authentic wildlife encounters and the personalized service. Multiple guests mention swimming with turtles or seeing whales—not something that can be guaranteed, but when it happens, it’s unforgettable. The lively guides, well-maintained equipment, and spectacular ocean vistas make this a genuine Maui experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for families with kids, thanks to the waterslide and friendly guides. It’s also perfect for first-time snorkelers wanting a safe, fun introduction to Maui’s marine life. If you’re looking for a laid-back, engaging ocean adventure that balances playfulness and wildlife viewing, this trip checks all the boxes.

Couples or groups who want a small-group experience with personal attention will find it appealing. And if seeing sea turtles and whales sounds like a highlight of your Maui vacation, this tour offers plenty of chances, especially in the winter months.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book?

The Maui Snorkel & Slide tour offers a lively, family-friendly way to enjoy Maui’s waters. Its combination of snorkeling, wildlife, and a waterslide creates a memorable outing that appeals to a wide range of travelers. The inclusive pricing, knowledgeable guides, and small group atmosphere make it a great value for those wanting a fun, authentic, and slightly adventurous marine excursion.

If your goal is relaxing on a boat with plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings—and you don’t mind some weather variability—this tour will serve you well. It suits families, first-timers, or anyone eager to mix play and nature in Maui.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Maui Snorkel & Slide tour?
It’s approximately three hours, starting at 1:00 pm and returning to the dock around 4:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy snorkeling, sliding, and relaxing.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Maui Snorkeling 101 on Maalaea Rd, Slip 64, Wailuku, HI. It’s easy to reach and centrally located for many Maui travelers.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee includes snorkeling equipment, bottled water, soda, and a lunch (with options for dietary restrictions). The waterslide is part of the package, too.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, the tour is BYOB, so you can bring your own beverages—just remember to arrange for ice if needed.

Is this suitable for kids?
Absolutely! Many reviews mention kids having a blast on the waterslide and enjoying the snorkeling. The tour is family-friendly, but participants should be comfortable floating.

What are the best months to see whales?
Whale sightings are most common from November through April. During this time, the chance to spot whales is notably higher.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the tour might change snorkeling sites or be canceled. In that case, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 65 travelers, helping maintain a personal atmosphere and better interaction with guides.

Are full face snorkel masks allowed?
No, this tour does not permit full face masks, so plan to use standard snorkel gear.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 22 days ahead, reflecting good demand and the popularity of this fun Maui activity.

Whether you’re seeking a playful escape in the water or a chance to spot Maui’s iconic turtles and whales, this snorkeling adventure combines fun, wildlife, and genuine hospitality. It’s a lively trip with a bit of everything, perfect for families and those young at heart.