Maui Snorkeling Molokini Crater and Turtle Town

Maui Snorkeling at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town offers an exciting day on the water that combines stunning ocean views, vibrant marine life, and the comfort of Maui’s largest, most stable catamaran. For $208 per person, you’ll spend approximately five hours exploring two of Maui’s top snorkeling locations, with the added perks of included meals, drinks, and a fun water slide.

What makes this trip truly appealing is the attention to comfort and safety, with a spacious vessel designed for easy movement and a crew that goes above and beyond to assist. You’ll love the clarity of the water at Molokini, which often offers visibility up to 100 feet, and the chance to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at Turtle Town.

One thing to consider: Since the tour operates at just 60% capacity for safety, the boat might feel crowded at peak times, especially during busy seasons. Still, the space and amenities on Pride of Maui help keep the experience relaxed.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate well-organized excursions, delicious on-board cuisine, and the chance to encounter marine animals in their natural habitat. It’s especially recommended for families, first-time snorkelers, or anyone eager for a comprehensive, comfortable day on the water.

Key Points

• Comfortable and spacious boat: The Pride of Maui is the largest Maxi Power Catamaran on Maui, offering more room and stability.
• Two premium snorkeling spots: Molokini Crater with clear visibility and Turtle Town with abundant turtles.
• All-inclusive experience: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks—including alcohol—are included.
• Expert guides and safety: Long-standing crew with decades of experience ensure a safe, informed adventure.
• Family-friendly amenities: Water slide and kid-friendly environment make it perfect for families of all ages.
• Limited capacity: Operating at 60% capacity, providing more space per guest and a less crowded experience.

A detailed look at Maui’s top snorkeling experience

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that balances stunning scenery, marine encounters, and comforts, Maui Snorkeling at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town offers a well-rounded option. Priced at $208, this five-hour trip by Pride of Maui, Maui’s largest catamaran, is designed to give you the best chances for seeing vibrant marine life while enjoying excellent service and amenities.

What makes this tour stand out?

The boat itself is a highlight. With roomier decks, multiple boarding points, and a big water slide, the Pride of Maui feels more like a floating oasis than a simple tour boat. It’s a family-run business with over 40 years of experience, which translates into a well-oiled operation that prioritizes your safety and comfort.

The snorkeling spots are top-tier. Molokini Crater, a sunken volcanic caldera, boasts incredible underwater visibility, often reaching 100 feet, and teems with tropical fish and coral. Turtle Town is just as captivating, where Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles gather around lava formations, providing plenty of opportunities for close-up views.

The all-inclusive menu helps you focus on fun. Expect breakfast in the morning, a hot lunch cooked onboard, and an open bar afterward. Guests frequently rave about the delicious food, from hearty breakfast fare to fresh, grilled lunch options, and refreshing drinks like microbrews and wines from Napa.

The itinerary – what to expect

The trip begins early, with check-in at 7:30 am at Maalaea Harbor. It’s crucial to read the detailed instructions you’ll receive by email — including parking tips and exact check-in locations, as there are two boats operating from opposite sides of the harbor. Arriving early helps avoid the rush and ensures a smooth start.

Once aboard, you’ll enjoy a scenic sail out to Molokini Crater. The boat’s stability and spaciousness make it easy to relax and move around. The crew, led by Captain Pat and his long-term team, run a tight ship—literally—making safety and service their priorities.

At Molokini, the water’s clarity lets you see coral formations and marine life almost as if you’re in an aquarium. With plenty of snorkel gear (note: full-face masks are not allowed for safety reasons), you’ll have ample time to explore the sunken caldera. Many reviews highlight the exceptional visibility and the chance to see a wide variety of tropical fish.

After an hour or so, the boat moves to Turtle Town. Here, the lava formations and reefs attract Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. The chance to view these graceful creatures in their natural environment is often cited as a highlight — with reviews mentioning encounters with multiple turtles and vibrant schools of fish.

Special activities – SNUBA and beyond

For those wanting a deeper underwater experience, SNUBA is available for an additional fee. You can swim about 15 feet underwater with the guidance of experienced instructors, making it accessible for beginners or those curious about diving without the hassle of full scuba certification.

What do travelers say?

Guests consistently praise the crew’s helpfulness and safety focus. Kevin M described his experience as “amazing,” noting the excellent care taken by staff and the quality of the food and drinks. Many mention the large, stable vessel as a major plus, especially for families or travelers prone to seasickness.

Some reviews note the large group sizes (around 70 guests), which can sometimes make the experience feel busy, especially at the snorkeling sites. However, the ample space and attentive staff help mitigate this concern.

The food and drinks are a recurring point of praise. From breakfast to lunch, guests love the quality and variety. The open bar, featuring microbrews, wines, and mai-tais, adds a celebratory touch to the trip.

Practical considerations

One common concern is parking — the tour requires you to park at a lot across from Carl’s Jr., costing around $2, or $20 if you find a different lot. The tour operators send multiple emails with detailed parking and check-in instructions, so it’s best to review those carefully to avoid confusion.

The tour operates at just 60% capacity, which means more room and fewer crowds, but also requires booking well in advance. On average, trips are booked about 36 days ahead, reflecting the popularity of the experience.

Who should consider this tour?

This trip is ideal for families, first-time snorkelers, and anyone who appreciates a laid-back, well-organized day on the water. The combination of comfortable amenities, expert guidance, and the chance to see marine life in pristine spots makes it a good value — especially considering all meals and drinks are included.

If you’re a seasoned snorkeler wanting a quiet, more exclusive experience, the larger group size might be a drawback. Still, most find the spacious boat, friendly crew, and beautiful sights outweigh this concern.

Final thoughts

Maui’s Snorkeling at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town offers an excellent balance of comfort, adventure, and value. The large, stable Pride of Maui ensures a smooth ride, and the carefully curated itinerary allows you to see some of Maui’s most famous underwater sights in one trip.

The delicious meals, open bar, and family-friendly amenities like the water slide make this a great day out, especially if you’re traveling with kids or a group. The knowledgeable crew and the pristine visibility at Molokini make it a snorkeling experience you’re unlikely to forget.

While the larger group size can sometimes mean a bit of crowding, the vessel’s design and the friendly staff help keep the experience enjoyable. Booking well in advance is recommended, as this tour is popular for good reasons.

This tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting a comprehensive, comfortable snorkeling adventure with plenty of marine encounters and a touch of Maui’s aloha spirit.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, including travel time, snorkeling, and onboard meals.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes snorkeling equipment (no full-face masks), breakfast, lunch, soda, and alcoholic drinks.

Can I do SNUBA?
Yes, SNUBA is available onboard for an additional fee, offering a safe underwater experience about 15 feet deep.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, waterproof camera, and a hat. Note that full-face masks are not allowed for safety reasons.

Is parking easy?
Parking is at a lot across from Carl’s Jr. for $2, but detailed instructions and maps are sent via email, so review those carefully.

What is the boat like?
The Pride of Maui is Maui’s largest Maxi Power Catamaran, offering more space, stability, and comfort than smaller boats, with amenities like a water slide.

Are there age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is family-friendly, with amenities for kids.

How busy does it get?
The boat operates at 60% capacity, making it less crowded than other tours, but the snorkeling sites can still feel lively during peak times.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, according to the tour’s cancellation policy.

In sum, if you’re after a memorable snorkeling experience with top-notch service, beautiful scenery, and marine life encounters, this Maui tour checks all the boxes. It offers good value for a well-organized adventure that caters to diverse travelers — from families to first-timers to seasoned snorkelers.