Molokini or Coral Gardens PM Snorkel Aboard Malolo

Snorkeling in Maui becomes effortless and exciting with the Molokini or Coral Gardens PM Snorkel tour aboard the Malolo. Priced at $89.95 per person, this 3-hour excursion departs from Ma’alaea Harbor and offers the flexibility to visit Molokini Crater or Coral Gardens, depending on ocean conditions. The tour features a comfortable 55-foot catamaran, equipped with easy access stairways, restrooms, and trampolines, making it suitable for a broad range of guests. With all snorkeling equipment and a hot-dog lunch included, this outing provides a hassle-free way to explore Maui’s vibrant underwater life.

While the tour is known for its friendly crew and smooth ride, it also welcomes a wide age range, including families and solo travelers. It boasts a high average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 341 reviews, emphasizing its reliability and value. However, the possibility of a rough ride in choppy waters is a noted consideration for potential guests. This tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a well-organized, engaging snorkeling trip that balances fun, comfort, and affordability.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $89.95 per person and lasts approximately 3 hours.
• Departure Point: It begins at Ma’alaea Harbor in Maui, with a 1:00 pm start time.
• Activities: Guests snorkel at either Molokini Crater or Coral Gardens, with the site determined daily by the captain based on weather and swell.
• Inclusions: All snorkeling gear, flotation devices, and a hot-dog lunch with chips and soda are provided.
• Guide and Crew: The staff are praised for their friendliness and expertise, making the experience easy and enjoyable.
• Weather and Water Conditions: The tour operates in most weather, but sharply choppy waters may impact the snorkeling experience.

The Malolo Catamaran: A Stable and Accessible Vessel

The 55-foot Malolo catamaran offers a stable, smooth ride across Maui’s waters, with easy access stairways into the water from both the front and rear. The vessel features two restrooms, trampolines for lounging, and provides foam noodles, body boards, and float vests for better water enjoyment. Optional wetsuits are available for rent at $10 each, ideal for guests wanting extra warmth or buoyancy.

This setup ensures comfort and convenience, especially for families or guests new to snorkeling. The friendly captain and crew foster a relaxed environment, making it easier for everyone to focus on the underwater sights rather than logistics.

Flexible Snorkeling Sites Based on Ocean Conditions

The tour leads to either Molokini Crater or Coral Gardens, with the location chosen daily by the captain. Molokini Crater is renowned for its crater shape and crystal-clear waters, offering a rich diversity of marine life. Coral Gardens is an alternative spot with vibrant coral formations and abundant fish. Snorkelers can choose to enter the water via stairs or jumps, depending on comfort levels.

This flexibility allows the crew to optimize the experience, ensuring the best visibility and marine activity each day. The site selection process based on weather and swell maximizes safety and enjoyment.

Inclusive Amenities and Food Offerings

All snorkeling gear and flotation devices are supplied, removing the need to bring equipment from home. Guests also enjoy a hot-dog lunch with chips and soda, complemented by cold beverages like soda, juice, and water. The food is made fresh daily, but reviews suggest some guests find the hot dogs less appealing, with a few experiencing stomach issues, so discretion is advised.

The lunch provides a convenient break during the trip, allowing guests to refuel before or after their underwater adventure. The refreshments keep everyone hydrated, especially important in Maui’s warm climate.

Captains and Crew: Friendly, Knowledgeable, and Accommodating

Multiple reviews highlight the crew’s friendly attitude and professionalism. Guests appreciate staff members like Anna and Jeff, who are helpful and engaging. The captain’s sense of humor and safety focus create a lively, relaxed atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.

In cases where marine life sightings, such as whales or dolphins, occur, the crew actively extends the trip to maximize viewing opportunities. Their expertise in navigating Maui waters ensures that even bad weather or choppy seas don’t fully spoil the fun.

Snorkeling Experience and Marine Wildlife

The tour typically offers beautiful underwater scenery with variety of fish species, including parrotfish, and the chance to see sea turtles. Visibility is generally excellent, especially at Molokini Crater, renowned for its crystal-clear waters.

While wildlife sightings are likely, they are not guaranteed. Some guests report seeing humpback whales and dolphins, particularly during the December to April season, which adds an extra thrill to the trip.

The Ride: Smooth Sailing or Rough Waters?

The boat ride is praised for its smoothness in most reviews; however, some guests mention very rough conditions, especially when waves are high. In such cases, passengers sitting at the front may get soaked and experience motion sickness, with some needing wetsuits or goggles for comfort.

Guests should be prepared for potentially bumpy waters and dress accordingly, especially if prone to seasickness. The crew’s assistance makes it easier to handle rougher conditions, but participants should have moderate physical fitness to enjoy the trip comfortably.

Snorkeling Equipment and Safety

The top-quality gear is a standout feature, with easy-to-use masks, snorkels, and fins provided. Floatation devices like foam noodles and vests help safety-conscious guests stay afloat. Wetsuits are available to rent for $10, which can be useful for colder waters or longer durations in the water.

The crew’s focus on safety and instruction ensures even first-time snorkelers feel supported. The easy access into the water via stairs enhances the comfort and confidence of all participants.

Booking, Cancellation, and Group Size

This tour is popular, typically booked 14 days in advance, and operates with a maximum of 66 guests. The meeting point is at 300 Maalaea Road, with mandatory check-in 30 minutes prior.

Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, making it a risk-free choice for planning. The tour operates in most weather conditions, but poor weather may lead to cancellations with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

Accessibility and Special Needs

Service animals are permitted aboard, and the tour location is near public transportation. Guests should have moderate physical fitness to comfortably handle the snorkeling and boarding procedures. For special dietary needs like vegetarian or gluten-free meals, the tour provider asks to be contacted at the time of booking.

Maui Snorkeling with Malolo: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This well-organized trip shines for families, solo travelers, and couples seeking an affordable, reliable snorkeling experience. Its friendly crew, comfortable vessel, and flexible site selection make it suitable for a broad audience. The inclusion of lunch and snorkeling gear adds to the value, especially for guests looking to avoid the hassle of bringing their own equipment.

However, those sensitive to motion sickness should consider the potential for rough seas. The possibility of not visiting Molokini on some days based on weather might be a minor disappointment but is balanced by the attractive Coral Gardens alternative. This tour offers a solid, enjoyable way to explore Maui’s underwater world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $89.95 per person.

How long does the snorkeling tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Ma’alaea Harbor, located at 300 Maalaea Road.

What is included in the price?
Guests receive all snorkeling equipment, flotation devices, a hot-dog lunch, and cold beverages.

Can I choose to snorkel at Molokini Crater or Coral Gardens?
The site is selected daily by the captain based on ocean conditions; guests do not choose the location.

Are wetsuits available?
Yes, wetsuits can be rented for $10 each.

Is there any food I should avoid?
While a hot dog lunch is provided, some guests have reported feeling sick after eating it. It is advisable to eat cautiously if prone to stomach issues.

What should I wear or bring?
Guests should wear swimsuits and bring towels; wetsuits can be rented. Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult and should have moderate swimming ability.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in most weather conditions; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable; later cancellations are not.

This Malolo snorkeling tour offers a convenient, fun, and value-packed way to experience Maui’s famous underwater landscape. Whether exploring Molokini’s clear waters or discovering Coral Gardens, guests benefit from a friendly crew, easy logistics, and all-inclusive amenities. It remains a popular choice for those seeking a reliable, engaging snorkeling adventure in Maui.