3 Hour Turtle Town Snorkel and Whale Watch Tour in Kihei

Explore Maui’s Underwater World with a 3-Hour Turtle Town Snorkel and Whale Watch Tour

This 3-hour guided tour in Kihei, Maui, offers an inviting chance to see endangered Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles up close, along with seasonal whale sightings and tropical wildlife. Priced at $143.10 per person, the tour balances relaxed snorkeling in fewer crowds with personalized attention from a local expert crew. It departs from 2888 S Kihei Rd at 9:00 am and operates with a maximum of 20 travelers, making it perfect for families and first-timers seeking a friendly, intimate experience.

Starting with a coastal cruise to Puu Olai, participants enjoy local banana bread, Hawaiian coffee, and snacks. The tour emphasizes personalized snorkeling instruction and offers free photos to help capture underwater memories. While it doesn’t visit Molokini Crater, the stops around Makena, Wailea Beach, Maluaka Beach, and Po’olenalena Beach showcase some of Maui’s most beautiful coastlines and prime snorkeling spots.

This tour is an ideal choice for those wanting a relaxed, crowd-free environment to discover Maui’s marine wonders, especially suited for families and first-time snorkelers. The inclusion of floatation devices, reef-safe sunscreen, and local treats enhances comfort and enjoyment. A key point: towels, wetsuits, and jackets aren’t included, so travelers may want to bring their own if needed.

Key Points

• 3-hour guided snorkeling tour departing from Kihei at 9:00 am
• Maximum of 20 participants ensures personalized attention
• Includes Hawaiian coffee, banana bread, and snacks for a relaxed experience
• Snorkel with endangered Green Sea Turtles and observe seasonal whale songs in January
• Free photography service captures your underwater moments
• Stops at Puu Olai, Makena, Wailea Beach, Maluaka Beach, and Po’olenalena Beach

Starting Point and Tour Duration in Kihei

The tour begins at 2888 S Kihei Rd and lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a compact but enriching experience. The departure time at 9:00 am offers a morning adventure perfect for those who want to make the most of their day in Maui. After the tour, participants return to the same meeting point, ready to continue exploring Maui’s sights or relax at their accommodations.

Coastal Cruise to Puu Olai and Local Snacks

The journey starts with a coastal cruise along Maui’s shoreline, offering scenic views of the ocean and coastline. During this cruise, the crew provides local banana bread and Hawaiian coffee, creating a welcoming atmosphere. This part of the tour sets the tone for a relaxed day, emphasizing comfort and enjoyment before heading into the water.

Snorkeling with Endangered Green Sea Turtles at Turtle Town

The main attraction is snorkeling in Turtle Town, where the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles are commonly seen. This area is known for its clear waters and abundant wildlife, providing excellent opportunities for close encounters with sea turtles. The guides are available for personalized snorkeling instruction, ensuring everyone feels confident in the water, regardless of experience level.

Beach Stops: Makena, Wailea, Maluaka, and Po’olenalena

Besides Turtle Town, the tour visits several stunning beaches, including Makena, Wailea Beach, Maluaka Beach, and Po’olenalena Beach. Each stop offers a unique view of Maui’s coast and a chance to explore different underwater environments. While some stops may be affected by weather conditions, the guides make sure you enjoy the natural beauty of each location.

Wildlife Encounters and Seasonal Whale Watching

Along With turtles, the tour looks for Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins and, seasonally from December to April, migrating Humpback Whales. Despite occasional water haze or choppy conditions, the crew’s experience often leads to sightings of these magnificent creatures, adding an extra dimension to the snorkeling adventure.

Equipment, Sunscreen, and Personal Items

The tour provides snorkeling equipment, floatation devices, and reef-safe sunscreen to protect both guests and marine life. Travelers should note that towels, wetsuits, and jackets are not included, so packing these items is recommended if desired. Personal storage areas are available onboard to keep belongings safe during water activities.

The Guided Crew and Their Impact on the Experience

Captain Jen and the crew stand out for their positive, upbeat attitudes and expertise. The reviews highlight their ability to make the experience fun and memorable, whether by explaining the wildlife or sharing local stories. The small group size ensures an intimate atmosphere where everyone feels well attended to.

Weather Considerations and Cancellation Policy

This tour is weather-dependent, with a full refund available if canceled due to poor conditions. Travelers can also cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to plan with flexibility. On days with unpredictable weather, the crew strives to offer alternative dates or full refunds.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This family-friendly tour suits those seeking a relaxed, social atmosphere with opportunities to see Maui’s marine life without the crowds. First-time snorkelers and those interested in whale season will appreciate the personalized approach and the chance to witness seasonal wildlife. It’s an excellent option for travelers wanting a mix of scenic coastlines, wildlife encounters, and local treats in a comfortable setting.

Final Thoughts on the 3 Hour Turtle Town Snorkel and Whale Watch

This tour provides a balanced mix of scenic cruising, close-up wildlife encounters, and local hospitality. The small group size fosters a personal experience, and the inclusion of free photos helps preserve memories. While it doesn’t visit Molokini Crater, the stops at Maui’s renowned beaches and Turtle Town make this a rewarding choice for a gentle yet engaging ocean adventure.

Travelers who value expert guides, comfortable group sizes, and authentic Maui scenery will find this tour well worth the price. It’s particularly suited for those who want a family-friendly, casual snorkeling experience with the possibility of seasonal whale sightings. The emphasis on local snacks and personalized instruction rounds out this enjoyable way to explore Maui’s underwater treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish, including stops and water activities.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from 2888 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, Maui.

What is included in the price?
The price covers snorkeling equipment, floatation devices, reef-safe sunscreen, breakfast banana bread, Hawaiian coffee, snacks, and free photography.

Are wetsuits or towels provided?
No, wetsuits and towels are not included, so bring your own if you prefer extra warmth or comfort.

Can children participate?
Children under 5 are not allowed on this tour. The experience is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness.

What wildlife might I see?
You can expect to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, and seasonal Humpback Whales (December-April).

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the maximum is 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
Cancelling more than 24 hours in advance allows a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.