South Maui: Molokini Snorkeling Adventure

Exploring the waters off South Maui, the Molokini Snorkeling Adventure aboard the Calypso offers a well-rounded experience for those eager to see Hawaii’s marine life up close. Priced at $179 per person and lasting 5.5 hours, this tour is perfect for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a comfortable, all-inclusive day on the water. The Calypso is the only triple-deck catamaran in Hawai’i, giving guests ample space, multiple viewing options, and a fun-filled atmosphere with Jimmy Buffet music and water slides.

This tour departs from Maalaea Harbor, with a focus on two spectacular snorkeling spots: Molokini and Turtle Town. Expect crystal-clear waters with 150-foot visibility and an impressive array of 250 fish species. The experience is enhanced by professional crew, lifeguards, and a naturalist who helps identify marine creatures. While the tour is family-friendly and includes breakfast and deli lunch, some travelers note that weather-dependent conditions can affect the itinerary, such as the possibility of missing Turtle Town.

Key Points

• Includes two top snorkeling spots: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town
• Board the Calypso, the only triple-deck catamaran in Hawai’i, for spacious comfort
• All-day amenities: breakfast, deli lunch, unlimited drinks, water slides, and water platform
• Marine wildlife: see turtles, manta rays, sharks, and a variety of fish
• Safety and education: lifeguards, snorkel tutorials, and onboard naturalist
• Family-friendly with easy water access and kid activities

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Starting Point at Maalaea Harbor and Boarding the Calypso

The tour begins at Maalaea Harbor, where the Calypso awaits at Slip 76-78. The boarding process is straightforward, with the boat’s glass-bottom viewing room offering a glimpse into the ocean below before departure. The Calypso boasts 11 sets of stairs for easy water entry and exit, along with shade, restrooms, and freshwater showers to keep everyone comfortable.

All guests check in with the crew, who provide site orientation and a snorkel 101 tutorial. This preparation makes it accessible even for first-time snorkelers. The large capacity of the triple-deck catamaran ensures enough space for everyone to relax, enjoy the scenery, and participate actively in the water activities.

What Makes the Calypso Unique in Hawai’i

The Calypso stands out as Hawai’i’s only triple-deck catamaran, offering more space and more fun features than typical boats. Its design includes two water slides and a second deck jumping platform, adding an extra element of enjoyment beyond snorkeling. The glass-bottom viewing area provides a scenic vantage point to observe marine life without even getting wet.

This vessel also features lots of shade for those who prefer to stay dry, comfortable seating, and plenty of storage. The friendly crew creates a relaxed environment where families and groups of friends can enjoy a day on the water while also having easy access to snorkeling equipment, flotation devices, and restrooms.

The Snorkel Stops: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town

Molokini is the first snorkeling stop, renowned for its protected marine preserve status and bird sanctuary. Its extinct volcanic cone creates a crater-shaped reef that hosts native Hawaiian marine life such as fish, manta rays, urchins, and sharks. Underwater visibility often reaches 150 feet, making it ideal for observing vibrant coral and abundant sea creatures.

Turtle Town follows as the second stop, where Hawaiian green sea turtles are the main attraction. The calm waters and coral formations make it a prime spot for swimming alongside these majestic creatures. While weather conditions can impact whether Turtle Town is accessible, the tour’s crew makes an effort to visit this location when possible.

Onboard Amenities and Food Offerings

Guests enjoy hearty breakfast options before snorkeling, including scrambled eggs, pork sausage links, pastries, muffins, fruit, coffee, tea, and juice. Once in the water, all snorkeling gear and flotation devices are provided, with wetsuits and underwater cameras available for rent.

For lunch, the deli-style meal features turkey sandwiches, pulled pork with BBQ sauce, or vegetarian burgers, complemented by chips, salad, veggie and fruit platters, and chocolate chip cookies. The unlimited soda, water, and juice keep everyone hydrated, while hot coffee and tea are available throughout the trip. Alcoholic drinks can be purchased for $3 each, adding a leisurely touch to the experience.

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Water Activities: Slides, Jumping Platform, and Fish Sightings

The boat’s water slides and second deck jumping platform add a playful element, especially appreciated by children and energetic adults. After snorkeling, guests often take turns sliding or jumping into the water, making the experience more dynamic.

Throughout the tour, the naturalist and crew actively watch for marine life, pointing out sea turtles, dolphins, and various fish. Many reviews highlight how clear water and abundant life make snorkeling especially rewarding, with over 250 species sighted.

Safety and Guidance for First-Time Snorkelers

The professional crew emphasizes safety with certified lifeguards on duty and site orientation provided at the start. The snorkel tutorial helps beginners feel confident, and extra instruction is available for those who are nervous or unfamiliar with the equipment. The easy water access via 11 stair points ensures comfort, and helpful staff assist with gear and techniques.

The tour is kid-friendly and suitable for families, but those with heart problems or prone to seasickness should consider their comfort level. The calm waters at Turtle Town and the shallow areas around Molokini help keep the experience safe and enjoyable.

The Experience on the Triple-Deck Catamaran

The Calypso offers a relaxed, fun-filled atmosphere with Jimmy Buffet music, shade, and plenty of space to lounge or socialize. Its multiple decks and viewing areas make it easy to choose between sunbathing, sightseeing, or watching marine activity below. The water slides and jumping platform add a lively, interactive element that sets this tour apart.

Guests often praise the friendly, knowledgeable crew who go out of their way to enhance the day, whether by sharing marine facts, helping with gear, or just ensuring everyone has a good time.

Departure Logistics and Meeting Details

The tour departs promptly at 7:30 am from Maalaea Harbor. Guests should arrive early to check in, as the boarding process is straightforward. The meeting point is clearly marked at Slip 76-78, with the Calypso easily recognizable.

It’s recommended to bring comfortable clothes, sunscreen (biodegradable), sunglasses, towel, passport or ID, and cash for tips or purchases. Parking and hotel transfers are not included, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Most Appreciate This Tour

This snorkeling trip is ideal for families, first-time snorkelers, and marine life enthusiasts who want a comfortable, well-organized experience. The large, spacious boat with kid-friendly features makes it accessible for children, while the informative crew appeals to those interested in marine ecology.

However, travelers sensitive to seasickness or with health concerns should consider the weather forecast, as rough conditions can limit some stops. The food options and amenities ensure comfort and convenience, making it a value-packed day on the water.

South Maui: Molokini Snorkeling Adventure – Final Thoughts

The Calypso’s all-inclusive approach, combining two prime snorkeling sites with family-friendly features, delicious food, and entertainment, offers a balanced Maui water experience. The professional crew, top-notch safety measures, and comfortable vessel make it a reliable choice for those looking to enjoy marine life without fuss.

While weather can influence the exact itinerary, the tour’s flexibility and generous amenities help ensure a memorable day. This adventure appeals most to those seeking a relaxed, fun, and educational outing, whether traveling with kids or as a couple.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this snorkeling tour?
The tour costs $179 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes 5.5 hours, typically departing in the morning.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Maalaea Harbor, at Slip 76-78.

What are the main snorkeling sites visited?
Guests snorkel at Molokini, a volcanic crater, and Turtle Town, known for Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Is food included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast and a deli lunch with options for vegetarians.

Are drinks available onboard?
Yes, unlimited soda, water, and juice are included, with hot coffee and tea also provided. Alcoholic beverages are sold for $3 each.

Is the boat accessible for children?
Yes, the boat is kid-friendly, with easy water entry via 11 stairs and water slides for added fun.

What safety measures are in place?
Lifeguards are present, and the crew offers snorkel tutorials and site guidance to ensure safety.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, sunscreen, towel, passport or ID, and cash for tips or extras.

Can I rent wetsuits or underwater cameras?
Yes, wetsuits and underwater digital cameras are available for rent onboard.

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