The Best 10 am 1.5 Hour Whale Watching Tour

Discover the Best 10 am 1.5 Hour Whale Watching Tour in Maui

This whale watching tour from Kihei offers a memorable 1.5-hour experience, departing promptly at 10:00 am. Priced at $87.49 per person, it provides a highly-rated chance to see migratory humpback whales up to 100 yards away. With 33 reviews and a perfect rating of 5.0, this tour is recommended 97% by participants, making it a popular choice well in advance—most bookings occur around 33 days ahead.

The tour features small group sizes capped at 22 people, ensuring a more personal encounter with wildlife. You’ll depart from the Kihei Boat Ramp, conveniently located with ample free parking less than ten minutes from Kihei and Wailea Resorts. The adventure includes the unique opportunity to listen to whale songs through a hydrophone, which adds a special dimension to the experience, especially during morning departures when whale activity is high.

Key Points

• Duration: 1.5 hours of whale watching, departing at 10:00 am
• Cost: $87.49 per person with included bottled water
• Location: Depart from Kihei Boat Ramp in Maui
• Unique Feature: Listening to whale songs via hydrophone during the tour
• Group Size: Limited to 22 travelers for a more intimate experience
• Operator: Blue Water Rafting, with experience dating back to 1985

The Departure Point at Kihei Boat Ramp

The tour begins at 2800 S Kihei Rd, a well-situated meeting spot with ample free parking. Travelers find this location highly accessible and convenient, with less than ten minutes from popular resorts in Kihei and Wailea. The 10 am departure is ideal for calm seas, which are typical on Maui’s south shore during the morning, increasing the likelihood of whale sightings.

Why Morning Whale Watching Offers the Best Chances

Maui’s morning departures are favored because they usually present calmer ocean conditions. During this time, humpback whales are often seen nursing their young, making the experience especially dynamic. The pods tend to be spotted quickly, providing ample time to observe and listen to the whales before any potential stretch of the tour to ensure whale safety and compliance with federal regulations.

The Experience of Listening to Whale Songs

One of the highlight features of this tour is the hydrophone, which allows guests to hear the whales’ songs live. This offers a rare, immersive experience, bringing guests closer to the whales’ communications in real-time. The sound system used on the raft is sophisticated, making it a favorite part of the trip for many.

How the Crew Ensures a Memorable Encounter

Since 1985, Blue Water Rafting has been guiding whale watching tours, with a focus on safety, wildlife conservation, and education. The crew is recognized for their skill in finding whales and dolphins quickly, ensuring that participants spend maximum time observing these majestic creatures. The comfortable boat and expert guidance contribute to a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Practical Details and Restrictions

Most travelers can participate, but children 4 and under need special approval, and pregnant individuals are not permitted on the tour. The group size of up to 24 travelers helps maintain an intimate atmosphere, with bottled water provided on board to keep everyone refreshed during the outing.

Flexibility with Cancellations and Bookings

The free cancellation policy allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides a flexible option for travelers uncertain about weather or other plans, ensuring peace of mind when booking.

How This Tour Compares to Other Maui Activities

While this tour is focused on whale watching, similar experiences include sunset luaus, snorkeling adventures, and other boat trips. Its short duration and small group size make it a practical choice for those wanting a focused, high-quality whale encounter without long hours at sea.

Why Choose Blue Water Rafting for Whale Watching

Blue Water Rafting has a longstanding reputation, dating back over three decades, for delivering quality and safety. The small group setting and hydrophone feature distinguish this tour from larger, less personalized options. The knowledgeable crew ensures that you quickly find whales and learn interesting facts throughout the trip.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This morning whale watching is perfect for adventurers, families, and wildlife enthusiasts seeking a personalized, engaging experience. It appeals to those who value listening to whale songs and prefer a shorter but rewarding outing. The limited group size ensures a more immersive encounter with Maui’s marine life.

The Sum Up: A Compact but Rich Maui Whale Watching Experience

The 10 am 1.5-hour whale watching tour with Blue Water Rafting offers a highly recommended, well-organized opportunity to see humpback whales in their natural habitat. Its small group size and live whale songs make it stand out, especially during morning sessions that maximize sighting chances.

While it’s a short tour, the quality of interaction and educational value make it worthwhile for those wanting a focused, up-close experience. The reasonable price and flexible cancellation policy add to its appeal, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to add a memorable marine adventure to their Maui itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, departing at 10:00 am.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $87.49 per person, including bottled water.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Kihei Boat Ramp, located at 2800 S Kihei Rd.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but children 4 and under need special approval, and pregnant individuals are not allowed.

What is unique about this tour?
Guests can listen to live whale songs via a hydrophone, which enhances the experience beyond just viewing whales.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 22 travelers, providing a more personal experience.

Is there any flexibility with cancellations?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What should I bring or wear?
While not specified, it’s advisable to bring comfortable clothing and sunscreen for outdoor activity.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is hosted by Blue Water Rafting, with a trusted track record since 1985.

How does this tour compare to other Maui activities?
It offers a focused, shorter whale watching experience with live whale song listening, ideal for those seeking a personalized, immersive encounter.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely—small groups, expert guides, and the chance to hear whales make this a top choice for Maui whale watchers.