The Best 12 pm 1.5 Hour Whale Watching Tour

Discover the 12 pm Whale Watching Tour from Maui’s Kihei

The Best 12 pm 1.5 Hour Whale Watching Tour offers a focused and engaging experience for those eager to see Maui’s whales up close. For $89.49 per person, this tour provides approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of adventure, departing from Kihei at noon. Its small-group setting, capped at 22 passengers, ensures a more personal and attentive experience compared to larger vessel options.

This tour stands out for its up-close whale sightings within 100 yards, alongside the opportunity to hear whale songs live through an on-board hydrophone. Organized by Blue Water Rafting, the tour has been operating since 1985, earning a reputation for knowledgeable guides and a genuine focus on safety and environmental respect. The tour is best suited for those seeking an intimate, interactive whale-watching outing with a mix of wildlife viewing and educational insights.

Key Points

• Departs daily at 12:00 pm from Kihei, with a duration of 1.5 hours.
• Small group with a maximum of 22 passengers ensures personalized attention.
• Whale sightings within 100 yards are common, with some close encounters.
• Hear whale songs live via a sophisticated hydrophone system.
• Calm conditions during morning departures, ideal for viewing and listening.
• Free bottled water provided on board for comfort.

Meeting Point at Kihei Boat Ramp

This whale watching adventure begins at 2800 S Kihei Rd. The Kihei Boat Ramp is less than ten minutes from popular resorts in Kihei and Wailea, making it a convenient choice for travelers staying nearby. The tour starts promptly at 12:00 pm, so arriving a little early helps ensure a relaxed start.

Ample free parking is available at the location, simplifying logistics for participants. The straightforward meeting point means no complicated transfers are necessary, allowing for a smooth start to the whale-watching adventure.

The Experience of a Small Boat Ride with Blue Water Rafting

Unlike larger vessels, this tour takes place aboard a raft, offering a more adventurous and intimate viewing experience. The personnel, including guides like Captain Charlie, Scott, Angela, Brandon, Chad, and Bandy, are noted for their knowledge, safety attitude, and friendly demeanor.

The smaller craft allows for closer whale encounters and more agile maneuvering, which often results in seeing whales within 100 yards. The boat’s design also means passengers might experience some spray, but most report that it adds to the fun and authenticity of the ride. The calm morning conditions on Maui’s south shore increase the likelihood of smooth sailing and excellent viewing.

Whale Sightings and Listening Opportunities

Most trips feature pods of humpback whales nursing calves or breaching, with sightings occurring quickly after departure. The use of a hydrophone is a highlight, as it allows passengers to hear whale songs live—a memorable addition that adds a sensory dimension to the experience.

Close encounters of whales within 100 yards are not uncommon, and some reviews mention whale breaches and tail slaps. The guides often share facts about whales throughout the tour, enriching the experience with educational insights.

Timing and Weather Conditions

Morning departures, like this 12 pm tour, tend to benefit from calm seas, which enhance both sighting chances and passenger comfort. The tour operates under good weather conditions, but if canceled due to poor weather, full refunds or rescheduling options are available.

Since the tour has been popular enough to be booked on average 26 days in advance, it’s wise to reserve early. The guaranteed whale sightings on this specific tour date mean visitors are likely to see whales, but some variability exists due to animal behavior and environmental factors.

Group Size and Guide Expertise

With a maximum of 24 travelers, the tour emphasizes a personalized experience. The guides, with expertise dating back decades, are praised for their friendly demeanor and ability to answer questions about whale behavior, biology, and the local environment.

The guides’ passion and knowledge help create a relaxed yet educational atmosphere, making this tour especially enjoyable for those interested in learning about Maui’s humpback whales.

The Safety and Regulations of the Tour

The tour operates within federal regulations that require maintaining a minimum distance of 100 yards from whales. To protect both whales and passengers, the trip may stretch slightly beyond 100 yards if necessary, ensuring safety and compliance.

All guides emphasize safety measures, especially during faster rides and close views, which has been positively noted in reviews. The boat’s speed and maneuverability allow for quick adjustments, helping to maximize whale sightings without compromising safety.

Customer Support and Booking Flexibility

Reservations are confirmed within 48 hours of booking, and free cancellation is available if canceled 24 hours in advance. This flexibility makes it easier to plan around weather or other travel changes.

The process is straightforward: travelers can cancel or modify their reservation with no penalty up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Comparing This Tour to Other Maui Whale-Watching Options

Many reviews praise Blue Water Rafting for their consistent whale sightings and friendly, knowledgeable guides. Unlike larger boat tours, this smaller raft experience achieves closer whale encounters, which is a key reason for repeat bookings.

While some reviews mention fast riding that might be uncomfortable for seniors or pregnant women (unless approved in advance), most find the adventurous ride exhilarating and rewarding. The small boat design also allows for more agile and flexible positioning, helping guides to find whales quickly.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This 12 pm whale watching tour is ideal for adventurous travelers and those who value a more personal and close-up experience. It suits families, couples, and solo visitors who are comfortable on a smaller vessel and eager to hear whale songs in addition to seeing whales.

Travelers seeking a calmer, more comfortable ride or with special health considerations should discuss their needs with the supplier beforehand. The informative guides and small group size make it an engaging choice for whale enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Final Thoughts on the 12 pm Maui Whale Watching Tour

The Blue Water Rafting 1.5-hour whale watching trip offers excellent value with its up-close whale sightings, live whale sounds, and personalized service. The morning timing benefits from calm seas, and the small-boat approach enhances safety and guest interaction.

Most reviews highlight enthusiastic guides, spectacular whale activity, and a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere. The tour’s early booking demand reflects its popularity, so reserving well in advance is recommended.

While the adventurous nature might not suit everyone—particularly those preferring a more stable ride—it remains a top choice for visitors wanting to make the most of Maui’s whale season with an authentic, intimate experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this whale watching tour?
The tour costs $89.49 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour depart from?
The departure point is 2800 S Kihei Rd, at the Kihei Boat Ramp.

Is this tour suitable for children and pregnant women?
Children 4 and under and pregnant passengers are not allowed unless approved through reservations.

What are the cancellation policies?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before are non-refundable.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

What makes this tour different from larger vessel whale watches?
The small raft allows closer whale encounters and a more personalized experience. The guides are highly praised for their expertise and friendly approach.

Can I hear whale sounds during the tour?
Yes, a hydrophone system enables you to listen to whale songs live, adding a rich auditory layer to the experience.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Yes, ample free parking is available at the Kihei Boat Ramp.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 22-24 travelers, ensuring an intimate atmosphere.