Snorkel in the Pacific Ocean.
Approximately 2.5 miles off the Maui coastline lies the clear blue waters around Molokini, a partially-sunken volcanic crater. Tourists flock to the area to boat, dive and snorkel in the waters, which are designated a Hawaii State Marine Life and Bird Conservation District, and are home to over 250 species of fish. According to Molokini.com, there are six companies that offer snorkel trips to the crater.
Island Princess
Island Princess Molokini Express takes snorkelers to the crater on a 65-foot double deck yacht. Trips leave from Lahaina Harbor on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and last for 5.5 hours. All snorkel equipment is included in the trip cost, along with instruction, continental breakfast, lunch, drinks and use of a water trampoline. After snorkeling in Molokini, the trip also stops at the Olowalu Turtle Reef.
Maui Classic Charters
Maui Classic Charters offers both a morning and an afternoon snorkeling trip, departing daily from the Maalaea Harbor. Both trips sail on a 55-foot catamaran with a glass bottom for viewing, so non-snorkelers can see the marine life. Included in the cost of the trip is both lunch and dinner, snorkel gear and instruction, and use of all areas of the boat including a waterslide, boogie boards and showers.
Kai Kanani Sailing
Kai Kanani Sailing offers both express and deluxe snorkel tours of Molokini. Both leave from the Makena Beach and Golf Resort. A marine naturalist is on the tours to answer any questions. The deluxe tour lasts for four hours and includes local tap beers, continental breakfast, deli lunch, snorkel instruction and gear. The express tour leaves at 6:30 a.m. and lasts for two hours, including a breakfast and snorkel gear and instructions.
Pride of Maui
Pride of Maui offers morning trips to Molokini, departing from Maalaea Harbor. The trip lasts for five hours, during which guests have access to 2,500-square-feet of space on the 65-foot boat. Included in the cost of the trip are professional snorkel gear, optical masks, flotation devices, breakfast, a hot lunch on the grill and access to an open bar.
Trilogy
Trilogy offers a snorkeling trip to Molokini on a sailboat and sets a passenger limit so guests can enjoy the waters without the crowds. Two trips depart each day and include a breakfast of homemade cinnamon rolls, barbecue chicken lunch, snorkeling equipment and personalized instructions. Wetsuits are also included. Trip check-in is at Buzz's Warf.
Pacific Whale Foundation
The Pacific Whale Foundation offers three Molokini snorkel trips, all of which depart from Maalaea. The Eco Express snorkel leaves in the morning and lasts for 3.5 hours, providing an economical option. The Molokini & Turtle Arches give tourists the opportunity to snorkel at two world-class locations. The Molokini-Lana'i Snorkel lasts for 6.5 hours and includes a visit to a dolphin play area. All trips include meals, instruction and gear.
Tags: from Maalaea, lasts hours, snorkel gear, breakfast lunch, Classic Charters, continental breakfast