FAQ
The short version of everything in the guides — what people actually ask before they go.
It depends on the boat. On the operators' own pages at the time of writing, a 2-hour raft trip from Kihei cost $129 per person; a 5.5-hour catamaran from Ma'alaea with breakfast and lunch was $178.95 for adults on special offer ($199.95 listed); and a 3.5-hour catamaran from Makena was $269. Our snorkel tours guide compares them.
Only by boat. Hawaii's Division of Aquatic Resources says charter boats operate out of Lahaina, Mā'alaea Harbor and Kīhei. The big catamarans sail from Ma'alaea, rafts launch from the Kihei boat ramp, and one catamaran beach-loads at Maluaka Beach in Makena; see our guide to getting there.
No. Molokini is a state seabird sanctuary, and entry onto the islet is prohibited. You snorkel or dive in the conservation district around it, where taking or feeding marine life and touching coral are also prohibited.
The morning. Currents can be a problem outside the cove and may get stronger inside in the afternoon when the wind picks up, which is why most trips leave early; one Makena sunrise trip checks in at 5:45 a.m.
From 2 hours on a raft from Kihei to 5 or 5.5 hours on a catamaran from Ma'alaea that adds Turtle Town and lunch. One Ma'alaea operator puts the ride to the snorkel site at approximately 60 minutes; our snorkel tours guide sets the formats side by side.
Yes. Since October 1, 2022, only mineral sunscreens are allowed in Maui County; Ordinance No. 5306 bans the sale, distribution and use of non-mineral ones without a prescription. Our crater snorkeling guide covers what else to pack.
Often, but nothing is guaranteed. Many trips add a second stop at Turtle Town, where NOAA asks you to stay at least 10 feet from sea turtles. Humpback whales are generally seen from November through April, peaking January through March.
A catamaran from Ma'alaea is slower but brings restrooms, meals and an easier ride for families; a raft from Kihei is shorter and cheaper, with less on board. If you are staying in Wailea, a Makena beach-loading trip saves the drive. The tours page compares them.