5 Boat Tours in Maui That Earn the Road Trip

1.Ma’alaea Harbor: Whale Watching Tour Aboard Power Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 979 reviews · 2 hours · from $49Our pick

Cruise Ma’alaea Bay aboard Quicksilver’s double-deck power catamaran during Maui’s whale season. Captain Kiwi, Captain Carlos, and other crew members have led trips with clear whale narration, hydrophone songs, drinks, restrooms, and wide viewing areas. The $49 fare is a strong value, though parking and alcohol cost extra.

“This was a great experience. We saw lots of whales relatively closely. The crew was informative and friendly.”

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2.Maui Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise from Ka’anapali Beach

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 903 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $166Top rated

Board Sea Maui’s 65-foot catamaran from the sand at Ka’anapali Beach for a 2.5-hour sunset sail with a chef-prepared buffet, full open bar, and ocean views. December 15 through April 15 adds seasonal whale watching. Indoor and outdoor seating, parking validation, and live music on Wednesdays and Saturdays make this a polished evening out.

“Beautiful sunset cruise. We ate and drank well, and saw many whales. A few breached. The boat’s driver needs to work on his whale approach instincts, and I wish he would cut the engines when close to them.”

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3.West Maui Snorkeling Experience by Boat from Ka’anapali

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 881 reviews · 5 hours (approx.) · from $193

Set out from Ka'anapali with a crew such as Shasta, Derek, or Malakai for five hours on West Maui’s water. You’ll visit two snorkel sites, often see turtles, and may spot dolphins or winter whales. Snorkel gear, lessons, breakfast, lunch, snacks, drinks, shade, and an onboard restroom are included.

“Crew is great, very helpful and looks after all your needs. The boat has a very smooth ride and easy to get in and out of when snorkeling.”

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4.From Ma’alaea Harbor: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 826 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $139

Spend about two hours aboard Quicksilver, a double-decker motorized catamaran from Ma’alaea Harbor. Watch the sun drop behind Lanai, enjoy a three-course dinner, two included alcoholic drinks, live island-style music, and possible winter whale sightings. Check in at Boss Frog’s 30 minutes early and ask about outdoor seating.

“Save your money. The food and boat ride wasn’t worth the $300! The staff was great, but the food wasn’t warm or appealing.”

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5.From Ma’alaea: ‘Alihilani Sunset Sail Catamaran Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 348 reviews · from $114

Join Sail Maui aboard the Alihilani from Ma’alaea Harbor for a two-hour sunset sail in the Au’au Channel. You’ll have open-deck, trampoline, and covered seating, plus drinks and cold appetizers such as chicken skewers, caprese bites, vegetables, and spring rolls. From December to March, keep watch for humpback whales.

“We had so much fun! The staff on the boat were super friendly and attentive. Drinks were yummy, and snacks were plentiful and tasty. The selection included veggie tray with dip, chicken skewers, caprese skewers, and spring rolls. This was one of our favorite activities while in Maui, must do!”

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