Join marine biologists on a 3-hour small-group whale watch from Ma’alaea Harbor. Experience close encounters with humpback whales, expert insights, and breathtaking views in Hawaii’s prime whale-watching waters.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mainly seated with occasional standing
Wildlife
History
Ma'alaea Harbor has long been a central hub for marine research and traditional Hawaiian fishing activities.
Conservation
PacWhale Eco-Adventures actively supports conservation by educating guests on marine ecosystems and funding local whale preservation efforts.
PacWhale Eco-Adventures
Join marine biologists on a 3-hour small-group whale watch from Ma’alaea Harbor. Experience close encounters with humpback whales, expert insights, and breathtaking views in Hawaii’s prime whale-watching waters.
PacWhale Eco-Adventures is a Maui-based marine tour operator specializing in responsible, high-quality ocean excursions departing from Ma'alaea Harbor.
With an emphasis on marine conservation and education, PacWhale offers a range of experiences including whale watching, dolphin research cruises, Molokini snorkeling trips, turtle reef snorkels, and evening sunset and stargazing sails. Certified Marine Naturalists lead tours, providing species identification, natural history interpretation, and respectful wildlife viewing protocols.
The company’s whale watch is a top-rated ecotour with a 97% sightings success rate for humpback whales during peak season, offering guaranteed encounters and guided listening to whale song from onboard hydrophones. Molokini trips include the Wikiwiki Express and Molokini & Turtle Arches snorkels, combining protected-reef snorkeling with on-deck instruction and small-group attention. Dolphin-focused tours operate as three-hour research-style excursions that seek Hawaiian Spotted, Bottlenose, and Pan Pacific Spotted dolphins, blending observation with informal science learning.
Specialty cruises include adults-only sunset sails with pupus and cocktails, family-friendly sunset and celestial cruises featuring astronomy commentary (in partnership with noted astronomers), and seasonal holiday events such as July 4th cocktail and fireworks cruises from Ma'alaea. Boats emphasize eco-friendly practices, safety, and guest comfort, with continental breakfasts and BBQ lunches on select trips, plus knowledgeable captains who select prime locations daily.
PacWhale Eco-Adventures is recognized for conservation partnerships, experienced crew, and an educational approach that balances unforgettable wildlife encounters with stewardship of Maui’s marine environment.
Departing from Ma'alaea Harbor, trips serve South and West Maui visitors and welcome families, couples, beginners, and experienced snorkelers seeking turtles, dolphins, and vibrant reef life.
Sightings Rate
97%
Humpback whale sightings in season
Tours Offered
10 Unique Trips
Snorkel, whale, dolphin, sunset, and more
Certified Guides
Certified Marine Naturalists
Secure a spot on a top-rated whale watch, Molokini snorkel, or sunset cruise from Ma'alaea—limited seats on popular departures.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process and secure your preferred spot on the boat.
Bring a Camera with Zoom
Humpback whales can appear at a distance, so a camera with a zoom lens enhances your chance of capturing incredible photos.
Wear Sun Protection
Apply reef-safe sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Hawaiian sun during the tour.
Motion Sickness Prep
If prone to seasickness, consider taking preventative medication before the trip for a more comfortable experience.
Reef-safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin and the marine environment from harmful sun exposure.
summer
Binoculars
Enhances distant whale viewing and spotting other marine wildlife.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Keeps you warm and protected from wind and sea spray during cooler months.
winter
Waterproof Phone Case or Camera Cover
Protects your electronics while taking photos on the boat.
Onboard education and species ID
Departure Point
Ma'alaea Harbor
Convenient South Maui departures