Experience Maui Whale Watching: Close Encounters With Humpback Whales from Kihei
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required, mostly sitting or standing on a stable boat.
Overview
Join a 1.5-hour whale watching tour from Kihei, Maui, for guaranteed sightings of humpback whales up close. Listen to their songs and enjoy expert narration on one of Hawaii’s best wildlife adventures.
Maui Whale Watching Tour
1.5 Hours • Seasonal Dec 15- April
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About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 1.5-hour whale watching adventure from Kihei, where you’re guaranteed to see Humpback whales in their natural habitat. Experience close encounters and listen to their songs with our hydrophone, all while enjoying expert narration and breathtaking views of Maui’s south shore. Don’t miss this unforgettable journey!
Humpback Whale Sighting Guaranteed
$10 off if you book 5 days in advance! Use code 'Advance10'
Prices
- Please check the green box for each date! Don't forget to use any promo codes if we are running any specials!
Duration
- 1.5 hours
- Departure Time: 8am, 10am, and 12pm
- Check-in 30 minutes prior
Location
- Kihei Boat Ramp.
- We are the closest boat ramp to Wailea.
- Less than 10 minutes from all Kihei and Wailea resorts.
- Free parking is available at the boat ramp.
What's included
- Water and Hawaiian Juices
- Hydrophone for listening to whale songs
- Low to water viewing experience
- Adventure style rafting vessel with trained guides
- Whale and island facts - ask us!
About
Join us for a guaranteed whale watch—1.5 hours of unforgettable adventure departing from the convenient Wailea/Kihei area.
Morning departures offer the calmest conditions along Maui’s south shore, where Humpback whales are often spotted nursing their young. Pods are usually located quickly, giving you plenty of time to observe and listen in using our onboard hydrophone system.
Occasionally, whales approach within 100 yards or less. To ensure their safety and remain compliant with federal regulations, tours may run slightly longer than scheduled—extra time has been built into our departures just for this reason.
While we never approach whales closer than regulations allow, our small rafts often attract curious Humpbacks, leading to exciting, eye-level encounters. Your tour also includes a fully narrated experience with fascinating facts about whales and Maui.
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Adventure Tips
Book Early During Peak Season
Reserve your spot between December and April to ensure availability during the humpback whale migration.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your viewing experience by bringing binoculars to spot whales at a distance more clearly.
Dress in Layers
Maui’s ocean breezes can be cool; layering helps you stay comfortable throughout the tour.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and Maui’s delicate marine ecosystem by applying eco-friendly sunscreen before boarding.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Humpback Whale
- Spinner Dolphin
History
Humpback whale protection in Hawaiian waters began with the establishment of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary in 1992, preserving critical habitat.
Conservation
Tours adhere to NOAA guidelines to prevent disturbance and promote the recovery of the endangered humpback whale population in Maui's coastal waters.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kihei
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Keeps you warm against ocean breezes during the cooler whale season.
winter specific
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin and the marine environment during the daytime cruise.
winter specific
Binoculars
Useful for spotting whales and other marine life from a distance.
Camera with Zoom Lens
Capture close-up shots of whales and the scenic coastlines.