Experience a private sailing adventure on Maui’s only Hawaiian-built catamaran. Enjoy island hospitality, whale watching, and personalized service aboard the Winona in Wailuku.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
No special physical fitness required; suitable for all ages and abilities.
Wildlife
History
The Winona is Maui’s only Hawaiian-built catamaran, honoring local craftsmanship and maritime traditions.
Conservation
Makena Coast Charters actively supports ocean conservation efforts by practicing sustainable tourism and educating guests about marine life protection.
Makena Coast Charters
Experience a private sailing adventure on Maui’s only Hawaiian-built catamaran. Enjoy island hospitality, whale watching, and personalized service aboard the Winona in Wailuku.
Makena Coast Charters operates from Wailuku, Hawaii, offering guided snorkel trips, sunset sails, whale-watching excursions, and private charters around South Maui and Molokini. The company runs a small fleet that includes the authentic Hawaiian-built catamaran Winona, the Makena Mele II, and a private raft boat used for custom charters. Trips highlight Molokini Crater, Turtle Town (Kihei Turtle Town), and departures for whale watching from Maalaea Harbor during peak season.
Each experience provides gear, on-board guidance, and attentive crew service. Snorkel trips feature beginner-friendly instruction, complimentary snacks, and opportunities to see Hawaiian green sea turtles, vibrant coral, and tropical fish. Whale-watching cruises include hydrophone listening and narrated sightings during the December through March humpback migration. Private charters are customizable for celebrations, weddings, family outings, and corporate events, with options for tailored menus, island-style music, and beverage service. Vessel descriptions, durations, and passenger capacities vary by trip offering; details are listed per experience to match group needs. Makena Coast Charters emphasizes Aloha hospitality, local knowledge of Maui waters, and personalized attention on every outing. Safety briefings, equipment fitting, and crew support are standard components of the guest experience. Guests can choose half-day and multi-hour options, including focused snorkeling adventures and flexible private sails. Reservations and specific itinerary questions are handled through the company's booking channels, and trip pages list accurate times, departure points, and inclusions. Trip durations range from two-hour snorkels to five-hour private charters, and sunset sails and custom itineraries are listed with each trip description for accurate planning needs today.
Location
Wailuku, Hawaii
Operating from Wailuku, Maui
Key Vessels
Winona • Makena Mele II • Raft
Catamarans and raft boat available
Whale Season
Dec–Mar
Humpback migration months
Tours Offered
10 experiences
Snorkel, charters, sunset sails
Check availability for Molokini Crater snorkels, Turtle Town trips, whale watching (Dec–Mar), sunset sails, and custom private charters departing from Wailuku and Maalaea Harbor.
Book Early for Peak Whale Season
Reserve your charter well in advance from December to April to secure prime whale-watching dates.
Bring Sunscreen and a Hat
Protect yourself from Hawaii’s strong sun while enjoying the open deck and ocean breeze.
Notify Dietary Restrictions in Advance
Inform the crew early to customize your menu to fit any dietary needs or preferences.
Wear Non-Slip Shoes
Choose footwear with good grip to stay safe on the deck during sailing and boarding.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from intense Hawaiian sun exposure during open-deck sailing.
summer
Wide-Brim Hat
Provides extra shade and helps keep you cool while enjoying the boat deck.
summer
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Keeps you comfortable during cooler or breezy evenings on the water.
fall
Non-Slip Footwear
Ensures safety on wet, moving boat surfaces.