Celebrate aboard Winona, Maui’s only Hawaiian-built catamaran, departing from Maalaea Harbor. Tailor a private two-hour charter for weddings, birthdays, sunset sails or snorkel stops with island-style hospitality and seasonal whale watching.
Celebrate aboard Winona, Maui’s only Hawaiian-built catamaran, departing from Maalaea Harbor. Tailor a private two-hour charter for weddings, birthdays, sunset sails or snorkel stops with island-style hospitality and seasonal whale watching.
Book with Unicorn Tours of Hawaii Inc
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
84 ratings
Operated by Unicorn Tours of Hawaii Inc · Wailuku, Hawaii
Step aboard Winona, Maui’s only Hawaiian-built catamaran, at Maalaea Harbor and trade the mainland noise for ocean wind and a deck made for celebrations. Moored at 233 Maalaea Rd in Wailuku, this custom private charter turns simple gatherings—weddings, corporate mixers, birthdays—into island days you actually remember. The vessel’s broad twin hulls and shaded central cabin create a stable platform for mingling, tiki-bar cocktails, and quiet stretches of whale-watching when humpbacks cruise by in winter. The harbor itself is a practical starting point: a working marina backed by low lava rock coastline, palm-thin shoreline, and quick access to the reef-protected waters of south Maui. Key features of the trip are the Winona’s expansive foredeck for sun-soaked lounging, the aft cockpit for socializing, and the shaded midship cabin that doubles as a windbreak on breezier afternoons. Natural highlights include the glass-blue lagoon beyond the breakwall, patches of fringing reef visible on calm days, and—December through April—regular visits from migrating humpbacks that breach and fluke within view of the boat. Onboard, the crew handles choreography: safety briefings, sanitized snorkeling gear, flotation devices, and a music selection that favors island-style rhythms. The experience is flexible by design. Want a two-hour sunset sail or a daytime cruise with short snorkel stops? The itinerary adapts. Note practical details: check-in is 30 minutes before departure; Maalaea Harbor uses QR-pay parking at about $1 per hour, and the vessel isn’t wheelchair accessible due to boarding steps. Why book Winona? The boat is locally built and maintained, which matters in a place where sea conditions and culture intersect. The crew’s Aloha hospitality and local knowledge turn a private event into an authentic coastal moment: an introduction to Maui’s marine life, a lesson in reef etiquette, and a chance to toast with an ocean horizon as backdrop. For photographers, golden-hour sails frame mountains and water with reflective light; wildlife lovers get intimate, respectful viewing opportunities during whale season. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a light jacket or shawl, a towel, and a small camera. Expect calm to moderate conditions and a small-group atmosphere tailored to your party—up to about 45 guests but often cozier. Whether you’re planning a rehearsal dinner under stars, a daytime adventure with snorkels, or a private sunset toast, Winona at Maalaea Harbor is a distinctly local way to experience Maui from the water. Custom charters are fully customizable: choose island-style menus, specialty cocktails, curated playlists, and timelines that prioritize photos, snorkeling, or a slow sunset transit. Crew can advise on permits and local tide conditions; ask about whale-season windows and required safety briefings. Groups appreciate the small-boat intimacy and professional staffing—ideal for couples, family reunions, or teams seeking an off-shore venue with authentic Hawaiian character and lasting memories.
easy.
2 hours.
Light physical activity; guests should be able to climb a short gangway and stand or move around decks for the duration.
Check-in is 30 minutes before the scheduled start time at Maalaea Harbor, 233 Maalaea Rd. Guests sign waivers and board from the dock to the vessel named "Winona".
No. The vessel has a large step and short stairs; it is not wheelchair accessible and may be difficult for those with limited mobility.
The charter includes captain and crew, island-style music, sanitized snorkel equipment and flotation devices, and the sailing experience; food and gratuities are not included.
Yes—December through April is prime humpback whale season in Maui and Winona routes often include whale-watching, weather and sea conditions permitting.
Food catering is not included by default; discuss menu and catering options during the booking inquiry to customize your charter.
Winona accommodates small groups up to about 45 people, though many private events are kept smaller for comfort and safety.
Winona is notable as Maui’s only Hawaiian-built catamaran; Maalaea Harbor functions as a longstanding local marine hub that grew from fishing and small-boat activity.
The operator emphasizes reef-safe sunscreen, sanitized snorkel gear, and respectful distances during whale viewing to minimize disturbance and protect marine habitats.
Unicorn Tours of Hawaii Inc, based in Kihei, Hawaii, operates guided catamaran experiences on Maui. The company offers a mix of public sails and private charters aboard the Winona, Maui’s only Hawaiian-built catamaran. Trips include a Sunset Sailing on a Floating Tiki Bar, a three-hour Discover the Magic of Coral Garden’s Turtle Town snorkel trip, a 2.5-hour Whale Watching Cruise from Maalaea Harbor, and customizable private charters for events and celebrations. Each experience emphasizes safety, local knowledge, and Hawaiian hospitality. Crews are trained to provide marine wildlife viewing, snorkeling guidance, and onboard service such as tropical beverages and light meals where listed. The coral garden snorkel trip highlights green sea turtle encounters and reef observation in clear waters, while seasonal whale watches focus on humpback whale behavior visible from Maalaea Harbor and offshore. Unicorn Tours of Hawaii Inc maintains a fleet and vessel consistent with marine regulations and operates from established Maui departure points. Booking options include scheduled public departures and private charters suitable for weddings, parties, and corporate events. The Winona catamaran’s decks and layout are designed for social groups, photography, and unobstructed ocean views. Reviews and third-party listings reference consistent departures, local crew expertise, and unique experiences such as the floating tiki bar concept. Travelers seeking marine wildlife encounters, sunset sails, or private celebrations on a Hawaiian-built catamaran will find relevant options among the company’s offerings. Reservations are available online or through authorized partners, with clear pricing, departure details, and accessibility information provided at booking upon request today.
Book with Unicorn Tours of Hawaii Inc