Sunset & Celestial Cruise • Ma'alaea
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; comfortable seating and gentle boat motion ensure accessibility for most travelers.
Overview
Join PacWhale Eco-Adventures for a stunning Maui Sunset & Celestial Cruise in Ma'alaea. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets followed by stargazing in the clear Hawaiian night sky—a perfect evening on the water.
Sunset & Celestial Cruise • Ma'alaea
2.5 hours • All ages • Enjoy delicious appetizers, drinks and Maui’s famous sunsets, then stargaze!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating stargazing cruise with the Pacific Whale Foundation and renowned astronomer Harriet Witt. Enjoy delectable appetizers and drinks while learning about Polynesian navigation and the stars' cultural significance. Experience Maui's stunning sunsets and, during winter, listen to the haunting songs of humpback whales beneath the night sky.
Take a journey at sea with Pacific Whale Foundation and international award-winning astronomy writer and speaker Harriet Witt to experience our “Moving Planet”.
Duration
Approximately 2.5 hours.
About
During this new and improved version of our original Stargazing cruise, you’ll enjoy delicious appetizers, drinks and Maui’s famous sunsets while learning about Polynesian navigation (wayfinding) and how these amazing people utilized the stars to find the Hawaiian Islands. Once the sun sets and stars begin to appear, Harriet will highlight specific stars to observe and relate stories about their significance to the Hawaiian culture in juxtaposition with popularly known Greek cultural explanations.
Astronomer Harriet Witt is known for her entertaining and informative commentary on all things celestial. If you’re looking to do something unique and to learn more about the Hawaiian culture and the star-filled canvas above us, we encourage you to take this journey with us. As a special bonus during winter months, a hydrophone is lowered into the sea to hear the beautifully haunting songs of humpback whales under the stars.
Includes
-Appetizers: furikake crusted ahi crostini (sustainably caught tuna) with cilantro aioli and unagi glaze, grilled and chilled (sustainably farm-raised) tiger prawn cocktails with wasabi sauce, BBQ kalua pork quesadillas with Maui Gold pineapple chutney and cilantro lime aioli, vegan “pork” gyoza (dumpling), house fried corn tortilla chips with salsa, artisan cheese platter, fresh fruit, dessert of Kula strawberries and chocolate chip cookies -Our vessels are CASHLESS for purchases. Only credit, debit or digital payment methods with a QR code will be accepted for on board purchases. Cash will graciously be accepted for gratuities only. Mahalo. -Refreshments: unlimited soda, juice, and filtered water, plus three complimentary alcoholic beverages. Enjoy vodka, gin, rum and beer crafted on island from Ocean Vodka and Maui Brewing Company. We also have wine and tequila available.
- Certified Marine Naturalists onboard
- Award-winning astronomer onboard
Additional Info
What To Bring
- Sunglasses, hat, light jacket recommended.
- Credit card or cash for optional souvenirs and gratuities.
Available Rentals
- Affordable rentals of cameras and binoculars
Check-in Time 45 minutes prior to departure.
Check-In Location Pacific Whale Foundation’s Ocean Store located in the Harbor Shops of Ma’alaea (share parking lot with the Maui Ocean Center)
Departs From Ma'alaea Harbor
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers for comfort
Evenings can be chilly on the water, so bring layers to stay comfortable as the temperature drops after sunset.
Bring your camera and binoculars
Capture stunning sunset moments and get a closer look at stars and celestial objects in the night sky.
Arrive early to secure seating
Seats on the open deck fill up quickly, so arrive 15-30 minutes early to get the best view and settle in comfortably.
Prepare for mild motion
The boat may sway slightly; hold onto handrails and wear comfortable shoes for stability and safety.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Hawaiian spinner dolphins
- Sea turtles
History
The waters around Maui have been central to Hawaiian culture and fishing traditions for centuries, with the island's maritime history reflecting in local stories and legends.
Conservation
PacWhale Eco-Adventures emphasizes sustainable tourism and actively works to minimize environmental impact while promoting marine conservation efforts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Wailuku
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light jacket or sweater
Evenings can be cool on the water, so bring a jacket to stay warm during the stargazing portion.
summer specific
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protect yourself from UV rays during the daytime and early evening hours on the boat.
spring specific
Binoculars
Enhance your stargazing experience by getting a closer view of distant stars and planets.
Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and comfortable during the cruise with light refreshments.