What type of food is served on the Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise?

The buffet features traditional Thanksgiving favorites with local Hawaiian touches, including kalua turkey, Portuguese sausage stuffing, kalua ham, grilled vegetables, and island-inspired desserts.

Are alcoholic beverages included in the ticket price?

Complimentary alcoholic drinks such as Maui Brewing Co. beer, wine, and tropical cocktails are included for adults 21+, with a limit of three drinks per person.

Where is the cruise departure point located?

Departure is from Ma'alaea Harbor, with check-in at the Pacific Whale Foundation Ocean Store in the Harbor Shops next to the Maui Ocean Center Aquarium.

Is this experience suitable for children or those with mobility issues?

The cruise is family-friendly, but it is not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with significant back or mobility concerns.

Can I request vegan or gluten-free meal options?

Yes, PacWhale Eco-Adventures offers accommodations for dietary restrictions if requested in advance.

What wildlife can I expect to see during the cruise?

Humpback whales and dolphins are commonly spotted, especially during their seasonal migrations, guided by expert Marine Naturalists on board.

Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise in Ma'alaea with PacWhale Eco-Adventures

Situated along Hawaii’s sun-drenched south shore of Maui, Ma'alaea Harbor serves as the gateway to an unmatched marine experience with PacWhale Eco-Adventures. Known for its vibrant Pacific Ocean vistas edged by the West Maui Mountains, this harbor is a hub of ocean-bound adventure that weaves nature observation with island culture. Among its standout offerings is the Thanksgiving Premium Seating Dinner — a festive 2.5-hour cruise that redefines holiday dining.

This isn’t just a meal; it’s a voyage through flavors and views, where guests enjoy an elevated buffet featuring kalua turkey with Portuguese sausage stuffing, kalua ham glazed with guava jelly, and island-inspired sides like grilled local vegetables and taro rolls. The spread balances traditional American dishes with Hawaiian accents, including pumpkin haupia coconut squares, all savored while taking in the warm glow of Maui’s famed sunsets.

As the catamaran cuts through tranquil waters, passengers share private tables designed for intimate groups, enhancing connection and comfort. But the real highlight arrives in the form of nature’s grand spectacle — sightings of majestic humpback whales and playful dolphins are common, thanks to the expertise of PacWhale’s onboard certified Marine Naturalists. Their insights enrich the experience, offering a chance to witness these ocean giants in their vibrant habitat during the prime whale season.

PacWhale Eco-Adventures stands out in Maui’s outdoor adventure scene by combining sustainable ecotours with celebratory traditions, educating guests while fostering deep appreciation for Hawaii’s marine ecosystems. Departing from the Harbor Shops adjacent to the Maui Ocean Center Aquarium, this cruise merges convenience with authenticity, making a Thanksgiving at sea an unforgettable chapter in any visitor’s Hawaiian journey.

About PacWhale Eco-Adventures

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.