Join Kai Kanani for a private whale watching cruise in Kihei, Hawaii, and experience the majestic Pacific Humpback Whales up close. Discover their behaviors, songs, and stories on this unforgettable ocean journey.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated or standing with some mild boat movement.
Wildlife
History
Humpback whales have been part of Hawaiian culture and folklore for centuries, celebrated in native songs and stories.
Conservation
Kai Kanani supports local marine conservation efforts by educating guests about responsible whale watching and minimizing human impact on whale habitats.
Kai Kanani
Join Kai Kanani for a private whale watching cruise in Kihei, Hawaii, and experience the majestic Pacific Humpback Whales up close. Discover their behaviors, songs, and stories on this unforgettable ocean journey.
Kai Kanani operates out of Kihei, Hawaii, offering premium ocean experiences aboard a spacious catamaran. The company specializes in sunset sails, whale watching, and deluxe snorkel trips to Molokini Crater, focusing on safety, local knowledge, and guest comfort. Each trip is crewed by experienced mariners and naturalists who guide guests through marine life sightings, conservation-aware practices, and island lore. The Adventure Sunset Sail is presented as the only catamaran in South Maui, featuring live music, an open bar with local spirits, and a curated menu that highlights island flavors. The Whale Watch Adventure provides guided viewing of Pacific Humpback Whales in their winter sanctuary, with opportunities to observe natural behaviors while learning from the crew. Signature Deluxe Snorkel and Sunrise Deluxe Snorkel trips include access to Molokini’s clear waters, snorkeling alongside Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, and locally sourced food; the sunrise option adds early-morning solitude and a breakfast spread with fresh cinnamon rolls. Safety briefings, quality snorkel gear, and a focus on responsible wildlife interaction are standard across tours. Reservations, route planning, and operational details are handled from Kihei, ensuring departures and returns are timely. Kai Kanani emphasizes authentic island experiences, a comfortable catamaran platform, and knowledgeable staff to facilitate memorable, responsible marine adventures for visitors to Maui.
The Adventure Sunset Sail runs two hours and includes live music, an open bar, and a sparkling wine toast. Sunrise Deluxe Snorkel provides 45 minutes of secluded snorkeling at Molokini and a breakfast spread. Bookings depart from Kihei with crew-led safety briefings.
Location
Kihei, Hawaii
Departures from Kihei harbor
Vessel
South Maui catamaran
Only catamaran in South Maui
Wildlife
Whales & Turtles
Humpbacks and green sea turtles
Tours Offered
4 unique trips
Sunrise, signature, whale, sunset
Limited seats on Molokini snorkels, whale watches, and sunset sails — secure a Kihei departure now.
Dress in Layers
Early mornings and ocean breezes in Kihei can be cool, so bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Bring Binoculars
Binoculars help you spot whales that are further offshore and allow a more detailed view of their behaviors.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water to stay hydrated during your time on the boat under the Hawaiian sun.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and Hawaii’s coral reefs by using environmentally friendly, reef-safe sunscreen.
Binoculars
Enhance whale spotting from a distance during peak whale season.
winter
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the marine environment from harmful chemicals.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Guard against cool ocean breezes and early morning chill.
winter
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while enjoying your time on the water.