Adventure Collective
Whale Watching Cruise from Maalaea Harbor, Maui - Wailuku

Whale Watching Cruise from Maalaea Harbor, Maui

Wailukueasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2.5 hours

Fitness Level

No special fitness level required; suitable for most ages and physical conditions.

Overview

Set sail on a 2.5-hour whale watching cruise from Maalaea Harbor and witness majestic humpbacks up close. Enjoy breathtaking views and listen to whale songs through hydrophones aboard the catamaran Winona.

Boat Tour
Whale Watch
Kihei, Hawaii

Whale Watching Cruise from Maalaea Harbor - 2.5 Hours

Check-in: 30 minutes before your activity start time

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Adventure Photos

Whale Watching Cruise from Maalaea Harbor - 2.5 Hours photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure aboard the charming catamaran "Winona." From December to March, witness the breathtaking humpback whales as they migrate to Maui's warm waters. Enjoy close encounters, hear their songs through hydrophones, and soak in stunning views of West Maui, Molokai, and Lanai.

About

Welcome aboard our incredible Hawaiian catamaran sailboat Winona. You are in for a treat as you experience the excitement of whale watching.

Each year, from November through May, thousands of migrating humpback whales journey from chilly Alaska to the warm waters of Maui to breed and give birth. Our guests can get a close-up view of the majestic marine mammals on this tour. These whales play, breach, and interact in their natural environment, and our crew provides insights into their behavior and biology. Hear their soulful songs through our underwater hydrophones while enjoying the perfect view of West Maui's mountains, Molokai, and Lanai, while you lounge on our decks or main floor.

Winona is not just any sail catamaran; she is Maui's only Hawaiian-built, well-kept, and spacious vessel. Get ready to experience true Aloha hospitality. Indulge in delicious appetizers, refreshment drinks, and more. With a small group of 30-35 people, you will enjoy personalized attention and plenty of space to move around. Join us for an unforgettable adventure!

Your Itinerary:

First Cruise:

  • Check-in is at 8:00 a.m. Maalaea Harbor, address: 233 Maalaea Rd. Wailuku, HI 96796 vessel name "Winona" 50-ft Sail Catamaran.
  • All guests sign in and complete the liability waiver.
  • Walk to the dock and board the vessel.
  • Departure is at 8:30 a.m. sharp (no exceptions)

Second Cruise:

  • Check-in is at 11:00 a.m. Maalaea Harbor, address: 233 Maalaea Rd. Wailuku, HI 96796 vessel name "Winona" 50-ft Sail Catamaran.
  • All guests sign in and complete the liability waiver.
  • Walk to the dock and board the vessel.
  • Departure is at 11:30 a.m. sharp (no exceptions)

What’s included:

  • Soft drinks, juice, water
  • Appetizers
  • Island-Style Music
  • Experienced Captain and Crew
  • Underwater hydrophones
  • Sailing experience from and to locations
  • Two restrooms on board

What's excluded

  • Gratuities
  • Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off
  • Parking Validation (see below)

What to bring with you:

  • A light jacket or shawl
  • Sunscreen and hat

En Route

  • Captain's safety briefing.
  • 2-hour trip in search of whales (weather -permitting).
  • Enjoy our beverage service.
  • Return trip to Maalaea harbor.

Parking

  • Ma’alaea Harbor is $1 per hour; we recommend paying for 3 hours total. This parking lot uses a QR code payment system. Arrive early to pay via the QR code (you will need to know your license plate number). Please be aware of where you are parking and follow the parking instructions found on the parking signs. We are not responsible for cars that get towed.

Adventure Tips

Bring Binoculars

Enhance your whale spotting experience by bringing binoculars to catch distant breaching or spouts.

Wear Sunscreen

Protect your skin from strong Hawaiian sun exposure during the mid-day cruise.

Use Non-slip Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes with grip to safely navigate the boat deck during the cruise.

Stay Hydrated

Bring a water bottle to stay refreshed, as ocean breezes can be dehydrating.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Humpback whales
  • Spinner dolphins

History

Maalaea Harbor has long been a hub for fishing and maritime activities dating back to native Hawaiian times.

Conservation

Makena Coast Charters supports local marine conservation efforts by educating guests about whale protection and ocean health.

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Adventure Hotspots in Wailuku

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects your skin from intense Hawaiian sun exposure.

summer specific

Binoculars

Helps spot whales far offshore for better viewing moments.

winter specific

Light Jacket or Windbreaker

Essential

Keeps you warm against ocean breezes during cooler months.

winter specific

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated throughout the trip while reducing plastic waste.