Top 5 Maui Whale Watches

There’s a reason why whale watching is the most popular Maui activity in the winter months (Maui whale watching season). Few things are as awe-inspiring as watching 40-ton humpback whales gracefully burst through the ocean’s surface — and the chance to see whales in Maui with your own eyes is a bucket list activity in its truest form. But add Maui’s epic backdrop, tasty cocktails, and top-notch hospitality to the mix, and you’ve got a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the making.

The only downfall to whale watching on Maui? There are about as many Maui whale watch tours as there are grains of sand on Kaanapali Beach — and choosing the right one for you can be a challenge. But don’t fret. We’ve got you covered.  We will help you find the best whale watching Maui has to offer.

Here are the top 5 Maui whale-watching tours — and what makes them stand out from the pack.

Maui Kayak & Snorkel Whale Watch

Whale watching in Maui is a whole new adventure with this tour. Triple threat alert! This tour combines three of Maui’s most popular ocean activities: kayaking, snorkeling, and whale watching. Head to Makena Landing, where you’ll hop aboard a trusty ocean kayak for a whale-watching tour of a lifetime — one that involves snorkeling with green sea turtles and taking in the gorgeous South Maui sights. The potential for up-close encounters with humpback whales is elevated, too — humpback whales are notoriously curious and sometimes like to sneak up on unsuspecting kayakers to say ‘hi.’

Know Before You Go:

• Traveling with adventurous keiki? Children ages ten and up are welcome to join in on the fun.
• Don’t worry about lugging your snorkel gear around with you. Your guide will provide all the snorkeling equipment you need to enjoy the day.
• Beginners are welcome! Your expert guide will help you get the proper paddling technique down pat.
• A light snack and dry bags to store your belongings are included.

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Affordable Maui Whale-Watching Tour

Humpback whales love Maui for its shallow, calm waters. As a result, Maalaea is known as Maui’s unofficial whale-watching capital — and humpback whale sightings here are off the charts. This affordable two-hour tour leaves Maalaea Harbor and takes you into the heart of whale-watching territory. Enjoy a fully narrated experience that breaks down the nuances of whale behavior. You’ll have plenty of whale sighting opportunities from the boat’s double decks! This is one of the best whale-watching tours on Maui without the hefty price tag.

Know Before You Go:

• This whale-watching adventure departs from Maalaea Harbor, Maui’s most central tour boat hub.
• Hoping to learn more about whales? An onboard marine naturalist narrates the whole experience and is on hand to answer any and all questions.
• Need a break from the sun? The main cabin has plenty of shaded seating and large viewing windows.

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Small Group Whale Watch – Central Maui

Want to see whales in Maui but don’t want to have to fight the crowds at the railing each time a whale is spotted? This Maalaea Harbor whale watch allows for maximum viewing on a smaller, more agile boat with fewer people than the normal whale watch tour boats. This Pacific Whale Foundation excursion operates at 67% capacity for a spacious experience, and you’ll have access to onboard certified marine naturalists for all your whale questions.

Know Before You Go:

• Bring the whole family! Enjoy the onboard Junior Naturalist Program for kids.
• Hoping to get a closer view? Binoculars and underwater cameras are available for rent on board.
• It can get a little chilly on the water, especially when the breezes are blowing. Pack a light jacket, just in case.

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Classic Whale Watching Experience

The Pacific Whale Foundation’s Classic Whale Watch offers a two-hour educational experience led by Certified Marine Naturalists, providing insights into humpback whale behaviors such as mother-calf interactions and male competitions. Departing multiple times daily from Maʻalaea Harbor, these tours feature underwater hydrophones to listen to whale songs and maintain a 97% sighting success rate, with a guarantee of a free return trip if whales aren’t spotted. Children aged four and under can join for free with a paying adult, and booking online grants a 15% discount.

Know Before You Go:

• Multiple departure times are offered daily during whale watching season in Maui.
• This vessel is designed to easily navigate Maui’s often-windy seas. The double-hulled design makes for an ultra-smooth ride.
• Maʻalaea Harbor is also home to Mauiʻs aquarium, excellent restaurants, and shopping!

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Kihei Whale Watching Tour

Pssst — we’ll let you in on a little secret. If you’re staying in Kihei, there’s no need to drive all the way to Maalaea or Lahaina Harbor for a whale watch because one of the best ones departs from Kihei Boat Ramp. This rafting adventure only takes a maximum of 20 passengers for an intimate experience. Better yet, you’ll be at eye level with the whales as they cruise past your boat — and they tend to have no qualms about approaching smaller vessels like this one.

Know Before You Go:

• You might be on a smaller vessel, but you’ll still get a similar experience as on the larger boats. A naturalist is onboard to narrate the excursion, and you’ll also get to listen to humpback whale songs via hydrophone.
• This tour is only offered from January 15 to March 31, when whales are the most abundant in Maui’s waters.
• Due to the speedy nature of this tour, this excursion is not recommended for pregnant women or people with back issues.

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