Adventure, Curated
Explore 5,000+ human-powered experiences — handpicked outdoor adventures for all skill levels with max stoke, zero hassle.
Local Legends, Real Reviews
We partner with the best in the business — trusted local outfitters and guides who know the trails, tides, and terrain. Backed by 185,000+ reviews, averaging 4.8⭐
Book Direct, Best Price Guarantee
Get the best price, availability, and flexibility you need by booking directly with the outfitter or guide.
Protect What You Love
Your adventure gives back. Every booking supports conservation and keeps wild places wild.
Lānaʻi Snorkel Tour & Dolphin Watching from Maui
Pricing
13 & older
Ages 4 - 12
Description
Cross to Lānaʻi for Two Snorkel Stops & Wild Dolphin Spotting Along the Way!
Leave Maui behind and cross the ʻAuʻau Channel for a day of snorkeling along the remote coastline of Lānaʻi. With towering sea cliffs rising ahead and clear Pacific water surrounding the boat, the journey is part of the adventure. Your captain selects two snorkel locations based on the day's wind, swell, visibility, and ocean conditions, giving you the opportunity to explore different sections of Lānaʻi's underwater landscape in a single trip.
Once in the water, snorkel above coral formations while searching for Hawaiian green sea turtles (Honu), tropical reef fish, and other marine life. Each location offers something different, and choosing the sites according to current conditions means the exact adventure can change from one morning to the next. Between stops, climb back aboard the shaded, open-air boat, take in views of Lānaʻi's rugged coastline, and enjoy locally made banana bread with lilikoi passion fruit spread and a cold drink.
The crossing also offers the chance to spot wild spinner dolphins from the boat. Dolphins are reportedly seen on roughly 7 out of 10 trips, sometimes swimming through the surrounding channel, leaping from the water, or traveling alongside the boat. These sightings are enjoyed from aboard the vessel only—this tour does not involve entering the water with dolphins, approaching them for interaction, touching them, or attempting to swim alongside them. They're wild animals moving naturally through their habitat, and sightings are never guaranteed.
From snorkeling two Lānaʻi reef sites to cruising the ʻAuʻau Channel and watching for dolphins along the way, this adventure combines underwater exploration with a scenic journey to one of Maui County's more remote island coastlines.
Duration
- 4.5 Hours
- Check-in is required 30 minutes prior to departure time.
Location / Where to Meet
- Check In / Departure Address: Mala Boat Ramp, 1229 Front Street, Lahaina, HI 96761
- Check-in is required 30 minutes before departure; guests who check in after this window may forfeit their spot with no refund.
Ages & Requirements
- Minimum age: 4 years old
- Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Guests must be in good physical health, with no pre-existing medical conditions that would impair their ability to board or exit the boat via the boarding ramp or from the water.
- No prior snorkeling experience required — snorkel instruction is provided onboard.
- There is a maximum group size of 18 guests.
What's Included
- Snorkel 101 instruction
- Mask, snorkel, and fins
- Flotation devices
- Locally made banana bread and lilikoi passion fruit spread
- Selection of chips
- Beverages and water
- BYOB welcome (no glass containers; alcohol may not be consumed prior to snorkeling for safety reasons)
Not Included
- Gratuity — never expected, but if you have a great experience, consider gifting 10–25% to your Captain & guides!
What to Bring / Wear
- Swimsuit & Towel
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen (NO spray sunscreen allowed)
- Extra Layers of Clothing - Sweatshirts and Warm Hats
- Dry Bag / Small Bag for Personal Items
- Snacks & Water
- Seasickness Medications
- Required paperwork - Signed medical form if required, waivers, etc.
- Waterproof Camera - The company is not responsible for any damaged or lost items.
- Please remove any jewelry, watches, or anything that can get damaged by water or you don’t want to lose.
Wildlife Guidelines
ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Maui Ocean Adventures
FAQs
What should I wear?
Maui's weather can shift between microclimates over the course of a tour, so comfortable, layerable clothing is recommended — a sun shirt or UV-protective layer works well, and a light jacket can be handy for some guests. This is a no-shoes cruise, so sandals or flip-flops that are easy to remove are the best footwear choice.
Do you provide lifejackets?
Our boat is US Coast Guard Certified, and has all of the required safety equipment on board. This includes lifejackets, but we do not put these on during the trip. Our boat has very safe railings, and our captains are experts at keeping passengers safe. If you want a lifejacket for your own sense of security, you are encouraged to bring your own!
Is there a bathroom on the boat?
Unfortunately, we do not have a bathroom on the boat. We recommend you use the public restroom before boarding for your adventure!
What if I get seasick?
If you have a history of motion sickness, we encourage you to take anti-nausea medication in advance to mitigate any sick feelings. Bringing along ginger chews can also help in the moment, and remaining hydrated can help to avoid feeling the motion of the ocean! That being said, everyone is different, and our vessel is very stable and comfortable.
Will I get to swim with the dolphins?
No — the dolphins seen on this tour are wild and are viewed from the boat only. There is no in-water dolphin swim or interaction component to this trip; guests stay aboard and observe the dolphins from a respectful distance as they ride the wake or travel alongside the boat.
What sunscreen can I use?
Common sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs, so reef-safe sunscreen is required — please avoid products containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, or parabens, and look for a mineral-based, non-nano formula. Sun-protective clothing like a rash guard is a great alternative or supplement to sunscreen.
What wildlife might I see while snorkeling at Lānaʻi?
Lānaʻi’s reefs are home to a wide variety of Hawaiian marine life. While snorkeling, you may see Hawaiian green sea turtles (Honu), butterflyfish, parrotfish, triggerfish, surgeonfish, wrasses, and other colorful tropical reef fish. Look closely around the reef for moray eels, octopus, sea urchins, and other smaller creatures hiding among the coral and lava formations. Spotted eagle rays may also occasionally cruise through the area.
During the boat ride between Maui and Lānaʻi, you may also spot spinner dolphins from the boat. Dolphin sightings are strictly wildlife viewing from the vessel—guests do not enter the water with, approach, or touch dolphins. As with all wild animals, specific sightings while snorkeling or cruising are never guaranteed.
Cancellation Policy
🔹 Cancellation Policy, Guest Requirements & Operational Terms
Due to limited group sizes on select activities, we are unable to absorb the cost of last-minute cancellations. Guest capacity on all vessels is strictly regulated by U.S. Coast Guard, County, and insurance requirements.
By providing your credit card information to confirm a reservation, you acknowledge and agree to the following cancellation terms and conditions:
🔹 Cancellation Notice Requirements
Cancellations made within these timeframes will receive a full refund. Cancellations made outside of these timeframes will be subject to the standard cancellation policy, including applicable fees.
🔹 Guest Safety & Participation Requirements
🔹 Cancellations & Weather Policy
All tours are subject to cancellation or rescheduling due to weather, safety concerns, or operational requirements, including minimum.
All trips require a minimum number of guests and appropriate conditions in order to operate. If these requirements are not met, we may reschedule or cancel the departure, in which case guests will be offered a full refund or the option to rebook.
🔹 Late Cancellations, No-Shows & Late Arrivals
Cancellations made outside of the required notice period will incur a 100% cancellation fee charged to the card on file. Late arrivals and no-shows will also be charged in full.
All trips depart promptly as scheduled and cannot be delayed for late arrivals.
🔹 Arrival & Travel Advisory
We strongly recommend planning extra travel time due to potential traffic delays in the Lahaina area, including ongoing construction. Guests are responsible for arriving on time for check-in and departure.
Any cancellations may be made by phone or email. Please note that cancellations MUST be acknowledged and confirmed to be valid.
Mahalo for your understanding and compliance with our policies!
Availability
Reviews
Location
Address
600 Wharf Street
Lahaina, HI, 96761
US
ASK THE LOCAL EXPERT
Best price guarantee - book direct with the outfitter
Trusted local outfitters, vetted for quality
Free cancellation on most adventures