Private Maui Whale Photography & Snorkeling Boat Tour

Over 10,000 humpback whales migrate to Maui's protected waters between December and April to give birth and find mates. We officially begin whale watches on December 15, and if the whales arrive early, we may offer trips earlier.

No. Whether you're a professional photographer or simply looking to take great shots, your instructor will coach you on capturing whales in a dynamic marine environment.

DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and high-quality smartphones are all welcome. Our open deck gives you plenty of space to frame your shots, and we provide dry storage for sensitive gear.

You may see humpback mothers and calves, male escorts, competition pods, breaches, and tail slaps. Your captain and crew share insight into whale behaviors and the latest humpback whale research as you watch.

Yes! Our onboard hydrophone lets you listen to humpback whale song.

Humpback whales in Hawaii are protected by federal regulations that require vessels to stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away. Whales sometimes approach boats on their own, and our boat sits close to the water for a great eye-level view.

No. The snorkel stop is optional, so you can stay on board and keep shooting if you prefer. If you plan to snorkel, wear swimwear and bring a change of clothes for afterward.

The ocean is calmest first thing in the morning, which makes the 7 a.m. departure ideal for a smooth ride and stable photography.

TripOutside recommends knowing how to swim before snorkeling, but participation is ultimately up to you and the tour operator's discretion.

• Never snorkel alone. Always bring a buddy. Beginners should consider booking a guided tour.
• Rest after flying. Flying can dehydrate and exhaust you—give your body at least a day to acclimate before snorkeling.
• Test your gear first. Make sure your mask fits snugly, you can breathe through the snorkel, and you know how to clear water if needed.
• Practice with fins. You should be able to scissor kick while swimming. Avoid doggie paddling—it won't get you far.
• Take it slow. Breathe calmly, relax, and avoid overexertion to keep your heart rate low.
• Know your limits. If you're feeling tired, anxious, or unsure about conditions, skip the snorkel session. Panic in the water is dangerous.
• Stay aware of currents and tides. Even experienced swimmers can get pulled out. Know how to identify rip currents and how to escape them (swim parallel to shore).

Please check in 30 minutes before departure. Our standard departure time for dive and snorkel charters is 7 a.m., because ocean conditions are usually best in the morning. Since every trip is a private charter, we can adjust the departure time to fit your plans.

We meet at Slip 14 in Ma'alaea Harbor, Maui's centrally located small boat harbor. Head to the ocean side of the harbor, past the boat ramp and around the corner. We're on the wing of the harbor that looks out at the bay. Look for our 40 ft (12 m) orange rigid-hulled inflatable boat.

Yes. Paid hourly parking is available near our slip, and dockside spots are usually open before 7 a.m.

No. Please use the harbor restroom before departure.

Our boat is a 40 ft (12 m) rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB), custom designed and built by our captain. The engine sits mid-ship rather than hanging off the back, so the weight is balanced and the boat glides over waves for a much smoother ride than a typical RHIB. Open seating gives everyone unobstructed views, and the boat is quick enough to reach Lana'i in about an hour.

We take a maximum of six passengers per trip. Private charters are a flat rate, so the price is the same whether you bring two people or six, and the entire boat is reserved for your group.

Your group will have a captain, a guide, and an additional crew member. On dive charters, the scuba guide leads your group underwater while the extra crew member can serve as a snorkel guide or as a "bubble watcher" on drift dives. You may request an additional scuba guide for your group.

Yes. Because the boat is yours for the day, we can personalize the trip for mixed groups and combine snorkelers and divers on the same charter.

Our charters include all the gear you need, taxes, fees, and food and drinks. Nitrox is not included, but it is available upon request for an extra fee.

On our longer charters, catering includes deli sandwiches (turkey, ham, roast beef, or veggie), fresh fruit, freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, locally made granola bars, hot cocoa, soft drinks, juices, and water. Please let us know in advance about any allergies or dietary preferences.

Occasional sea spray is possible on the ride, so bring a windbreaker or light jacket. We provide drybags for your personal items. Please leave larger items ashore.

We partner with Maui conservation nonprofits, including Pacific Whale Foundation and Maui Nui Marine Resource Council. Through reef cleanup dives with our partners, more than 2,700 lbs (1,225 kg) of lead, fishing line, and other marine debris have been removed from Maui's reefs. We also provide boat support for reef surveys, coral outplanting, and water quality monitoring, and our captain melts down recovered lead to make our dive weights.

Yes. Our captain also speaks Spanish.

Common sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs, as the particles are small enough to be absorbed by corals, causing toxicity and coral bleaching. Reef-friendly sunscreens are formulated without these harmful chemicals. Reef-SAFE sunscreens go a step further by using non-nano particles, which are too large for corals to ingest, helping to preserve marine ecosystems. Please avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Consider wearing sun-protective clothing, like long-sleeve rash guards, as an alternative to sunscreen. If you choose a mineral-based sunscreen, ensure it is labeled 'non-nano.'