Whale Watch & Reef Snorkel – West Maui

Peak whale watching in West Maui is typically from January through March, when the greatest number of whales are present. January and February often have the highest activity, including competitive pods, breaching, and singing males. The earlier morning departure (7:00 AM) generally offers calmer water and more peaceful conditions.

Kayak whale watching offers an unmatched experience. You are at water level with no engine noise — guests frequently report hearing whale songs beneath them, which is impossible on a motorized vessel. The small group size and silence mean whales often approach much closer than they would to a large boat. Many reviewers describe it as the highlight of their entire Maui trip.

Whale sightings are never guaranteed as these are wild animals. However, January through March is peak season in West Maui, and sightings are extremely frequent. Your guide's local expertise maximizes your chances of an encounter.

During the reef snorkel stop, Hawaiian green sea turtles are regularly spotted, along with tropical fish, eagle rays, and occasional monk seal sightings. The West Maui Mountains and the distant islands of Lana'i and Moloka'i provide a breathtaking backdrop.

Advance purchase is required, and tours do sell out quickly. To maximize your chances of getting the day you prefer, please book well in advance!

About half of our guests are beginners and our typical snorkel and/or kayak tour guest ranges between 10 to 70 years old. We do not allow children under 5 as they will have difficulty with the snorkeling portion of the trip. The tour is designed to be comfortable for the novice and effortless for those that are experienced. Your tour guides will be there to help you, allowing you to focus and enjoy your Hawaiian experience. We move at a relaxed pace, focusing on the scenery and marine mammals that may come our way. The physical output is low - similar to walking/hiking - so you don't have to be an athlete to participate, but should be of moderate fitness with no major mobility constraints.

A tandem kayak can accommodate 500 lbs (226 kgs) between two passengers. The combined weight of both passengers cannot exceed 500 lbs (225 kgs). We do have special single kayaks that can accommodate an individual of up to 225 lbs (102 kgs) - if you are interested in securing such a kayak, please contact us.

Our gear is of the utmost quality. Our New Ocean Kayak tandem kayaks are Malibu Two XL's and we have single person Scrambler XT's available on request or for odd number groups. You will also be wearing state of the art Aqua Lung silicon masks, dry snorkels, and adjustable U.S. Divers fins.

Depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy this may or may not be appropriate for you. We suggest consulting with your doctor before attending the trip.

Yes of course. All of our guides are lifeguard trained and we require you to wear a coastguard certified life vest at all times while on the water. These jackets make it easy to float and our guides will help you feel comfortable in the water.

For individuals without kayaking experience our expert guides will give paddling instruction and a safety briefing on the beach. Launching from much of Maui's shoreline can be demanding, even hazardous. We lend our expertise with the launch, accompany you for the duration providing knowledge of local culture, geography, and marine life.

For safety reasons we require that life jackets be worn at all times during the kayak paddle. Although you are not required to wear them while snorkeling, we generally recommend wearing them.

People have gotten seasick before, but the great majority make it through the experience without getting sick. If you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to consider taking preventative measures beforehand.

We love pets, but unfortunately pets are not allowed on our trips. We are unable to accommodate the unique needs of pets at this time.

Yes. All guides are Red Cross-certified lifeguards with CPR and First Aid training. Guides are also experienced paddlers and snorkelers who operate island-wide year-round and are well-versed in Maui's culture, history, marine life, and weather patterns.

Please use reef-safe, non-nano mineral sunscreen only. Common sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, or parabens can harm coral reefs and are strongly discouraged. Consider wearing a long-sleeve rash guard as a sun-protective alternative. If you choose a mineral-based sunscreen, ensure it is labeled "non-nano."