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25 Best Molokini Snorkel Tours (Clear Water & Breathtaking Sights!)

Dive into the ultimate guide to Molokini Snorkel Tours! Find the top 25 picks for clear waters & stunning views, perfect for all ages. Explore now!

Tobi Miles
October 1, 2022
25 Best Molokini Snorkel Tours (Clear Water & Breathtaking Sights!)

Molokini Crater is the place for many visitors to find the best snorkeling destination as well as viewing protected ocean and bird life. It is what is left from an eruption that scientists say happened around 230,000 years ago. Since that violent volcanic eruption, it has been home to 250 different species and a go-to snorkeling destination for travelers.

If you plan on traveling to Hawaii, the islands have many tours to Molokini available. Some tours are two hours, while other tours might be half-day or full-day tours. On your trip, you will get to see dolphins, whales, colorful coral reefs, fish, Hawaiian Sea Green Turtles, and even have meals included on some of their all-inclusive tours.

No matter what tour you decide to go with, there are tours available for all ages. We hope you have your swimming gear ready because some of these tours will last you all day!

If you’ve been wondering about what tour you should go with on your adventure to Molokini, don’t worry, we have you covered. Let’s dive into our top 25 Molokini Snorkel Tours.

1. Maui Snorkeling Molokini Crater and Turtle Town Aboard Pride of Maui

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If you’re looking to escape the mainland of Hawaii to see some natural landscapes, you’ll want to check out this half-day snorkeling tour off of the coast of Maui. While getting some photo-worthy views of the coast from your boat, you’ll also be able to go on an excursion of a supervised snorkeling tour at the Molokini Crater.

In addition to the Molokini Crater, you’ll be able to snorkel Turtle Town. Both of these have unique underwater formations and marine life. Your breakfast, lunch, baked goods, and beverages will all be provided. To participate in this tour, you must have no heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

Price of Tour: $196.12
Length of Tour: 5 hours

2. Molokini and Turtle Arches Snorkeling Trip from Ma’alaea Harbor

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The Molokini and Turtle Arches have everything you need and include a continental breakfast, a barbecue lunch, unlimited soda and juice, snorkeling gear, and a beginner snorkeling class. Your tour will meet at Maui Maalaea Harbor and hop on the catamaran to get ready for your water adventure! Your boat will have a bar, water slide, bathrooms, and even a snorkeling ramp.

To start your tour, you will have breakfast and your guide will tell you about the extinct volcanic crater as you go along. As you get into the water, you’ll go towards Turtle Arches reef and get to see fish and coral. After snorkeling, you’ll get to enjoy your barbecue lunch and relax in the sun before heading back to the harbor.

Price of Tour: $199.95
Length of Tour: 5 hours

3. Molokini Snorkeling Adventure Aboard Calypso

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From Maalaea, you’ll get to discover the underwater world of the Molokini Crater. You’ll hop on board where you’ll have your complimentary breakfast, then continue to your snorkeling sites where you’ll be able to see Hawaiian Green sea turtles. Molokini Crater is located between Maui and Kaho’olawe.

The crater is a designated Marine Life Conservation District, so no fishing or climbing on the crater is allowed. After snorkeling Molokini, you’ll whisk over to Turtle Town where you’ll get to see several large sea turtles. All snorkel locations are determined weather permitting.

Price of Tour: $189.95
Length of Tour: 5 hours 30 minutes

4. Molokini Crater Zodiak Adventure Snorkel and Turtle Cove Swim

 

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From Maui, you’ll get to snorkel Molokini Crater on an inflatable boat for an epic adventure! This is a custom-built craft that can reach snorkeling destinations much faster than a traditional boat. This allows you more time to explore the clear waters and to keep away from any crowds.

After your first snorkel, you’ll get to enjoy the second snorkel in a turtle cove and swing along the Hawaiian green sea turtles. For your convenience, lunch, snacks, and snorkel equipment are included. One great thing about this tour is that turtle cove is not acceptable to larger tour boats, so this allows a private experience and to see the turtles up close and personal.

Price of Tour: $179
Length of Tour: 4 hours

5. Maui Snorkeling Molokini Crater

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If you want more time in the water with fewer crowds, you’ll want to book this Molokini Crater snorkeling tour. You will depart in the morning and spend around a half-day on the water with about two dozen other passengers. What’s even better is that this tour offers snorkeling in more than one location, and features breakfast, lunch, and an open bar.

Their 50-foot yacht is a comfortable boat that operates at only 60% of the Coast Guard capacity. While snorkeling, you’ll get to see an array of colorful corals and marine life. If this tour is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll receive a different date or a full refund.

Price of Tour: $173.61
Length of Tour: 5 hours

6. Dolphin Adventure & Snorkel

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If you’re looking to skip the overcrowded boat tours, this tour will give you a more intimate experience of Hawaii. You’ll visit Lanai and Molokini in the company of no more than twenty-two passengers. You will make snorkeling stops to see fish, turtles, octopuses, manta rays, and dolphins.

With this tour, you’ll get breakfast included, along with snacks. Your ticket will support active marine research and the work of Maui’s whale team and their entanglement response. On this tour, you’ll be provided snorkel gear and flotation devices.

Price of Tour: $155.39
Length of Tour: 4 hours

7. Maui Snorkeling to Molokini Tour - All Inclusive Morning Session

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On this tour, you’ll board a 53-foot boat that has a 20-foot water slide with 49 passengers on board. This tour has a veteran captain with all-inclusive packages that make this one of the best snorkeling experiences in Maui. This is a morning, five-hour session that will visit two snorkeling locations.

Your first stop will be the Molokini Crater and the second stop is Turtle Town. Along the way to your snorkeling experience, you’ll have the chance to see blue whales as they move through the Hawaiian waters. Please more that you’ll only be able to see whales from November through April each year.

Price of Tour: $182.47
Length of Tour: 5 Hours

8. Alii Nui Sailing Charters

Credit: Patryk Kosmider

This tour is a five-hour snorkeling trip that will offer you extra time at Maui’s unique reef. Included in the price of this tour is your snorkeling and floatation equipment, which includes silicone masks, snorkels, fins, boogie boards, wet suit tops, and large beach towels. Once your snorkeling trip is completed, you will get to end it with an amazing freshwater heated shower.

Included in your snorkeling tour are a full breakfast, mid-morning snacks, and lunch with a variety of non-alcoholic beverages. Also included is complimentary transportation. You will be picked up in one of their comfortable vans and returned to your hotel or condo in style.

Price of Tour: Adult $209; Child(4-12) $159
Length of Tour: 5 hours

9. Molokini Crater Plus Turtle Town Snorkeling 4-Hour Tour

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On this tour, you’ll get a close-up of Maui’s gorgeous scenery and get to leave the mainland for a half day. In the morning, you’ll get to meet up for a personal snorkel gear fitting, hop aboard your boat, and head out on the water. You’ll get to visit the Molokini Crater where you’ll snorkel clear blue waters, soak up marine life, and get a glimpse of that Pacific beauty.

You will arrive at 6:30 AM when all guests will have to sign and complete a liability waiver. Your boat launches at 7 AM (no exceptions) and on your way to your snorkeling destination, the captain will give you a safety briefing. If you have back problems, heart problems, or other serious medical conditions, this snorkeling tour is not for you.

Please note that this snorkeling experience requires good weather and will be either rescheduled or refunded in the event of poor weather. This snorkeling tour will also have a maximum of nineteen travelers.

Price of Tour: $159
Length of Tour: 4 hours

10. Super Raft - Private Charter from Maui to Molokini

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Some of the Maui snorkeling options can become crowded since it’s a popular tourist destination, but this Super Raft tour helps you stay away from the larger groups. On this tour, you’ll be able to ride with just you and your group to your destination with a guide who knows all of the secret spots on the water. Along the way, you’ll get to see protected Hawaiian Sea Turtles and spinner dolphins, too!

The partially submerged volcanic crater is in the shape of a crescent and makes a protective oasis from the waves and other strong channel currents. This makes this the perfect snorkeling destination. Molokini has over two hundred and fifty species of fish and hundreds of other species in the coral.

Your tour will take you to Molokini at record speeds, away from crowds, and will give you one of the most private snorkeling experiences possible. For this tour, travelers should have a moderate fitness level.

Price of Tour: $2,866.67
Length of Tour: 3 hours

11. Snorkeling for Non-Swimmers For First Timers

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If you’re a beginner snorkeler, you’ll feel safe on this tour and comfortable learning with a small group of people. With only four people, you’ll spend time talking about snorkeling theory, then head over to shallow water to practice with flotation devices. After that, you’ll venture deeper into the water to search for sea turtles and other types of marine life.

If you want to dive down deeper into the water, you’ll have access to the underwater scooter. To ensure that you are safe and comfortable, your guide will remain with you the entire time. This tour welcomes all non-swimmers, and first-time snorkelers, and is kid-friendly.

Price of Tour: $145
Length of Tour: 1 hour 30 minutes

12. Trilogy Excursions

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If you’re looking for a top-notch tour, Trilogy Excursions is the number one sailing company for your Maui adventures. Your tour will begin with a continental breakfast of delicious cinnamon rolls, tropical fruit, and Kona coffee. For snorkeling, you’ll want to bring a swimsuit, towel, sun protection, and a light cover-up.

Your first snorkeling destination will be Molokini Crater where you’ll have 150 feet of reef visibility. Turtle Town will be your second snorkeling destination depending on the weather. If you want an upgrade, you can always purchase a SNUBA upgrade, where you’ll be able to breathe underwater and dive down up to 20 feet to view marine life up close and personal.

Price of Tour: Adult $179; Youth $164; Child $124
Length of Tour: 5 hours

13. Molokini Crater and South Maui Coast Adventure from Kihei

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With this tour, you’ll be able to snorkel multiple Maui sites with a tour guide that includes Molokini Crater, which has 150 feet of underwater visibility. Your guide will take you to this partially visible crater to swim with the tropical fish and rays. Included in this tour will be breakfast, lunch, and your equipment.

Before you visit the rear of the Molokini Crater, you’ll relax on the boat’s platoon, where visitors get to swim. Next, you’ll get to visit La Perouse Bay to see spinner dolphins and lava flows. This tour is not recommended if you are pregnant or have heart problems and other serious medical conditions.

For this tour, you must show up 30 minutes before your departure. The tour also with have a maximum of 24 travelers.

Price of Tour: $208.22
Length of Tour: 5 hours

14. Two-Hour Molokini Snorkel Trip

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On this two-hour snorkel tour, you’ll embark on an underwater adventure around the volcano. You will depart from Kihei with a small group of travelers and enjoy snorkeling inside the crater while getting to observe several types of marine life. There will be a quick fifteen-minute ride to the crater and then one hour of snorkel time inside the crater.

You will be provided snorkel gear and fins on this tour. This tour is not suitable for anyone who has had a recent back, neck, or head injury.

Price of Tour: $142.12
Length of Tour: 2 hours

15. Kai Kanani Sailing Charters

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One of the best things you can do is book a Molokini tour with Kai Kanani Sailing Charters. The snorkeling tour is the signature deluxe package where you’ll snorkel in two locations in the heart of the day when the sun lights up the fish in Maui.

The waters that surround Maui are very clear blue. You’ll be able to see fish from hundreds of feet away and their beaches are home to some of the most undisturbed bodies of water.

Throughout the day, you’ll get to enjoy locally-sourced food and finish with a gourmet lunch. You’ll take on some of the best stunning views of Makena, Haleakala, and South Maui.

Price of Tour: Adult: $239.79; Child: $193.55
Length of Tour: 3.5 hours

16. Maui Snorkeling Lani Kai - All Inclusive Snorkel

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On this tour, you’ll notice the very many tropical fish and sea turtles. You’ll head out on a 53-foot boat that has a 20-foot water slide for several hours of snorkeling. From November to April, you’ll have the opportunity to see whales, and even a chance to upgrade to SNUBA, a combination of snorkeling and diving.

This tour occurs from 1 PM to 4 PM on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Their trip will also take you throughout the Coral Gardens where you’ll get to encounter an abundance of marine life. This tour will have a maximum of 49 travelers.

Most travelers can participate in this tour and confirmation is received right after booking. This tour also requires good weather, so if there are poor weather conditions, your tour will be rescheduled or fully refunded.

Price of Tour: $107.95
Length of Tour: 3 hours

17. Seafire Snorkel Adventures

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With Seafire Snorkel Adventures, you’ll embark on a safe and comfortable adventure. Their charters are intended for smaller groups so the crews can give their personal attention to the travelers to give them a more intimate experience. Your trip will include many features to provide you with the best tour possible.

Your tour will include a trip to Molokini, swimming with sea turtles, learning to snorkel instruction, snorkel equipment, fresh Maui pineapple, possible dolphin and whale sightings, and wetsuits that are available for rent.

On your way to Molokini, the crew will prepare and sanitize your snorkel gear. During your ride, they will also give instructions if you are a beginner snorkeler. To end your Molokini snorkel, you’ll swim over to Reef’s End. They have said this experience is like flying as you swim over the crater’s edge and see a drop from up to 200 feet.

Price of Tour: Call for rates and availability 📞
Length of Tour: 3 hours

18. PacWhale Eco Adventures

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If you’re looking for a thrill-seeking tour for all ages, you’ll need to check out PacWhale Eco Adventures. You’ll swim in the sight of dolphins and explore Maui’s most vibrant reefs and volcanic crater. They have an expert team that will give you safe guidance and makes sure everyone has a fun-filled experience.

You’ll explore the crescent-shaped Molokini that has an epic coral reef with over two hundred and fifty species. You’ll also get to explore the island of Lana’i which is known for its vibrant reefs, sea turtles, and wild dolphins. Lastly, you’ll get to explore Honolulu Bay, which is protected marine conservation off the west coast of Maui.

Price of Tour: $139.95
Length of Tour: 5 hours

19. Blue Water Rafting

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If you’re staying at the resort in Wailea, Blue Water Rafting is a great alternative to use. They will give you a variety of different tour itineraries and all of them but one of them includes the Molokini Crater. This tour is operated on a twenty-four-passenger zodiac raft and is great for the person who loves adventure and thrill-seeking.

Each tour they offer will include their premium snorkel gear. Their Molokini and Kanaio coast tour is their signature trip where you will explore sea caves and lava arches of Maui’s rigged Kanaio coast. On this tour, a deli lunch and beverages will also be included.

Price of Tour: Adult: $181.72; Child: $149.46
Length of Tour: 5 hours 30 minutes

20. Four Winds II Molokini Snorkeling Tour from Maalaea Harbor

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On this tour, you’ll get to experience a lot of adventure and relaxation in a one-day tour on a boat to Molokini. If you’re looking for the perfect excursion for friends and family, this is the best tour for you. Your comfortable boat will take you to the submerged volcanic crater, where it’s home to colorful coral and tropical fish.

On your tour, you’ll get to observe the underwater world with snorkel gear through the boat‘s glass bottom. On your adventure, you’ll try to identify the four different types of islands along the way. You’ll also get to hear some commentary from your boat’s guide.

It’s important to note that snorkeling at Molokini Crater is weather permitting and you can never be guaranteed a snorkel location. Before the tour, all passengers must sign a waiver. This tour will also have a maximum of 120 passengers.

Price of Tour: $178.47
Length of Tour: 5 hours

21. Maui Whale Watching and Snorkeling Tour Aboard Pride of Maui

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With this tour, you’ll get to enjoy a day on the water and combine two great experiences in one tour. This tour will give you the opportunity to snorkel at Molokini or another coral reef nearby. After your snorkel, you’ll embark on a whale-watching tour where you’ll search for humpbacks.

As you are sailing, you’ll get to enjoy drinks from their open bar and even a delicious lunch. This tour will have a maximum of 75 travelers. This tour is also only possible if weather permitting, so if there is poor weather your tour will be rescheduled or fully refunded.

Price of Tour: $130.75
Length of Tour: 4 hours

22. Kayak and Snorkel - South Shore Turtle

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On this tour, you’ll get to see what lies beneath the clear waters of Makena Bay on a kayak and snorkel tour! You will get to choose either a single or two-person kayak then get to witness mountain views and even some wildlife sightings. Later on, you’ll get to use the snorkel gear to view the colorful reefs that are home to the endangered sea turtles.

For these activities, no experience is necessary and guides will gladly give you instruction if needed. While you’re on the tour, you will also have lunch that is provided. There are a maximum of 10 passengers per guide.

It’s important to note that this tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems or any serious health conditions. Your snorkel time will be approximately 45 minutes.

Price of Tour: $102.15
Length of Tour: 4 hours 30 minutes

23. Turtle Town Kayak and Snorkel Tour

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On this tour, you’ll get to capture Hawaii’s natural landscapes and have a private snorkeling and kayaking tour in Maui. You’ll get to discover undercover reefs, swim along Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, and enjoy a personalized adventure based on your interests and experiences.

With the tour running from 7 AM to 10 AM, this is the perfect activity to plan as the start of your day.  This family-friendly tour is suitable for kids aged three and older.

Price of Tour: $109.99
Length of Tour: 3 hours

24. Molokini Snorkeling Crater Two-Hour Tour

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If you have two hours to spare, and looking for an ideal tour with a place to snorkel, this tour to Molokini’s Crater is perfect for you. You’ll get to enjoy a short cruise from Kihei to the crater and then get your snorkel gear to go exploring. You’ll spend plenty of time snorkeling in search of sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, moray eels, and many fish species.

Price of Tour: $115
Length of Tour: 2 hours

25. Two Tank Lanai Cathedral Dive

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On this adventure tour, you’ll get to embark to not only Molokini but Lanai for a 2-tank dive in the cathedral. You’ll be with a small group of scuba divers to see an underwater world that is filled with caverns.

The sun's rays reflect on the crystal-clear water in the caverns, where rocks have fallen from the ceiling, creating a cathedral-like ambiance. In addition to caverns, you’ll also get to see arches, lava shoots, and swim-throughs.

Occasionally a whale or dolphin will swim over to visit your tour boat. The captain will generally slow the boat to allow time to truly enjoy the experience.

Price of Tour: $255
Length of Tour: 6 hours

Tobi Miles
Article updated:
March 28, 2024
A nomadic wordsmith savoring the world's flavors and penning stories that turn every journey into an epic.
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