A Full Day on Maalaea Bay: Snorkel, Sail and Fish Aboard the 42' Monohull Nova

WAILUKU BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

A Full Day on Maalaea Bay: Snorkel, Sail and Fish Aboard the 42' Monohull Nova

A customizable full-day sail from Maui Custom Charters that combines guided snorkeling, whale watching, fishing and hands-on sailing instruction — this guide distills what to expect and how to plan.

A Full Day on Maalaea Bay: Snorkel, Sail and Fish Aboard the 42' Monohull Nova.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Wailuku
Operator
Maui Custom Charters
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set out for a full-day sailing adventure across Maalaea Bay with Maui Custom Charters, where the itinerary is tailored to weather, wildlife sightings and your group’s wishes. Over the course of the day you can split time between snorkeling world-class reefs, tracking whales during season, trying your luck at trolling for fish, or learning to handle the lines while the crew prepares onboard meals.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

Guided Snorkeling at Multiple Reefs
THE WATER

Guided Snorkeling at Multiple Reefs

The crew leads in-water guided tours and provides top-end SeaSport snorkel gear so guests can explore several snorkel sites—options include reefs off north Kihei, the dramatic Pali cliffs and even a sunken pier near Lahaina.

Fishing and Whale Watching on Your Terms
THE CATCH

Fishing and Whale Watching on Your Terms

The full-day charter accommodates fishing—crew will set trolling lures behind the boat—and is the preferred charter in whale season, allowing you to devote time to whale watching without sacrificing snorkeling or sailing.

Hands-On Sailing and Onboard Meals
THE CREW

Hands-On Sailing and Onboard Meals

Whether you want hands-on sailing instruction or to relax with a cocktail, the experienced captain and crew handle navigation and meals: a light breakfast, deli-style lunch and snacks are included to keep the day moving smoothly.

What the day feels like

What the Day Feels Like

The pace is deliberately flexible: after a morning briefing to set the day’s priorities, you’ll spend extended blocks sailing and stopping to snorkel, fish or watch whales as conditions allow. Crew-led briefings and an in-water guide keep the focus on the water, while meals and non-alcoholic beverages are served onboard so you can linger between swim sessions and sail legs.

Guided Snorkeling at Multiple Reefs

THE WATER

Guided Snorkeling at Multiple Reefs

The crew leads in-water guided tours and provides top-end SeaSport snorkel gear so guests can explore several snorkel sites—options include reefs off north Kihei, the dramatic Pali cliffs and even a sunken pier near Lahaina.

Fishing and Whale Watching on Your Terms

THE CATCH

Fishing and Whale Watching on Your Terms

The full-day charter accommodates fishing—crew will set trolling lures behind the boat—and is the preferred charter in whale season, allowing you to devote time to whale watching without sacrificing snorkeling or sailing.

Hands-On Sailing and Onboard Meals

THE CREW

Hands-On Sailing and Onboard Meals

Whether you want hands-on sailing instruction or to relax with a cocktail, the experienced captain and crew handle navigation and meals: a light breakfast, deli-style lunch and snacks are included to keep the day moving smoothly.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this charter suits — and when to choose the fleet option.

1
Small Private GroupsIdeal for groups up to six aboard S/V Nova; the private nature of the charter lets your party set the day’s priorities.
2
Larger Parties or Buddy BoatsGroups of seven to twelve can charter the fleet for a side-by-side buddy-boat sail and shared departure, providing a larger private experience.
3
Aspiring SailorsGuests who want hands-on experience will find sailing instruction available from the captain and crew during the day.
4
Snorkelers and Wildlife WatchersThose focused on snorkeling or whale watching benefit from crew-led in-water tours and a flexible full-day schedule that lets you spend ample time in the water or observing sea life.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Season

This is offered as a full-day charter and is the preferred option during whale season; summer brings windier conditions that emphasize sailing.

What’s Provided

Included: a light breakfast of local fruits and baked goods, a deli-style lunch after snorkeling, additional snacks, an in-water guided tour by the crew, top-end SeaSport snorkel gear, and non-alcoholic beverages (water, juices, sodas).

Alcohol & Gratuity

Alcoholic beverages are not included but you may bring alcohol onboard; gratuity is not included in the charter price (private yacht standard generally starts at 20%).

Capacity & Vessel

S/V Nova is a ~42' sailing monohull available for up to six guests; for groups of seven to twelve the fleet charter option is offered.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Are meals and drinks provided?

Yes. A light breakfast, deli-style lunch, additional snacks and non-alcoholic beverages (water, juices, sodas) are included.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes. Top-end SeaSport snorkel gear is provided for guests, and the crew leads in-water guided tours.

Can we bring alcohol onboard?

Alcoholic beverages are not included, but you are welcome to bring alcohol onboard; the operator supplies appropriate glassware.

How many guests fit on S/V Nova?

S/V Nova accommodates up to six passengers; for groups of seven to twelve the operator offers a fleet charter option.

Is gratuity included?

No. Gratuity is not included in the charter price; private yacht customarily starts at around 20%.