Adventure brief
Maui Snorkel & Sunset Sail
Dive into Maui’s vibrant reefs and sail into the sunset on a luxury catamaran with PacWhale Eco-Adventures. Encounter Hawaiian sea turtles, enjoy guided wildlife insights, and relax with appetizers on an unforgettable ocean trip.
Maui’s coastline offers more than just stunning views—it’s a living ocean theatre where reefs thrive and sea turtles glide with timeless grace. PacWhale Eco-Adventures elevates this Pacific playground with their Maui Snorkel & Sunset Sail, a 4-hour journey that combines underwater discovery with serene sailing. Departing from Ma'alaea Harbor in Wailuku, Hawaii, this trip invites travelers to slip into the warm waters of Maui’s marine preserves and snorkel alongside vibrant coral reefs and Hawaiian green sea turtles—an encounter that ranks as one of the best in the islands.
What sets this trip apart isn’t just the marine life but the expert touch of PacWhale’s Certified Marine Naturalists onboard. These guides enrich the experience with natural history insights and wildlife interpretation, turning every moment into an opportunity to learn. After snorkeling, guests board a luxury catamaran where the pace slows, and the Hawaiian sunset takes center stage.
The catamaran’s open decks and panoramic views make it the perfect vantage point to unwind as vibrant reds, oranges, and purples paint the sky. A delicious spread of appetizers accompanies the evening, while guests bring their own drinks, chilled and ready thanks to onboard coolers. PacWhale Eco-Adventures, headquartered in Wailuku, is a community-rooted operator with a strong conservation focus, balancing adventure with sustainability efforts.
Their commitment to education and preserving Maui’s unique marine ecosystems makes this company a trusted steward of Hawai’i’s ocean playground. For families and adventurers seeking a low-impact, immersive ocean experience that pairs active exploration with restful enjoyment, the Maui Snorkel & Sunset Sail stands out as a must-do. Whether you’re hoping to spot honu or savor a rare tropical twilight, this trip delivers a rich, authentic slice of island life.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreenessential
Protect Maui’s delicate reefs by using only biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen while snorkeling.
- 02Arrive Early for Check-Ininfo
Plan to arrive 45 minutes early at Ma'alaea Harbor to accommodate check-in procedures and gear fitting.
- 03Use Provided Snorkel Gearinfo
PacWhale supplies premium snorkel equipment including optical masks for eyeglass wearers—take advantage for the best underwater experience.
- 04BYOB—Bring Your Own Beverageinfo
Pack your favorite drinks in canned or tetra pak containers; the crew provides coolers and glassware on board.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin and the coral reef ecosystems during snorkeling and on deck.
summerEssentialPolarized sunglasses
Reduce glare while sailing and spotting marine life from the boat.
allLight windbreaker
Keep warm during cooler evening sails and breezy conditions.
springEssentialSwimwear and quick-dry towel
Essential for the snorkeling portion and quick drying after leaving the water.
allEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Lahaina Pali Trail viewpoints, Honolua Bay snorkeling spots
Local fauna
Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), Spinner dolphins
Historic heritage
Maui’s waters have sustained native Hawaiians for centuries, with traditional fishing practices still influencing conservation today.
Mindful exploration
PacWhale Eco-Adventures actively supports reef preservation and educates guests on minimizing human impact to protect marine biodiversity.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Out on the catamaran deck, Ma'alaea Harbor before departure, Molokini Crater area from the water
- Subjects
- Hawaiian green sea turtles, Coral reefs, Vibrant island sunsets
- Best times
- Golden hour during sunset, Late afternoon, Just before dusk
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is prior snorkeling experience required?
No, beginners are welcome and receive a Snorkel 101 lesson, plus flotation devices.
Can children participate in this trip?
Yes, the trip is family-friendly with a Jr. Naturalist program designed for kids.
What kind of drinks can I bring onboard?
Guests may bring canned or tetra pak beer, wine, or cocktails; glass bottles are not allowed.
Are masks and snorkel gear provided?
Yes, premium sanitized masks, snorkels, fins, and flotation devices are included.
What is the cancellation policy?
Please check directly with PacWhale Eco-Adventures for their current cancellation policies.
Where do we meet for the trip?
Check-in is at the Pacific Whale Foundation Ocean Store in the Ma'alaea Harbor Shops near the Maui Ocean Center.