WAILUKU BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Two Hours Aboard Amore: An Intimate Ma'alaea Whale Watch
A two-hour, small-group whale-watching cruise from Ma'alaea aboard Amore—a 42-foot Boston Whaler with a marine naturalist—this guide lays out what to expect and what to bring.
Two Hours Aboard Amore: An Intimate Ma'alaea Whale Watch.
From Ma'alaea Harbor, board Amore—an elegant 42-foot Boston Whaler—and head for the calm winter grounds where Maui’s humpbacks gather. Limited to just six guests, the two-hour outing pairs panoramic open-air views with guided narration from a captain and marine naturalist, while onboard comforts such as shaded seating, a bow lounger and SeaKeeper® stabilization make close encounters with breaches, tail slaps and mother-and-calf pairs comfortable and memorable.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Amore — stability and space in a 42-foot Boston Whaler
Amore is built for comfort and steady viewing: roomy bow loungers and shaded seating give every guest a clear sightline, while the SeaKeeper® gyroscopic stabilizer minimizes motion for a smoother ride.
Up-close encounters with Maui’s humpbacks
Watch for breaches, tail slaps and mother-and-calf pairs as humpbacks congregate in Maui’s warm winter breeding grounds for behaviors that are as educational as they are dramatic.
Expert narration from captain and naturalist
A professional captain and onboard marine naturalist deliver live interpretation on migration, behavior and conservation—context that transforms sightings into a deeper understanding of these whales.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
The rhythm is compact and purposeful: a quick check-in at Ma‘alaea, a short run out to the whale grounds aboard the 42-foot Boston Whaler, and focused observation punctuated by expert commentary. Guests move freely between shaded seating and the bow lounge to chase the best angles, enjoy light snacks and cold drinks, and return to Ma‘alaea after roughly two hours—the vessel’s stabilizer helping ensure a calm passage there and back.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should reconsider—based on vessel capacity and group limits.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Pack a light jacket or sweater for cool breezes; reef-safe lotion (apply before boarding; no spray sunscreens); sunglasses or a hat; a reusable water bottle (water is available onboard); and optional snacks or canned/plastic drinks if you choose to BYOB. Cameras or phones for photos are also recommended.
Light snacks and cold non-alcoholic beverages are provided; you may also bring your own snacks or drinks (cans or plastic only).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The Ma‘alaea Luxury Whale Watch Cruise is approximately 2 hours, including boarding and return.
When is whale season in Maui?
Humpback whales visit Hawai‘i from December through March, with peak sightings typically in January and February.
Will we definitely see whales?
Sightings are very common during whale season, and our experienced captain and crew know the best areas to look. While whale sightings can’t be guaranteed, this region offers some of the most reliable viewing in Hawai‘i.
Is the trip family-friendly?
Yes. The calm waters and small-group size make this an excellent experience for families and guests of all ages.
Can we bring our own drinks?
Yes — BYOB is welcome (cans or plastic only). You’ll also receive a $15 stipend to use at the Ma‘alaea General Store before check-in.
Are food or drinks provided?
Light snacks and cold non-alcoholic beverages are provided on board.
Is there a restroom on board?
Yes, Amore has a clean and private marine restroom for guest use.
Will I get seasick?
Our vessel is equipped with a SeaKeeper® gyroscopic stabilizer, which helps minimize motion for a smoother, more enjoyable ride.
Is there narration during the trip?
Yes! A marine naturalist is on board to share engaging insights about whale behavior, migration patterns, and conservation.