WAILUKU SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Afternoon snorkel, BBQ and a Maui sunset aboard the Ocean Explorer
A three-hour, small-group cruise from Māʻalaea on the 34-passenger Ocean Explorer that pairs leeward snorkeling with an onboard BBQ, local brews and a coastline sunset—this guide helps you plan check-in, what to bring and age rules.
Afternoon snorkel, BBQ and a Maui sunset aboard the Ocean Explorer.
Step aboard the Ocean Explorer, PacWhale Eco-Adventures’ open-air 34-passenger catamaran, for a relaxed 3-hour small-group outing that blends afternoon snorkeling in crystal-clear leeward waters with an onboard BBQ and a coastline sunset—ideal for families, friends and couples who want an intimate way to experience Maui’s marine life and evening skies.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Snorkel reefs alive with tropical fish and green sea turtles
The afternoon portion drops you into leeward waters known for colorful reefs, tropical fish and frequent Hawaiian green sea turtle sightings, with a certified marine naturalist aboard to share context about what you find.
Small-group catamaran with a laid-back BBQ
Ocean Explorer is an open-air, 34-passenger catamaran with fewer guests onboard to keep the vibe personal; after snorkeling the trip features an onboard BBQ and local beers to wind down.
A coastline cruise capped by Maui’s famed sunset
After the swim and the meal, the voyage follows the coastline so you can relax with an ice-cold local brew and watch Maui’s sunset paint the sky—a signature finale to the afternoon outing.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
The rhythm is simple and island-focused: check in at the harbor store, head out to sheltered leeward snorkeling spots for a guided swim among reefs and turtles, return to the catamaran for an easygoing BBQ and drinks, then drift along the coast as the sun drops—three hours of marine encounters and mellow sunset viewing.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Approximately a 3-hour afternoon cruise; typical departure window is 3:30pm–6:30pm and check-in is required about 45 minutes before departure.
Bring sunglasses, a hat and a light jacket; low-soled shoes (no high heels), a towel and clothes to keep warm after snorkeling. Use reef-safe/mineral-based sunscreen (available in the store and onboard).
Check in at the Pacific Whale Foundation Ocean Store in the Māʻalaea Harbor Shops next to Maui Ocean Center. Vessels are cashless for purchases—bring a credit card; cash is accepted for gratuities only. Rentals available include 2mm wetsuit tops and binoculars while inventory lasts.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Maui Snorkel & Sunset Adventure?
The trip is approximately 3 hours.
Where and when do I check in?
Check in 45 minutes prior at the Pacific Whale Foundation Ocean Store in the Māʻalaea Harbor Shops, next to the Maui Ocean Center.
What is the minimum age to join?
Minimum age is 7 years old.
Are snorkeling locations and wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No—snorkel locations and wildlife sightings are weather-dependent and not guaranteed.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, a light jacket, low-soled shoes, a towel and clothes to keep warm after snorkeling; reef-safe/mineral-based sunscreen is recommended and available onboard and in the store.
What payment methods are accepted onboard?
Vessels are cashless for purchases—bring a credit card; cash is accepted for gratuities only.