KIHEI WHALE WATCH FIELD GUIDE
Afternoon Hydrophone Whale Watch from Kihei aboard the Makena Mele II
A lively 1.5-hour afternoon cruise from Kihei (Dec 15–Mar 30) with hydrophones, occasional dolphin encounters, and complimentary snacks and tropical drinks—this guide lays out the route, what to bring, and who can go.
Afternoon Hydrophone Whale Watch from Kihei aboard the Makena Mele II.
From Kihei’s boat ramp you slip aboard the Makena Mele II, a 40-foot speed-raft built for a splash-filled 90 minutes along Maui’s winter coast; the trip pairs close coastal scenery with the low, resonant song of humpbacks picked up on underwater hydrophones and the quick silver of passing dolphins when they appear.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Underwater Hydrophones Reveal Whale Song
The cruise carries onboard hydrophones so you can hear humpback vocalizations beneath the surface—an immediate, intimate way to connect with whales beyond the visual sightlines.
Occasional Dolphin Encounters
While the main focus is humpback whales, pods of dolphins sometimes join the ride—adding playful, fast-moving moments to the afternoon watch.
Makena Mele II: A 40‑Foot Speed‑Raft Experience
The outing runs aboard the Makena Mele II, a 40-foot speed-raft designed for an active, splash-forward cruise along Maui’s coast, served with complimentary snacks, tropical juices, and bottled water.
What the day feels like
What the Afternoon Feels Like
Check in early, listen to a captain’s safety briefing, then push off at 1:30pm for a brisk 1.5-hour run from the Kihei Boat Ramp: the outing is energetic—expect wind, spray, the call of the crew—and focused on locating whales while you listen on hydrophones and scan for dolphins; if weather or sightings prevent a proper watch, the operator offers a free return on the next available trip.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should skip it.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Afternoon departures run from December 15 through March 30; check-in is at 1:00 pm with departure at 1:30 pm for a 1.5-hour cruise.
Bring a light jacket or shawl, reef-safe sunscreen, a camera, and plan to tip the crew; complimentary snacks, tropical juices, and bottled water are provided onboard.
Meet at 2800 S. Kihei Rd., Kihei Boat Ramp; allow time to check in at 1:00 pm so the boat can depart at 1:30 pm sharp.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the whale watching cruise?
The trip is a 1.5-hour (90-minute) afternoon cruise.
When and where do I check in?
Check-in is at 1:00 pm at the Kihei Boat Ramp, 2800 S. Kihei Rd., prior to a 1:30 pm departure.
What happens if weather is too rough or no whales are seen?
Weather permitting: if conditions are too rough or no whales are seen, the operator allows a free return on the next available whale watch.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a light jacket or shawl, reef-safe sunscreen, a camera, and gratuities for the crew; the operator provides complimentary snacks, tropical juices, and bottled water.
Are there age or health restrictions?
Yes: participants must be at least 8 years old; pregnant women, persons with recent surgical procedures, and those with chronic, serious back or neck conditions are prohibited. Guests must be able to walk down the dock without assistance and individual weight is limited to 300 pounds.
What vessel is used for the cruise?
The outing runs aboard the Makena Mele II, a 40-foot speed-raft designed for an active whale-watch experience.