From Maalaea Harbor: Whale Watch Cruise Aboard the Malolo

The Malolo, a premier whale watching vessel, departs from Maalaea Harbor on the island of Maui. For those seeking an unforgettable encounter with the majestic humpback whales, this two-hour cruise promises a thrilling experience. With a professional crew and a suite of amenities, the Malolo cruise offers a hassle-free adventure to connect with nature during the peak whale watching season from mid-December to mid-April. What makes this excursion truly exceptional, however, is the chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Good To Know

• The Malolo whale watch cruise departs from Maalaea Harbor, which is the best spot in Hawaii for humpback whale sightings.
• The 2-hour cruise operates from mid-December to mid-April and can accommodate up to 66 travelers.
• Onboard amenities include underwater hydrophones, professional crew, and the option to rent wetsuits and underwater cameras.
• Refreshments like ice-cold sodas, juices, and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, and all taxes and gratuities are included.
• The cruise is designed for a hassle-free experience, with a mandatory check-in 30 minutes prior to departure and no hotel pickup/drop-off service.

Overview and Experience

The Whale Watch Cruise aboard the Malolo offers a 2-hour whale watching experience from Maalaea Harbor, which is considered the best location in Hawaii for spotting humpback whales.

The seasonal tour operates from mid-December to mid-April, accommodating up to 66 travelers per cruise. Guests can listen to whale songs through underwater hydrophones and enjoy the company of the professional and friendly captain and crew.

The catamaran features a shady cabin, two restrooms, and offers cold refreshments for purchase, making it a comfortable and convenient way to witness these magnificent marine creatures.

Inclusions and Amenities

Along With the professional and friendly captain and crew, the Whale Watch Cruise aboard the Malolo offers a range of amenities to enhance the experience.

Onboard, passengers can listen to the whales’ songs through underwater hydrophones. Refreshments like ice-cold sodas, juices, and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.

The vessel also features a shady cabin and two restrooms for comfort. Wetsuits and underwater cameras can be rented, allowing guests to capture the whales up close.

All taxes and gratuities are included in the price, making the experience hassle-free.

Meeting and Check-in Information

Travelers meet at Boss Frogs Snorkel, Surf, and Cycle, located at 300 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793.

Mandatory check-in is 30 minutes prior to departure.

Hotel pickup/drop-off isn’t included, but the location is near public transportation and open to service animals.

The key meeting and check-in details are:

1. Meeting point: Boss Frogs Snorkel, Surf, and Cycle
2. Check-in: 30 minutes before departure
3. No hotel transportation provided
4. Public transport and service animals welcome

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Customers have shared their experiences through 71 reviews, awarding the whale watch cruise an overall rating of 4.5 stars.

Positive comments praise the knowledgeable and friendly crew, as well as the great family experience and many whale sightings.

However, some customers complained about misleading information regarding parking fees and drink costs.

Suggestions for improvement focused on the boat condition and viewing arrangements.

Important Information and Policies

The whale watch cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate physical fitness level is required.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum drinking age is 21. Guests should be aware of the following policies:

1. 48-hour notice is required for cancellations or rescheduling.
2. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
3. Service animals are welcome, and the tour is near public transportation.
4. Wetsuits and underwater cameras are available for rent.

Whale Watching Season and Location

Although the whale watching season in Hawaii lasts from mid-December to mid-April, the Malolo catamaran offers the best location for spotting humpback whales.

Departing from Maalaea Harbor, the 2-hour cruise takes guests to the prime whale watching spot where these majestic creatures are most frequently observed.

With a maximum capacity of 66 travelers, the Malolo provides an intimate and personalized experience to witness the whales’ fascinating behaviors up close.

Whether it’s the awe-inspiring breaches or the enchanting whale songs, the Malolo cruise ensures an unforgettable whale watching adventure during the prime season.

Onboard Facilities and Features

Onboard the Malolo, travelers can utilize a range of amenities to enhance their whale watching experience.

The catamaran features:

1. Underwater hydrophones to listen to the captivating songs of humpback whales.
2. A shady cabin and two restrooms for comfort during the journey.
3. The availability of ice cold sodas, juice, and alcoholic beverages for purchase.
4. Optional wetsuit and underwater camera rentals for those seeking a more immersive experience.

The friendly and professional crew is on hand to ensure a memorable outing.

With these thoughtful onboard features, the Malolo whale watch cruise provides an engaging and convenient way to witness the wonders of Hawaii’s marine life.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Travelers must check in at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

The whale watch cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum drinking age is 21.

Cancellations or rescheduling require 48-hour notice, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Gratuities and all taxes and fees are included in the ticket price.

Wetsuits and underwater cameras are available for rent.

The tour is open to service animals and is near public transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included?

The whale watching cruise includes all taxes and fees. There are no additional charges, except for optional rentals and purchases of drinks and snacks onboard.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

Passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks onboard, but they can purchase cold sodas, juices, and alcoholic beverages from the crew. Outside food and drinks are not permitted on the cruise.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Cruise?

There is no minimum age requirement for the whale watching cruise, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Families with young children are welcome to join the tour.

How Often Do You Typically See Whales During the Season?

Whale sightings are very common during the December to April season, with travelers typically encountering multiple whales on each cruise. The high concentration of humpback whales in the area results in near-guaranteed wildlife encounters.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The company doesn’t offer any discounts or package deals. Prices are standard for the whale watching cruise, though customers can rent wetsuits and underwater cameras for an additional fee if desired.

The Sum Up

The Malolo whale watching cruise from Maalaea Harbor offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat. With a professional crew, comfortable amenities, and a prime location, this two-hour excursion ensures an unforgettable encounter with nature. Don’t miss your chance to experience the thrill of whale watching during the peak season from mid-December to mid-April.