From Maalaea Harbor: Whale Watching Tours Aboard Winona Catamaran

Whale watching is a popular activity for visitors to Maui, and the Winona catamaran offers an exceptional opportunity to experience it. Departing from Maalaea Harbor, this tour provides a chance to witness the majestic humpback whales up close and even hear their enchanting songs through underwater hydrophones. With a maximum of 40 guests, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized adventure, complemented by stunning views and light refreshments. Whether you’re a seasoned whale watcher or a first-time explorer, this excursion promises to leave a lasting impression.

Good To Know

• Whale-watching adventure aboard the Hawaiian-built catamaran Winona, offering the chance to witness majestic humpback whales.
• Includes light snacks, beverages, and two adult beverages for guests 21 and over.
• Departing from Maalaea Harbor, the tour provides stunning views of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai.
• Moderate physical fitness recommended, with a maximum of 40 travelers and a minimum group size of 10.
• Flexible booking options, with a 97% recommendation rate and an overall rating of 4.8 based on 119 reviews.

Tour Overview and Experience

Join Winona, a Hawaiian-built catamaran, for an exciting whale-watching adventure.

Witness the majestic humpback whales as they breach and spout, and hear their haunting songs through underwater hydrophones.

Soak in the stunning views of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai while enjoying light snacks and beverages.

The tour lasts for a maximum of 40 travelers, with a minimum of 10 required.

Occasionally, you may spot playful dolphins as well.

This unique experience promises to be both educational and memorable.

Amenities and Inclusions

The Winona catamaran offers a range of amenities and inclusions to enhance the whale-watching experience.

Guests can enjoy light snacks and beverages, including two adult beverages for those 21 and over, as well as soft drinks, juice, and water.

The boat features island-style music and two restrooms for passenger convenience.

The tour also provides parking validation and hotel pickup/drop-off services.

For infants aged 0-6 months, parents must bring a Coast Guard-approved life vest.

These thoughtful inclusions ensure a comfortable and memorable whale-watching adventure aboard the Winona.

Meeting and Accessibility Information

Where’s the meeting point for the Winona catamaran whale-watching tour?

The tour departs from 233 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793. Guests must check-in 30 minutes before the scheduled activity start time.

The catamaran isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended, as the tour may not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues.

Guests should plan accordingly, as this whale-watching experience may involve some degree of physical activity.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly endorsed the Winona catamaran whale-watching tour, with 114 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate.

Earning an impressive 4.8 overall rating based on 119 reviews, the tour consistently earns praise for its friendly and knowledgeable crew, beautiful scenery, and memorable whale sightings.

Reviewers highlight the clean boat, attentive service, and educational experience about marine life.

The tour provides an exceptional value, with light snacks, beverages, and occasional dolphin encounters included in the starting price of $85.99 per person.

Customers appreciate the flexibility to book now and pay later, as well as the free cancellation policy.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Starting at $85.99 per person, the whale-watching tour aboard the Winona catamaran offers a Lowest Price Guarantee.

Customers can cancel their reservation for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and guests have the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

The tour is subject to good weather, and any cancellations due to poor conditions will result in a different date or a full refund.

With these flexible policies, travelers can book with confidence and enjoy a memorable whale-watching adventure aboard the Winona.

Whale Watching Highlights

The Winona catamaran’s whale-watching tours offer travelers a chance to witness the majestic humpback whales up close.

Guests can hear the whales’ songs through underwater hydrophones and enjoy stunning views of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai.

The tour also includes:

• Light snacks and beverages
• Occasional dolphin encounters
• A knowledgeable and friendly crew
• An educational experience about marine life

With a maximum of 40 travelers and a minimum group size of 10, the Winona whale-watching adventure provides an intimate and memorable encounter with these magnificent creatures.

Crew and Customer Service

Though the Winona catamaran’s whale-watching tours offer stunning views and educational experiences, the true highlights are the attentive crew and exceptional customer service.

Passengers consistently praise the crew’s friendliness, knowledge, and dedication to ensuring a memorable adventure. The staff expertly navigate the vessel, provide insightful commentary on marine life, and attend to guests’ needs with genuine care.

Whether it’s offering snacks, pouring beverages, or assisting with safety equipment, the Winona crew go above and beyond to create a seamless and enjoyable experience for all onboard.

Their commitment to exceptional service is a significant factor in the tour’s high customer satisfaction ratings.

Scenic Views and Marine Life Encounters

As passengers board the Winona catamaran, they’re immediately captivated by the stunning vistas that unfold before them. The sparkling azure waters of the Pacific Ocean stretch out to the horizon, while the lush, emerald-green slopes of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai rise majestically in the distance.

During the tour, guests have the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring presence of humpback whales. These gentle giants are often spotted breaching the surface, showcasing their impressive size and power.

Travelers may also be treated to the sights of playful dolphins and the chance to listen to the whales’ hauntingly beautiful songs through the boat’s underwater hydrophones.

• Panoramic views of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai
• Sightings of majestic humpback whales
• Potential encounters with dolphins
• Listening to the whales’ captivating songs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, light snacks and beverages are already included in the tour amenities, so bringing additional items may not be necessary.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Snorkeling or Swimming Gear?

Guests don’t need to bring their own snorkeling or swimming gear. The tour provides light snacks and beverages, and all necessary equipment is included. However, guests are advised to bring appropriate clothing and sun protection for the outdoor whale watching experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour offers discounts for children under 12, with tickets starting at $59.99. However, there are no specific senior discounts mentioned in the details provided. Guests should check with the tour operator for any available senior pricing.

Can We Purchase Photos or Videos of the Whales and Scenery?

Yes, guests can purchase photos and videos of the whales and scenery captured by the tour’s professional photographer. These digital souvenirs can be purchased after the tour for an additional fee.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration if We See More Whales?

The tour’s duration is fixed at a maximum of 40 travelers, but if guests spot more whales, they can extend the tour for an additional fee. The crew will accommodate the group’s interest in observing the whales for longer.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable whale-watching adventure aboard the Winona catamaran from Maalaea Harbor. With exceptional customer satisfaction and the opportunity to witness majestic humpbacks, this tour promises an unparalleled experience. Savor light refreshments as you soak in stunning island vistas and listen to the whales’ haunting songs. Whether a first-time or seasoned visitor, this tour offers unbeatable value for an exceptional Maui adventure.