Maui’s pristine waters offer a unique opportunity to witness the captivating display of humpback whales in their natural habitat. This eco-friendly whale-watching tour, operated by a non-profit dedicated to ocean conservation, promises an immersive and unforgettable experience. Guests will embark on a spacious and comfortable boat, equipped with hydrophones to hear the whales’ enchanting songs, while enjoying a fresh, island-inspired lunch. With a guaranteed sighting and nearby parking, this tour provides a responsible and memorable encounter with these magnificent marine creatures. What sets this experience apart, however, is the dedication to environmental stewardship and the chance to learn about these gentle giants.
Key Points
- A 3-hour eco-friendly whale-watching tour operated by a non-profit organization dedicated to ocean protection, offering an immersive experience in the whales’ natural habitat.
- Spacious and comfortable boat with hydrophones to hear the whales’ underwater songs, along with a Jr. Naturalist Program to engage children.
- Fresh onboard lunch with island-inspired offerings, including a variety of beverages, complementing the whale-watching experience.
- Complimentary equipment rentals, such as reef-safe sunscreen, cameras, and binoculars, to enhance the whale-watching activities.
- Whale sightings guaranteed on every tour, with a free repeat tour if no whales are spotted, ensuring a high success rate in observing humpback whales.
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Tour Overview
This eco-friendly 3-hour whale-watch tour allows visitors to observe humpback whales in their natural habitat around Maui, where up to 12,000 humpbacks visit each year.
The tour is operated by a non-profit organization dedicated to ocean protection, ensuring an environmentally responsible experience.
Guests will board a spacious and comfortable boat to witness the whales’ behaviors and interactions, as well as hear their underwater songs using hydrophones.
The Jr. Naturalist Program engages children, while adults can enjoy a complimentary alcoholic beverage.
This tour guarantees whale sightings, or guests can take a free repeat tour.
Rentals of reef-safe sunscreen, cameras, and binoculars are also available.
Onboard Experience
Guests board a spacious and comfortable boat to witness the whales’ behaviors and interactions, as well as hear their underwater songs using hydrophones.
The Jr. Naturalist Program engages children, while adults can enjoy a complimentary alcoholic beverage.
The onboard experience offers:
- Opportunities to observe unique whale behaviors and social interactions.
- Hydrophones that allow guests to listen to the whales’ hauntingly beautiful songs.
- The Jr. Naturalist Program, which educates and entertains young passengers.
- One complimentary alcoholic beverage per adult to enhance the relaxing sailing experience.
This immersive whale-watching tour provides an unforgettable connection with these magnificent marine mammals in their natural habitat.
Meal and Refreshments
The fresh onboard lunch includes a variety of island-inspired offerings, such as island fruit, chips and salsa, pork/chicken sliders, bean salad, hummus, and bruschetta, capped off with decadent brownies. Guests can also enjoy unlimited soda, juice, and filtered water throughout the excursion.
| Menu Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Island Fruit | Locally sourced tropical fruits |
| Chips and Salsa | Crispy tortilla chips with zesty salsa |
| Pork/Chicken Sliders | Mini sandwiches with your choice of protein |
| Bean Salad | Refreshing mix of beans and vegetables |
| Hummus | Creamy Mediterranean-style spread |
The onboard refreshments provide a delicious complement to the whale watching experience, ensuring guests are well-fueled and hydrated throughout the tour.
Inclusions
Onboard hydrophones allow guests to hear the captivating underwater whale songs.
Complimentary filtered water, juices, sodas, and one alcoholic beverage per adult ensure their comfort and refreshment throughout the excursion.
The Jr. Naturalist Program engages children, fostering their fascination with the marine environment.
Rentals of reef-safe sunscreen, cameras, and binoculars are available for those who need them.
The tour’s inclusions provide a well-rounded and eco-friendly experience, catering to the needs of all guests.
Important Information
When visiting, guests must check in 45 minutes prior to departure.
Nearby parking is available for convenience.
All on-board purchases are cashless, requiring credit or debit cards only.
Unfortunately, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the boat’s design.
Plus, smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the excursion.
Guests should be aware of these important details before embarking on this deluxe whale watching adventure.
Adhering to the check-in time, payment method, and other policies will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
The tour providers prioritize safety and environmental responsibility, so travelers must respect the designated rules and regulations.
Whale Sightings Guarantee
This tour proudly offers a whale sightings guarantee – if no whales are spotted during the excursion, guests will receive a free repeat tour. The company is so confident in its ability to find these majestic creatures that they stand by this promise.
Some key details about the whale sightings guarantee include:
- Whale sightings are guaranteed on every tour.
- If no whales are seen, guests can rebook the tour for free.
The tour company has an excellent track record, with humpback whales spotted on over 99% of their excursions.
Experienced naturalist guides use specialized equipment to locate the whales and provide guests with the best possible viewing opportunities.
Rental Equipment
Guests can rent a variety of equipment directly from the tour company, including reef-safe sunscreen, cameras, and binoculars, to enhance their whale watching experience.
These rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis, making it easy for guests to access the necessary gear without having to bring their own.
The tour company understands the importance of protecting the delicate marine ecosystem, which is why they offer only reef-safe sunscreen for rent.
With these rental options, guests can focus on enjoying the stunning views and observing the majestic humpback whales without worrying about forgetting essential items.
Nearby Parking
The tour company provides nearby parking options for guests attending the Maui Deluxe Whale Watch Sail & Lunch.
There are several convenient parking spots within a short walking distance of the Ma’alaea Harbor departure point. Guests have the following parking options:
- Public parking lot located directly adjacent to the harbor, with ample spaces available.
- Metered street parking along Hauoli Street and other nearby roads.
- Private parking facilities at select nearby businesses, which may require a fee.
- Ride-sharing or taxi services to avoid the need for personal vehicle parking.
Guests are advised to arrive at least 45 minutes prior to departure to ensure ample time for parking and check-in procedures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?
The tour allows passengers to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks onboard. However, the company provides a complimentary fresh onboard lunch and unlimited soda, juice, and filtered water for all guests.
What Is the Policy on Tipping the Crew?
The tour operator doesn’t require tipping, but passengers can tip the crew if they feel the service was exceptional. Tipping is typically 15-20% of the total tour cost or $5-10 per passenger.
Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age or height restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages and abilities, though young children may require parental supervision. Guests should be able to board and move around the boat safely.
Is There an Option to Upgrade the Meal or Drink Package?
There’s no option to upgrade the meal or drink package on this tour. The tour includes a fresh onboard lunch, one complimentary alcoholic beverage per adult, and unlimited soda, juice, and filtered water. No additional upgrades are available.
Can I Bring My Own Audio/Visual Equipment to Use During the Tour?
Yes, guests can bring their own audio/visual equipment to use during the tour. The tour operator allows the use of personal cameras, binoculars, and other devices to capture the whale-watching experience.
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Recap
This eco-friendly whale-watching tour off the coast of Maui offers an immersive experience to observe humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Operated by a non-profit dedicated to ocean protection, the tour provides spacious boats, hydrophones, a Jr. Naturalist Program, and a fresh island-inspired lunch.
With a whale sightings guarantee and nearby parking, it’s an unforgettable and environmentally responsible encounter with these magnificent marine creatures.
