Maui Tours
Molokini Crater Zodiak Adventure - Snorkel and Turtle Cove Swim
5

Molokini Crater Zodiak Adventure - Snorkel and Turtle Cove Swim

By Maui Reef Adventures
Recommended by 97% of travelers
97% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
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About
Get to snorkel Molokini Crater quickly on this rigid inflatable boat (RIB) snorkel adventure from Maui. This custom built craft reaches snorkeling spots faster than a traditional boat, allowing more time to explore the crystal clear waters and stay away from crowds. Enjoy a second snorkel in a protected turtle cove to swim among Hawaiian green sea turtles. Lunch, snacks and all snorkel equipment are included for your convenience.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 4-80, max of 35 per group
Duration: 4h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: English, Spanish
More

Highlights
  • Explore the world famous Molokini Crater on a RIB snorkel tour in Maui
  • Fast and fun way to snorkel the crater and Turtle Town in a small group setting
  • Swim among turtles and fish; away from crowds with experienced and friendly guides
  • IIncludes onboard lunch, and all snorkel gear for ease

  • Local taxes
  • Beverages
  • Professional guide
  • Use of Snorkelling equipment
  • Turkey Wrap or Veggie Sandwich
  • Assorted Snack Chips & Granola Bars
What's not included
  • Gratuities
  • Towels
  • Sunscreen/Sunglasses


Start:
  • 101 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793, USA
    Check in at Ma'alaea Harbor loading dock, located at the very end of the pier by the biodiesel station. The boat is yellow, and will dock at 7:30 am for boarding. All seating is first come, first serve. Please allow enough time to park prior to check in.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Near public transportation
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 45301P1

    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Check in time: 30 MINUTES PRIOR to departure for all tours.
    • Minimum age is 4 years old
    • Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
    • There are 25 seats with arm rests and additional seating along the tubes. All seating is first come, first serve.
    • Public Parking is available in Ma’alaea Harbor. PAY AT THE SECURE PARKING SIGNS VIA QR CODE AND ENTER YOUR LICENSE PLATE NUMBER.
    • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
    • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
    • The boat cannot be held for late passengers, so please be on time and check in at 7:30 a.m.
    • No large backpacks or luggage allowed on board
    • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
    • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 35 travelers

    • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

    The tour operator has provided the following answers to customers’ questions.
    Is a restroom available onboard?
    Yes, there are restroom facilities available onboard for your convenience.
    Answered Jun 2023

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 45301P1

    From
    $189.00
    per adult
    Select date and travelers

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    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • Maui Reef Adventures
      778
      Maui, Hawaii
      Joined in December 2016
    • OnAir700313
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      1st time snorkelers
      From the moment we were greeted by Ryan, we felt comfortable. Garret did a great job captaining our excursion and Jen was just the best instructing the snorkeling. It was our 1st time snorkeling, we were so pleased by the instruction and attention to safety given by the crew. They were amazing as was our snorkeling excursion.
      Written September 25, 2024
    • VacavilleSherry
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Just the best!!
      This is the snorkeling trip to choose in Maui!! It was recommended to me by a friend back home and I'm so glad I took her advice. Ryan and Esteban were friendly and very competent, going above and beyond in the experience they provided their guests. Molokini was crystal clear and beautiful. And the turtles! We swam right there among them, which was a bucket list item. An unforgettable experience!
      Written August 21, 2024
    • moodblu
      0 contributions
      3.0 of 5 bubbles
      Somewhat disappointing
      We had been booked for a whale excursion with a company in Lahaina, but our cruise stop in Lahaina was cancelled because of the recovery from the fires last summer, so we had to book a different one. We were somewhat disappointed in the excursion we went on with Maui Reef Adventures from our stop in Kahului. It was advertised as a “small group on a small zodiac boat”. Typically on trips we’ve been on, that has meant about 12 people, but there were 40 or 50 people on the boat, and the boat was not configured the best for moving around. If the whales were on the other side of the boat you were pretty much out of luck to see them. At the beginning the operators asked that everyone on the side the whales were stay seated so that all could see, but that was not how it really transpired. I was able to take only a few good pictures, mostly of the island from the boat. We did see some breaches, and some mother & baby whales cruising along. I love to see whales no matter what they are doing, and love the beauty of the islands and the sea, but this was not as nice as others we have been on in the past.
      Written April 20, 2024
    • 582ritat
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fast and Fun
      We love the smaller boat because it can get you to the whales faster- we spotted some out aways and Garret and Ryan made sure we made it to see them. Apparently it is the end of whale season but as they said the whales don' t have a calendar so we enjoyed a mom and her calves as well as another set and a male- lots of fun- the narration is spot on :)
      Written April 12, 2024
    • Inspiration697016
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Best whale watching boat and crew!
      Best whale watching tour we have been on. Ryan and Garret were the crew members that took us out to see the whales. They were informative and funny. They did an awesome job finding us whales to watch. This is the only whale watching tour I will go on from now on. We loved the raft boat.
      Written April 11, 2024
    • Psteever
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fasten your seatbelt . . .
      Lots of fun. Whales on their way north but saw a few. Crew was great and the ride was wet and bumpy - in a good way! Highly recommend
      Written April 7, 2024
    • MaleiaW
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Girlfriend Getaway Adventure!
      We were eight girlfriends on a getaway. Captain Brad and Estovan did a fabulous job ensuring we had an amazing adventure. We watched a week old calf learn to breach - he must have jumped 50+ times with his mother at his side teaching him the ins and outs of life as a whale. Despite rough seas, this boat was the most comfortable I have ever been on - everyone was just fine. It was a private charter and morning was not available. Trade winds do kick up around 1pm so go in the morning if you want calmer seas - however - we had a great time despite the windy seas! Mahalo Nui Loa for such an awesome time!
      Written April 4, 2024
    • MaleiaW
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Girlfriend Getaway!
      We were eight girlfriends (40+) on a getaway. Captain Brad and Estovan ensured we had a wonderful adventure. We watched a week old calf learning to breach - he must have jumped at least 50 times! His Mom was at his side teaching him the ins and outs of life as a whale. Despite rough seas, this was one of the most comfortable boats I have ever been in. Everyone was just fine. The music was perfect and made for a magical experience! Mahalo Nui Loa!
      Written April 4, 2024
    • ericda23
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Absolute BLAST!!!
      One of the best Whale watching trips we have been on!!! We have gone on a number of "larger" boats that were really fun, but nowhere near this type of experience. The boat is by far the quickest, with the most fun crew and got us right up into the whale action!!! Thank you to Maui Reef Adventures for an awesome trip!!!
      Written March 17, 2024
    • jfktraveling
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Highly recommend this whale tour!
      We had a great experience on this tour—saw lots of whales and the staff was great! Our expert Jen & the captain were both professional, knowledgeable & made sure the whole boat was comfortable and having a good time. I was worried the raft might feel choppy but it was a comfortable and smooth ride.
      Written March 4, 2024
    • E4086VMsylviak
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fun
      This was the second time we went on a whale watching tour with Maui Reef Adventures and it will not be our last one. The crew was always very nice, helpful, knowledgeable and fun. We had great whale encounters. We love sitting up front in that smaller yellow boat.
      Written March 1, 2024
    • Dream20358115120
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Excellent Whale Watching Excursion
      Top notch company. Professional and personable with excellent knowledge of the whales. Naturalist "Jenn" and Captain "Brad" make the whale watching excursion an experience not to be forgotten.
      Written February 24, 2024
    • gordonwD6462SB
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Whale Watching
      We decided to go whale watching as a family while in Hawaii and we were not disappointed! We were fortunate to go during February when the whales were very active. To top it off our guides, Ryan and Garrett were very knowledgeable, funny, and made the whole experience enjoyable.
      Written February 19, 2024
    • tanaz2024
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fantastic Whale Watch
      First whale watch for us. It may have spoiled us. So many whales and being in a super raft was awesome, We were at water level but felt very safe and secure. I would highly recommend giving them a try.
      Written February 18, 2024
    • karenl330
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Awesome adventure!
      This experience was amazing! So up close and personal with the whales! Garrett was a very knowledgeable guide and Slade was a great captain! We thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience!
      Written February 18, 2024
    See all 778 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

    Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

    Popular mentions

    5.0
    5.0 of 5 bubbles608 reviews
    Excellent
    570
    Very good
    23
    Average
    8
    Poor
    6
    Terrible
    1

    Ramneek A
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jul 2021 • Couples
    This is the one to book. If you're on the fence, don't be. I can't swim, but these guides make you feel so comfortable with the ocean that they convinced a freaked out 34 year old to go into the ocean and swim with the fishes. It was incredible and the team was outstanding. They were encouraging, thoughtful, relatable, and overall professional with their tour. They guided us to some turtles, provided information about the island (historical as well), and had excellent boating skills to bring us up behind the crater for some breathtaking views.

    This wasn't immediately obvious to me, but they provide multiple methods of floatation (noodles, life jackets, throwable rings, lifeguard) and make the whole experience extremely safe. The raft looks inflatable, but has a bathroom and is a wonderful small group experience. I much prefer this snorkeling experience over the larger groups because it is more intimate. You spend more time getting to know the guides, your group, and ultimately the reef because you aren't competing for space.

    Overall this experience was my favorite here in Maui. We've done the road to Hana, hikes to sunrise at the crater, seven sacred pools, hidden cove, etc, but this was my favorite.
    Written July 31, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Seth
    Los Gatos, CA1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Oct 2021
    OK, So let me tell you that I have been visiting Hawaii since the late 70's and lived on Oahu for a few years, and this is one of the best times I have had on a snorkeling trip.

    First, the crew: Captain Brad and Scottie set the tone for the whole trip. Captain Brad knows how to make you feel comfortable, relaxed, and part of a group. He brings you into conversations, makes you laugh, and makes the group feel like they are in it together. I was chatting with the other guests in no time. Also, he is really, really funny. And a small note I want to add as a person who has been on a lot of boats: He drives the boat, which is a powerful boat that can go pretty fast, in such a way as it limits spray in the face, even with big winds that Maui can send. It was fun and smooth. I don't get seasick, but I also noticed that even people from the midwest felt comfortable even after worrying about getting seasick. It's a small thing that just adds to the whole experience. But he also keeps you engaged with a great series of jokes and information about Maui, the ocean, and what we are passing by or over.

    The boat left on time, and while we were waiting for the last couple to get on, Brad and Scottie were chatting us up and answering questions and getting us excited about the day.

    We first stopped off to swim with some turtles, and he put us right in the midst of a great spot with a bunch of turtles.

    After diving with the turtles he took us to Molokini and the water was crystal clear for at least 30 meters. That is incredible visibility! There were lots of fish and the crew helped us with masks, fins, floats if needed, and I actually had a perfect fitting mask with no issues with fogging, which has been an issue for me before. I stayed in the water for a solid hour, and it felt like heaven. It was amazing. After the dive, we had lunch and he took us around the crater and then gave us an informative tour of the coast on the way back. It was incredible.

    But while the nature was amazing, the crew made the experience next level, and really made sure everyone was having a good time, and it was genuine. The guys are just good people and I can't wait to come back and bring my kids and friends. 5/5 totally recommend. In fact, I couldn't wait to review the experience, it was that good. I never leave reviews, but really wanted to tell people whats up with this outfit. Thanks Brad and Scott!
    Written October 4, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Rachelle B
    Metro Minneapolis-Saint Paul, MN2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Mar 2022 • Family
    Best snorkeling adventure you can book! Our family loved every minute of this! Esteban and Brad were fantastic guides who ensured the entire trip was memorable ❤️ From the unexpected opportunity to watch whales on our trip to and from the Crater, the endless sea turtles and amazing snorkeling, every expectation was exceeded!! We had two younger daughters (10 & 8) and they can't stop talking about the trip and how great Esteban was making sure they had everything they needed when they were on the boat. Thank you so much for everything ❤️ we will always book with this tour for future trips and recommend it to highly to everyone. Don't miss out on this one!!
    Written March 28, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you so much for your kind words! We are delighted to hear you enjoyed your trip. I will be sure to pass along your kind review to both Brad & Esteban.
    Written April 3, 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    V S
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Dec 2021
    As someone who is a frequent Maui visitor and hesitant to book “tours”… this booking DID NOT DISSAPOINT! Forget the LARGE boat tours where you feel like cattle (moooo). I felt like VIP when snorkeling Molokini, swimming with turtles and whale watching. The boat fits a small amount of people (VIP experience) and glides above the ocean fabulously. Captain Alex took us to wonderful places (where the LARGE boats can’t go) providing fun facts about Maui along the way. Did I mention the boat’s underwater speaker that allows you to hear whales singing! Best experience ever!!! Def booking again when I return.
    Written December 22, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    srogan354
    Maryland20 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jan 2020 • Family
    The day starts early. But totally worth getting out of bed at 5 am on vacay. The Captain and Brianna were amazing, friendly, and funny. We are peak whale season and they stopped so we could hear and see whales and we saw lots of whales. We went to Turtle Town first. The turtles were cool. A giant one swam really close under me. Otherwise just a few fish there. Then we went to that back of the crater - most boats can't go there. We snorkeled there for a few minutes just to check it out. Then went to the front of the crater. We got lucky and not too many boats were there so not over crowded. We snorkel there for another 45 minutes. Seemed like the perfect amount of time. They provided Turkey wraps and they are excellent. They also had granola bars for snacks and then juice and chips with lunch. I did bring other snacks and food for my picky eaters. Definitely bring a light jacket for trip out. I recommend using a float or noodle while snorkeling because I could literally float along watching the fish. They provided everything you need. Great trip. I highly recommend Maui Reef Adventure. I recommend a waterproof camera.
    Written January 24, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    LadyStone50
    Reno, NV140 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Magical day! The captain and mate were charming and very knowledgeable. They took great care of people with special needs as well as timid swimmers and young children. The captain took us to a turtle area first, where our boat was the only boat there and we swam with at least 20 turtles!! They gave explicit instructions on not approaching the turtles and letting them come to us. It was very clear that they had a deep respect for the animals. After an hour with the turtles, we continued to Molokini. It was great because by the time we arrived, several larger tour groups were leaving and the reef was y crowded and our time in the water was amazing! On the way back to port, we were treated to a pod of bottle nose dolphins who swam around and under us for several minutes. A most excellent end to a perfect day.
    Written October 23, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Laura K
    Atlanta, GA1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jun 2021 • Friends
    The Molokai Crater Zodiac Snorkel and Turtle Cove Swim is incredible and I highly recommend it. Snorkeling with the sea turtles is a once in a lifetime experience. I could not believe I was actually swimming with sea turtles. The crew often pointed out turtles for us. The crater is exotic and full of fish.
    The crew stands out because they made the trip great fun, so helpful, funny, and willing to go the extra mile for everyone. The boat is adorable and fast. This was a top experience and I will recommend it to all. What a great day we had.
    Written June 12, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Scott F
    Greenville, SC1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Sep 2021 • Couples
    Molokini crater on the Reef Explorer exceeded our expectations. Brad and Scotty are phenomenal hosts and super knowledgeable about the best spots to snorkel. Breakfast pastries, drinks and sandwiches were a great addition. I highly recommend this trip as the Reed Explorer is a way better experience than traditional boats. Awesome time!
    Written September 27, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Joan S
    Morrisville, NC22 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is my first real snorkeling experience and we had a great time. The tour stopped at 2 spots for snorkeling, first to see the green turtles in very still calm water, then to the molokini crater to see other reef fishes in beautiful clear blue water. After the snorkeling, captain Brad took us for whale watching and we had at least 5 sightings. This couldn't be more perfect and our family had a great time and made us want to do more snorkeling in the future. Also, just little things that are really thoughtful. They spray anti fogging so the goggles are always nice and clear. They also provide floating rings and noodles that makes snorkeling for less confident swimmer a breeze. The snorkeling gear is great quality. Thanks Brad and Riley for taking good care of everyone and showing us a great time. No motion sickness. We were so glad we picked this vs other big catamaran types of operation.
    Written January 3, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Jessica P
    Allen, TX10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Had a fabulous time snorkeling in Maui. The team was extremely friendly and helpful. They played beach tunes while we sailed out to an area where they knew several sea turtles hung out and we got to see several. Then we moved on to Molokai crater. Water was an amazing sapphire blue, crystal clear. The fish were not afraid of people and came up to us.

    Only thing we wished we knew before going was that there is limited parking at the harbor. We spent 15 minutes driving around looking for a spot and almost missed the boat. Literally had to run to the end of the pier. There is paid public parking lot down the road at the Marine Center but it’s a walk so give yourself at least half an hour to park and walk to the end of the pier.
    Written July 13, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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    Molokini Crater Zodiak Adventure - Snorkel and Turtle Cove Swim provided by Maui Reef Adventures

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