On the Water
2 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 96% of travelers
96% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$141
per adult
Blue Water Rafting
Blue Water Rafting
5
Scuba & SnorkellingBoat ToursDolphin & Whale WatchingNature & Wildlife Tours
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Full view
About
Explore the sea caves and lava arches of Maui's remote and rugged Kanaio Coast on the most invigorating snorkeling adventure that Maui has to offer.
Kihei, Hawaii
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Improve this listingTours and Tickets by Blue Water Rafting
On the Water
1–2 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 100% of travelers
100% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$88
per adult
Ports of Call Tours
3 hours
Free cancellation
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from
$163
per adult
Jet Boat Rentals
5–6 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 94% of travelers
94% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$217
per adult
On the Water
2–3 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 94% of travelers
94% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$152
per adult
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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
2,405 reviews
Excellent
2,174
Very good
126
Average
33
Poor
24
Terrible
48
bornoncapecod
Greenwich, CT20 contributions
Apr 2021
We booked the Molokini Plus 3-hour snorkel for the Molokini Crater and Turtle Cove. We were fortunate to have Brian and Dave as our guides. Brian was full of interesting commentary throughout the trip and Dave was excellent at handing some rough waters given the tradewinds that started a bit early around 8:30am. I highly recommend doing the 7am tour as water is calmer and visibility is improved. We were one of the 1st boats out to Molokini which was a plus - took about 15-20 minutes from the Kehei boat ramp vs. the longer ride for the bigger boats that have to come from the harbor. Only downside of our trip was that the tradewinds and choppiness picked up earlier and expected so we couldn't do the 2nd snorkel as water was not clear and it was getting a bit rough. The operator was super fair and provided us a refund for the 2nd part of the trip. I would highly recommend but only if you can get the 7am trip and go to Molokini first stop as that is the highlight.
Written April 19, 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.
Elise C
15 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
This is the best snorkeling experience I’ve ever had. To be fair, we left very early, the water was particularly calm and the sun was bright so the visibility was exceptional that day. The Molokini crater is teeming with activity and we saw almost every species of Hawaiian fish at this location. It really doesn’t matter which boat you take to get there. I chose blue water rafting because they were inexpensive and can only take small groups which means a smaller crowd and more time in the water. It’s also a smooth breezy enjoyable ride. The crew members were entertaining, knowledgeable and very mindful of safety. Lunch and snacks were good too. The best part was that it left from the Kihei boat ramp right near our condos. Most of the big boat tours leave from the Ocean Center which means getting up waaay earlier to check in. This isn’t about the boat, it’s about the adventure of swimming with schools of tropical fish and green sea turtles and fingers crossed, catching some spinner dolphins in action.
Written September 24, 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.
Jonathan L
Boca Raton, FL19 contributions
May 2021 • Couples
We booked this trip last minute when all other larger boats booked up- highly recommend as it’s only 15 min to
molikini and you get maximum snorkel time. They follow you and offer equipment if needed. Best way to get there and back to Maui quickly !
molikini and you get maximum snorkel time. They follow you and offer equipment if needed. Best way to get there and back to Maui quickly !
Written May 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.
Becky J
Schaumburg, IL6 contributions
Mar 2020
I had a great adventure with Capt. Jimmy and Brian on March 5, 2020! We briefed at 7:30 am at the Kihei Boat Launch next to Kamaole Beach III, sailed at 8:00 am. The ocean was calm, skies clear we must have seen at least 24 whales! Capt Jim got us as close as possible to Mama and baby whales, heard the whales singing, saw breaches! It was very exciting, very safe, look forward to going again next year! Becky J
Written March 10, 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.
williamwhims
Chicago, IL4 contributions
Mar 2021 • Family
Review of Kanaio Coast!
Started the morning at the boat launch, had no issues finding who to check in with, hint, they were wearing blue! We were sorted quickly to the boat and our captain (they had 3 boats this day). Boarded the boat easily and took off. We were lucky enough to have Cpt Ashley and Cpt Joey on our boat, both were full of knowledge about the coast, water, history, and wildlife. The ride was smooth but not to smooth of course! We loved the Zodiac ride, my 12 year old and two younger girls 4-6ish were fine and loved the ride! The cliffs created from the old lava flows and the south side of the island were beautiful, you get up and close and can see the different layers, caves, and arches! The snorkeling was great, we saw plenty of fish, due to the tides we ended up in Molokini and got to do the front and back sides! Both going out and coming in we saw over a dozen whales, waving and breaching even though this wasn’t a whale tour. We have been to Hawaii a few times and have done multiple snorkeling tours, the smaller group, type of boat, cost, friendliness of the staff, and the uniqueness of their tours set these guys apart, will be back every time we’re in Maui.
Included: water, juices, fruit, sandwiches and cookies. Cookies really are home made! Snorkeling gear.
Bring: Towels, sunscreen, waterproof camera. They have accessible dry storage on the boat. Sense of adventure, you’ll get a lot more out of this then the big boat tours.
Started the morning at the boat launch, had no issues finding who to check in with, hint, they were wearing blue! We were sorted quickly to the boat and our captain (they had 3 boats this day). Boarded the boat easily and took off. We were lucky enough to have Cpt Ashley and Cpt Joey on our boat, both were full of knowledge about the coast, water, history, and wildlife. The ride was smooth but not to smooth of course! We loved the Zodiac ride, my 12 year old and two younger girls 4-6ish were fine and loved the ride! The cliffs created from the old lava flows and the south side of the island were beautiful, you get up and close and can see the different layers, caves, and arches! The snorkeling was great, we saw plenty of fish, due to the tides we ended up in Molokini and got to do the front and back sides! Both going out and coming in we saw over a dozen whales, waving and breaching even though this wasn’t a whale tour. We have been to Hawaii a few times and have done multiple snorkeling tours, the smaller group, type of boat, cost, friendliness of the staff, and the uniqueness of their tours set these guys apart, will be back every time we’re in Maui.
Included: water, juices, fruit, sandwiches and cookies. Cookies really are home made! Snorkeling gear.
Bring: Towels, sunscreen, waterproof camera. They have accessible dry storage on the boat. Sense of adventure, you’ll get a lot more out of this then the big boat tours.
Written April 10, 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.
Dawg98
San Diego, CA1 contribution
Jul 2021 • Couples
We must have gotten the captain on a bad day or just the wrong captain. He went out of his way to antagonize and demean guests and was open about his hatred of tourists, which is ironic because you are a captain of a tourist vessel and our group was pretty chill. He did this all under the guise of safety. You can set a serious tone about safety and still be a chill warm person. He seriously threatened to kick people off the boat for bringing bananas on board. Not in a joking way, as in a posturing sort of way. It was out of left field and very jarring from the get go. He treated it like we just jumped on his ship and expected a fun time, we did pay you a lot of money you know.
Talon, on the other hand, was excellent. I wish he was the captain for us or someone with a more chill vibe.
Talon, on the other hand, was excellent. I wish he was the captain for us or someone with a more chill vibe.
Written July 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.
jstinehour
Seoul, South Korea29 contributions
Jan 2022
We went on the duel Molokini snorkeling and Whale Watching excursion (leaving at 10:30am). We enjoyed the experience so much we booked another excursion. The second excursion was the three hour snorkeling tour. High opinion of both crews (Captain Scott and Charlie).
A couple of points.
If you have any interest in snorkeling, then experiencing Molokini is a great time. I only snorkel when I travel to exotic locations (like Hawaii) and I get a kick out of Molokini (and the duration is good - since snorkeling can get tiring). The team provides gear and walks you through the basics on how to make best use of the gear. As important, the team gives tips on where to snorkel. During our dedicated snorkeling tour, the team made the wise decision to stop at two locations at Molokini instead of shore location because of the sea conditions. I only appreciated the wisdom of the decision the next day when I rented snorkel gear and attempted to snorkel near the shore (awful visibility conditions that day).
The other major point is the team's demeanor and approach. When you get out of your comfort zone (which is the water to me), I like an authority who are equal parts competent and likeable. I don't enjoy when people with a big experience advantage over me, make me feel small and uncomfortable. The Blue Water team was welcoming from the outset. Check-in was clear and seamless. From there, the team does an excellent job of imparting the necessary safety protocols (and reiterating) without destroying a fun atmosphere. I felt safe the entire time and always enjoyed the interactions with the captain and crew.
Regarding whales, truly majestic creatures. While they keep to their own schedule, even distance glimpses have a strange allure. We actually managed better luck with the whales during the dedicated snorkeling than the whale watch (just luck).
My suggestion is to book (if possible) the earliest expedition possible for the longest duration you can endure. And remember a towel.
A couple of points.
If you have any interest in snorkeling, then experiencing Molokini is a great time. I only snorkel when I travel to exotic locations (like Hawaii) and I get a kick out of Molokini (and the duration is good - since snorkeling can get tiring). The team provides gear and walks you through the basics on how to make best use of the gear. As important, the team gives tips on where to snorkel. During our dedicated snorkeling tour, the team made the wise decision to stop at two locations at Molokini instead of shore location because of the sea conditions. I only appreciated the wisdom of the decision the next day when I rented snorkel gear and attempted to snorkel near the shore (awful visibility conditions that day).
The other major point is the team's demeanor and approach. When you get out of your comfort zone (which is the water to me), I like an authority who are equal parts competent and likeable. I don't enjoy when people with a big experience advantage over me, make me feel small and uncomfortable. The Blue Water team was welcoming from the outset. Check-in was clear and seamless. From there, the team does an excellent job of imparting the necessary safety protocols (and reiterating) without destroying a fun atmosphere. I felt safe the entire time and always enjoyed the interactions with the captain and crew.
Regarding whales, truly majestic creatures. While they keep to their own schedule, even distance glimpses have a strange allure. We actually managed better luck with the whales during the dedicated snorkeling than the whale watch (just luck).
My suggestion is to book (if possible) the earliest expedition possible for the longest duration you can endure. And remember a towel.
Written January 16, 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.
Serena T
Carlsbad, CA20 contributions
Jul 2022
WOW!!! Captain Scott and Kanoe were the best guides I could have asked for. We have been snorkeling many times at locations all around the world (we have even been to Molokini before) but the caves and the exhilarating boat ride made this experience one of the most memorable for my family that included 4 teenagers! This truly felt like a once in a lifetime experience with the sites and knowledge of the tour guides. It was a tad chilly and windy at the beginning, so I recommend bringing a wind breaker, but I think the weather we had was a little unexpected. Even still, these guys made the experience so fun and entertaining I was sad when it was over. I plan to book with these guys again the next time I come back to Maui for sure!!! I had such a great time I forgot to take pictures, but I felt like I was viewing something from the movies with special effects when we were touring the caves, exploring the drop off of Molokini, and swimming with turtles!
Written July 6, 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.
Palmtree123
California1 contribution
Oct 2021 • Family
The worst customer service I have experienced on the island in the 10 years I’ve been coming here .They don’t cancel snorkel tours when the water is unsafe when other companies do. They tell you to cancel 24 hours in advance for a refund but don’t have the phone line open in order for you to do so. The water was so rough and unsafe (even per Guidelines put out by hawaiibeachsafey.com) we didn’t set foot off of the boat. After the fact is when I found out that an “extreme” hazard warning has already been issued and was ignored. I feel foolish for trusting that the captain wouldn’t put us in danger.Those who did snorkel for the short amount of time came back in the boat winded and out of breath after 10 minutes or so because the water was so choppy. The only pleasant thing on the boat was Jake who was one of the guides. Poor guy was trying to be cool. That company doesn’t deserve him. He should go elsewhere.
Then when I called to discuss it with them, the person on the phone continuously interrupted me and wouldn’t let me speak. I don’t think she was even a manager, just an angry woman who acts as one. When I asked her if they follow the ocean safety warnings She told me no, and it was up to the Captain if it’s safe.
Not customer friendly at all. I’ve used Redline before and that’s who I will use from now on and will tell the many people I know who come here the same thing. Redline cancelled their tours that day due to the extreme offshore condition warning and Blue Water should have done the same.
These people know better. They know it’s not safe to snorkel along the shoreline or at Molokini when the conditions are like that. Shame on this company for putting profit over safety of my family and others. I suggest using a company that follows water safety warnings.
A full refund would have been appropriate, but even some respect and a partial refund would have been acceptable. After the trip and after speaking with customer service I can see they wanted to keep my money even at the expense of my family’s safety.
Then when I called to discuss it with them, the person on the phone continuously interrupted me and wouldn’t let me speak. I don’t think she was even a manager, just an angry woman who acts as one. When I asked her if they follow the ocean safety warnings She told me no, and it was up to the Captain if it’s safe.
Not customer friendly at all. I’ve used Redline before and that’s who I will use from now on and will tell the many people I know who come here the same thing. Redline cancelled their tours that day due to the extreme offshore condition warning and Blue Water should have done the same.
These people know better. They know it’s not safe to snorkel along the shoreline or at Molokini when the conditions are like that. Shame on this company for putting profit over safety of my family and others. I suggest using a company that follows water safety warnings.
A full refund would have been appropriate, but even some respect and a partial refund would have been acceptable. After the trip and after speaking with customer service I can see they wanted to keep my money even at the expense of my family’s safety.
Written October 11, 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.
michele h
1 contribution
Jul 2021
Blue Water Rafting was not responsible for the poor weather conditions, however, it should have been explained at the beginning of the tour that we would not be able to snorkel in certain areas as promised. After an hour of riding on the raft, we asked the Deckhand if we were going to be able to snorkel and we were told we were being taken to lava caves where the water and wind is always calm. We never even saw those caves or were told why we didn't go there.
The captain was very unprofessional and argued with the Deckhand constantly. Both the Deckhand and Captain were rude in their tone to paying customers. In fact, I've never heard more paying customers apologize.
Overall, this tour failed in communication. Like said above, obviously they are not responsible for the weather conditions, but they are responsible for the way they treat their customers.
I would not take this tour again, nor would I recommend it to anyone else.
The captain was very unprofessional and argued with the Deckhand constantly. Both the Deckhand and Captain were rude in their tone to paying customers. In fact, I've never heard more paying customers apologize.
Overall, this tour failed in communication. Like said above, obviously they are not responsible for the weather conditions, but they are responsible for the way they treat their customers.
I would not take this tour again, nor would I recommend it to anyone else.
Written July 8, 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.
Kelly H
Maui, Hawaii
Do you offer ponchos so you stay a little dry and warmer while the boat is driving?
Written May 19, 2021
BLUE WATER RAFTING
Kihei, Hawaii
Aloha,
We offer rain jackets! Let the Captain or Crew know when you want one. Mahalo
Written October 20, 2021
Do you offer snuba option on your Molokini express? If so, how much is cost extra? Thanks!
Written June 3, 2019
BLUE WATER RAFTING
Kihei, Hawaii
Mahalo for your question! Unfortunately, due to the size of the vessels we operate, we are unable to offer this option.
Written July 31, 2019
Carla P
Mililani, Hawaii
what is the price )kamaaina( for the shortest ride? and would you accept 2 small dogs.?
Written May 29, 2018
BLUE WATER RAFTING
Kihei, Hawaii
Hi Carla,
Please give us a call at 808-891-1497 for more information about kama'aina pricing for our Molokini express trip (our shortest trip). Mahalo!
Written June 25, 2018
Can you accommodate a vegan diet on the 5 1/2 hour trip?
Written February 10, 2018
I specified that I was vegan in the comments section at booking and they provided a special set aside sandwich for me at lunch time which was delicious! They were very accommodating.
Written July 10, 2018
Can I purchase tickets prior to arrival?
Written February 12, 2017
BLUE WATER RAFTING
Kihei, Hawaii
Aloha Julie!
Yes, you can absolutely purchase tickets online or by calling us. You can do this on our website (they don't allow us to post links on TripAdvisor, but there should be one in our profile!)
We are currently offering a discount if you book 5 days or more in advance - this should give you a better chance of getting on the tour you want!)
Looking forward to seeing out out with us!
Mahalo,
Mark
Written February 13, 2017
How long of a drive should i plan for? Coming from Marriott Lahaina Napoli towers. Want to plan on the all day excursion
Written January 29, 2017
BLUE WATER RAFTING
Kihei, Hawaii
Hi jsbello1!
As TomW6982 suggests, about an hour is an accurate estimate. If you're choosing the longest tour we offer, you should arrive back to the dock with enough time to have a nice drive back to Lahaina (I suggest stopping at a few places on the drive back: South Kihei Road shops, shave ice, scenic lookouts on the road back to Lahaina, etc.!) While Blue Water can show you the ocean view and the South Side of Maui (Kanaio Coast), your drive back will give you a well-rounded view and different perspective from the highway!
Written January 30, 2017
Do you offer pickup/drop off at marriott Lahaina ocean club resort? Want to book for march
Written January 29, 2017
BLUE WATER RAFTING
Kihei, Hawaii
Hi jsbello1!
Unfortunately, we do not offer transportation services at this time. Sometimes your hotel can help arrange transportation. We hope to see you in March!
Mahalo,
Mark
Written January 29, 2017
September.... swimming with dolphins...is this seasonal For example whales sightings are seasonal. Are dolphins seen all year round in September October ??
From v at noosa australia
Written January 30, 2016
Thank you for your review of the 5 1/2 hour trip as this is the one we're looking at doing in December. We have also considered diving instead of this tour since we're all certified but I've heard good things and a friend of mine that used to live and work on Maui says it's a must. Are there any discounts available anywhere for this tour? This trip is going to be more budget conscious for us and we want to squeeze highlights in if at all possible. Please let me know!
Written August 20, 2015
The trip is exciting and fun, with plenty of fish experiences. I do not believe they have discounts. The trip is worth the price. just be aware of the jolting ride. have fun!!
Written August 21, 2015
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