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10 best Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tours

Today, we will discuss the 10 best Molokini Crater snorkeling tours. I wrote another Molokini Crater review several years ago, but it’s written more as a review rather than talking about the best tour operators for Molokini Crater. 

If you have an upcoming Maui vacation, you’ve probably seen Molokini Crater snorkeling listed as one of the best things to do in Maui, and it is! Today, we’ll discuss the different options for snorkeling Molokini Crater. 

The best things to do in Maui are spread out. You’ll need a rental car; I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental. They offer the best prices on rental cars, and you can reserve now and pay upon arrival.

Molokini Crater Snorkeling FAQs:

Before we get to the best tours for Molokini Crater, let’s go over a few quick Molokini Crater FAQs. 

What is Molokini Crater?

Molokini Crater is a volcano atoll a few miles off the south coast of Maui. This Crater is what’s left from an eruption  230,000 years ago. Due to erosion, the cinder cone has since formed a crescent shape.

Can you spot Molokini Crater behind us in our wedding photos?

Can you go onto Molokini Crater?

You absolutely can NOT go on the shore of Molokini Crater. It is a bird sanctuary. 

Is Molokini Crater the best snorkeling in Maui?

In my opinion, Maui has the best snorkeling in Hawaii! Molokini Crater is definitely one of the best places to snorkel in Maui, if not the very best. 

Is a Molokini Crater snorkeling tour worth it?

Molokini Crater is 9 miles from the shore, so a tour is the only way to snorkel at Molokini Crater. While there are other great snorkeling spots around Maui, I always believe it’s worth it as it’s a fun experience! Most tours typically include meals and snacks, which are bonuses.

It can also be beneficial to have an experienced guide to assist you as needed, help identify fish, etc. Also, you can rest easy knowing these tours are doing their best to keep the reef safe!

Is Turtle Town the same as Molokini Crater?

Turtle Town is not the same as Molokini Crater. As a Hawaii Travel Agent, I’ve had many clients snorkel at Molokini Crater and later do a kayak tour of Turtle Town. However, some Molokini Crater tours, such as the Pacific Whale Foundation, will go to both spots!

When is the best time to snorkel at Molokini Crater?

If possible, I recommend a morning snorkel tour. The water is calmest in the morning, which means there is more visibility.

Can I go on a snorkel tour if I can’t swim?

Yes! Many snorkeling tours have glass-bottom boats. This is a great option for families if some family members are not strong swimmers and wish to stay on the boat. Most Molokini snorkeling tours have assistive devices, making enjoying Molokini Crater accessible to everyone. 

Now, let’s get to the best tours of Molokini Crater, starting with my personal favorite!

Pacific Whale Foundation

My favorite and the Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour I book most often for my clients is with the Pacific Whale Foundation. You’ll board a 54-foot, single-deck catamaran and visit two popular locations.

After starting at Molokini Crater, you’ll head to turtle town for more snorkeling and possible turtle sightings. Please remember that turtles, dolphins, and other wildlife are wild animals, so you may or may not see them! 

This tour includes continental breakfast, buffet lunch, and refreshments. There is a vegetarian option, and gluten-free is available if you inform them beforehand. As a Hawaii Travel Agent, I can take care of this for you!

My son getting ready to snorkel with Pacific Whale Foundation. 

Four Winds II

The Four Winds II is my second favorite and one I’ve been on multiple times. This is a great tour for families, including some “extras” like tattoos for kids, fun music, and a glass-bottom boat! There are also assistive devices, and this is one of the Molokini Crater snorkeling tours with a waterslide.

This tour includes breakfast, lunch, and beverages, including beer and wine. The tour will last approximately five hours. Snuba is also available at an additional charge.

Calypso

The Calypso is another favorite among my clients. After snorkeling at Molokini Crater, the journey continues to Turtle Town along the stunning Maui coastline, where you can swim alongside the graceful Hawaiian Green sea turtles.

Onboard the luxurious triple-decker catamaran, you’ll enjoy top-notch amenities, including a glass-bottom viewing room, snorkeling gear, and a delicious buffet lunch. Relax and rejuvenate with access to three restrooms and two freshwater showers while professional lifeguards ensure your safety.

Malolo charters

Malolo Charters is another 5 1/2-hour tour with breakfast, lunch, and non-alcoholic beverages. Alcohol, wetsuits, and Dramamine are available for purchase. 

Makena Coast Charters

Are you looking for something shorter? This 2-hour intimate snorkeling adventure is only for up to 19 passengers. The late-start tour allows you to enjoy a leisurely morning before embarking on a thrilling 15-20 minute ride to Molokini Crater or Turtle Town. Warning: This is NOT the best option for those who have issues with sea-sickness. 

Molokini Wild Side (Pacific Whale Foundation)

Get off the beaten path and dive into the wild side of Molokini with a 6-hour small-group eco-adventure.  This unique trip takes you to Molokini Crater, but what makes it unique is that you’re snorkeling on the BACK side of Molokini Crater! Many believe that snorkeling is even better here, as fewer boats and people are around. 

You’ll board a 64-foot single-deck catamaran and dive in for fantastic snorkeling. Afterward, you’ll cruise around Molokini’s dramatic red rock back wall, where you might spot various seabirds in their natural habitat.

As with the regular tour with the Pacific Whale Foundation, all the snorkeling gear is included, plus a continental breakfast and a buffet lunch.

Hawaii Nautical

Consider a Molokini Crater snorkel tour on a raft with Redline Rafting if you want a thrilling ride. This Molokini Crater tour departs in Kihei rather than Ma’alaea. This tour is not for those with neck or back injuries, those who are pregnant, or young children. Breakfast and lunch are included. 

Molokini Crater Zodiak

Molokini Crater Zodiak Adventure offers another half-day trip to Molokini Crater and Turtle Cove. You’ll hop on a boat and cruise to Molokini Crater, where you can dive in and snorkel at your own pace. 

This is another Molokini Crater Tour where you’ll visit Turtle Town. And don’t worry about meals—lunch, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks are included. 

Pride of Maui

On this all-inclusive excursion with Pride of Maui, you’ll enjoy delicious meals, snacks, and drinks (including alcohol) aboard the boat. Your guide will share insights about the stunning surroundings, known for its excellent visibility and vibrant marine life, especially sea turtles.

You can also try SNUBA at two fantastic locations while cruising on the largest Maxi Power Catamaran in Maui.

Wikiwiki with Pacific Whale Foundation

Want something a bit shorter? This “Wikiwiki” (quick) tour with Pacific Whale Foundation is perfect! This shorter small group tour incorporates an educational format to give guests a better understanding of marine life while checking Molokini off your bucket list and leaving you more time to enjoy the island.

best Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tours

I hope this list of the best Molokini Crater snorkeling tours helps you find the best tour operator. Need more help? 

As a Maui Travel Agent, I’m here to help with every aspect of your vacation! I go beyond finding a great resort and flight. I will work with you to help you book excursions and then create an itinerary crafted just for you with suggestions for filling your time in Maui. 

Contact me, and I’ll get back to you to start planning ASAP!

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