Maui Snorkeling Molokini Crater and Turtle Town

If you’re dreaming of exploring Maui’s vibrant marine life and stunning underwater scenery, a snorkeling trip to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town might be on your list. While we haven’t personally joined this tour, plenty of travelers rave about it, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of scenic boat rides, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to swim alongside sea turtles makes it a compelling option for many visitors.

What we really like about this trip is how it balances comfortable, spacious boat conditions with amazing snorkeling spots, plus the all-inclusive food and drinks onboard. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour can be quite popular, and the large group size might make it a little crowded at times—something to consider if you prefer a more intimate experience.

This tour seems well-suited for first-time snorkelers, families, or anyone keen on exploring marine life without too much fuss. If you’re looking for a day of relaxed adventure with plenty of comforts and good company, this could be a great choice.

Key Points

• Spacious, stable boat: The Pride of Maui is the largest Maxi Power Catamaran on Maui, offering plenty of room and comfort for guests.
• Excellent marine visibility: Molokini Crater is renowned for its clarity, giving snorkelers a clear view of underwater volcanic formations and marine creatures.
• Marine life encounters: Turtle Town is home to Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles in their natural setting, making it a favorite for wildlife sightings.
• All-inclusive experience: Includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks (alcoholic beverages included), making it a relaxed, hassle-free day.
• SNUBA option: For an extra fee, you can try SNUBA—swimming up to 15 feet underwater with expert instructors—adding extra fun to your day.
• Family-friendly with some considerations: Kids of all ages seem to enjoy the water slide and boat comforts, but the tour’s large group size might be less ideal for those looking for quiet or private adventures.

What to Expect on the Tour

This five-hour trip begins bright and early, with check-in at 7:30am at Maalaea Harbor. You’ll board the Pride of Maui, which is designed for comfort and stability—important when you’re out on the open water. With capacity for 149 guests but operating at only about 60% capacity, you’ll find plenty of space to spread out, relax, and enjoy the views.

Once out on the water, you’ll cruise to Molokini Crater, a sunken volcanic caldera renowned for its remarkable underwater visibility—sometimes up to 100 feet. This site is a true highlight, offering a unique opportunity to swim through a partially submerged volcanic crater, surrounded by vibrant coral formations and an abundance of tropical fish. The calm waters here are perfect for snorkelers of all experience levels, and guides are always on hand to help beginners feel secure.

After exploring Molokini, you’ll head over to Turtle Town, a series of underwater lava formations where Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles gather in their natural habitat. As one of the most popular spots, Turtle Town offers a chance to see these graceful creatures up close. Reviewers consistently mention how magical it is to spot turtles in the wild—“We saw all kinds of fish and turtles,” one guest shared, highlighting how special this part of the trip can be.

At both stops, you’ll encounter lots of colorful tropical fish and other marine animals. The guides are known for being friendly, knowledgeable, and committed to safety. Many reviews praise the crew’s helpfulness and patience, making snorkeling accessible even to beginners.

The Boat and Amenities

The Pride of Maui is the largest Maxi Power Catamaran on Maui, designed with stability and comfort in mind. The boat operates at just 60% of its Coast Guard capacity, meaning less crowding and more space to enjoy the surroundings. The vessel features multiple entry points for swimming and a large water slide, which kids—and adults—find especially fun.

The onboard service strives to exceed expectations: breakfast is served before departure, and a hot midday lunch is available once back on deck. Guests rave about the quality of the food, with many mentioning the delicious meals and the abundance of leftovers for seconds. The open bar is also a hit—offering ice-cold microbrews, wines from Napa, and classic Mai Tais. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to socialize and unwind.

Snorkeling and Extra Activities

Standard snorkeling gear is provided, but full-face masks are not allowed for safety reasons. If you’re interested in trying SNUBA—a hybrid of snorkeling and scuba diving—you can purchase this onboard for an additional fee. It’s a safe, guided way to explore 15 feet below the surface and see marine life more intimately. Many guests have raved about how fun and memorable SNUBA was, describing it as a highlight of their trip.

Group Size and Overall Atmosphere

While many reviews highlight the crew’s professionalism and attentiveness, some mention the larger group size—up to 90 travelers. For some, this might mean less personal space or moments of crowded snorkeling. However, the spacious boat and multiple snorkeling spots help mitigate this concern. The boat’s large deck, water slide, and plentiful seating make it easier to spread out and enjoy the day.

The Value of This Tour

At $208 per person, this trip offers a lot for the price. The all-inclusive package with meals, snacks, and drinks means you won’t need to worry about bringing extra money for food or beverages. Plus, the opportunity to explore two of Maui’s top snorkeling locations—Molokini Crater and Turtle Town—adds to the appeal.

The experience is particularly valuable for those who want a well-organized, comfortable day on the water with reliable guides and excellent marine visibility. Guests consistently mention the high quality of the crew’s service and the delicious food, which makes the day feel indulgent despite being active.

However, if you’re after a very small, intimate tour or are a seasoned snorkeler who prefers secluded spots, this might not fully meet those desires. The large boat and group size are part of what makes this experience accessible and fun for many, but could be a drawback for some.

Who Would Love This Experience

This tour is best suited for first-time snorkelers, families, or anyone wanting a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water with all amenities taken care of. The boat’s stability, spaciousness, and onboard comforts make it ideal for those who prefer a hassle-free adventure. If you’re traveling with kids, the water slide and friendly crew will likely be a hit.

It also works well for travelers who want to indulge in good food and drinks while exploring Maui’s marine life. The included breakfast, lunch, and open bar provide a relaxed environment for meeting others or simply unwinding after snorkeling.

On the flip side, if you’re after a small-group, highly personalized tour, or if you prefer avoiding large crowds in the water, you might want to explore other options. But overall, this tour strikes a solid balance between comfort, fun, and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The calm waters at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town are perfect for snorkelers of all skill levels. Guides are helpful and patient, and you’ll have plenty of time to get comfortable.

What is included in the tour price?
The $208 fee covers use of snorkeling equipment (full face masks are not allowed), breakfast before departure, lunch during the trip, soda, and alcoholic drinks. SNUBA is available for an extra cost if you’re interested.

Are there any age restrictions?
Kids of all ages seem to enjoy the trip, especially the water slide. While specific age restrictions aren’t listed, the tour is generally family-friendly and suitable for most children who can comfortably swim.

How early do I need to check in?
Check-in is at 7:30am, about 30 minutes before the tour departs. Arriving early helps smooth out the process, especially if you need to find parking or settle in.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a towel, and a change of clothes. Since food and drinks are provided, you don’t need to worry about extra snacks, but a waterproof camera or phone in a dry bag can help you capture the underwater moments.

Can I cancel or reschedule if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling depends on availability, but keep in mind that last-minute changes might be tricky, especially during peak seasons.

Are there any safety considerations?
The tour emphasizes safety, with guides checking on everyone during snorkeling. No full face masks are allowed for safety reasons, and the boat’s design helps ensure a stable and comfortable ride.

Final Thoughts

The Maui Snorkeling Molokini Crater and Turtle Town tour offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting to see Maui’s underwater world without sacrificing comfort. With its spacious vessel, helpful staff, and excellent marine visibility, it’s a reliable choice for many visitors seeking an effortless day of adventure.

While the large group size and busy itinerary might not suit travelers craving privacy or solitude, the overall value—especially with all food and drinks included—makes it a strong contender for a fun, memorable day at sea.

If you’re after a worry-free, family-friendly outing that combines fantastic snorkeling with comfort and good company, this tour is worth considering. Just make sure to book ahead, arrive early, and prepare to enjoy Maui’s vibrant underwater life at its best.

Additional FAQs

Is parking available near the meeting point?
Yes, parking is across from Carl’s Jr. before the Ocean Center, costing $2. It’s advisable to look for detailed parking instructions sent via email to avoid confusion.

How many people typically go on this tour?
The maximum capacity is 90 travelers, but it operates at about 60% capacity, which helps prevent overcrowding and ensures a more relaxed experience.

What if I don’t see many fish or turtles?
The tour boasts excellent visibility and a high likelihood of marine sightings, but nature can be unpredictable. Reviews highlight many successful sightings, especially of turtles at Turtle Town, but patience is key.

Will I have time for snorkeling at both spots?
Yes, the itinerary includes enough time at each location for a thorough snorkel experience, with guides always available for assistance.

Can I do SNUBA instead of snorkeling?
Yes, but SNUBA is an optional extra available for purchase onboard. It’s a great way to explore underwater with less gear, guided by instructors.

What is the weather like?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Maui’s weather is generally stable in the mornings.

How experienced are the guides?
The crew has been operating on Maui for decades, and reviews repeatedly praise their helpfulness, professionalism, and safety focus.

This snorkeling adventure offers a fantastic way to see Maui’s underwater treasures comfortably and conveniently. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned snorkeler, it’s a trip that many find memorable—and a solid choice when planning your Hawaiian vacation.