Lanai Snorkel and Dolphin Watch: Ma'alaea Catamaran Adventure
Board a double-deck catamaran at Ma'alaea for a 5‑hour eco-adventure: 90 minutes of snorkeling off Lana’i’s renowned reefs and wide-open dolphin watching. Expect naturalists, premium gear, and a family-friendly on-deck BBQ.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early for check-in
Check in 45 minutes before departure at the Pacific Whale Foundation Ocean Store—boarding lines and gear fittings take time.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Non-reef-safe sunscreens are prohibited; bring or buy reef-safe lotion onboard to protect coral and comply with state rules.
Bring a towel and dry bag
Vessels are cashless and provide limited storage—keep phones and valuables in a waterproof bag and bring a towel for the freshwater rinse.
Prep for motion
Morning crossings are calmer; if you’re susceptible to seasickness, take medication an hour before departure and sit midship for less motion.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •View Lana’i’s Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods) coastline from the sea—boat vantage points reveal pinnacles and cliffs not seen from shore.
- •Early-morning snorkeling near sheltered channels often yields clearer water and calmer conditions before trade winds pick up.
Wildlife
- •Spinner dolphins
- •Green sea turtles
Conservation Note
The tour enforces reef-safe sunscreen rules and instructs guests not to touch coral—these practices reduce reef stress and help protect fragile marine habitat.
Lana’i’s reefs grew around older lava flows; the island later became a large pineapple plantation, shaping local settlement patterns across Maui County.
Photographer's Notes
- • Upper-deck bow for wide seascapes and dolphin passes
- • Snorkel platform for close coral and turtle photos
- • Upper deck aft for candid boat-life images and the Lana’i coastline
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Required to protect coral and accepted onboard; non-reef-safe products are banned.
Towel and swimsuitEssential
Bring swimwear under clothing and a towel for post-snorkel rinse and comfort.
Waterproof camera/GoProEssential
Ideal for underwater and dolphin shots; handheld phones risk water exposure.
Light windbreaker
Mornings can be cool on deck—bring a thin jacket for the ride back to harbor.
Common Questions
Are snorkel gear and flotation devices provided?
Yes—premium snorkel gear including optical masks for eyeglass wearers, and flotation devices are provided; full-face masks are not allowed.
What marine life can I expect to see?
Common sightings include spinner and bottlenose dolphins, green sea turtles, abundant reef fish, and humpback whales seasonally (Dec–Apr).
Are children allowed and are there age restrictions?
Children are welcome; kids under 4 ride free (one per paying adult). All children must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.
What if weather cancels the trip?
Trips are weather permitting; Pacific Whale Foundation may reschedule or cancel for safety—full refunds available if canceled 24+ hours before departure per policy.
Can I use my own snorkel gear?
You may bring personal gear, but operators provide high-quality equipment and require approval—avoid full-face masks for safety reasons.
How long is the snorkeling portion and how strenuous is it?
Expect about 90 minutes of snorkeling at reef sites; swimming is moderate and flotation aids/instruction are available for less confident swimmers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Ma'alaea, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness is recommended—able to handle ladder entry/exit, some swimming, and standing for wildlife watches.
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