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Maalaea · Hawaii · United States

Afternoon - Whale Watching from Ma’alaea

Starting From From $93.97 per person Current Project Expedition rate
2 Hours 4.16 / 5 13 reviews Easy activity level Single Day Group Tour Operated by Pacific Whale Foundation
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The Experience

What your day looks like

Whale watch with the experts on Maui's top-rated eco tour from Ma'alaea Harbor and see these amazing creatures in their natural wild habitat. This tour is led by certified Marine Naturalists for fun and informative interpretation of humpback whale behaviors and characteristics. Watch mothers and calves interact, see males compete for females, and hear underwater whale songs - it's a unique adventure every time. Multiple departure times daily from conveniently located Maalaea Harbor; an easy drive from Kihei, Wailea, Makena, Paia, Upcountry, Wailuku, and Kahului. Whale sightings are guaranteed or go again free on another whale watch of equal or lesser value within one year. We are proud of our 97% sighting success rate.

At a Glance

The experience, in brief

  • Maui's top rated eco tour from Ma'alaea Harbor
  • See these amazing creatures in their natural wild habitat
  • Led by certified Marine Naturalists for fun and informative interpretation
  • Whale sightings are guaranteed or go again for free
Your Itinerary

Your day, step by step

Day 1

Maalaea

Whale Watching.

Before You Go

What to know before booking

Included

Underwater hydrophones to hear whale songs Onboard Jr. Naturalist Program for kids Reef-safe sunscreen and filtered water available onboard

Not Included

Available for purchase: Affordable rentals of cameras and binoculars Snacks and beverages for purchase, including soda and juice, plus Maui Brewing Co. beer, wine and tropical cocktails for adults 21+ with valid picture ID (limit: 2 complimentary alcoholic beverages per adult)

What to Bring

Check-in Time: 45 minutes prior to departure

Meeting & Pickup

Check in at the Pacific Whale Foundation Ocean Store, at the Maʻalaea Harbor Shops (next door to the Maui Ocean Center Aquarium).

Languages Offered

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Planning Notes

Hotel pickup offered: No Confirmation: Automatic

Traveler Impressions

What travelers are saying

2026-03-08 5.00 / 5

Our family had a wonderful whale watching experience and would absolutely recommend this trip to anyone visiting Maui who wants to see humpback whales. The crew was incredibly kind, patient, and helpful throughout the entire excursion. We were traveling with my older parents, and I was able to assist my dad onto the boat with the help of my brother while the crew was also working hard to assist other passengers who needed help boarding. I want to mention the accessibility aspect because it may be helpful for other families planning ahead. The trip is advertised as ADA accessible, but getting on and off the boat does require stepping across about a 12-inch gap between the gangway and the boat. For context, I am an occupational therapist and have been helping people navigate different environments and travel situations for over 30 years. I’m very familiar with mobility challenges and assisting individuals with disabilities. With assistance, I was able to help my dad step across safely, bring his walker onto the boat, and get him comfortably seated inside the cabin area. Once he was seated, everything was very manageable and comfortable for him. My parents truly enjoyed the trip. Meanwhile, my husband, brother, and sister-in-law spent time on the upper deck where the views were fantastic. The whale watching itself was absolutely incredible. We were already seeing whales right from the harbor before we even left, and once we were out on the water we saw more whales than we could possibly count. We spotted several newborn calves and saw some beautiful fluke dives. It was an unforgettable experience. The crew also did a wonderful job educating guests about humpback whales and their behavior, which made the trip even more special. For anyone traveling with someone who has limited mobility, I would recommend calling ahead to discuss boarding details. If someone can manage a step with railings and assistance, this cruise can still be a really lovely experience. Finally, please remember to tip your crew generously. Many of the crew members in Maui are from Lahaina and have been through an incredibly difficult time after the fires. They work very hard to create a memorable experience for visitors, and their kindness truly stood out to our family. Mahalo to the entire crew for making this such a special outing for our family.

2026-02-19 5.00 / 5

Great time!

2026-01-14 5.00 / 5

Saw so many whales! Great experience

2025-12-26 5.00 / 5

10/10 recommend this tour! The staff was extremely knowledgable, kind and even had a fun presentation/activity at the end for the kids.

2025-12-24 5.00 / 5

Tour was great! The crew was knowledgeable and very welcoming! We were excited to be able to see lots of action.

2025-04-10 5.00 / 5

Great whale watching vessel, guides, and whale sightings on our tour.

2025-01-30 5.00 / 5

Great staff very knowledgeable and we saw many whales!

2023-02-15 5.00 / 5

The crew was awesome, but the port is the second windiest port in the world making it rough to get in and out.

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