Maui Molokini Crater Snorkel & Turtle Cove Swim Small Group

Summary

Molokini’s volcanic rim, sea turtles drifting and Maui’s wild water

You’ll race across Maui’s morning waves by super raft to Molokini Crater for snorkeling among tropical fish and corals, then float quietly with Hawaiian green sea turtles at a private cove only smaller groups can reach. With breakfast pastries, fresh pineapple, lunch sandwiches, all gear included and a local crew who actually seem to love their jobs, you’ll leave with salt on your skin and maybe a new favorite memory.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the wind to feel so sharp that early at Ma’alaea Harbor — it actually woke me up better than my coffee. The Reef Explorer looked almost too sleek for a “raft,” but our captain just grinned and said, “You’ll see.” We zipped out toward Molokini Crater in what felt like no time. Spray on my face, salt on my lips, and that weird mix of nerves and excitement you get before jumping in somewhere new. The water turned this unreal blue as we slowed down near the crater. I could hear someone laughing over the engine — might’ve been me.

Our guide, Kaleo, handed out snorkel gear and pointed out where the best coral was hiding. He told us about the 250-plus fish species here (he rattled off a few names in Hawaiian; I forgot all but “humuhumunukunukuapua‘a” because it’s impossible not to remember). When I first put my face under, everything went silent except for my own breathing. The sunlight cut through the water in these wobbly lines and there were flashes of yellow and electric blue everywhere — sometimes so close I had to remind myself not to reach out. It’s funny how you can feel alone and part of something huge at the same time down there.

After an hour or so — honestly I lost track — we climbed back on board for pineapple (so sweet it almost stung) and sandwiches. Then we headed to what they called Turtle Cove. It’s tucked away enough that bigger boats can’t get in, which made it feel like we’d lucked into a secret spot. Floating above those green sea turtles was quieter than I expected; they moved slow but somehow still seemed to disappear if you blinked. Kaleo laughed when one came right up beneath me — he said they’re curious but “don’t like selfies.”

I still think about that feeling: sunburnt shoulders, salt drying on my skin, everyone quietly smiling as we headed back toward Maui’s coast. It wasn’t perfect — I got flippers stuck once and probably ate too many chips — but honestly, that made it better somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel Molokini Crater and Turtle Cove

• Board Reef Explorer Super Raft
• Travel to Molokini Crater
• Snorkel with reef fish and coral
• Enjoy lunch on board
• Travel to Turtle Cove
• Swim with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
• Return to Maui

Top questions

How long does it take to get from Maui to Molokini Crater?

The ride aboard Reef Explorer takes less than 30 minutes from Ma’alaea Harbor to Molokini Crater.

Is snorkel gear provided on the Molokini Crater tour?

Yes, all snorkel gear and flotation devices are included in the tour price.

Are meals or snacks included during the day trip?

The tour includes breakfast pastries, Maui Gold pineapple, lunch sandwiches (turkey wrap or veggie), chips, granola bars, bottled water and soft drinks.

Can non-swimmers join this snorkeling tour?

No, this tour is not recommended for non-swimmers due to open water conditions.

What is the minimum age for this Maui snorkel trip?

The minimum age required is 4 years old.

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour departs from Ma’alaea Harbor on Maui; check-in is 30 minutes prior to departure.

Is transportation included in the booking?

No hotel pickup is provided; guests must make their own way to Ma’alaea Harbor. Public parking is available nearby.

How many people are usually on this small group tour?

This is a small group experience aboard a 60 ft super raft designed for fewer guests than larger boats.

What’s included

Your day includes all snorkel equipment and flotation devices plus guidance from local crew members throughout both stops at Molokini Crater and Turtle Cove. Breakfast pastries greet you onboard along with fresh-cut Maui Gold pineapple before snorkeling; later there’s a choice of turkey wrap or veggie sandwich for lunch with chips and granola bars. Bottled water, sparkling water, Aloha juice and soft drinks are always available while you’re out at sea.