Maui: Molokini Crater Yacht Snorkel & Turtle Swim with Lunch

Summary

Molokini snorkeling, turtles up close, fresh island food and yacht comfort

You’ll board a luxury yacht in Maui for an easygoing day trip to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town—snorkeling alongside vibrant fish and sea turtles with friendly guides nearby. Enjoy fresh island breakfast and BBQ lunch onboard (with options for everyone), plus local craft drinks from the open bar. Expect small touches of comfort—warm showers, soft seating—and memories that linger long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

“You see that shadow down there? That’s not a rock,” Captain Justin grinned as he pointed over the rail. I leaned in, squinting past the glare bouncing off Molokini’s glassy water. The first thing that hit me was how clear it all looked—like someone had turned up the brightness underwater. I could actually make out the slow flap of a turtle’s fin before we even jumped in. My mask fogged up from my nervous breath (should’ve listened about the anti-fog tip), but honestly, I didn’t care. There were fish everywhere—yellow ones darting around coral, something blue that zipped by so fast I nearly swallowed my snorkel.

The yacht itself felt kind of surreal. Not flashy, just… soft? Cushioned benches, cool air inside when you needed it (and I did after too much sun). Breakfast was simple but good—muffins and this pineapple that tasted like sunshine. Our guide Li told us stories about Molokini being an ancient volcano caldera; she also handed me a second coffee after I nearly dropped mine when the boat rocked. It’s funny how quickly everyone loosened up once we’d all seen each other in snorkel gear—strangers at first, then laughing over who got the most tangled hair.

I didn’t expect to love Turtle Town as much as I did. The water was warmer there, almost silky against my arms, and suddenly there was a green sea turtle just drifting beside me like we were both late for something but not in a hurry. Afterward, back on deck, someone handed me a burger (the veggie one was actually pretty great) and a cold beer from the open bar. There was music playing somewhere behind me and salt still drying on my skin. I keep thinking about that moment—the quiet after swimming, sun on my face, Maui stretching out all green and gold in every direction. Hard to explain why it sticks with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxury yacht snorkel at Molokini

• Board luxury power catamaran Elua
• Snorkel at Molokini Crater
• Swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles
• Enjoy breakfast onboard
• Relax on upper deck with mountain views
• Have BBQ lunch cooked onboard
• Drink microbrewed beers, wine, and cocktails
• Use warm freshwater showers and swim platforms

Top questions

How long does the Molokini snorkel tour last?

The tour typically lasts half a day, including time at both Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.

Is breakfast or lunch included on this Maui snorkeling trip?

Yes, both breakfast and BBQ lunch are included onboard during your yacht trip.

Are drinks provided on the luxury yacht tour?

Yes, there is an open bar with local microbrews, white wine, cocktails, juices and sodas.

What age can join the Molokini & Turtle Town snorkel tour?

This tour welcomes guests ages 8 years old and above; no infants or toddlers under 8 allowed.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Maui day trip?

Yes, all necessary snorkeling gear is included in your booking.

Are vegetarian or vegan meal options available?

Yes—vegetarian and vegan sandwich options are available if you let them know ahead of time.

Does this Molokini yacht tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the departure point in Maui.

Can people with limited swimming experience join this snorkel trip?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all snorkel equipment plus warm freshwater showers onboard a luxury yacht; light island breakfast with muffins, croissants and fruit; full BBQ lunch (choice of burger, teri chicken or fish sandwich—with veggie options); kettle chips and pineapple coleslaw; white chocolate chip mac nut cookies; unlimited soft drinks plus local microbrew beer, white wine and cocktails after snorkeling—all guided by an experienced Maui crew before returning to shore.