Maui: Molokini Snorkel & Turtle Tour with Small Group

Summary

Molokini crater snorkeling in maui with turtles and local stories

You’ll jump off a small boat into Maui’s clear waters near Molokini Crater, snack on local banana bread between swims, and watch Hawaiian green sea turtles drift by in Turtle Town. With a friendly crew guiding you and all gear included, it’s less about rushing and more about soaking up those underwater colors — and maybe laughing at yourself in a wetsuit.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t drop the banana bread!” That’s what our guide, Keola, called out as we climbed onto the No Ka Oi boat just off Maui’s south shore — still half-laughing from trying to squeeze into wetsuits. The air smelled faintly like coconut sunscreen and salt. We motored out toward Molokini Crater, sunlight bouncing off the water so bright I had to squint. I didn’t expect the ride to be so smooth or for the crew to know everyone’s name by the time we anchored. There was this easy chatter — stories about Maui sea life, jokes about who’d spot the first humuhumunukunukuapua’a (try saying that three times fast).

I’ve snorkeled before but never anywhere like this. When I slipped into the water at Molokini Crater, it was like falling into an aquarium — honestly, I almost forgot to breathe through my snorkel at first. Schools of yellow tang flickered past my mask; someone next to me pointed at a spiky sea urchin clinging to coral. The guides swam around us, sometimes diving down to point out something tiny we’d have missed. The current was gentle enough that even when I drifted a little too far (got distracted by a parrotfish), Keola just waved me back with a grin.

Afterwards, they handed out coffee and more banana bread (which is apparently made by someone’s auntie in Kihei — it’s not fancy but it hits different when you’re salty and tired). We stopped at Pu’u Ola’i cove for a break — Red Hill rising behind us — then floated in Blue Lagoon where you could hear nothing but your own breathing and distant laughter from the boat. At Turtle Town, near Makena Landing, there were these moments of total quiet when a green sea turtle would glide past below us and everyone just froze watching it move. I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel Molokini and Turtle Town

• Snorkel at Molokini Crater
• Take a break at Pu’u Ola’i Cove
• Seafari™ around Pu’u Ola’i Point
• Explore The Cove and Coral Forest
• Swim with turtles at Turtle Town

Top questions

How long is the Molokini snorkel & turtle tour?

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours from departure to return.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

Are children allowed on this Maui snorkeling trip?

Children under age 5 are not allowed on this tour.

Where do you see turtles during the tour?

You’ll visit Turtle Town near Makena Landing along Maui’s south shore.

Is food or drink included during the trip?

Yes, locally made banana bread and Hawaiian coffee are provided onboard.

Does the tour include reef-safe sunscreen?

Yes, reef-safe sunscreen is available for guest use during the trip.

What is special about Molokini Crater snorkeling?

The crater offers clear blue waters with abundant fish and coral visible while snorkeling.

Is hotel pickup included for this Maui snorkel tour?

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

What’s included

Your day includes locally made banana bread (seriously good after swimming), Hawaiian coffee served fresh onboard, all your snorkel gear sorted for you (no need to bring anything), reef-safe sunscreen so you don’t fry or harm the coral, plus a spot for your stuff and floatation devices if you want them — all wrapped up with an easygoing crew who actually seem happy to answer questions or just let you float quietly if that’s more your speed.