The Molokini Crater is a remnant of an ancient volcanic eruption that is believed to have happened approximately 230,000 years ago.
Spread across 23 acres, it boasts some of the most distinctive geological features in the world.
Molokini is a federally designated Seabird sanctuary and marine reserve famous for its crystal-clear waters, thriving coral, vividly colored fish, and seabirds that come to rest there.
Widely regarded as an underwater paradise, Molokini is one of the most sought-after dive and snorkel spots in Hawaii.
The beautiful reef offers a unique Maui snorkeling experience with distinctly healthy coral reefs, superior water quality, and close to 250 species of fish.
This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for Molokini Crater Snorkeling.
Table of contents
- What to expect at Molokini Crater Snorkeling
- Where to book tickets
- How do online tickets work
-
Molokini Crater Snorkeling ticket prices
- Maui Snorkeling Molokini Crater and Turtle Town tickets aboard Pride of Maui
- Molokini Crater Zodiak Adventure Snorkel and Turtle Cove Swim tickets
- Four Winds II Molokini Snorkeling tickets from Maalaea Harbor
- Molokini Snorkeling Adventure tickets Aboard Calypso
- 4-Hour Molokini Crater plus Turtle Town Snorkeling Experience tickets
- Molokini Snorkel & Slide 7 am – 12 pm tickets
- Molokini Crater and South Maui Coast Adventure tickets from Kihei
- Meeting point for Molokini Crater Snorkeling
- Molokini Crater Snorkeling timings
- How long does the tour take
- Best time to go for Molokini Crater Snorkeling
- Molokini Crater Snorkeling reviews
- FAQs about Molokini Crater Snorkeling
What to expect at Molokini Crater Snorkeling
Visitors can expect to see an abundance of marine life and stunning underwater scenery when booking a Molokini Crater snorkeling experience.
Explore the crater, home to over 250 species of fish and other creatures such as turtles, dolphins, and even whales.
With crystal-clear waters providing excellent visibility, appreciate the beauty of the marine surroundings.
Explore locations perfect for snorkeling, whether you are a beginner or an enthusiast.
Let experienced and knowledgeable tour guides provide information on the history and ecology of the area.
Enjoy delicious food options depending on the tour you choose.
Before taking a dive, visitors are provided with snorkeling gear and thorough instructions on how to use them safely.
Where to book tickets
Tickets for Molokini Crater Maui snorkeling can be purchased online or at the tour operator’s ticket counters.
Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.
When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket counters.
Because the attraction sells a limited number of tickets due to their high demand, booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.
How do online tickets work
To book tickets for a Molokini Crater Snorkeling experience, head to the booking page and choose your desired date and the number of tickets.
Once you have made your purchase, your tickets will be sent to your email.
Ticket printouts are not required.
You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone when you visit the attraction.
Molokini Crater Snorkeling ticket prices
Visitors can purchase tickets for the Maui Snorkeling Molokini Crater and Turtle Town aboard the Pride of Maui tour for different prices depending on when you book the ticket.
Adult tickets for people over 13 years of age range from US$196 to US$298.
Child tickets for the tour are available at prices ranging from US$163 to US$275 for visitors between three to 12 years of age.
Infants up to two years of age can get in for free.
Tickets for the Molokini Crater Zodiak Adventure Snorkel and Turtle Cove Swim tour are available for US$179 for all visitors over four years of age.
Four Winds II Molokini Snorkeling Tour from Maalaea Harbor tickets are available to adults over 13 years of age for US$189.
Child tickets for this tour can be purchased at a reduced price of US$152 for visitors between three to 12.
Infants up to two years of age can get in for free.
Maui Snorkeling Molokini Crater and Turtle Town tickets aboard Pride of Maui
Join Maui’s largest Maxi Power Catamaran for a snorkeling adventure at two exceptional locations.
Enjoy a spacious and stable experience with the boat operating at just 60% of the Coast Guard capacity.
Experience unparalleled visibility and the chance to explore one of only three sunken volcanic calderas in the world at the Molokini Crater.
Witness Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles gather around unique underwater lava formations at Turtle Town.
Explore a diverse selection of tropical fish and other marine animals on this adventure.
Upgrade your experience to enjoy SNUBA, a safe and controlled way to swim with marine life 15 feet below the surface.
With expert Maui SNUBA instructors guiding you every step of the way, guests are sure to have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Have the best experience with breakfast, lunch cooked onboard, and an open bar featuring ice-cold micro-brewed beer, wines from Napa, and Mai Tais after snorkeling.
Don’t forget to try the super water slide, which is a hit with kids of all ages!
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$196 to US$298
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$163 to US$275
Infant Ticket (up to 2 years): Free
Molokini Crater Zodiak Adventure Snorkel and Turtle Cove Swim tickets
Embark on a half-day excursion to Molokini Crater and Turtle Cove in Maui for a delightful snorkeling experience.
Hop on the Reef Explorer, Maui’s latest custom-made Super Raft, ensuring a smooth ride, allowing visitors to avoid crowds and glide over the water effortlessly.
On reaching Molokini, snorkel with over 250 different species of reef fish and coral inside the partially submerged volcanic crater.
Let the friendly and knowledgeable guides take you to a secluded turtle cove, where you can swim alongside elegant Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles.
The beautiful turtle cove is only accessible by small boats, providing an exclusive and private experience where you can often see up to a dozen turtles at once.
With snorkeling equipment, lunch, snacks, and flotation devices all provided, visitors just need to board the boat and let the adventure begin.
Ticket Price: US$179
Note: Minimum age for the tour is four years.
Four Winds II Molokini Snorkeling tickets from Maalaea Harbor
Embark on a Molokini snorkeling tour from Maalaea Harbor on a 55-foot glass bottom catamaran.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast of bagels and fruit with juice and Kona coffee as you cruise for an hour to Molokini Crater.
Soak in the stunning views of the Haleakala volcano and try to spot the four other islands on the horizon.
Let the onboard naturalist guide provide fascinating and informative commentary during the tour.
Dive into the waters teeming with thousands of fish and explore one of Hawaii’s most vibrant coral reefs at Molokini Crater.
With its deep sand channels, shallow reef areas, and abundance of colorful marine life, Molokini Crater is an excellent excursion for both experienced and novice snorkelers.
Enter the captivating marine world as you observe the marine life through the glass bottom of the boat.
Feast on a freshly cooked BBQ lunch of chicken breasts, pulled pork, hot dogs, or a vegetarian garden burger option served with chips and dessert.
Enjoy the open bar serving both beer and wine on your cruise back to the harbor.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$189
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$152
Infant Ticket (up to 2 years): Free
Molokini Snorkeling Adventure tickets Aboard Calypso
Experience the most enjoyable tour on Maui onboard Calypso, taking visitors on an amazing ride.
The catamaran features three expansive decks and takes visitors to two exciting snorkeling sites, Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.
Beginning from Ma’alaea Harbor, the friendly crew welcomes you on the adventure with a scrumptious continental breakfast.
Head to Molokini Crater, the most popular underwater destination in Maui.
Unwind on the deck and bask in the sunshine while admiring the magnificent scenery of Haleakala in the distance.
Witness several fish and bird species in this designated Marine Life Conservation District and bird preserve as you enjoy the ocean breeze.
After snorkeling,move to Turtle Town, a snorkeling spot with large Hawaiian Green sea turtles and dynamic reef fish.
Enjoy a refreshing splash on the onboard water slide, or marvel at the wondrous views through the glass bottom viewing port.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$200
Child Ticket (4 to 12 years): US$140
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free
4-Hour Molokini Crater plus Turtle Town Snorkeling Experience tickets
Experience the breathtaking coastal scenery of Maui and embark on a four-hour snorkeling adventure that takes you away from the mainland.
Start your day early with a personalized fitting for your snorkel gear, then hop on board your vessel and set sail onto the water.
Get a chance to explore the Molokini Crater and Turtle Town, where you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in crystal clear waters, observe marine life up close, and take in the stunning beauty of the Pacific.
Discover the wonders of the Molokini Crater and Turtle Town, complete with boat transit, snorkel gear, and onboard refreshments and snacks.
Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a breathtaking, active, and unforgettable excursion.
Ticket Price: US$175
Molokini Snorkel & Slide 7 am – 12 pm tickets
Experience some of the best snorkeling spots in Maui by joining this 5-hour morning trip.
Departing from Wailuku Cruise, the tour promises an exciting adventure in the beautiful waters of Maui.
The half-day underwater Molokini Crater snorkeling tour takes visitors to the offshore crater of Molokini and Turtle Town nearby.
Experience the serene and vibrant underwater world while swimming alongside majestic Hawaiian green sea turtles and admiring the magnificent rock formations.
Ride on a 53-foot (16 meters) Lani Kai II boat with a 20-foot (6 meters) waterslide.
Enjoy a delicious onboard breakfast and lunch, along with snorkeling equipment that will be provided.
If you are lucky, get a chance to spot whales from November through April.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (18 to 64 years): US$189
Senior Ticket (65+ years): US$189
Youth Ticket (13 to 17 years): US$146
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$125
Infant Ticket (up to 2 years): Free
Molokini Crater and South Maui Coast Adventure tickets from Kihei
Join a small-group snorkeling adventure to explore the diverse marine life of Maui’s Molokini Crater.
Take a boat to the enchanting, long-extinct volcanic crater just off the coast of Maui.
Witness a variety of sea creatures, such as rays, tropical fish, and other wildlife, with visibility surpassing 180 feet (55m).
While en route to ‘Turtle Town,’ observe recent lava flows and witness the Hawaiian spinner dolphins in their natural habitat during a pit stop at La Perouse Bay.
Get a chance to swim alongside the peaceful Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles that reside in ‘Turtle Town.’
Listen to interesting stories about the area with the assistance of knowledgeable local guides on board.
As one of the first boats in the morning to snorkel Molokini Crater, get an opportunity to explore the back wall, an area that few visitors ever get to see.
Enjoy world-famous Maui cinnamon rolls and fresh fruit for breakfast and delicious deli sandwiches and pasta salad for lunch.
Ticket Price: US$219
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Meeting point for Molokini Crater Snorkeling
The meeting point for the Molokini Crater Snorkeling tours will vary depending on the tour option you choose.
It’s important to keep in mind that the meeting location may change.
Visitors are advised to check the booking page before arriving to confirm the exact location.
Molokini Crater Snorkeling timings
Most of the Molokini Crater Snorkeling experiences in Maui begin from 7 am. It’s best to arrive 30 minutes prior to the start time.
However, the start and end times depend on the tour you book.
The Maui Snorkeling Molokini Crater and Turtle Town aboard the Pride of Maui tour starts at 8 am. Visitors are advised to check in at 7.30 am, 30 minutes prior to the start time.
The Molokini Crater Zodiak Adventure Snorkel and Turtle Cove Swim tour also begins at 8 am but takes about 4 hours on average.
The Four Winds II Molokini Snorkeling Tour from Maalaea Harbor begins at 7 am.
For further information about tour timings, head to the booking page.
How long does the tour take
The duration of Molokini Crater snorkeling tours depends on the tour option you choose.
Tours generally depart in the early morning and can take between 4 to 6 hours to complete.
Visitors are advised to check the booking page to confirm the exact duration of each tour.
Best time to go for Molokini Crater Snorkeling
Early mornings are the perfect time to go underwater Molokini Crater Snorkeling.
The trade winds usually pick up in the afternoon, making access to the crater difficult.
Molokini is a year-round destination with great weather conditions throughout the year.
The peak season is during wintertime, specifically from December to February, when it can get very busy. If you’re keen on whale watching while sailing to Molokini, this is the perfect time to spot them migrating past Maui.
Summer months between June and August are equally busy in Molokini. You can enjoy almost perfect visibility and calm waters, making it an unforgettable experience.
Molokini Crater Snorkeling reviews
Here are some reviews from Tripadvisor to help visitors before their trip to the Snorkeling at Molokini Crater.
Once in a lifetime adventure!
We went to “Turtle Town” in search of sea turtles and were not disappointed. We saw 5 huge sea turtles from very close up; it was a once in a lifetime experience. After this experience we felt more comfortable snorkeling on our own later in our vacation.
What a beautiful world down there!
What an awesome spot to snorkel! Not a swimmer, but I was able to snorkel and see the reef underneath! What a beautiful world down there! I saw so many fish, some bright yellow fish and even a few long yellow fish shaped like an ell.
Note: I could feel the waves by the end of the trip. We ended up with some seasickness but it was all worth it.
Crystal clear water
We went with one of the charter companies to go snorkeling at Molokini. It was one of the best experiences we had in Maui. The water is so clear! We saw hundreds of colorful beautiful fish. The coral was beautiful. We spent a couple of hours there and I could have stayed longer. I will come back here again. It was so much fun!
FAQs about Molokini Crater Snorkeling
Here are some questions visitors usually ask before Snorkeling at Molokini Crater.
The Molokini Crater is a crescent-shaped volcanic crater located off the coast of Maui in Hawaii.
Scuba diving and snorkeling in Maui Molokini Crater is popular due to its clear waters and abundant marine life.
The Molokini Crater is open to visitors of all skill levels, including beginners.
Experienced guides are available to guide you throughout.
The Molokini Crater is home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.
If you’re lucky, you may even spot a manta ray or a humpback whale during the winter months.
Yes! Plenty of guided snorkeling tours are available that take visitors to the Molokini Crater and provide them with all the necessary gear and instruction.
These tours are a great option for beginners or anyone who wants to learn more about marine life in the area.
Yes, it is safe to snorkel at the Molokini Crater, but it’s important to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines.
The water at Molokini Crater ranges from shallow areas of 3-4 feet to deeper areas of around 50 feet.
The best time to go snorkeling at the Molokini Crater is in the morning when the water is calm and clear.
The afternoon can be choppy, and the visibility may not be as good.
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