Maui is a wonderland of natural beauty and fascinating aquatic life in the magnificent Pacific Ocean.
The thrilling ride on Maui’s whale watching cruise takes the top spot among its many wonders.
You enter a world where time stands still, and the powerful ocean giants take center stage as soon as you board a boat that skims the crystal-clear waters surrounding this Hawaiian gem.
On the whale watching cruise in Maui, prepare to be enchanted by the graceful dance of humpback whales against the backdrop of the island’s stunning coastal landscapes.
Learn about the science and awe-inspiring phenomenon of the humpback whales’ yearly migration to the warm waters off Maui as you plunge into the heart of this unique tour.
This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for the whale watching cruise in Maui.
Top Whale Watching Cruise in Maui Tickets
# 2-Hour Whale Watching Experience! (Lahaina Harbor, Maui)
# Ultimate 2-Hour Small Group Whale Watch Tour from Lahaina Harbor
# Whale Watching Experience
Table of contents
- What to expect on Maui Whale Watching Cruise
- Where to book tickets
- How do online tickets work
- Maui Whale Watching Cruise ticket prices
- Maui Whale Watching Cruise departure point
- Maui Whale Watching Cruise timings
- How long does the cruise take
- Best time to go on Maui Whale Watching Cruise
- FAQs about the Whale Watching Cruise in Maui
What to expect on Maui Whale Watching Cruise
A whale watching cruise in Maui is a spectacular journey that offers awe-inspiring encounters with the ocean’s most majestic animals.
Immerse yourself in an enchanted universe where humpback whales hold the spotlight as you set sail through the calm waters of the Pacific.
Every movement of these magnificent creatures is a testament to the grandeur of the natural world: their powerful breaches send water cascading into the air, while their graceful fluke dives announce their presence beneath the sea.
Experts and naturalists will accompany you on your Maui whale watching cruise, providing a wealth of information on humpback whales and the marine ecosystem.
Understand whale behavior, migration patterns, and their critical role in preserving the ocean’s fragile balance.
Experience the rush as you watch these majestic animals approach the vessel with curiosity, giving you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see their majesty up close.
Keep your camera ready to capture the whales’ antics against a picturesque backdrop of the island’s cliffs, beaches, and lush greenery.
Your chances of seeing these amazing animals increase significantly if you schedule your trip during the peak whale watching season, normally from December to April.
| Whale Watching Cruise | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| 2-Hour Whale Watching Experience! (Lahaina Harbor, Maui) | US$74 |
| Ultimate 2-Hour Small Group Whale Watch Tour from Lahaina Harbor | US$77 |
| Whale Watching Experience | US$95 |
| Ultimate 2-Hour Exclusive VIP Whale Watch Tour from Lahaina Harbor | US$115 |
| Ultimate Sunrise Whale Watch Tour from Lahaina Harbor | US$53 |
Where to book tickets
Tickets for whale watching cruise in Maui are available online or at the operator’s ticket counters.
Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the counters.
When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket counters.
When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.
Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.
How do online tickets work
Go to the Maui Whale watching cruise ticket booking page, select your preferred date and time, and choose the number of tickets to buy.
You will receive the ticket confirmation in your email after the booking.
Ticket printouts are not required.
You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone when you visit the attraction.
Due to new Homeland Security Procedures, all passengers may be subject to a random search of their personal effects (including carry-ons), and they must be able to provide identification upon the request of vessel personnel as proof of their identity.
Each guest must have a valid ID with them at all times.
Maui Whale Watching Cruise ticket prices
Tickets for the whale watching cruise in Maui are priced at US$74 for all visitors above 13 years.
Tickets for children aged between one to 12 years cost US$54.
Infants up to the age of one can take the cruise for free.
2-Hour Whale Watching Experience in Maui tickets
On this Maui whale watching cruise, get a thrilling glimpse of the undersea world.
Throughout your voyage, your captain and crew will provide narration as you learn more about these magnificent animals.
While tracing Maui’s gorgeous shoreline, take advantage of the breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities.
You are guaranteed to see a whale while on tour on this family-friendly cruise.
With an upper deck and an enclosed main cabin, you may watch the whales in the open air or find shelter from the elements in the lower deck.
An underwater hydrophone is on board to help you hear the whales sing as they hover under your boat.
This tour operates during the whale migration period from December until May.
The tour offers multiple departure times to fit your travel schedule.
Dress appropriately for breezy “on the water” conditions, and remember to wear sunscreen and a hat.
Check-in is at least 30 minutes before departure, and tour boarding begins and closes 10 minutes before the start time.
This activity is not wheelchair accessible.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$74
Child Ticket (1 to 12 years): US$54
Infant Ticket (up to 1 year): Free
Ultimate 2-Hour Small Group Whale Watch Tour from Lahaina Harbor
Maui stands out as one of the premier locations in the Pacific for witnessing whales in their natural habitat.
You will travel out to sea on this small-group tour from Lahaina, where you can see whales and dolphins.
There is also a hydrophone on board if you wish to hear the song of the whales.
Additionally, if you don’t see any whales on the day of your tour, you will be invited to go on another trip.
In the 2-hour small group, whale watching tour in Maui, travel on the fast and safe rafting vessels that are low to the water and perfect for close encounters.
Remember to include your phone number or email in your booking, so you can be contacted if there are any changes to your tour.
The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers, people with back and heart problems, and other serious medical conditions.
Bottled water will be provided on board.
Children under the age of three are not allowed to go on the tour.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$77
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$48
Whale Watching Experience tickets
Steer clear of the 150-person cruises and choose a more intimate and safer experience for both you and the whales.
As you take in the Hawaiian views and engage in informative talks led by the onboard animal behaviorist, your attention may only be diverted by the captivating splashing and spouting of the whales, all while your captain keeps you updated with local reports.
With any luck, whether you set out in calm or rough waters, you can get close to these gentle giants.
Learn about them so you can observe them in their natural habitat.
Get as near as possible for breathtaking views and images of these majestic animals.
With only 20 passengers on this tour, you will get a better, more intimate wildlife experience.
The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers, people with back and heart problems, or other serious medical conditions.
Travelers must have a moderate level of physical fitness.
Bottled water will be provided on board.
Infants must sit on laps.
The tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (11+ years): US$95
Child Ticket (6 to 10 years): US$85
Ultimate 2-Hour Exclusive VIP Whale Watch Tour from Lahaina Harbor
Book this small-group VIP cruise off the coast of Lahaina to get a front-row seat on a whale watching tour.
Unlike larger, crowded whale-watching boats, this inflatable raft-style vessel keeps all passengers closer to the water’s surface, providing an excellent vantage point for observation and making it easier to capture images of the whales.
This makes the trip excellent for photography lovers, and families with children.
When you book this tour, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy educational talks from an onboard marine naturalist.
Whale sightings are guaranteed from December to April; if not, you can go again for free.
Remember to include your phone number or email in your booking, so you can be contacted if there are any changes to your tour.
The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers, people with back and heart problems, and other serious medical conditions.
Bottled water will be provided on board.
Children under the age of three are not allowed to go on the tour.
Ticket Price: US$115
Ultimate Sunrise Whale Watch Tour tickets from Lahaina Harbor
Take a whale watching tour out of Lahaina Harbor to get your day off to a good start.
Sit on your raft, relax, and enjoy the trip around Maui’s shoreline while watching for dolphins and humpbacks.
Your tour includes a guarantee: from December to April, ride again for free if you don’t see any whales.
Enjoy the coastal scenery from your raft and learn about whales from your knowledgeable naturalist guide in English.
Remember to bring your camera so you don’t miss a thing!
Listen to whale songs on the hydrophone available on board.
Remember to include your phone number or email in your booking, so you can be contacted if there are any changes to your tour.
The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers, people with back and heart problems, and other serious medical conditions.
Bottled water will be provided on board.
Children under the age of three are not allowed to go on the tour.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$53
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$36
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Maui Whale Watching Cruise departure point
To go on a whale watching cruise in Maui, meet at the Hawaii Ocean Project/Lahaina Cruise Company Booth next to the Lighthouse Main Loading Dock Lahaina Harbor (see booking confirmation ticket voucher for more information).
Address: Lahaina Cruise Company, 675 Wharf St, Lahaina, HI 96761, USA. Get Directions.
You can reach the meeting point by car or by public transportation.
By Bus
Take bus numbers 20, 23, 25, or 28 to Wharf Cinema Center. Take a 5-minute walk and reach the meeting point.
By Car
There are multiple parking spaces around the meeting point.
Maui Whale Watching Cruise timings
The whale watching cruises in Maui begin around 7 am and are often available till 9 pm.
The timings will depend on the tour you select while booking.
How long does the cruise take
A standard whale watching cruise in Maui lasts between 90 minutes to 2 hours.
The duration of a Maui whale watching tour can vary based on several factors, including the tour operator, the type of cruise, and the specific itinerary.
However, it’s important to note that some tours might extend beyond regular hours, offering you an opportunity to further witness the whale behavior and explore the surrounding marine environment.
Best time to go on Maui Whale Watching Cruise
To have a hassle-free experience at the whale watching cruises in Maui, arrive at least 30 minutes before departure of the tour.
Tour boarding closes 10 minutes before departure.
Morning and afternoon whale watching cruises each have their own unique charm.
Morning cruises often feature calmer waters and softer lighting, creating an ideal setting for capturing photographs.
On the other hand, afternoon cruises may provide a higher chance of witnessing whales in action, as they tend to be more active during the day.
The pinnacle of whale watching excitement in Maui spans from December to April.
During these months, humpback whales migrate from the chilly Arctic waters to the welcoming warmth of Hawaii’s ocean.
FAQs about the Whale Watching Cruise in Maui
Here are some questions visitors usually ask before going on a whale watching cruise in Maui.
Maui’s peak whale watching season spans from December to April. January to March is ideal for witnessing mother whales and their calves.
However, shoulder months like November and May also offer rewarding opportunities for whale sightings.
The duration of a Maui whale watching cruise can vary but generally ranges from 90 minutes to 2 hours.
Some tours may extend to 3 hours or more to provide a more comprehensive experience.
While most tour operators at whale watching cruises in Maui have a high success rate for whale sightings, encounters with wild animals in their natural habitat can’t be guaranteed.
Still, many tour operators guarantee whale sightings, or offer to take you again for free.
However, the peak season greatly increases your chances of witnessing these magnificent creatures.
Whale watching tour age restrictions may vary among tour operators.
Many tours are family-friendly with no age restrictions, but others do not allow children under three years of age.
Therefore, checking with the tour operators beforehand is advisable to ensure the cruise suits all group members.
Whale watching cruises in Maui typically utilize sturdy and stable vessels, including catamarans, rafting vessels, or raft-style boats specifically designed for marine wildlife observation.
These vessels have amenities to ensure your comfort and safety during the tour.
Online reservations are highly recommended, especially during the peak season, to secure your spot on the cruise.
Whale watching tours can fill up quickly, so booking in advance helps ensure availability
You can bring your camera to capture the breathtaking moments during the cruise.
Ensure your camera is charged and ready to capture the whales’ incredible behaviors.
Some whale watching cruises may offer bottled water or soda/pop on board.
Before your cruise, we request that you check with the tour operator about their offerings.
Dress in comfortable layers, including a light jacket, sunscreen, and a hat.
Non-slip shoes are recommended for safety on the boat.
While humpback whales are the main focus, you may also have the opportunity to observe other marine life, such as dolphins, sea turtles, and various seabird species.
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