If you want to venture off on a snorkeling adventure, you are sure to love what you encounter. The best news is that there are several different companies that offer snorkeling trips.
The majority of the companies will take you to Molokini and then to what is called Turtle Town. As you will soon learn, there are many different locations around Maui named Turtle Town, so you never know for sure where you are headed. One turtle town is off Keawakapu, another is off the Maui Prince, another is close by Ma’alaea, and two are close to Po’olenalena. So, if you wish to know which one you are headed to you had better ask.
You can catch a snorkeling trip leaving from different location in Maui. You can find in Ma’alaea has different companies leaving for their snorkeling adventure including Alii Nui 875-9259, Four Winds ii 879-8188, Lani Kai 244-1979, Mahana Na’ia 871-8636, Pacific Whale Foundation: Ocean Spirit 249-8811, Pride of Maui 242-0955, and Prince Kuhio 242-87777. Leaving Kihei you will find Blue Water 879-7238 and Seafire 879-2201. Leaving Maui Prince you will find Kai Kanani 879-7218.
One of the most popular snorkeling areas is Molokini, which is 3 miles off the coast of Maui and 10 miles from he Ma’alaea Harbor. This is a wonderful experience with a sunken crater, which is now home to various sea life. The floor has some of the most beautiful coral you can imagine and fish are abundant. The water is clear and the scene awesome. The only problem with a trip to Molokini is that it receives over 1,000 visitors per day, so it is quite crowded all the time.
Another great snorkeling spot is the Coral Gardens. If you take a boat from Lahaina then this will more than likely be the spot you stop first. One of companies leaving Lahaina includes Lahaina Princess 667-6165. There are two coral gardens, one is offshore at mile marker 14 while the other is below the Highway 30 tunnel.
Another great location is Lana’i. If you go there by boat, you will probably visit Shark Fin Cove, which may not be the best location. You can snorkel on your own here and more than likely have a more interesting time.
Many of the companies do not offer wet suits and with the water temperatures on average may be a bit cool, so it would be best for you to rent one. If you do not wish to use the snorkel equipment offered by the company, you can always rent your snorkeling gear. When you rent your own, you at least know that it has been cleaned, whereas the ones on the boat can be questionable. In addition, the mask is normally a one size fits all, which of course does not fit everyone. If you want a towel, you had better bring your own, as most companies do not offer towels. Sunburn is one of the biggest complaints, therefore do not forget the sunscreen.
Morning snorkeling trips are always better when the seas are calm, however, the price is more expensive. Afternoon trips will save you some money. Be sure to arrive early if you wish to find a parking place especially in Ma’alaea or you will have to park at the aquarium. Parking in Lahaina can be just as difficult, the best place to park would be close to Prison Street.
Some companies also offer snuba now for those that do wish to snorkel or dive. This can be great if you have the kids along, it allows them to see underwater without actually go underneath.
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