Maui Boat Tours: Our 5 Best

1.Original Sunset Cruise with Open Bar from Ka’anapali Beach

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,422 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $127Our pick

Sail from Ka’anapali Beach for two hours of sunset views, unlimited drinks, substantial pupus, music on select Tuesdays and Thursdays, and possible whales from December 15 to April 15. Expect beach boarding, a barefoot boat, and a lively crew that may include Jim, Travis, Jenni, Mario, Nick, James, or Em.

“Such a fun cruise & the crew was just as fun & awesome. Definitely can’t wait to do this again in the future”

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2.Ma’alaea Harbor: Whale Watching Tour Aboard Power Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 979 reviews · 2 hours · from $49Best value

Cruise Maalaea Bay aboard Quicksilver’s double-deck power catamaran during Maui’s December to April whale season. Captain Kiwi, Captain Carlos, and other crew members provide lively narration, while onboard hydrophones let you hear whale songs. Expect open and shaded seating, drinks, restrooms, and a good chance of seeing calves, breaches, tail slaps, and spy-hops.

“Everything was great!! We seen whales! The sun was shining it was a good day. The captain was very friendly and knowledgeable about the whales. The staff were polite and friendly served drinks . We would highly recommend this whale tour!!!”

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3.Maui Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise from Ka’anapali Beach

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 903 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $166

Board Sea Maui’s 65-foot catamaran from the sand at Ka’anapali Beach for a 2.5-hour sunset dinner cruise. Chef Jai prepares a buffet, the open bar is included, and whale watching runs from December 15 through April 15. Live music is offered Wednesdays and Saturdays. Expect beautiful views, helpful crew, and wet feet during boarding.

“The service was 2nd to none. The crew was just amazing. Atmosphere and bevs were great! Food was good not great. Had a spectacular time on the water!!”

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4.West Maui Snorkeling Experience by Boat from Ka’anapali

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 881 reviews · 5 hours (approx.) · from $193

From Ka'anapali Beach, join a small boat tour to two West Maui snorkeling sites, often including Honolua Bay. Shasta, Derek, Malakai, and other crew members guide you in the water, identify marine life, and help beginners. Expect turtles, reef fish, possible dolphins, and whales from December through April, plus banana bread, lunch, drinks, and shade aboard.

“Absolutely LOVED this excursion. The crew took care of everything -from the moment we arrived on the beach, they put us at ease. Shasta was an incredible guide, very knowledgeable and went above and beyond to search out interesting wildlife, diving down to the reef to point things out and lead us to interesting spots. We were a group of just 8; typically they take up to 20 but the boat fits more than that so you'll be comfortable regardless. There was also shade on the boat, they provided sunblock, banana bread, tasty wraps, non-alcoholic beverages, and even gave my husband something for sea-sickness. They made us feel very safe,…”

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5.From Ma’alaea: ‘Alihilani Sunset Sail Catamaran Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 348 reviews · from $114

Join Sail Maui aboard the Alihilani from Ma’alaea Harbor for a two-hour sunset sail in the Au’au Channel. Sip drinks, enjoy cold hors d’oeuvres, and settle on the forward trampolines or under the cabin. Crew members such as James, Kevin, Jess, and Nicholas have earned praise for warm service, music, and expert handling.

“Captain and crew were on point and greatly appreciated their kindness and hospitality.”

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