From Maalaea Harbor: Whale Watch Cruise Aboard the Malolo

Experience the magic of whale watching from Maalaea Harbor aboard the Malolo catamaran. This 2-hour cruise, available from mid-December to mid-April, promises an intimate encounter with the graceful humpback whales. Glide through the waters, listening to their enchanting songs through underwater hydrophones, while enjoying complimentary cold drinks and breathtaking views. With a maximum of 66 guests, this excursion offers a truly memorable adventure in the whales’ natural habitat.

Good To Know

• The Malolo catamaran offers a 2-hour whale watching cruise departing from Maalaea Harbor on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 3:30 PM.
• Passengers can enjoy complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and hear whale songs through the onboard underwater hydrophones during the cruise.
• The tour has a maximum capacity of 66 guests, ensuring an intimate whale watching experience.
• The professional crew prioritizes safety and customer service throughout the journey.
• Guests should arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure and be able to climb on and off the boat with minimal assistance.

Overview of the Whale Watching Experience

The Malolo catamaran provides a 2-hour whale watching cruise from Maalaea Harbor, offering visitors the best opportunity to spot humpback whales in Hawaii.

Operating from mid-December to mid-April, the tours accommodate up to 66 travelers. With the help of underwater hydrophones, the experienced crew focuses on safety and customer service, ensuring an immersive whale watching experience.

Complimentary cold drinks and a shady cabin with restrooms add to the comfort of the cruise. While gratuities aren’t included, cash tips are recommended for the knowledgeable staff.

Highlights of the Malolo Catamaran

Maalaea Harbor serves as the launch point for the Malolo catamaran’s whale watching tours, offering visitors the best chance to spot humpback whales in Hawaii.

Onboard, passengers can listen to the whales’ songs through underwater hydrophones, enhancing the immersive experience. The Malolo’s professional crew prioritizes safety and customer service, ensuring a smooth and informative journey.

Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages are provided, with alcoholic drinks available for purchase. The shaded cabin offers respite, with two restrooms available.

While gratuities aren’t included, cash tips are recommended for the attentive staff. This 2-hour cruise operates seasonally, from mid-December to mid-April.

Seasonal Availability and Schedule

The Malolo catamaran’s whale watching tours operate seasonally, with the experience available from mid-December to mid-April. This timing coincides with the migration of humpback whales to the warm waters of Hawaii, making it the prime season for whale watching.

Tours depart from Maalaea Harbor and last approximately 2 hours, offering visitors the best opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. With a maximum capacity of 66 guests, the Malolo provides an intimate and immersive whale watching experience.

Onboard Amenities and Inclusions

Aboard the Malolo catamaran, guests can enjoy a range of amenities and inclusions that enhance the whale watching experience.

Underwater hydrophones allow travelers to hear the captivating whale songs. The professional crew focuses on safety and customer service, ensuring a pleasant journey.

Complimentary ice-cold sodas and juices are provided, while alcoholic drinks are available for purchase. The shady cabin offers two restrooms for convenience.

Gratuities aren’t included, so cash is recommended for tipping the hardworking crew. The amenities and inclusions elevate the overall whale watching adventure aboard the Malolo.

Meeting Point and Check-in Process

Guests will find the meeting point for the Whale Watch Cruise at 300 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793, USA.

Passengers must check in at least 30 minutes prior to the 3:30 PM departure.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

1. Mandatory check-in 30 minutes before departure.
2. Tour starts promptly at 3:30 PM.
3. Moderate physical fitness level needed, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Although the whale watching tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, passengers with a moderate level of physical fitness can comfortably participate.

Guests should be able to climb on and off the boat with minimal assistance. The tour involves standing for extended periods and walking short distances on the dock.

Passengers with mobility issues or concerns are encouraged to speak with the crew prior to booking. While the experience is suitable for most, those with limited mobility may find the tour challenging.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

The whale watching tour aboard the Malolo has earned a 4.5-star rating from 71 reviews.

Customers praise the knowledgeable crew and impressive whale sightings. However, some have complained about misleading ticket information and the boat’s condition.

The tour is recommended for:

1. Families and groups seeking a memorable whale watching experience.
2. Travelers looking to hear the whales’ songs through the provided underwater hydrophones.
3. Those seeking a well-organized and professional tour with a focus on safety and customer service.

Additional Tour Details and Considerations

Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s flexible cancellation policy, with free cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience.

Well-behaved service animals are welcome, while children must be accompanied by adults.

The tour operates in most weather conditions, so appropriate dress is recommended.

For added convenience, travelers can rent wetsuits and underwater cameras on-site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Under 5 Participate in the Tour?

Children under 5 can participate in the tour, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The operator recommends this tour for families, though younger children may find the 2-hour duration challenging.

Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no age or height restrictions, but children must be accompanied by adults. Moderate physical fitness is required, as the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Is There a Maximum Number of Passengers Allowed per Tour?

The tour has a maximum of 66 travelers per tour. There are no specific age or height restrictions, but the activity requires a moderate level of physical fitness and is not wheelchair accessible.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The whale watching tour does not offer any discounted tickets for seniors or students. The maximum capacity is 66 passengers per tour, and all travelers pay the standard ticket price.

Is There a Dress Code or Special Attire Required for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but the tour operator advises wearing appropriate attire for the weather and boat conditions. Dressing in layers and bringing a light jacket or rain gear is recommended, as the weather can be unpredictable.

The Sum Up

The Maalaea Harbor whale watching cruise aboard the Malolo catamaran offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat. With a maximum of 66 guests, this intimate 2-hour tour provides unparalleled views and the chance to hear the whales’ enchanting songs. Complimentary cold drinks, a shaded cabin, and breathtaking scenery make this a must-do activity for those visiting Maui during the peak whale watching season.