Every year, something magical happens in the coastal waters off Maui. As fall arrives, so do the majestic North Pacific Humpback Whales! And with potential sightings happening as early as October, you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss an opportunity to get up close to these gentle giants during your visit.
For something this spectacular, there’s a lot you should consider before booking your excursion. To help, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about Maui whale watching tours so you can book the one that’s right for you and your family.
From finding an eco-friendly company to understanding what’s included in your tour, we’ve got all the important details. Check them out below and get ready for a fantastic fall getaway to Maui.
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Best Time to Book Maui Whale Watching Tours
Experiencing humpback whales in the wild is a truly spectacular sight, sometimes even a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. That’s why it’s important to maximize your chances of seeing them by booking your Maui whale watching tour at the right time.
Each fall these marine mammals begin one of the longest migrations on the planet, traveling 3,000 miles from Alaska to the warm Hawaiian waters where they’ll mate and birth their calves. The earliest sightings of humpback whales typically occur in October with whale season ending sometimes as late as May. Peak viewing occurs between November and March, which is also when many whale sightings are guaranteed by tour operators.
For the best chance of seeing a whale during your Maui vacation, book a morning or late afternoon tour. During these times the waters tend to be calmer, and their increased activity may lead to more whale breaches and excellent photo opportunities.
What to Expect While Whale Watching in Maui
Beyond an exhilarating boat ride and sweeping views of the Maui coastline, your whale watching tour will provide you with expert commentary from knowledgeable crew members. As you make your way out to the deep water, you’ll learn all about Maui’s marine ecosystem and the delicate role we all play in maintaining it.
You’ll also learn about the social behaviors of whale pods, distinct physical characteristics that make it easy to identify a humpback, and may even get to witness the thrill of bubble net feeding. This phenomenon occurs when whales circle together under the water and create large bubbles to stir up smaller fish near the surface. What occurs after this is a magnificent multi-whale breaching as they rise to catch the stunned fish.
Importance of Choosing Eco-Friendly Whale Watching Tours
Choosing an eco-friendly whale watching tour company in Maui is incredibly important. In 1970 the United States listed humpback whales as an endangered species, but it wasn’t until sixteen years later in 1986 that a worldwide commercial moratorium was put in place. Since then, the population has rebounded and today there are an estimated 84,000 humpbacks in the world’s oceans.
Eco-friendly tour companies not only ensure ethical behavior around the whales, but many also do important conservation work that helps keep Maui’s waters a vibrant and healthy place where all types of marine life thrive.
Top Maui Whale Watching Tour Companies
While there are plenty of tour companies in Maui, here are three of our favorites:
PacWhale Eco-Adventures
PacWhale offers several unique whale watching tours in Maui including a sunset dinner cruise, a lunch cruise, small group tours, and more! Each is led by a certified marine naturalist, guaranteeing the utmost attention is paid to both your experience and the wellbeing of the whales.
- Tour Duration: Varies from 2-3 hours depending on selected tour
- Key Features: Hear whale songs, watch mothers and calves play, and enjoy guaranteed whale sightings or go again for free.
- Check-In Location: Ma’alaea Harbor
Cost: Varies depending on tour, but ranges from $100-$200. Seasonal discounts and specials may be available for early-bird booking.
Ultimate Whale Watch and Snorkel
Rated the #1 Best Maui whale watching tour, at Ultimate Whale Watch and Snorkel every ticket sold helps support active marine research and the whale entanglement response team.
- Tour Duration: 2 – 3.5 hours depending on selected tour
- Key Features: Book the Whale Watch and Snorkel Combo tour and enjoy stopping along the way for a dip in the gorgeous clear waters. Snacks and snorkel gear are included!
- Check-In Locations: Ka Anapali Beach and Mala Boat Ramp in Lahaina
- Cost: $77 - $175 depending on tour. Specials and children’s pricing are available.
Trilogy Excursions Ka’anapali Whale Watch
Book a luxury catamaran whale watching experience with Trilogy Excursions Ka’Anapali Whale Watch and enjoy elevated amenities like complimentary breakfast or lunch, bottles of filtered water, and small tour groups that make every outing feel like a private tour.
- Tour Duration: 2 hours
- Key Features: Catered food, hydrophones onboard so you can hear beneath the surface, and expert narration from certified naturalists.
- Check-In Location: Sheraton’s Beach Lawn, Ka’anapali *Note, this is a beach-loading tour, so you will get wet. Wear appropriate clothing.
- Cost: Adults are $85 with discounts for children. Infants 0-2 years are free.
Book Your Maui Whale Watching Adventure Today!
Fall is an excellent time to escape to Maui. With fewer crowds, perfect weather, and the chance to spot one of nature’s most marvelous creatures, you’re guaranteed to create memories your family will cherish forever. For more fun water activities, check out our guide to Maui’s fishing scene!
At Bello Realty, Inc., you’ll find a selection of Maui vacation rentals ideal for your family’s getaway. Choose from beautiful beachfront rentals or book a home with a hot tub so you can relax on a perfect fall evening after your whale watching tour.
When you find your dream property, don’t forget to book directly with Bello Realty, Inc., for the best rate on your stay. Our local, on-island team is ready and available to assist you with everything from check-in to departure. Browse our available Kihei Maui condo rentals and book your fall vacation directly, today!