VIP (12 Guests ONLY) Ultimate Whale Watch

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(187 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our Exclusive VIP whale watching tours are 2 hours long with a maximum of 12 guests. Our small groups make every seat a front row seat as you enjoy whale watching and educational talks from our marine naturalist onboard. Our inflatable rafting vessels are safe, travel quickly to find whales and a fun ride for the whole family.

See Humpback Whales that have traveled 3000 miles from Alaska to give birth and mate in the protected Maui Nui sanctuary off Lahaina where the waters are known for being warm and calm. On our whale watches we could travel anywhere from 2 to 10 miles from Lahaina, often encountering dolphins in addition to humpback whales. Guarantee whale sightings Dec-April, or go again for FREE!

We are locally owned and operated since 1982 and every ticket supports our participation in marine research projects and our role as certified first responders to whale entanglements.

Available options

8:50AM VIP 2 HOUR WHALE WATCH

Duration: 2 hours

4PM VIP 2 HOUR WHALE WATCH

Duration: 2 hours

11:10AM VIP 2 HOUR WHALE WATCH

Duration: 2 hours

630AM VIP 2HOUR WHALE WATCH

Duration: 2 hours

8:50AM VIP 2HOUR WHALE WATCH

Duration: 2 hours

1:40pm VIP 2 hour whale watch

Duration: 2 hours

4PM VIP 2HOUR WHALE WATCH

Duration: 2 hours

11:10AM VIP 2HOUR WHALE WATCH

Duration: 2 hours

6:30AM VIP 2 HOUR WHALE WATCH

Duration: 2 hours

1:40pm VIP 2Hour whale watch

Duration: 2 hours

What's included

Because we are eco-friendly, purified water is available in an igloo style dispenser, not plastic water bottles.

Detailed itinerary

Our small group Whale Watching tour is our most popular whale watching tour on Maui. Our fast and safe rafting vessels are low to the water and perfect for close encounters and small groups making every seat a front row seat! Listen to whale songs on our hydrophone and don’t forget your camera for epic photos of our humpback whale friends!

What's not included

additional hour of whale watching and only 18 guests on the boat for 25$

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

68 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

119 reviews

5★

114

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

No children under the age of 3 years.

Meeting point

CHECK IN 20 MINUTES PRIOR TO TOUR TIME at Mala Boat Yard 1237 Front St. in Lahaina, Maui!

Please INCLUDE YOUR PHONE NUMBER OR EMAIL IN YOUR BOOKING so we can CONTACT YOU IF THERE ARE ANY CHANGES TO YOUR TOUR!

About Maui

Maui, known as the Valley Isle, is the second-largest Hawaiian island and offers a diverse landscape of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic mountains. It's renowned for its stunning sunrises and sunsets, world-class snorkeling, and the scenic Road to Hana.

Top Attractions

Road to Hana

A 160 km (100-mile) drive along the island's northern coast, featuring waterfalls, lush rainforests, and stunning ocean views. A must-do for any visitor.

Scenic Drive Full day Free (parking fees may apply at some stops)

Haleakala National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the dormant Haleakala volcano, unique ecosystems, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.

Nature Half day to full day $30 per vehicle (7-day pass)

Molokini Crater

A partially submerged volcanic crater offering world-class snorkeling and diving with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

Adventure Half day $100-150 per person (including snorkel gear and lunch)

Lahaina Town

A charming historic town with a rich whaling history, boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront dining.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore (costs vary for shopping and dining)

Iao Valley State Park

A lush, tropical valley featuring the iconic Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot tall volcanic pinnacle, and scenic hiking trails.

Nature 1-2 hours $5 per vehicle (Hawaii residents free)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A traditional Hawaiian dish made with diced raw fish, typically tuna or salmon, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made with cooked fish or vegetarian options.

Loco Moco

A hearty dish featuring a bed of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. A comfort food favorite in Hawaii.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan versions available.

Malasadas

Portuguese-inspired fried dough balls, dusted with sugar or filled with sweet fillings like custard or haupia (coconut pudding). A popular treat from Teddy's Bake Shop in Lahaina.

Dessert Vegetarian (contains eggs and dairy).

Shave Ice

Finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups and often served with a scoop of ice cream or sweetened condensed milk. A refreshing treat, especially on hot days.

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available (check for dairy-free syrups).

Popular Activities

Hiking Snorkeling Scuba Diving Surfing Zip-lining Beach lounging Spa treatments Sunset cruises

Best Time to Visit

April to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather, lower humidity, and fewer tourists. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the island.

22-29°C 72-84°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Tagalog, Japanese, Ilocano
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST), GMT-10:00

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Maui is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, petty theft and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering services or deals that seem too good to be true
• Use reputable tour operators and rental companies

Getting there

By air

Kahului Airport • 2.4 km (1.5 miles) from Kahului

By bus

Kahului, Lahaina, Wailuku

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable but infrequent service. Best for short trips between towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kihei Wailea Lahaina Upcountry Maui

Day trips

Lana'i

16 km (10 miles) by ferry from Lahaina • Full day

A secluded island known for its luxury resorts, scenic beaches, and off-road adventures. Ideal for those looking to escape the crowds of Maui.

Molokini Crater

16 km (10 miles) by boat from Kihei • Half day

A partially submerged volcanic crater offering world-class snorkeling and diving with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

Haleakala National Park

48 km (30 miles) from Kahului • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the dormant Haleakala volcano, unique ecosystems, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.

Festivals

Maui Film Festival • June Maui County Fair • Late September to early October Maui Whale Festival • February to March (peak whale watching season)

Pro tips

Rent a car for at least part of your trip to explore the island's diverse landscapes and attractions
Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
Visit popular attractions like the Road to Hana and Haleakala National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and follow local guidelines for responsible snorkeling and diving
Try local specialties like poke, loco moco, and malasadas for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience