2-Hour Maui Whale Watch from Lahaina Harbor, Maui

Maui , United States

2-Hour Maui Whale Watch from Lahaina Harbor, Maui

Active

(3 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

*Hawaii Ocean Project has been providing outstanding ocean activities to over a million visitors for over 30 years!*

**Booking our tour, you are supporting an impacted and recovering Maui Wildfire tour company who is resuming operations back at the original Lahaina harbor. THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING!**
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Our comfortable, spacious, vessel often attracts whales led by our expert captains & experienced crew who are knowledgeable on these animals. Our crew will explain the Humpback whales’ actions between breaches, flukes, tail slaps, movements in the water and more! We have reduced the passenger capacity, so that there's more space for guests.
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We are one of the only vessels that allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages!
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We offer snacks, beverages, gifts & other retail items for purchase.
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If you're lucky enough to be on Maui during the Humpback Whale migration, it's a must do adventure and experience. These tours book up quickly so book in advance and reserve your spot!

Available options

Whale Watch Tour Times

Duration: 2 hours: Tour departs two times a day with guaranteed whale sightings on Maui’s most stable and spacious whale watching boat.

What's included

Local knowledge about Humpback Whales & what you're seeing.

Underwater HYDROPHONE - used to hear the whales under the boat!

Shaded main cabin with oceanic window viewing.

Marine bathroom on board.

Multi-Level vessel to give you uninterrupted panoramic viewing.

Expert Captain & experience crew for your safety.

Detailed itinerary

Experience one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles on a whale watching tour from Lahaina Harbor, located on the sunny west coast of Maui Hawaii. Lahaina Harbor is the oldest, and most iconic harbor in all of the Hawaiian islands.

Exploring the crystal-blue waters of the Au'au Channel, one of the world's premier humpback whale watching locations in the world. Here you can witness massive humpbacks breaching, tail-slapping and even hear their beautiful bellowing songs through our underwater hydrophone!

What's not included

Gratuities

We allow BYOB (and your own snacks).

Hotel Pick-up/ Drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Dress appropriately. Viewing whales is often best done outside on the viewing decks. Wear sunscreen, secure hats and belongings and dress for breezy "on the water" conditions

For comfort we cap capacity at 80 passengers; Coast Guard Certified for 145 passengers.

Tour operator reserves the right to substitute vessels, routes and destinations based on vessel operations, weather and sea conditions without notice

All passengers must be able to provide identification upon the request of vessel personnel as proof of his/her identity. Due to these changes it is imperative that each guest have a valid ID with them at all times.

Check-in minimum 30 minutes prior to departure of tour at the Lahaina Cruise Company booth at the Ala Wai Boat Harbor.

Tour boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure and closes 5 minutes before departure.

Departures leave promptly at designated times to avoid delays on return times.

Full refunds are eligible with 24-hr notice. Less than 24-hr notice due to medical circumstances a doctor visit note may be required for a full refund

Restrictions • This activity is not wheelchair accessible

Near Public Transportation

Release of Liability Waiver must be acknowledged for all members of group at check-in

Some restrictions may apply for wheelchair accessibility - call us for further details before booking.

Meeting point

*HARBOR ADDRESS: 675 Wharf St., Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
*WHERE AT HARBOR: Lahaina Harbor; Check-in at the MAIN loading dock of Lahaina Harbor, located nearest to Lighthouse. (Boat Name: "Kaulana").
*(See booking confirmation ticket voucher for more information.)

Important notes

• HAWAII OCEAN PROJECT: Maui’s Highest Rated Whale Watch! (2 Hours; Lahaina Habor) •
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* PLEASE CHECK IN MINIMUM 30-MINUTES PRIOR TO TOUR*
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* For the 9:45AM morning tour: Check-in @ 9:15AM // Return @ 11:45 AM
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* For the 12:15PM afternoon tour: Check-in @ 11:45AM // Return @ 2:15PM
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* CALL FOR ASSISTANCE: (808) 667-6165
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* HARBOR ADDRESS: 675 Wharf Street, Lahaina, HI 96761, USA
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* WHERE: Main Loading Dock; near the large lighthouse (Boat name: Kaulana). Please check-in at the welcome station fronting the boat.
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* PARKING: There is ample parking at the harbor, the boat is viewable from the parking lot. The parking lot has kiosks where you can pay to park for $1/hour.
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* PROMPT DEPARTURE - Tour will depart promptly at the chosen tour time, please be on time so that you don't miss the boat.
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• 24 hours' notice required for cancellation or reschedule.
• Operates in most weather conditions; please dress accordingly.
• This tour is not Wheelchair accessible.
• Must bring photo ID for BYOB alcoholic Beverages.
• Bring cash if you'd like to tip the crew!
• GUARANTEED WHALE WATCH or go again for FREE!! (on next available tour)

*THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING HAWAII OCEAN PROJECT*

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