5 Best Lahaina whale watching tours in Maui, Hawaii (2023)
Looking for the best Lahaina whale watching tours in Maui?
Whale watching is one of the most popular experiences in Lahaina, Maui!
Each year from December to April, the waters around Lahaina, Maui become home to humpback whales that migrate from their colder feeding grounds in Alaska to the warmer waters of Maui to mate, give birth, and nurse their young.
Lahaina’s prime location on Maui’s western coast makes it an excellent spot for whale watching. The town’s protected bays and channels provide calm waters that are ideal for whale-watching boats.
Additionally, the deep waters around Lahaina offer humpback whales the perfect environment to carry out their mating and birthing activities.
During the whale-watching season, you can expect to see humpback whales breaching, tail slapping, and spouting water from their blowholes. Did you know that whales can grow up to 50 feet in length and weigh up to 40 tons!!
Taking a whale-watching tour is the best and probably the only way to experience these majestic creatures and observe their habits in their natural environment. Whales are typically several miles away from the shore and you might not have much luck trying to just watch them from the shore.
On my family trip to Maui, we took a 2-hour small group whale watching tour in Lahaina on a catamaran boat with Pacific Whale Foundation and it was one of our best experiences in Maui! We saw so many whales!!
In a hurry and do not have time to read the whole article? Below is a summary of the 5 best whale-watching tours in Lahaina, Maui:
Table of Contents
Types of whale watching boat tours in Maui
There are several options for whale watching in Lahaina. Before we go into the details about the best tours, it is important to understand the various types of whale watching tours offered, so that you can decide what’s best for your group.
The difference between the various whale watching boat tours is mainly the type of boat and the group size.
Visitors can book whale watching tours on smaller boats or vessels, such as catamarans or zodiacs, which offer a more intimate and personalized experience.
There are also tours on large boats that can take 100 to 150 passengers which are a more affordable option than the smaller boat tours.
Regardless of the type of boat, please make sure to choose a reputable and experienced whale-watching company that follows responsible whale-watching practices to ensure the safety of both the whales and the passengers.
Each boat has its own unique advantages and can provide a different experience for passengers. Here are some of the most popular types of boats used for whale watching in Lahaina:
Catamaran boat whale watching tours
Catamarans are smaller and more maneuverable than large boats. They offer a more intimate and personalized experience, with fewer passengers onboard.
Catamarans also offer a smoother ride on the water causing less sea sickness. They have a restroom on board.
We took a Catamaran boat tour and it was the smoothest ride ever. Our boat had a small group of around 24 people in the peak season of Christmas break week.
There was enough space for everyone to spread out and move around to spot whales! Also, no one got seasick considering the fact that my family can get really nauseous on a boat!
Large boat whale watching tours
These boats are typically large and comfortable vessels that can accommodate around 100-150 passengers. Larger boats move slowly and can cause less sea sickness in general.
These boats often have open-air decks and indoor seating areas, as well as restrooms and other amenities.
The only downside is that the boat can get crowded in peak season and you might have to sometimes see whales behind rows of spectators.
Small Zodiac boat whale watching tours
Zodiacs are small, inflatable boats that can navigate the shallow waters around Lahaina pretty fast.
They provide a more adventurous and up-close experience, as passengers are closer to the water and the whales. They still cannot get closer than 100 yards to whales as required by law.
However, they may not be as comfortable as larger boats and are not recommended for those who are prone to seasickness. You can also get wet as these boats are low and at the water level.
5 Best whale watching tours in Lahaina, Maui
All whale watching tours from Lahaina go to the same ocean pod where the whales are, and the chances of whale sightings are mostly the same from any tour.
What makes a tour different is the size and type of the boat, group size (smaller groups are best), and the experience and reputation of the tour company in following responsible and safe practices for the whales and passengers.
After looking at all the whale watching tours in Lahaina, and what they offer we picked the below four tours that are the best for their group size and boat type.
1. Small group Catamaran Whalewatch Sail
- Duration -⏳ 2 hours
- Boat Type – ⛵ Catamaran sailboat
- Maximum passengers – 24
- Departs from – Lahaina Harbor
This Whalewatch sail tour on an eco-friendly sailing catamaran boat is the one we went on and it was the highlight of our Maui trip! I highly recommend this!!
This whale watch tour is run by the Pacific Whale Foundation, a non-profit organization based in Maui that is dedicated to the conservation of whales and their ocean environment. We were happy to play a small part in the whale protection program by booking this tour!!
This is the only tour company that has a boat crew of certified marine naturalists and marine biologists that will provide excellent insights into the social behavior of humpback whales. Our boat crew naturalists were very knowledgeable and super friendly, they even took our pictures!
The captain steered the boat expertly chasing the whales and maintained a 100 yards distance from the whales as required by law. The whales themselves can come closer to the boat, although we were not that lucky!
The captain was very good at turning the boat so that all sides got a good view when there was a whale spotting.
This tour only allows a maximum of 24 passengers, we had so much space on the boat to move around and see whales from different sides of the boat.
My kids loved sitting on the nets of the Catamaran cruise boat and it was fun to watch them hoping to catch some fish and turtles on the nets. The marine biologist brought underwater hydrophones to listen to whale songs which were amazing sounds!
We saw so many whales spouting, tail slapping, a breach, and a mama and baby whale swimming together under the water. At one point on the horizon, we saw several whales spouting.
Water was provided to keep us hydrated and there were snacks and drinks available to purchase.
This tour guarantees whale sightings or you can go again for free! I highly recommend booking a whale-watching trip at the beginning of your trip so that you can go again later in case you do not see any whales.
Personally, I feel this 2-hour catamaran sail whale-watching tour is worth it even without the whales! Sailing on the Maui waters on a catamaran sailboat with breathtaking views of Maui and Lanai in the distance is a great way to spend your day. Seeing plenty of humpback whales is a given too during peak whale season!
➡ Check rates and availability for this Small group Catamaran Whalewatch Sail tour
2. Catamaran Whalewatch Sail (Medium sized group)
- Duration -⏳ 2 hours
- Boat Type – ⛵ double-decker Catamaran sailboat
- Maximum passengers – 64
- Departs from – Lahaina Harbor
This 2-hour whale watching tour from Lahaina is exactly similar to the one above, except that it is on a larger double-decker catamaran boat, which allows more passengers (maximum 64), thus making it more discounted than the small group tour that allows only 24 passengers.
The tour is run by the same eco-friendly Pacific Whale Foundation that is dedicated to the protection of whales and their ocean environment.
Certified marine naturalists and biologists lead these enjoyable and educational two-hour whale watching tours, providing insights into the social behavior of humpback whales.
The upper deck has seating and is great for panoramic views of the ocean and Lahaina harbor.
➡ Check rates and availability for this Catamaran Whalewatch Sail (Medium Group) tour from Lahaina
3. Large boat whale watching tour from Lahaina
- Duration -⏳ 2 hours
- Boat Type – ⛵ Large boat
- Maximum passengers – 145
- Departs from – Lahaina Harbor
This Large boat whale watching tour from Lahaina is run by the eco-friendly Hawaii Ocean Project which dedicates 100% of its gift shop profits and donations to research on Hawaii’s marine environment.
This is the most discounted type of whale watching tour as the tour is on large boats that can accommodate around 140 to 150 people. You get to experience whale watching in the same ocean pods as the catamaran boats.
The downside is that these large boats can get crowded during peak whale watching season and it might be harder to walk to navigate through the crowds to different parts of the boat to spot whales.
Also, you might not get prime time space at the boat railings for photos if the boat tour is at capacity. The upside is that large group tours are more affordable as they allow more people per tour.
Large boats move slowly so there is less sea sickness than smaller raft-type boats.
This is a great option for anyone looking for a more affordable whale watching experience and who does not mind getting a little crowded. If you do decide to book this tour look for an early morning time to beat some of the crowds!
➡ Check rates and availability for this Large boat whale watching tour from Lahaina
4. Ultimate Small Group Whale Watch Tour on a raft
- Duration -⏳ 2 hours
- Boat Type – ⛵ rafting inflatable boat, also called Zodiac boat
- Maximum passengers – 26
- Departs from – Lahaina Harbor
This Ultimate whale watching tour on a small inflatable raft in the ocean is perfect if you are looking for a little adventure, and want to be at eye level with the humpback whales. Next time on Maui we are definitely taking this tour for some adventure!
These inflatable boats are much smaller and go faster, and thus can chase and get close to the whales quicker than the larger boats. They still cannot go within 100 yards of whales as per the law. But the whales can come closer to the raft.
These smaller boats can cause sea sickness as the ride can be a little rough if the waters are choppy, so might not be a good idea for those that are prone to motion sickness. There is also a chance that you might get wet so keep a dry bag for your wallet and phone.
Small group size ensures everyone gets a good view. They also have a hydrophone on board to listen to whale songs.
Like all the other tours above, this tour also provides a guaranteed whale sighting or you can book another tour for free. Children under 3 years of age are not permitted in this tour.
➡ Check rates and availability for this Ultimate Small Group Whale Watch Tour on a raft from Lahaina
5. Ultimate 4-Hour Whale Watch & Snorkel from Lahaina
- Duration -⏳ 4 hours
- Boat Type – ⛵ rafting inflatable boat, also called Zodiac boat
- Maximum passengers – 22-26
- Departs from – Lahaina Harbor
If you are looking to combine snorkeling with your whale watching experience, this Ultimate Whale Watch & Snorkel from Lahaina is a highly-rated combo tour from Lahaina harbor that takes you to snorkeling spots near the island of Lanai!
This 4-hour tour allows no more than 22 to 26 passengers and is on a super fast inflatable raft. On the way to Lanai, you will get to see whales and learn about whale behaviors from your guide.
The tour stops at a couple of snorkeling spots near Lanai island where you might see turtles, tropical fish, dolphins, and even manta rays!
Breakfast, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks are included. They even provide reef-safe sunscreen!
➡ Check rates and availability for this Ultimate 4-Hour Whale Watch & Snorkel tour from Lahaina
Whale watching from other places in Maui
Lahaina harbor is in west Maui and is the ideal closest location for those staying in Lahaina and Kaanapali towns. Lahaina harbor also has the most tour options for whale watching.
Apart from the Lahaina Harbor, below are a few other places in the west and south Maui that have whale watching excursions.
Whale watching from Kaanapali Beach in Maui
Kaanapali Beach is the most happening beach in West Maui lined with resorts, restaurants, and shopping malls like Whaler’s village. There are boat tours for whale watching, that board right from Kaanapali Beach providing convenience to the guests staying in the resorts on the beach.
Whale Watching Cruise with Open Bar from Kaanapali Beach – This 2-hour Whale Watching tour departs right from the Kaanapali beach and includes an open bar, but it is still family-friendly. You will learn a lot about whales from the naturalist guide onboard.
Whale watching from Maalaea Harbor in Maui
From Kihei and Wailea towns in South Maui, Maalea Harbor is closer than Lahaina Harbor. There are some whale watching tours from Maalaea Harbor as well.
2 hour Whale Watching tour from Maalaea Harbor – This 2 hour whale watching tour is run by Pacific Whale Foundation and is great for south Maui guests as Maalaea harbor is closer than Lahania.
Whale watching from Kihei in Maui
Kihei in South Maui is preferred by many due to its more central location than west Maui. There are not many whale watching tours from Kihei but the one below is a good choice for whale watching on a raft.
Maui Whale-Watching Tour by Raft from Kihei – This small group whale watching tour on a raft departs from Kihei Boat Ramp. The tour is 1.5 hours long and is highly rated.
Tips for Maui whale watching
The below tips will make your Maui whale watching experience more successful and comfortable!
Plan your trip around the Maui whale watching season
If whale watching is at the top of your Maui itinerary, then you should plan your trip around the Maui whale watching season which is typically between December and April.
The best way to whale watching in Maui is on a boat tour
You might see occasional spouting from the shores but it will still be too far away for any real experience. Boats can get as close to 100 yards to whales, but when the boat is standing still, there is a high chance the whales might come closer to your boat!
Pick the right type of boat for your group
If someone is prone to motion sickness or if you have very young kids a larger boat or a smooth sailing catamaran might be a better choice as it moves slowly. If you have teens or all adults in your group, a rafting adventure might be more exciting!
Book your whale watching tour at the beginning of your trip
Most reputable whale watching companies guarantee that you will see a whale or allow you to rebook for free. Going at the beginning of your trip allows you to have days for rebooking if you don’t see any whales the first time.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Always use reef-safe sunscreen on Maui to protect the marine environment.
What you might need for whale watching
Where to stay in Lahaina, Maui for whale watching
Staying in the towns of Lahaina or Kaanapali in west Maui is ideal for whale watching and for any other excursions and activities in Maui.
Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa is an excellent resort at a great location right on Kaanapali beach at the historic Black Rock.
Aston Kaanapali Shores is a great beachfront resort for families with full kitchen condos on Kaanapali beach.
➡ Check rates and availability for your stay in Lahaina, Maui
FAQs about whale watching in Lahaina and Maui
Below are some frequently asked questions about whale watching in Lahaina and Maui:
When is whale watching season in Lahaina, Maui?
The typical Maui whale watching season is during the winter months of December to April when the whales migrate from the colder waters of Alaska to warmer Maui waters for breeding. November and May are shoulder months when there can still be whale sightings.
What is the best month for whale watching in Maui?
January to March are the best months for whale watching in Maui and you will see a lot of whales at this time.
Is it better to go whale watching in the morning or afternoon in Maui?
As per research, whales do not have a schedule and the chances of whale sightings are the same at any time of the day. However, morning tours are recommended because the water is generally calmer in the morning and the sun is more bearable. Early morning tours are the least crowded as well.
Is Maui the best Hawaiian Island for whale watching?
Although whales can be seen from all Hawaiian islands during the whale season of November to May, Maui is considered one of the best Hawaiian Islands for whale watching because the whales love the warm and shallow waters of the Auau Channel between Maui, Molokai, and Lanai for breeding.
Is whale watching worth it in Maui?
Maui is one of the top Hawaiian islands and has a large variety of whale-watching tours to pick from. During the whale season, humpback whales migrate from the colder regions of Alaska to the warmer waters of Maui to breed and you are guaranteed to see whales by taking a reputed whale-watching tour. Seeing these majestic creatures and learning about their migration and social behaviors is a bucket list experience and whale watching is definitely worth it in Maui.
How close can boats get to whales in Maui?
Boats cannot go more than 100 yards near a whale in the US waters and it is illegal to do so by boat, kayak, or swimming. 100 yards is the minimum distance that boats need to maintain from whales.
Which are the various whale watching boats in Lahaina?
Whale watching boats range from large boats that can take 150 passengers to smaller inflatable kayaks that are close to the water and can take 26 passengers. Catamaran boats are the most comfortable and smooth sailing boats for a small group whale watching experience.
Can you swim with whales in Maui?
No, It is illegal to approach or swim within 100 yards of a whale in Maui and US waters.
Do people get seasick on whale watching tours?
If the waters are choppy, and you are on a smaller boat life a rafting vessel there is a chance that you might get seasick. Smooth sailing boats like catamaran boats and larger boats move slower and are better options for people who are prone to sea sickness.
How should I dress for whale watching in Maui?
It is ideal to dress in layers as it can get hot on a 2-hour boat ride in the sun. Carrying a sun hat with a chinstrap and a light jacket is a good idea. If you are going on an inflatable raft you will most likely get wet so carrying a dry bag for your wallet and phone is a good idea.
Final takeaways: Best Maui whale watching tours from Lahaina
Whale watching is the most popular excursion in Maui during the whale watching season from November to May and Lahaina harbor offers the most whale watching tours.
Below is a summary of the best Lahaina whale watching tours in Maui:
Small group Catamaran Whalewatch Sail – Top pick! 2-hour tour on a smooth sailing catamaran boat with a maximum of 24 passengers. A crew of certified marine naturalists and biologists, run by a nonprofit dedicated to whale protection.
Catamaran Whalewatch Sail (Medium sized group) – 2-hour tour on a smooth sailing double-decker catamaran boat with a maximum of 64 passengers. A crew of certified marine naturalists and biologists, run by a nonprofit dedicated to whale protection.
Large boat whale watching tour from Lahaina – 2-hour tour on a large boat with a maximum of 145 passengers. More discounted than the catamaran boat tours but can get crowded. Large slower moving boat, great with small kids and strollers.
Ultimate Small Group Whale Watch Tour on a raft – 2-hour adventure tour on an inflatable zodiac boat with a maximum of 26 passengers. Great tour if you want to be at eye level with the whales.
Ultimate 4-Hour Whale Watch & Snorkel from Lahaina – 4-hour whale watch and snorkel combo tour on an inflatable zodiac boat with a maximum of 26 passengers. Includes snorkeling at Lanai island and breakfast. Top pick for a combo tour!
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