🦈 Pacific Whale Foundation - Sharks of the
Reef
Experience an exciting ocean adventure with a
focus on one of the most awe-inspiring residents of Hawaiian waters: the
reef shark. This 3-hour cruise along Maui's south shore takes you to a
thriving coral reef known for its population of white-tip reef sharks,
often seen resting under ledges or cruising through the clear shallows.
Along the way, you'll also encounter honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles),
vibrant reef fish, and colorful coral formations.
Led
by certified marine naturalists, this eco-friendly snorkel tour offers
more than just sightings - it's an opportunity to learn about shark
behavior, reef ecology, and ongoing efforts to protect these
often-misunderstood animals.
A professional photo
package is included for every party. An onboard photographer will
capture the action underwater, candid moments on deck, and striking
portraits with Maui's incredible ocean backdrop, so you can stay present
and leave the documenting to us.
🌊
Tour Highlights
- 3-hour snorkel cruise to a
thriving coral reef
- Small group boat tour allows for
a more personal and custom experience
- Chance to see
a variety of marine life, including white-tip reef sharks, green sea
turtles and reef fish
🎒
Tour Inclusions
- Premium snorkel gear, including
optical masks for eyeglass wearers, and flotation
devices
- Photo package included for your
party
- Crudite with hummus and Green Goddess
dressing
- Unlimited soda, juice, and filtered water,
plus 1 complimentary alcoholic beverage (Maui Brewing Co. beer or
tropical seltzer)
- Expert crew, certified as
lifeguards and in CPR/First Aid
- Onboard Jr. Naturalist Program for kids
- Warm shower and two
restrooms on board
Special instructions
- Where and When:
Tour time:
11:30 am - 2:30 pm
Check in 45 minutes prior to departure at Pacific Whale Foundation's Ocean Store at the Maui Harbor Shops, which shares a parking lot with Maui Ocean Center, located at 192 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku (GPS address). View Map
Parking at the Maui Harbor Shops/Maui Ocean Center Aquarium is $1.00/hour and the first 15 minutes are free.
- Restrictions:
Participants must be at least 7 years old and must be able to swim to go snorkeling.
Use of any full-face snorkel masks are not allowed on Pacific Whale Foundation activities due to safety concerns.
REEF-SAFE SUNSCREEN GUIDELINES: This tour requires you to use reef-safe sunscreen in accordance with the statewide ban on sunscreens that harm the reefs. Please read the ingredients list of your sunscreen as "reef-safe" is not a regulated term and sunscreens listed as such can have the following banned ingredients in them: oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, avobenzine, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, and ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate. Reef-Safe sunscreen can also be found in local stores or be purchased on-board (4oz for $13 rate may change).
- Special Notes:
Please note that snorkel locations and wildlife sightings are weather dependent and are not guaranteed.
- Operation Days:
Tuesday
- Duration:
3 hours
- Capacity:
30 passengers
- Equipment:
The Ocean Explorer is a modern 54 foot, smooth riding and eco-friendly catamaran. It features front stadium seating, a shaded galley and serving area, and freshwater showers and bathrooms.
