Maui Whale-Watching Tour by Raft From Kihei

The Maui Whale-Watching Tour by Raft from Kihei offers an exhilarating and intimate adventure for those seeking to encounter humpback whales in their natural habitat. Departing from Kihei, this 1.5-hour tour accommodates a maximum of 22 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from a knowledgeable marine naturalist. With a focus on safety and a high recommendation rate, this tour promises an unforgettable marine experience. But what sets it apart from other whale-watching excursions, and why might it be the perfect choice for your Maui adventure?

Key Points

• A 1.5-hour whale-watching excursion that departs from Kihei, Maui, with a maximum group size of 22 travelers.
• The tour includes a marine naturalist for commentary and a hydrophone to listen to whale sounds, with a 98% recommendation rate.
• The main highlight is spotting humpback whales, with the opportunity to observe dolphins and sea turtles during the tour.
• The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or individuals with specific health issues, and participants must be between 8 and 65 years old.
• The tour has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 548 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable and friendly guides.

Tour Overview and Details

The Maui Whale-Watching Tour by Raft from Kihei is a 1.5-hour excursion that allows visitors to spot humpback whales in Maui’s warm waters.

This tour departs from Kihei and has a maximum group size of 22 travelers. Priced from $84.14 per person, the tour features a marine naturalist who provides commentary and a hydrophone to listen to whale sounds.

Travelers can also observe dolphins and sea turtles. With a 98% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, the tour offers a guaranteed whale sighting.

Certain restrictions apply, and cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours prior.

Whale-Watching Experience

Spotting humpback whales in Maui’s warm waters is the highlight of this 1.5-hour whale-watching adventure.

An on-board marine naturalist provides informative commentary, helping guests identify the whales and understand their behaviors. Travelers can also observe dolphins and sea turtles during the tour.

An on-board marine naturalist provides informative commentary, helping guests identify the whales and understand their behaviors. Travelers can also observe dolphins and sea turtles during the tour.

The hydrophone allows them to listen to the whales’ sounds, adding to the immersive experience. With a guaranteed whale sighting, this tour offers an excellent opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures up close.

However, pregnant travelers, those with back/neck injuries or heart problems, and individuals outside the 8-65 age range are advised to avoid this activity.

Safety and Restrictions

Although the Maui Whale-Watching Tour offers a thrilling opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures, certain individuals may not be suitable for the activity.

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with back/neck injuries or heart problems. Participants must be between 8 and 65 years old. Plus, the raft isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Safety is the top priority, so the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to anyone they deem unfit. Guests should carefully consider these restrictions before booking to ensure they can fully enjoy the whale-watching experience.

Meeting and Pickup Information

To begin the whale-watching adventure, guests will want to make their way to the meeting point located at 2800 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, USA.

Parking is free in the dirt lot above the boat ramp. Guests should plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to check-in.

The tour will return to the same meeting point upon completion.

1. Parking is available in the free dirt lot above the boat ramp.
2. Guests should check-in 30 minutes before the scheduled departure.
3. The tour will end back at the original meeting point.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

How do past customers rate this Maui whale-watching tour?

Based on 548 reviews, the tour has an impressive average rating of 4.9 out of 5. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who provide engaging commentary and help spot multiple whales, including calves.

While some experiences were impacted by weather cancellations, customers highlight the company’s excellent customer service in handling these situations.

Preparing for the Tour

Before embarking on the Maui Whale-Watching Tour, there are a few important details to keep in mind.

First, guests should arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure to allow time for check-in.

Second, free parking is available in the dirt lot above the boat ramp.

Third, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers, individuals with back/neck injuries or heart problems, and children under 8 years old.

What to Expect on the Raft

Once aboard the raft, guests can expect an intimate and exhilarating whale-watching experience.

The small group size of up to 22 travelers allows for close-up views of the majestic humpback whales. Passengers will be able to observe the whales’ behaviors, such as breaching, tail slapping, and spy-hopping, with the guidance of an onboard marine naturalist.

The hydrophone enables guests to listen to the whales’ underwater vocalizations, adding to the immersive experience.

With a focus on safety and sustainability, the tour offers a thrilling yet responsible way to witness these incredible marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Enhancing Your Whale-Watching Adventure

To make the most of your whale-watching adventure, there are several steps travelers can take.

First, pack layers of clothing to stay comfortable, as the ocean breeze can be cool.

Second, bring a camera with a zoom lens to capture stunning shots of the majestic humpback whales.

Finally, hydrate well and pack snacks to maintain energy throughout the tour.

With these simple preparations, you’ll be well-equipped to fully learn about the awe-inspiring experience of witnessing these giants of the sea in their natural habitat.

Savor every moment of this unforgettable Maui adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring on the Whale-Watching Tour?

Travelers should bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and extra layers of clothing to stay comfortable on the whale-watching tour. It’s also a good idea to bring a camera or binoculars to capture the whale sightings.

How Often Do Guests See Whales on This Tour?

Guests on this tour have a high chance of seeing whales, with the tour offering a "Guaranteed whale sightings" policy. Many reviewers report seeing multiple whales, including calves, during their experiences.

Is There a Restroom Available on the Raft?

There are no restrooms on the raft during the whale-watching tour. Guests are advised to use the restroom before boarding the raft, as the tour does not make any stops. The tour focuses on spotting whales and other marine life.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s important to note that there’s no refrigeration available on the raft, so perishable items may not stay fresh. Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are recommended for the 1.5-hour duration.

How Stable Is the Raft During the Tour?

The raft is designed to be stable and comfortable on the water. It’s equipped with safety features to ensure a smooth and enjoyable whale-watching experience, even in choppy conditions. Guests can feel secure and focused on spotting the whales.

The Sum Up

The Maui Whale-Watching Tour by Raft from Kihei offers an unforgettable marine adventure. With its high safety standards, personalized attention, and opportunity to listen to whales, this tour provides an intimate encounter with humpback whales in their natural habitat. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a memorable outing, this tour is sure to deliver an exhilarating and enriching experience.