Travel

Molokini Crater: The Best Snorkel Tour

Molokini Crater is a crescent-shaped, half-submerged volcanic crater located near the Maui coast in the Alalakeiki Channel. Although many marine life species are found around the crater’s rim, there are different areas you can explore with varying levels of visibility, water temperature, and sea currents. As such, the Molokini Crater snorkel tour in Maui, Hi, is one of the best experiences you will ever have.

Molokini Crater Snorkel Tour

The island is accessible by boat and can only be visited with the assistance of a paid guide or tour operator. The island is famous among tourists who want to snorkel or scuba dive on its coral reefs. As such, you can arrange for the. Molokini Crater snorkel tour in Maui, Hi, if you don’t want to miss the experience.

What Do You Need to Go Snorkeling?

  • A mask that fits your face shape.
  • A snorkel with a flexible tube.
  • Fins that fit your feet and legs well. They need to be adjustable so you can wear them comfortably in the water. 
  • A life vest, which will keep you afloat if you get tired or fall asleep while swimming.

Mask, Snorkel, and Fins

If you’re new to snorkeling, you first need a mask and snorkel. This keeps water from entering your mouth and nose when you dive down for a closer look at fish. So, fins help propel you through the water without kicking your feet too much. Fins come in different sizes depending on how big/small/tall/short someone is and what kind of activity they hope to engage in with them. Meanwhile, a wetsuit helps keep swimmers warm when temperatures drop or when diving into colder waters like those off Maui’s south shore.

Marine Life Found Around the Rim 

The best place to snorkel is Makalu Point due to its calm waters and incredible coral formations. At the same time, Molokini Crater is a marine conservation district with some very protected areas where you cannot go below 20 feet depth without getting kicked out by park rangers.

The Molokini Crater Snorkel Tour Is a Unique Experience 

Snorkeling at Molokini is a unique experience for many reasons, but most notably, it offers some of the best snorkeling in Maui, Hi. Located off the coast of Maui, Hi, in the Alalakeiki Channel, Molokini Crater is a half-submerged, crescent-shaped volcanic crater that attracts thousands of visitors yearly.

Beginning of the Adventure

The adventure begins at 5 a.m. when you board a boat that will take you and other passengers on an hour’s journey to Molokini Crater. The boat leaves from the dock at Keawakapu Beach and arrives at 7:30 a.m., giving you enough time to set up before taking off on your snorkel tour of Molokini.

While out on the boat, you’ll want to take your motion sickness medicine if you think you need it. Also, use plenty of sunscreens, and bring some snacks and water to stay hydrated and full throughout the day.

Once Out on the Ocean, Wear a Life Jacket

Once out on the ocean, you’ll be required to don a life jacket, even though many seasoned swimmers may have preferred not to wear it. The rule is in place for your safety and everyone else on board. Life jackets are also required for all ages and should fit snugly around your body.

Preparing for a Snorkeling Adventure

There are two ways to get to Molokini Crater: by boat or seaplane. And if you choose to go on a snorkel tour, arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in and get ready for your adventure. When your boat comes to Molokini Crater, your guide will prepare everyone for their snorkeling adventure in about 10 feet of water.

You will be given a mask and fins to swim around safely and comfortably underwater. A snorkel with a breathing tube attached is provided for everyone on board the boat. A life vest is also available should anyone need extra support while swimming!