Whale tour with seasickness

Question

What is the best whale-watching tour considering seasickness is a big factor for me? I know early morning is best but what other considerations are there? Would you recommend some tour companies over others?

Answer

If seasickness is a big factor for you, there are several things to consider when booking a whale-watching tour in Maui. While early morning tours are typically recommended for optimal whale-watching conditions, there are additional factors that can help minimize the chances of seasickness and make your experience more comfortable.

Here are some key considerations:

Type of Boat: Smaller boats tend to move more with the waves, making them less ideal for those prone to seasickness. Look for larger, more stable boats, such as catamarans or boats with a wider hull. These tend to provide a smoother ride and are less affected by choppy waters.
Tour Duration: Shorter tours are preferable if you're worried about seasickness. Tours that last 2 to 2.5 hours are often ideal, as they give you enough time to enjoy the whales without spending too much time on the water.
Time of Day: As you mentioned, early morning tours are typically calmer since the waters tend to be smoother before the trade winds pick up. This can reduce the motion of the boat and help avoid seasickness.
Location: Some whale-watching tours operate closer to the shore or in more sheltered waters. These areas usually experience less motion, which is a big advantage for seasick-prone individuals.
Seasickness Remedies: Consider bringing seasickness medication (like Dramamine) or natural remedies such as ginger or acupressure wristbands. It's a good idea to take them before boarding the boat to help prevent nausea.

In terms of tour companies, here are a few reputable ones that provide larger boats with smoother rides and cater to comfort-conscious passengers:

Pacific Whale Foundation: Known for their larger boats and eco-friendly whale-watching tours, they offer a variety of options, including morning tours and boats with good stability. They also have a great reputation for offering informative tours with naturalists on board.
Seafire Charters: Offers smaller, more intimate tours with a focus on comfort. They often use stable, medium-sized boats that have a better ride than smaller rigid-hull boats, though still provide a close-to-the-water experience.
Kaanapali Ocean Adventures: They offer both larger boats and smaller, more private whale-watching excursions. Their catamarans are generally stable and provide a more comfortable ride for those sensitive to motion.
Maui Classic Charters: They provide comfortable, smooth tours with experienced crews, offering catamaran tours that tend to be stable and well-suited for those prone to seasickness.

Finally, remember to check the weather and sea conditions before booking. Sometimes, tours may be canceled or rescheduled due to rough conditions, so flexibility can help ensure you have a smooth experience. You might also want to ask the tour company about their policy on seasickness and whether they offer any comfort options like motion-sickness-friendly boats or remedies.

Enjoy your whale-watching experience and have a great time on Maui!