Which tour

Question

Hi we are coming mid March. Just my husband and myself. Plan to do a whale watch tour but would like to do one excursion. At first had thought Molokini crater but then have seen how crowded it is. We do like to snorkel but don’t want to be shoulder to shoulder with people. Also husband does occasionally get sea sick. What would you suggest and what time of day? Should we just stick to shore snorkel? Thanks

Answer

For a more relaxed and less crowded snorkeling experience in Maui, you have several great options that will allow you to enjoy the beauty of the island without feeling packed in with large crowds. Since your husband sometimes gets seasick and you're looking to avoid crowded spots like Molokini, here are a few suggestions:

Shore Snorkeling at Napili Bay or Kapalua Bay:
If you’re looking to avoid crowds and also keep things more calm for your husband, shore snorkeling might be the best option. Both Napili Bay and Kapalua Bay are well-known for their clear waters and abundant marine life, and they are relatively sheltered from the waves, making for a much more peaceful and enjoyable snorkeling experience. The bays tend to be less crowded than boat-based tours and you’ll have the flexibility to snorkel on your own time. Napili Bay in particular is great for beginners and offers easy access to the water with vibrant coral reefs and fish.
Private or Semi-Private Whale Watching and Snorkel Tours:
Since you’re planning to do a whale-watching tour, consider looking into private or semi-private tours. These smaller tours typically cater to fewer guests, which means less crowding and more personal attention. Some whale watching tours also offer snorkeling opportunities, so you can combine the two experiences without dealing with the crowds at Molokini. Some popular operators that provide small-group or private charters are Alii Nui and Maui Magic.
Lanai Snorkel Tours:
Another option is taking a trip to the Island of Lanai for a snorkel excursion. While it's a boat ride, Lanai is less crowded than Molokini and has incredible snorkeling spots like Shipwreck Beach and Hulopo’e Bay. The tours to Lanai often have fewer people on the boat, and you can experience some of Maui's best underwater scenery in a more peaceful setting. Some operators even offer lunch and a chance to relax on Lanai before heading back to Maui.
Best Time of Day:
The best time to go for snorkeling or whale watching, especially to avoid crowds, is early in the morning. Tours that leave early typically have fewer participants, and the waters are usually calmer in the mornings before the wind picks up later in the day. If you can get an early start (around 7:00–8:00 AM), you’ll likely have a much more serene experience.

Summary:

If you prefer to avoid crowds and keep things more relaxed, shore snorkeling at Napili Bay or Kapalua Bay is a great option.
If you want to combine whale watching with a smaller group experience, consider private or semi-private tours.
A Lanai snorkel tour is another excellent option, offering a quieter and more scenic experience away from the crowds.
For the best experience, early morning tours are recommended, especially for smaller group excursions.

With your preference for less crowded areas and your husband’s seasickness, shore snorkeling and smaller group tours will likely provide the most enjoyable experience. Enjoy your trip to Maui!

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