March Coronavirus Update: All activities are currently suspended through at least the end of the month. Please refer to the booking calendars for up-to-date availability or contact us.

Whale Watching Sail from Lahaina

Pacific Whale Foundation
West Maui
December to April
Lunch & Drinks Available
Whale Watching
People viewing whale from boat

Highlights

  • Observe majestic humpback whales
  • Learn about their behavior from onboard marine naturalists
  • Hear whales sing with underwater hydrophone
  • Spacious modern luxury sailing catamaran
  • Support a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting marine life and oceans
  • Whale sighting guarantee (97% success rate) or go again for free
From
$53 per adult
  • Discounted up to 10%
  • Morning, Afternoon
  • Duration 2 - 3 hours

Pricing & Availability

Overview

Maui is the prime spot in Hawaii for viewing hundreds of humpback whales from November through May as thousands congregate in the warm waters off the coast to eat, mate, and raise their young. Witness these magnificent creatures in their natural environment with an educational and fun boat cruise from Maui’s whale watching experts. 

Since 1980, the non-profit Pacific Whale Foundation has focused on studying and protecting whales, and marine life and the oceans more broadly, through research and educating the public. PWF's passion and expertise is on full display as certified marine naturalists explain the whales’ social behavior and, if conditions are right, let you listen to whale songs through an underwater hydrophone.

All profits from your tickets go directly towards PWF's important work of protecting the oceans through science and advocacy. Whale sightings are guaranteed (97% success rate) or go again for free within 1 year. A free marine wildlife 8x10 glossy poster card is given per person, and a junior naturalist program teaches and inspires the younger ones.

Booking Tip

The booking calendar above shows real-time availability. If the date/time is available (including for today), just select it and finish the booking process as soon as possible to claim your spots. The cruises can sell out, so don't wait too long!

TravelShack's Choice

Why we recommend this option over others
  • Whale watching is PWF's specialty, and you are learning from a prominent organization that has advanced whale research and conservation efforts for over 35 years
  • Profits from your tickets support PWF's important work
  • Multiple options to choose from to best fit your schedule and budget
  • Modern luxury sailing catamaran
Traveler Reviews
TravelShack Customer rating:

5.0 out of 5 stars
Also rated on:
TripAdvisor
Yelp
Guidebook Reviews

Maui Revealed Guidebook:

Maui is the undisputed whale watching capital of Hawaii.

For whale watching, Pacific Whale Foundation remains our top choice because of their knowledgeable crews. This is their passion.

Make sure you book a dedicated whale watching tour that focuses on that and nothing else.

Lonely Planet Guidebook:

Whale Watching: Top 10 Maui Highlight

The Pacific Whale Foundation whale watching cruises are immensely popular

Fodor's Guidebook:

Whale Watch: Top 15 Maui Attraction. The humpback whales’ attraction to Maui is legendary, and seeing them is a highlight for many visitors. It’s one of the most popular activities on Maui.

Moon Guidebook:

Whale Watching: Top 10 West Maui Highlight: The waters off Maui are home to the highest concentration of humpback whales on the planet

Option 1
Standard 		Option 2
Deluxe
Times*
Check-in 45 min prior 		7:30 am or 10/10:30 am 12:30/1 pm
Duration 2 hours 3 hours
Food & Drink Snacks & drinks available for purchase Gourmet lunch and drinks (including 3 alcoholic beverages) included
Max Passengers
Often less 		65 65
Price
with 10% online discount 		Age 13+: $59 $53.10
Age 7-12: $30 $27
Age 6 & under: 1 Free per adult,
or $27 		Age 13+: $85 $76.50
Age 7-12: $43 $38.70
Age 6 & under: 1 Free per adult,
or $38.70
Book Now Book Now

* See booking calendar above for exact schedule, since there is some variation

Location

  • West Maui
Departure Point
Lahaina Harbor

Distance
15 min from Ka’anapali
30-45 min from Kihei / Wailea
Frequently Asked Questions
  • Non-profit organization whose mission is to protect the oceans through science and advocacy. It conducts marine research, educates the public, and fights for marine life and ocean conservation.
  • Hawai'i Ecotourism Association Sustainable Tourism Certification
  • Holds annual Maui Whale Festival to raise awareness about conservation and raise funds to support its important programs
  • Boats use energy efficient, low emissions engines
  • Developed and outfitted all boats with whale protection devices, the first devices in the world for commercial vessels that guide whales away from propellers and running gear
  • Uses bio-compostable plates, cups, and utensils
  • Sources locally grown fruits, vegetables, and meats to reduce carbon footprint
Terms and Conditions
Cancellation Policy
  • Fully refundable until 48 hours prior to cruise
Taxes/fees added at checkout
  • 4.166% Hawaii sales tax (GET)
  • 3% Harbor Tax
  • $4.50 fuel surcharge per person
The TravelShack Advantage
  • Highly Rated Activities
    Handpicked based on quality & reviews
  • Best Price Guarantee
    Lowest price or we'll match it
  • No Hidden Booking Fees
    Your free concierge with upfront pricing
  • Easy Cancellations
    100% refundable until 24-48 hours prior
  • Free Rewards with Every Booking
    Hawaii vouchers, discounts, or cash back
Whale Watching
Rewards

Free with Every Booking

  • Reward Multiplier 15.0
  • Example for 2 adults 1,593 - 2,295 1,593 points
view maui rewards
reward faqs