Overview
Eye-level whale watching (or summer time dolphin watching) onboard our low-to-water small group zodiac rafts.
Native Hawaiian owned and voted Trip Advisors Traveler's Choice, Hawaii Ocean Rafting has been Maui’s original ocean rafting experience for more than 30 years.
Our small group tours make for a fun, family style whale watch experience. Although whales are protected in Hawaii, they often approach our small boats for closer and eye level whale encounters.
Search for dolphins and sightsee on this tour in the off season (summer months).
A low-to-water zodiac boat puts you close to the ocean’s surface for eye-level wildlife encounters, offering unobstructed views, maneuverability for accessing remote spots, and a thrilling, eco-friendly adventure you can’t get on larger vessels.
We are located in Lahaina, Maui, just a short drive from Kaanapali, Kahana, Napili, Kapalua and other West Maui accommodations. And a fun destination for visitors staying in Kihei or Wailea.
Packages & Options
2HR Dolphin (only) Watch Tour
Popular Whale Watch RAFT
90 Min. Whale Watch RAFT
Hawaiian History & Whale Watch
Preferred Whale Watch RAFT
2HR Whale/Dolphin Search Tour
Itinerary
Join Maui's only Hawaiian Owned eye-level Whale Watching and Dolphin Search Tours onboard our low-to-water small group eco-rafts.
Avoid the crowds and enjoy comfortable seating in a small group with spectacular views of Hawaii’s humpback whales or Maui's friendly dolphins.
December- April: The Humpback Whale returns to the warm Hawaiian waters every year during the winter months for their mating and calving season. Although whales are protected in Hawaii and we do not approach them closer than federal regulations, they often approach our small rafts for those up close and eye-level whale encounters.
May-November: Dolphins are spotted year-round and our eco-rafts also provide eye-level encounters. November we will also begin our search for early season whales.
Your tour includes a full narration of interesting whale / dolphin and Maui facts by our marine naturalist, listening to whale songs on a hydrophone, water onboard and lots of photo ops!
*Our small locally native owned eco-company is excited to share Maui's wildlife with you!*
Departures from Lahaina, Maui- always arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure time so you don't miss boarding your boat!
What’s Included
Inclusions
- Plan to get wet! This is a low to water boat- ocean spray and light rain can occur during tour.
- Life jackets are provided for emergencies but are not required to be worn during the tour.
- Dolphin Tour includes snacks and beverages
- Hydrophone to listen to whale songs
- Whales or Dolphins - Please refer to your booking to confirm which seasonal wildlife you will see.
- Available shade varies on boat. Please bring sun protection: hat, sunglasses and reef safe sunscreen
- Marine Naturalist Narration
Exclusions
- BYOB ( Plastic or cans only)
- No Spray Sunscreen Permitted - Reef Safe Sunscreen Only
- No Pregnant Persons or children under 3 permitted
- Gratuities
- Whales/Dolphins - Please refer to your booking to confirm which seasonal wildlife you are observing.
Meeting & Logistics
Special Instructions
Boat leaves promptly at scheduled departure time please arrive at least 30 minutes early for check in or you will miss the tour. Also please wear footwear to easily take off for a barefoot cruise.
Meeting Point
Hawaii
Additional Info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- No Infants
- No Pregnant Persons
- Food Allergen Warning (Required Disclosure): Due to the nature of onboard food preparation and handling, we cannot guarantee that any menu item will be free from allergens. All meals or snacks served on this vessel may contain or come into contact with gluten, tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish, fish, soy, eggs, dairy, and wheat. If you have a known food allergy, please notify our team in advance and bring any required allergy medication (such as an EpiPen). We strongly recommend guests with severe allergies consult a physician prior to participating in the charter. We are not responsible for allergic reactions due to undeclared or cross-contact allergens.
- No children under 3
