Private Snorkel Charters in Maui with Half Day & Afternoon Options - Explore West Maui’s Best Reefs

Set out on a private Maui snorkel charter cruise that gives you the flexibility to choose from a half day, express, or afternoon trip along the West Maui coastline. Each charter departs directly from Ka’anapali Beach, where the crew welcomes you with premium gear, reef safe sunscreen, and expert guidance suited to your group. Your captain selects the best snorkel site based on daily conditions, offering access to spots like Honolua Bay, Cliff House, Olowalu, and other clear water locations known for turtles, tropical fish, and vibrant coral. Guests can enjoy local drinks, soft beverages, and open air seating as the boat cruises between sites. Whether you want extra snorkel time, a quick morning outing, or a relaxed afternoon on the water, each charter provides a private setting tailored for families, couples, or groups seeking a memorable West Maui ocean day.

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Why do travelers choose this tour?

Private Maui Snorkel Charters Only: These charters are reserved just for your group, giving you a relaxed, flexible way to snorkel West Maui without sharing the boat with other parties. Each trip is tailored by the captain and crew to your comfort level, interests, and schedule.

Beach Boarding from Ka’anapali: Tours depart directly from Ka’anapali Beach in front of Whalers Village, so you step from the sand onto the boat and sail straight to the snorkel site. It is a scenic and convenient start to your morning or afternoon on the water.

Snorkeling with Turtles and Reef Fish: Snorkel with Hawaiian green sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and other marine life at sites selected for the day’s conditions. In winter, you may also see humpback whales as they travel through the warm Maui waters.

Meals, Pupus, and Open Bar: Depending on the charter you select, enjoy breakfast, lunch, or appetizers from Cafe Jai, along with a full open bar for guests 21 years old and up, and a variety of nonalcoholic beverages for all ages.

Private charter package options

Half-Day West Maui Snorkeling (4 hours): A morning charter on Sea Maui 3 that includes breakfast, lunch, and open bar service. Ideal for guests who want extra time in the water, multiple reef stops when conditions allow, and the best chance of spotting whales in season.

Express Morning Snorkel (2 hours): A shorter morning charter aboard Sea Maui 2, perfect for guests who want to head straight to a snorkel site and be back by late morning. This option focuses on efficient travel, quality reef time, and a relaxed return to Ka’anapali Beach.

Afternoon West Maui Snorkel (3 hours): A mid day charter on Sea Maui 2 for guests who prefer to skip an early wake up. Enjoy an afternoon snorkel stop, appetizers, open bar, and a scenic cruise along the coast as the light changes over the West Maui mountains.

What to expect

• Check in at the Sea Maui kiosk along the beach walk at Whalers Village on Ka’anapali Beach
• Board from the shoreline and wade through shallow water to step onto the catamaran
• Cruise along the West Maui coastline with ocean and mountain views from open air seating
• Snorkel at a site chosen by the captain for the day’s conditions and visibility
• Swim with tropical reef fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles in clear Maui waters
• Watch for dolphins year round and humpback whales from December through April
• Enjoy included food and a full open bar for adults, plus soft drinks and juices for all ages

Local expert tips

• Parking at Whalers Village can be validated for up to four hours, so bring your parking ticket to the Sea Maui kiosk to save on parking costs.
• All trips are barefoot and board from the beach, so wear sandals or flip flops that are easy to remove before walking through the water to the boat.
• Morning charters typically offer the calmest ocean conditions, while afternoon trips are a great choice for guests who prefer to sleep in.
• During whale season from mid December to mid April, keep your camera ready on the way to and from the snorkel site for possible whale sightings.

What to bring

• Swimsuit worn under your clothes
• Reef safe sunscreen and lip balm
• Towel
• Sunglasses and a hat with a secure fit
• Light cover up, hoodie, or windbreaker for the ride back
• Waterproof phone case or camera if you plan to take photos
• Valid government issued photo ID for guests who will be consuming alcoholic beverages

Boat Information

Sea Maui 2: This 47 ft sailing catamaran features an open air layout with cushioned seating, shaded areas, and wide deck space ideal for private groups. Sea Maui 2 is used for the Express Morning Snorkel and Afternoon West Maui Snorkel, offering smooth sailing, easy beach boarding, and convenient water access from the stern steps. The boat includes a marine restroom, freshwater rinse, and a bar area where the crew prepares drinks and serves appetizers during your charter.

Sea Maui 3: This 65 ft performance sailing catamaran provides a larger platform for private groups seeking extra space and comfort. Sea Maui 3 is dedicated to the Half Day West Maui Snorkeling Charter and includes expansive seating, shaded and sunny areas, and a wide swim platform for entering the water. Guests enjoy a buffet setup for breakfast and lunch, a premium bar, a marine restroom, and a smooth ride across West Maui’s coastline. Its size and stability make it an ideal vessel for longer snorkel outings and seasonal whale watching.

How to get there?

Check in at the Sea Maui kiosk located along the beach walk at Whalers Village, between Leilani’s and Hula Grill on Ka’anapali Beach. If you are driving, follow signs to Whalers Village and park in the shopping center garage, then bring your parking ticket for validation. Guests staying at Ka’anapali resort hotels can usually walk along the beachfront path to reach the kiosk. Please plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check in and safety briefing.