I had the pleasure of booking a snorkeling tour with Makena Coast Charters. Our trip was bestowed upon the Makena Mele 2 with Captain Ryan. We were blown away with the hospitality and customer service we received throughout the entirety of our trip. When we arrived at our pickup spot there was a family running a little late and the captain and crew were generous enough to wait. While no one wants to be late it would be heartbreaking for the boat to leave without you. Our captain and crew took us to Turtle Town first where we discovered so many turtles. So beautiful in their natural habitat. My sister was afraid to go in the water, but First Mate/Mermaid Michelle got in with her and stayed right with her until she felt comfortable. This is hands down the absolute best customer service I have seen. They were very personal with everyone. After our first dive we were catered with a variety of Hawaiian Sun canned juice, chips and granola bars. We then headed to Molokini and were amazed by all the beautiful fish. So many of them, I was in awe. After this final dive, we were given delicious turkey sandwiches and more juice and chips. We had a beautiful trip back to shore. If you want a more intimate excursion with an excellent friendly crew be sure and get ahold of Makena Charters. We will definitely be using them again. read more

The snorkeling trip was fantastic, everything was excellent the Molokini location, the crew was very professional and helpful, safety oriented. Overall great experience read more

Fantastic time with captain Matt and first mate Lucia. Boat - Makena Mele II. I think our group was about 15 people. Check in 6:30 am, starts at 7am. We came during whale season, so as a plus we saw a few , several times on the way to the two snorkel locations and back. First spot was turtle town. . Beautiful, we saw around 8 or so . They were not afraid of humans, in fact maybe they were intrigued. Color fish of course. Next went to the Molokai Crater. Waters were a little rough in comparison to turtle town. Extremely colorful fish, reef area was amazing. Best snorkeling experience compared to O'hau , Kauai, and St Lucia . We felt safe the entire time, makes sense since Matt declared he usually takes everyone back .(a joke). Worth the expense, and was happy to tip. Lucia said that people can come to snorkel at turtle town from the beach. (Behind turtle town are 4-8million condos ). Evidently the beach isn't private , so you could come back on your own. Mahalo my friends. read more

We did the tour with Captain Alex, Lucia and Sarah. The entire experience was amazing! We had a great time in the water, they took us out and explained everything along the way. The captain was personable and funny, the " mermaids" were very helpful and the entire trip was well organized, we saw turtles, whales and lots of fish. Highly recommend for anyone visiting. read more

Makena Coast Charters - Boat Charters Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

Mat and Lucia were the best! We had a great time snorkeling. Safety and fun were the priority. Highly recommend!

Captain Joe along with Jess gave us a great snorkel adventure. They were both friendly and really went out of the way to make this a great trip. The provided equipment was excellent. We saw a variety of wildlife while snorkeling and Jess provided us with great history of the area as well as being the resident expert marine biologist. We had time to see whales on the way to Turtle Town. We were so happy to see plenty of turtles while there. The provided sandwich lunch was delicious and hit the spot after the snorkeling. Highly recommend this company, the boat might be a little smaller than others but the crew and the actual locations were amazing. The tour we did was Molokini Crater and Turtle Town Snorkeling From Kihei. read more

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Planned a whole Maui day trip around Makena Coast Charters' Molokini snorkel + whale watching tour and had the best experience--already dreaming about doing it again next year. The 2.5-hour tour takes you snorkeling at Molokini Crater, with whale watching both on the way there and back. This particular tour only runs during whale season (Dec 15 - Apr 30), so time it right! Joe and Lucille were amazing tour guides--super personable, full of character, and made sure we felt safe and informed the whole time. They gave us the 4-1-1 on all things safety and shared so many fun facts along the way. Don't forget to bring cash for tips (or they accept Venmo too!). Snacks, juice, and water are included, and they provide high-quality snorkel gear if you need it. My group brought our own, which meant we could hop in the water first while everyone else got set up. The tour kicks off at 10:30 AM, but you'll want to arrive 30 minutes early. There's an attached lot and a dirt lot nearby--we had to circle a few times before snagging a space, so give yourself extra time just in case. We boarded the Makena Mele II, a 40-ft speed raft. The ride's a little bumpy, but that's all part of the fun! Once we got to Molokini, the water was unreal--crystal clear with electric shades of blue. Schools of fish everywhere. And while snorkeling, we could actually hear whales singing underwater. Pure magic. On the ride back, we had a curious baby whale swim right up to the boat. Totally unexpected and absolutely unforgettable. read more

Amazing Snorkeling Experience with Makena Coast Charters! We booked the 3 hour Molokini Crater Snorkeling and Turtle Town excursion through Airbnb Experiences and had an incredible time with Makena Coast Charters! From the moment we booked, everything was seamless; confirmation, waiver, and helpful communication all sent ahead of time. Captain Matt and Lucia were absolutely fantastic! Friendly, professional, and completely focused on everyone's safety and comfort. We were running a few minutes behind, and Captain Matt even gave us a quick call to make sure we were still on the way, which we really appreciated. Once aboard, Captain Matt gave clear safety instructions, and Lucia walked us through snorkeling basics. Unfortunately, Turtle Town wasn't safe to access due to high swells (possibly from a recent tsunami), but they made up for it by taking us on a longer, scenic ride back and the views were breathtaking! Lucia was a gem! Super knowledgeable about Maui and even airdropped us a note filled with local recommendations. The personal touches really stood out, including the provided lunch (turkey and cheese sandwiches, snacks, and drinks) and their help assisting each guest safely on and off the boat. This was such a memorable adventure, made even better by the caring and knowledgeable crew. We felt safe, relaxed, and well taken care of the entire time. We highly recommend Makena Coast Charters and would book with them again in a heartbeat! read more

Makena Coast Charters - The snorkeling group! - Boat Charters Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

Appreciate the clear communication and directions. The boat was clean and in very good condition. Captain Matt was humorous and knowledgeable. Lucia treated me like kama'aina. They were top notch! Waters at Molokini was exceptional! Super clear waters. Marine life was good but not as good as I'd expect. Turtle Town made the journey worth it! read more

Makena Coast Charters - Boat launch - Boat Charters Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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I did the Molokini Crater and Turtle town snorkel tour. The snorkeling was beautiful. I was able to see plenty of fish and turtles. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable. They went above and beyond to make sure passengers were comfortable. Alex provided local recommendations for places to visit next! read more

Makena Coast Charters - Boat Charters Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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Had an amazing time going to the crater and seeing how clear and beautiful the corals look. Capt Matt and Shelby were awesome tour guides and provided us with amazing entertainment and beautiful views throughout our tour. Definitely recommend this to any first timers! You will not regret it! read more

Makena Coast Charters - Boat Charters Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

We booked Makena Coast Charters in Maui for the 2 1/2 hour snorkeling tour at Molokini crater. Matt and Lucia were excellent guides, even stopping along the way to give us a good, long look at whales breaching the surface. They provided thorough instructions and fun facts about the area and sea life. The crystal clear water covering the reef along Molokini's coast provided beautiful snorkeling with an abundance of interesting coral and fish to see. We highly recommend a tour with Makena Coast Charters when visiting Maui, and we will definitely see them again on our next visit. read more

My husband and I brought my son and 3 of his best friends for this snorkeling excursion. Everyone had a great time! We boarded a mid size boat with a crew of 2, Captain Matt and Jess (I believe she's a marine biologist). Both were very friendly and welcoming. They had a lot of knowledge of the local area and Hawaii overall. They gave us information as we sailed to Molokini before snorkeling. Once there, they gave us the Snorkeling 101 lesson, reviewing the process, what equipment to use, safety protocols, etc. They also provided drinks and light snacks. They made everyone feel comfortable. This is a no-frills excursion. We sailed to our destination, snorkeled (30-45 minutes), then headed back. It was a nice quick trip, then we had the rest of the day to spend on the beach/pool. If this is what you're looking for, then I highly recommend it. For those who want the slide, breakfast, lunch, and an hours-long excursion, etc. this isn't it. I've been to both kinds and they're both good, just depends on your interests. NOTE: I've been to several snorkeling excursions and have always stayed on the boat and watched my husband and kids. I'm not a very good swimmer but this is the first time I felt comfortable enough to actually do it! I used a wrap around floatation device and a noodle. Maybe it was the small group (around 15 people) that allowed me to feel safe/confident enough to take the plunge. Thank you Matt and Jess for a wonderful time. read more

Great crew - both Matt & Lucia were awesome! We thoroughly enjoyed it! Planning on snorkeling again with them in a couple of weeks!

Matt and Lucia were amazing!!!!!! Thank you to both of them and had a blast! Went to Molokini crater it was gorgeous and they were so focused on safety! read more

Had an absolute blast. The captain and staff were so kind, welcoming, informative, and safe. I'm in my 20s and went with a few other girls my age. We had music going and loved the whole trip. There were also families with smaller children on the boat, couples honeymooning, and other friend groups. It really is a good activity for everyone. They give you snorkel equipment and floaties if needed. Molokini is such a beautiful place to snorkel. Can't wait to go back soon. read more

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This tour was awesome! Matt and Lucia were awesome, very friendly and responsible. Safety was first and foremost. The snacks and sandwiches were great. Would definitely do this tour again. read more

Captains Matt and Alex were incredible. Both very fun, knowledgeable and can tell they truly love what they're doing. Educated us on how to keep safe prior to going in with some jokes here and there. Will never go with another company! read more

Makena Coast Charters - Molokini - Boat Charters Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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We had a great Molokini and turtle town snorkel tour with Captain Matt and Lucia. Fun, friendly and knowledgeable crew, smooth ride and lots of fish and turtles. Loved it! read more

Captain Matt, Jess, and Michelle Joy are the most amazing people you would hope to meet. They will forever be Ohona. They took such great care of my twins and I. We saw wonderful sea life. I highly recommend them read more

Makena Coast Charters - 'Ohana - Boat Charters Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

We had a great time today with Alex and Sarah! The snorkeling was the best experience I've ever had. We saw so many different kinds of beautiful colorful fish and got to see an eel! Whale watching afterwards was such a treat. We were lucky enough to have two whales swim right up to us and hang out under the boat! The music playlist on the way out and back was also a great touch. All in all it was a fantastic day and we're so happy we picked Makena Coast Charters! read more

Super fun day. The guys were great guides and very helpful. Light lunch and drinks, lots of turtles! Appreciate the great morning.

We went out with the family on a 3 hour snorkeling tour to the Molokini Crater and Turtle town. All the other positive reviews have it right. This is an awesome trip! When we were waiting at the boat launch with other tours I saw another operator who was quite rude and bossing people around!!! I was so glad we booked with Makena Coast. Captain Matt and Alex were super nice and helpful. Always a funny line or an anecdote. They were very safety conscious and made sure everyone felt comfortable. Great experience. Five stars, well earned. read more

Excellent crew..Alex and Sarah were super nice and supportive throughout the tour. The tour guide guy Alex was especially super friendly and elaborate about each and every whale encounter that came across our way to and from Molokini crater. Sara was very helpful and supportive during my first ever snorkeling experience. We saw about dozen whales and every experience was as thrilling as the other. Must recommend.. This tour to anyone. Hands down 10/10. read more

Smaller is better on Maui! Absolutely amazing crew, Joe didn't crash at the dock and Shelby made sure everybody was back on the boat after we all jumped in the water! Absolutely amazing trip to Molokini!!! Gorgeous water, whales, turtles, fish, eels!!! Highly recommend this company!!! read more

Makena Coast Charters - My 10yr old and myself on Getaway at Molokini Crater!! - Boat Charters Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

Staff was very helpful in spotting the whales. Staff kind and gentle with helping me on the boat. We saw many whales and spouts. They moved my purse when water came onto the vessel which I appreciate. It was a great experience read more

This by far was the best way to Snorkel in Maui and the best experience we have had in 20+ Years of coming to Hawaii. Love the new raft boat convince to get into the water as well as the low number of snorkels on the boat. Crew was very friendly, informative and helpful. Can't wait to come back next year! #GeauxTigers read more

Our charter to Turtle Town was absolutely perfect. The snorkeling spot was beautiful and we saw so many types of fish and lots of turtles. The crew was amazing as well. Very friendly and had so much information to share. We could not have asked for a better experience! read more

Brandon and Jess gave us an EXTRAORDINARY experience which included seeing whales, many turtles and other types of exotic looking fish. We spotted the whales on the way to Molokini which is a sunken volcano. After snorkeling there and seeing many types of exotic fish, we travelled to Turtle Town and anchored on a spot called Coral Gardens. We saw many turtles large and small. Some were swimming within a few feet from us. Then we spotted even more whales on the way back!! Highly recommend this exquisite excursion! read more

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Loved the intimate feel of this charter. Capt Brandon and Jess were just amazing. Their knowledge and love of the ocean and Maui really shows. We saw tons of turtles and fish. Capt Brandon and Jess were so attentive and friendly. Would love to go back out on charter with them again! read more

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Matt and Jess were both amazing. Super friendly and helpful. Turtle Town was the best spot. The boat is new, and the snorkeling mask was easy to use. I highly recommend this snorkeling adventure with Matt and Jess. read more

Did the 10:30 which was great for a quick snorkel to molikini Nice zodiac Good equipment And very friendly crew Highly recommend read more

We saw so many whales! Beautiful sailing experience! Wonderful crew! Once in a lifetime experience on the Winona!! Definitely recommend!! read more

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We booked whale watching during our vacation. Captain Sam along with Megan and Carl were great. We saw quite a few whales and calves along with multiple breaching the water. read more

Makena Coast Charters - Whale momma and calf - Boat Charters Near Me - Kihei, Hawaii

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Very efficient, smaller group on boat and drinks/food were great. Stops at Molokini were great and water super clear saw things I've not seen before. Crew wasn't too much but gave necessary info to be safe and have good experience with helpful info shared. read more

Amazing experience! I love the spots and there was plenty of scenery and wildlife to take in. Captain Matt and Leucia were very easy going and fun and kept everyone safe. Can't wait to go again read more

Smooth, clean and spacious boat. Positive, energetic, kind, accommodating crew. Fresh and plentiful appetizers and drinks. read more

Truly amazing experience Strongly recommend. Friendly crew and great snorkeling sights read more

Captain Matt and Jess were dope and we had the most amazing experience! They're the most personable, welcoming, knowledgeable crew and can't recommend this charter enough! We had almost exclusive access to Turtle Town (them things swim right up to you it's crazy) and Molokini was crazy- the more you look the more you see and they parked us in all the right spots. Can't be more thankful read more

Great experience! To the catamaran to Coral Gardens today, highlight of our trip. Great captain and crew, beautiful boat. Fruit and pastries available as soon as we boarded, with soft drinks and juice available the entire trip. After snorkeling, a light but fine lunch awaited. The location for the trip was excellent. We've been to Molikini several times and felt this was better. No hesitation in recommending. read more