Just like you enjoy spending time in Hawaii in the winter ... so do the whales. And there's no better place to spot them than Maui. What species of whale calls Maui home for the winter? Humpback Whale Why do they come to Maui for the winter? They migrate from Alaska to Maui to mate and birth & raise their calves. Why do they like the Au'au Channel and the Maui area specifically? The Au'au Channel is relatively shallow making these waters warm. The humpbacks love these warm, and reasonably calm waters for their calves. The channel lies between the islands of Maui, Lana'i, Kahoolawe and Moloka'i.
There are many more to choose from. Here are just a few options for scheduling that amazing experience. Check websites and status before visiting. * We do not endorse a particular tour or receive any compensation for recommendations.
PACIFIC WHALE FOUNDATION Celebrating 40 years of Marine Research, Education and Conservation Worldwide. With whale watching cruises departing from Lahaina and Ma'alaea Harbor, there's a convenient location near you to catch a ride. They also offer dolphin watches, snorkeling tours, sunset cruises and private charters. https://www.pacificwhale.org/cruises/
KAI KANANI Catamarans from Wailea-Makena. Whale watches, snorkeling tours, sunset sails. https://www.kaikanani.com
MAKAI ADVENTURES Tours for small groups. In addition to whale watching, they offer snorkeling and dolphin tours, fishing tours and private charters. https://www.makaiadventures.com/maui-whale-watch-snorkeling-tours
ULTIMATE WHALE WATCH AND SNORKEL Offering small group tours for whale watching, dolphin tours and private charters. They are also taking part in Marine research and Whale Disentanglement. https://www.ultimatewhalewatch.com
MAUI KAYAK ADVENTURES For tours from a real ocean perspective. Whale watching, snorkeling and kayak tours. Offering group and private tours. Departing from South and West Maui locations.
SAIL TRILOGY Whale watch, snorkeling, sunset sails, dinner sails, snuba. Tours to Molokini and Lana'i. https://sailtrilogy.com
BLUE WATER RAFTING Snorkeling and sight seeing tours in small groups. https://bluewaterrafting.com/
SEAFIRE CHARTERS Whale watch, snorkeling adventures, private charters. Tours to Molokini. https://seafirecharters.com
