Molokini is one of the most popular snorkel and dive sites in Hawaii. The geological features unlike anywhere else and abundant fish and coral is what continues to bring visitors to snorkel and dive here year after year.  The clarity at Molokini is consistent and the visibility is often 150 feet due to the craters isolation and lack of sediment. With an estimated 250 species of fish, 100 species of algae and 38 hard coral species it’s apparent the attraction to this beautiful protected marine sanctuary.  Molokini is reachable only by boat and the optimal time to visit is early in the morning before the trade winds start blowing.  Many of the boat tours conveniently depart from Ma’alaea Harbor which is just a few miles from the crater.  There are many snorkel tours to choose from and we have put together our top 3 most popular based on amenities and guests reviews.

Boasting 4,000 square feet and three decks, the Calypso is the top choice for guests who want a big and stable boat.  You will enjoy snorkeling at both Molokini and Turtle Town with a snuba add on option.  Calypso is fun for the entire family with two water slides, a jump platform on the third deck, glass bottom viewingwindows, two fresh water showers and three restrooms including an ADA/Handicapped accessible restroom.  The tour also includes snorkel gear and instruction, flotation devices, continental breakfast, BBQ lunch and cocktails for purchase.

Pacific Whale Foundation’s Molokini and Turtle Arches tour is the only Molokini snorkel tour that offers free children 0-12 years per paying adult.  Their tour includes professionally fitted, premium snorkel gear (including optical masks for eyeglass wearers), flotation devices, learn-to-snorkel class, fish id class, guided reef tour, naturalist program for kids.  It also includes a tropical-style continental breakfast, barbeque lunch, chocolate chip cookies, refreshments sodas, tropical juices and filtered water and an adult beverage for those over 21.

Maui Magic is a great option for those who want to beat the crowds while still enjoying all of the amenities of a bigger boat.  In addition to snorkeling Molokini and Turtle Town, you will also explore the Kanaio Coast's rugged shoreline which is rarely seen by visitors. There are sea arches, caves, and often dolphins along this coast. Amenities include a swim platform, water slide, snorkel gear and instruction as well as a continental breakfast, BBQ lunch and as well as ice cold beer and wine after snorkeling.

While these are our top 3 most popular tours, the truth is we have never been on a Molokini snorkel tour we did not enjoy.  If possible book your tour in advance.  They can sell out especially during busy season.  Most importantly, have fun!