Molokini Snorkel Cruise
Many native fish species are found in and around the Molokini Crater. In total, there are close to 250 fish species you may encounter when you take a Molokini snorkel cruise. The summit of the Molokini Crater is only 160 feet above the water and the rest of the crater is below the water’s surface. This volcanic cinder cone erupted more than 230,000 years ago, making it potentially older then part of the Island of Maui!
When you book a Molokini snorkel cruise anticipate viewing amazing coral reefs on your dive. The crescent shape of the crater protects the inner lagoon so there are no dangerous currents or waves. Beginners may take a Molokini snorkel cruise as average depths within the crater hover around 10 feet. The visibility within the center of the crater is around 150 feet and 100 feet in practically any other direction or location within the crater.
A Molokini snorkel cruise is one of the top adventures for tourists in Maui. As a result, the demand for a Molokini snorkel cruise is quite high. The crater may only be accessed by boat, which means you should book your Molokini snorkel cruise in advance. There are Molokini snorkel cruises at various times of the day and seven days per week. Molokini snorkel cruises depart Ma’alaea Harbor and the Kihei Boat Ramp for the crater. It is not a good idea to kayak to the crater, despite its closeness to Maui, simply because the currents are quite strong.
Common Molokini snorkel cruise packages are either a half day or full day. All snorkeling or diving equipment is provided by the Molokini snorkel cruise. Food and beverages are also provided and it’s common to have a barbeque lunch.
There are different Molokini snorkel cruise packages designed for different types of tourists. Some Molokini snorkel cruise options may be geared at a particular fish species or an activity like whale sighting in addition to snorkeling.
It is recommended to take a wet suit or half wet suit when you head out on your Molokini snorkel cruise or rent one from the tour operator. The water is not cold, but it can dip into the low 70s. Those who plan on staying in the water for long periods of time will need the protection. Average water temperatures range from the low 70s to the mid 80s depending on the season. July through October have the warmest water temperatures.
The warmest months are July through October, but the average temperature only reaches the low 80s. Some days may reach 90 degrees, but this is unusual. The coolest month is January and the average temperature is 76 degrees. The rainy season is November through March and the dry season is April through October.