Maui’s Glass Bottom Boat Tours, and Semi-Submersible Vessel

I have had the good fortune of seeing dolphins in the water more times than I can count thanks to Maui’s glass bottom boat tours, and it never ceases to be a bit thrill. I have seen them while ocean kayaking off the beaches of Kihei and I have seen them while on boat tours both on the south side of Maui, off the Makena coast, and while up on the west side, near Kapalua and Kaanapali.

Several years ago, I went out into La Peruse Bay , where there is typically an abundance of dolphins, and my 3 other friends and I had a major dolphin encounter with many of them swimming all around us. This lasted for about 30 minutes and was one of the highlights of my long distance Maui open water swims.

You too can get a chance to see dolphins in the wild on Maui and the best and easiest way to do it is by a boat trip. Some boat companies on Maui offer dolphin snorkel adventure tours and I highly suggest one.

Typically, when you board the boat, you are served a tropical continental breakfast with papayas and pineapples grown on Maui. You’ll also get hot and cold beverages to whet your whistle. Once the boat leaves the harbor be on the lookout for all types of ocean life. From November – April, the humpback whales are in town along with the dolphins so you’ll get a real aquatic show. Last boat trip I took I saw flying fish and turtles as well. As I said, I always get a kick out of seeing all those amazing ocean going fishies.

Most boat tours take you to Maui’s dolphin cove, where  a resident pod of spinner dolphins live so be prepared for a thrill. Next, the boat takes you to a snorkel spot where you’ll learn about the scenery, the reef, a brief history of Maui and some factoids you’ll enjoy. Typically, the captain will choose a snorkel spot that agrees with the weather since wind conditions on Maui are always a factor. You may go to La Peruse Bay, Kaho’olawe Turtle Arches, Kahihinu or Molokini Crater. All of them are excellent snorkel spots and places to spot Maui water wildlife.

While in the water, the crew of the boats typically prepare a barbeque lunch of burgers, salad, cookies, beer, wine, soda. It’s a great way to spend the day and see Maui from the ocean.