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Grateful to be whale watching this season from Lahaina, Maui!
Eye-level whale watching onboard our low-to-water small group rafts.
Native Hawaiian owned and voted TripAdvisors Traveler's Choice, Hawaii Ocean Rafting has been Maui’s original ocean rafting experience for more than 30 years. Our small group tours make for a fun, family style experience. Although whales are protected in Hawaii, they often approach our small boats for closer and eye level whale encounters.
Off season (Summer) join us for 2 Hour Dolphin Watching Tours.
We are just a short drive from Kaanapali, Kahana, Napili, Kapalua and other West Maui accommodations. And a fun destination for visitors staying in Kihei or Wailea.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No Infants
No Pregnant Persons
No children under 3
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Plan to get wet! This is a low to water boat- ocean spray and light rain can occur during tour.
Hydrophone to listen to whale songs
Life jackets are provided for emergencies but are not required to be worn during the tour.
Marine Naturalist Narration
BYOB ( Plastic or cans only)
No Spray Sunscreen Permitted - Reef Safe Sunscreen Only
No Pregnant Persons or children under 3 permitted
Summer Dolphin Watching Tour: Watch dolphins from our eco-raft during the summer months. No in-water or whales, sightsee from the comfort of the boat! 2HRS
2 Hour Raft Tour Popular Times: 2 Hour Eye-Level Whale Watch. Vessel: Raft
90 Min. Raft Tour : Whale activity & experience are the same, just a shorter duration of 90 Min. Vessel: RAFT
Preferred Time Raft: The time does not impact whale activity, but this is a preferred time for guest's schedules.
Operated by Hawaii Ocean Rafting
1,823 reviews
Sidharth M,
Mar 10, 2025
Amazing and way better than could have imagined. We saw a total of 8 to 10 whales. 5 to 7 in a group. Tour guides were the best!
Amy C,
Mar 10, 2025
Wonderful experience! We were lucky enough to see a whale surface right against the boat. We also spotted multiple breaches from a farther distance. 10000% would recommend. So much better than viewing from a larger vessel.
Lawanda W,
Mar 9, 2025
The experience was great!! Silas and Clint were awesome hosts and made the trip very informative as well as fun with their bright personalities. Next time I visit maui I will be coming back for sure!
suhlich,
Mar 9, 2025
Great experience. Small group, no problem seeing. Saw a lot of whales up close. Some went right under the raft and surfaced along side. Highly recommend this tour.
Anthony N,
Mar 8, 2025
Great time out seeing nature up front. Crew were knowledgeable, accommodating, and fun. We had Captain Jack and he provided some great opportunities seeking out whales.
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