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2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Come aboard the charming Hawaiian sail catamaran, "Winona," and experience a breathtaking Whale Watching Tour. With a small group of 30-40 people, you'll enjoy personalized attention and plenty of space to move around. Winona is not just any sail catamaran; she's Maui's only Hawaiian-built, well-kept, and spacious vessel. Get ready to experience true Aloha hospitality. Join us for an unforgettable adventure!
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If you have questions about accessibility, please call us for help.
Infants and kids ages 0-5 come for free but parents must call the office to confirm.
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
Not recommend for travelers with mobility issues
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
This experience requires minimum of 10 traveler
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Welcome aboard our incredible Hawaiian catamaran sailboat Winona. You are in for a treat as you experience the excitement of whale watching. Each year, from December through March, hundreds of migrating humpback whales journey from chilly Alaska to the warm waters of Maui to breed and give birth. Our guests can get a close-up view of the majestic marine mammals on this tour. These whales play, breach, and interact in their natural environment, and our crew provides insights into their behavior and biology. Hear their soulful songs through our underwater hydrophones while enjoying the perfect view of West Maui's mountains, Molokai, and Lanai, while you lounge on our decks or main floor. Infants and kids ages 0-5 come for free parents must call the office to confirm.
Dolphin encounters on occasions
Underwater hydrophones to hear whale songs
2 Restrooms
Island-Style Music
Light Snacks, 21+ years 2 adult beverages, soft drinks, juice, water
Cash gratuities for the crew
Parking validation
Hotel pickup and drop-off
For infants 0-6 months old parents must bring a coast guard approved life vest
194 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Roberta H,,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
There is no bad whale watching on Maui. There are better than this, but these people are new to the business and still finding their way. They do have respect for the whales and knowledge but are still figuring out how to communicate it smoothly. The spotter would say, "There's a whale," but forget to add the clock position so we could look in the correct direction. She also missed education chances, while becoming excited herself regarding what she was seeing or hearing. Plus, regardless of what the owner says, morning whale watching is better than mid-day.
Karrin S,,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
A lovely experience, many whales.... good, knowledgable crew. A bit hard to find the boat- could use better signage.... No need for music, but good song list - they turned down some when whales were close so we could hear them.
Roger R,,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
Excellent fun adventure reasonably priced compared to others. We were right up near the Whales. The captian turned off the engines and we drifted then the whales came to us so close. Great crew very knowable and attentive.
Donna N,,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
So very sad that our trip was canceled due to mechanical difficulties. While I realize that these things happen, it was still disappointing. The staff was very amenable. They quickly offered a refund, or potential future sailing. We took the refund as we did not have extra time allotted in this trip.
Ellen A,,Jan 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
Awesome experience. Beautiful Maui day with plenty of whale sightings. Would recommend doing in maui
karenrO34JG,,Jan 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great whale watch trip out of Ma’Alaea harbor. We liked them so much we went a second time! The Pina Coladas were yummy too! Highly recommend!



Patty S,,Jan 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
Excellent trip with lots of whales and a wonderful crew with good drinks and snacks and the weather was great and it was a perfect day to be out on the water.







Nancy D,,Jan 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
Everyone was very knowledgeable and personable. They were very dynamic seeing to everyone’s needs. Most importantly, they were careful about how the whales were treated. Very fun time. Thank you.
pcsuzy,,Jan 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Such a great experience. The Captain and crew were very knowledgeable regarding Humback Whales and their environments. The Captain was very careful to get us close, but at a respectful distance, from whales, so as not to disturb them. The tour included complimentary drinks and snacks; they even have "Maui's only floating Tiki bar". The entire experience is worth the fee. If you don't have a great trip, that is on you, 5/5 stars.


Kathleen S,,Jan 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
The crew was friendly & informative. Complimentary beverages & smacks were included. We stopped at 3 or 4 locations to see whales.


Operated by Makena Coast Charters