You slice across Maʻalaea Bay under full sail as Maui’s Pali cliffs rise straight from the sea. Then you slip into a quiet cove where reef and turtles move undisturbed below.
• Sail fast along Maui’s Pali Coast beneath towering sea cliffs
• Snorkel Coral Gardens reef in calm, crystal-clear protected waters
• Spot Hawaiian green sea turtles cruising along coral edges
• Explore vibrant coral heads with tropical reef fish schools
• Relax onboard with buffet lunch and open bar after snorkeling
Quick Local Tip: Once you’re in, swim toward the cliffs to snorkel beneath towering lava walls. This is where Coral Gardens really comes alive, with shallower reef, sharper visibility, and vibrant coral formations unfolding right beneath you.
The tour begins at Maʻalaea Harbor, where guests board a sleek performance sailing catamaran in the early afternoon. With the trade winds picking up, the vessel cuts across the sparkling waters of Maʻalaea Bay, offering panoramic views of the West Maui Mountains and open ocean. The ride is brisk and invigorating, powered by wind and wave, and soon the rugged cliffs of the Pali Coast rise dramatically from the sea.
Tucked into a crescent of lava rock and cliffs, Coral Gardens is a naturally protected cove that rarely sees heavy surf, and no nearby streams to cloud the visibility, making it a consistently ideal spot for snorkeling. The moment you slip into the calm, crystal-clear water, the underwater world comes alive. Finger coral and cauliflower coral dominate the reefscape, while schools of butterflyfish, parrotfish, and Moorish idols weave through the coral heads. Green sea turtles are commonly seen gliding slowly near the reef’s edge or surfacing for air—often just feet away from snorkelers.
With no beach access and few other boats, the only sounds are your own breath through the snorkel and the distant echoes of water lapping against the cliffside. It's a moment of rare seclusion and connection with nature.
After plenty of time in the water, guests climb back aboard to enjoy a selection of a buffet lunch, open bar, and non-alcholic refreshments. The sail back to the harbor is often the highlight for many—fast-paced, wind-driven, and exhilarating. The late afternoon sun casts golden light across the ocean as the catamaran glides along the coastline, bringing the experience to a memorable close.
Maalaea Boat Harbor Rd, Maalaea, Maui, HI
Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price.