Wailea: Turtle Town Snorkeling Trip with Photo and Video

Traveling to Hawaii and not snorkeling with sea turtles seems like an oversight. This Turtle Town snorkeling experience offers an up-close look at Maui’s vibrant marine life, specifically the beloved Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles, in a small-group setting. With just 10 participants per trip, you’ll find yourself more personally connected to the action, guided by knowledgeable experts who also capture your underwater moments in photos and videos.

What really caught our attention is how this tour balances value and authenticity. You’re not just getting a snorkel trip; you’re part of an intimate adventure that emphasizes quality, safety, and fun. On the flip side, some travelers might find the 1.5-hour duration a bit short for a full day’s adventure, but it’s perfect if you’re after a quick, memorable dip in Maui’s marine playground.

This experience is ideal for those who prefer small groups over large boatloads of snorkelers, want professional photos, and seek a guided tour that genuinely focuses on safety and fun. However, it’s worth noting that this trip isn’t suitable for children under 10 or non-swimmers, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
• Expert guides like Robbie and Joe are praised for their patience, knowledge, and ability to find marine life.
• High-quality photos and videos allow you to relive your underwater adventure long after the trip ends.
• The 1.5-hour duration is quick but packed with memorable encounters — ideal for those with limited time.
• Practical meeting instructions make it easy to find the starting point in Wailea.
• The price of $119 per person offers a good balance between affordability and quality, especially given the included photos and expert guidance.

What to Expect from Your Snorkeling Adventure

This tour kicks off at the meeting point in Wailea, where you’ll find the white Ford Transit and Chevy vans ready to whisk you to your underwater playground. The small group limit of 10 people means you’ll get a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and close-up views of marine life.

Once aboard, the guide will provide high-end snorkeling gear—think comfortable masks that won’t leak and fins that make swimming easier. The focus on quality equipment really makes a difference, especially for less experienced snorkelers. As you cruise toward Turtle Town—a well-known spot for its friendly green sea turtles—you’ll be treated to stunning views of Maui’s pristine coastline from the water.

The actual snorkeling session lasts around 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to see turtles, tropical fish, and maybe even spot other creatures like starfish or octopuses. The guides are skilled at pointing out different species and sharing interesting facts, making the experience both fun and educational.

The Marine Life: Turtles, Fish, and More

The star of the show, of course, is the sea turtles. Reviewers consistently mention how close and personal they were able to get with these gentle creatures, thanks to the guides’ expertise and careful boat positioning. One guest exclaimed, “Guide was amazing and not only lead us to see turtles but found starfish and baby octopus,” illustrating how versatile the tour can be in spotting marine animals.

Beyond turtles, you’ll encounter a variety of colorful tropical fish, swirling around as you float beside them. The guides often find additional surprises, like octopuses or sea urchins—experiences that make each trip unique. As one reviewer noted, “Joe was great and pointed out many wonderful animals during the tour,” highlighting the value of having a knowledgeable guide.

The Photos and Videos: Capture Every Moment

One of the standout features of this tour is the professional photography and videography. The crew takes care to capture your underwater moments, allowing you to take home souvenirs that go beyond memories. Several reviews praised the footage: “The videos are the best part—Robbie did an incredible job capturing the moments.” This perk is especially appreciated by travelers who want to share their trip with friends or keep a visual record of their Maui adventure.

The Experience Itself: Personal, Fun, and Educational

What makes this trip stand out is not just what you see underwater but how you see it. The guides, including Robbie and Joe, are praised for their patience, attentiveness, and genuine enthusiasm. One guest recounted how Joe encouraged them to join the group even when they felt nervous and took extra time to help less confident swimmers feel comfortable.

The tour’s timing at 1.5 hours keeps things lively but not exhausting. It’s a short window, but packed with enough action to satisfy most travelers. Plus, the meeting instructions are straightforward, making it easy to find your departure point in Wailea without fuss.

Considerations and Who Will Love This Experience

While the tour offers excellent value and a highly personalized experience, it’s not suitable for children under 10 or non-swimmers. The snorkel zone is some distance from the boat, requiring swimming out to the reef, so comfort in the water is important. If you’re a beginner, consider requesting a life jacket to make your experience easier.

Some reviewers mentioned that the trip’s duration might feel a bit quick if you’re looking for a full-day adventure, but it’s perfect for a half-day escape and fits well into a busy Maui itinerary.

Why Choose This Tour?

If you value small group sizes, want expert guidance, and love the idea of taking home high-quality photos and videos, this tour offers excellent bang for your buck. The guides’ ability to find marine creatures and provide personalized attention creates a memorable, authentic experience that surpasses many larger, less personal tours.

The cost of $119 is reasonable given the inclusion of gear, expert guidance, and professional footage. Plus, the flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds extra peace of mind.

This Turtle Town snorkeling trip is a smart choice for travelers looking for a personalized, educational, and fun underwater experience in Maui. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small groups, engaging guides, and professional photos.

While the 1.5-hour duration might seem brief, it’s packed with enough marine encounters to make it worthwhile. The high-quality gear, knowledgeable guides like Robbie and Joe, and the chance to see sea turtles up close make this tour stand out among many Maui snorkeling options.

If you’re after a relaxed yet immersive adventure that combines wildlife spotting with beautiful scenery, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to bring sunscreen, wear your swimsuit, and get ready for some unforgettable marine moments with Maui’s marine life.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 10 years old due to safety and swimming requirements.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
While non-swimmers can participate with a life jacket, some swimming experience is recommended to comfortably enjoy the reef area.

What is included in the price?
The price covers snorkeling equipment, a guide, and professional photos and videos of your underwater experience.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet at 3750 Wailea Alanui Dr., at the back right corner of the parking lot near Island Gourmet, where the vans are parked.

How long does the tour last?
The snorkeling session itself is approximately 1.5 hours. The total experience may be slightly longer with check-in and transfer times.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is this activity available in multiple languages?
The tour is conducted in English.