Maui: Kaanapali Beach 5-hour Snorkel w/ BBQ Lunch & Open Bar

If you’re looking to combine a scenic sail, vibrant marine life, and delicious food into one memorable outing, the Kaanapali Beach 5-hour Snorkel with BBQ Lunch & Open Bar might just be your perfect choice. This tour promises a luxurious experience aboard Maui’s newest custom-built catamaran, and it’s a standout in terms of comfort and cuisine. It’s especially well-loved for its two prime snorkeling locations, top-notch onboard amenities, and the friendly, knowledgeable crew ensuring you have a good time from start to finish.

We love how this trip balances adventure with relaxation—sailing along the scenic West Maui coast, swimming with turtles and tropical fish, and then unwinding with a chef-inspired BBQ and unlimited drinks. It’s a chance to enjoy Maui’s underwater beauty without feeling rushed or overlooked. One thing to consider is that this tour involves climbing stairs to reach the vessel’s deck, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility restrictions. But for most travelers, especially families with teenagers or anyone craving a full day on the water, this tour hits the mark.

If you’re after a memorable day of snorkeling, stunning vistas, and fantastic food, this tour offers great value—especially given the inclusiveness of the meals and drinks. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxing yet engaging way to experience Maui’s west coast with a touch of luxury.

Key Points

Luxury sailing experience aboard the newest custom catamaran on Maui
Two prime snorkeling spots for swimming with turtles, tropical fish, and vibrant corals
All-inclusive food and drinks—gourmet breakfast, BBQ lunch, and open bar
Ease and comfort with spacious decks, sunbathing nets, and onboard amenities
Seasonal wildlife viewing including dolphins and whales (in season)
Convenient departure directly from Ka’anapali Beach, avoiding harbors and long transfers

The Itinerary and Experience: What You Can Expect

This 5-hour tour begins at 9:30 am, starting right on Ka’anapali Beach. No harbors involved—just hop aboard directly from the beach, which means less hassle and more time on the water. The crew, praised for their humor and friendliness, welcomes you aboard in the morning, setting a relaxed, friendly tone for the day.

Starting with Breakfast and Sailing

Your day kicks off with a tropical continental breakfast—think fresh brewed coffee, juicy slices of Maui Gold Pineapple, seasonal melons, house-made pastries, and flaky croissants. It’s a simple but satisfying start, allowing you to fuel up before jumping into the water. The boat itself is luxury-class, outfitted with spacious decks, bathrooms, sunbathing nets, and all the comforts needed for a comfortable cruise.

Sailing along Maui’s renowned West Maui shoreline, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot dolphins, and during the season, even whales. The boat’s large windows and open decks allow unobstructed views of the rugged coastline and possibly some marine mammals playing nearby. The crew’s local expertise adds a layer of enjoyment, sharing stories about the coastline and wildlife.

Snorkeling at Two Prime Spots

The main event is snorkeling at two of Maui’s top spots—each carefully selected for their vibrant marine environments. The waters here are teeming with turtles, tropical fish, and colorful corals. The crew will help you gear up with premium frameless masks, snorkels, and full-foot fins, making it easier for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike to enjoy the underwater spectacle.

Many reviews emphasize the quality of the snorkeling stops. One guest noted, “We had two great snorkel stops” and appreciated the chance to swim with turtles and tropical fish in clear, warm waters. The stops are typically well-spaced to give you enough time to explore, rest, and enjoy the scenery.

Gourmet Lunch and Relaxation

After the morning’s aquatic adventure, it’s time to enjoy a chef-inspired BBQ lunch. Options include wagyu beef burgers, ginger chicken sandwiches, Beyond Burgers, or 100% beef hot dogs. Sides like pasta salad, ocean salad, Maui Kettle Chips, and a sweet dessert complete the meal. Several reviews highlight the quality of the food, with one mentioning that “they grilled the proteins right on the back of the boat,” which makes the experience feel more authentic and cozy than typical buffet-style cruises.

An Afternoon of Leisure and Wildlife Watching

Post-lunch, you can lounge on the spacious decks, soak up the sun, or stay vigilant for dolphins and whales, which are often spotted during the season. With an open bar, bottomless sodas, juices, and filtered water, you won’t go thirsty. The crew is attentive and friendly, ensuring everyone is comfortable and having fun.

Return and Reflection

As the tour wraps up, you’ll sail back to Ka’anapali Beach, reflecting on a day filled with vibrant sights, tasty food, and relaxing sailing. The return trip often offers a chance to spot more marine life or enjoy the stunning coastline views.

The Value of This Experience

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of luxury, convenience, and inclusiveness. For roughly $200 per person, you’re getting a five-hour adventure that includes two excellent snorkeling stops, a full breakfast, a delicious BBQ lunch, dessert, and an open bar. This level of all-inclusive comfort is rare for a Maui snorkel tour, and reviews frequently mention the quality of the food—something that can often feel like an afterthought on other excursions.

Compared to other tours that might only offer snorkeling, this one provides a broader experience—sailing along scenic coastlines, enjoying the amenities of a luxury vessel, and dining on gourmet food. The direct departure from the beach and the small group size (max 49 travelers) make for a more intimate experience, avoiding the crowds and long waits sometimes associated with harbor departures.

Benefits for Different Travelers

This tour is especially good for families with teenagers or groups wanting a relaxed, all-in-one day. The crew’s enthusiasm and knowledgeable commentary also appeal to those interested in marine wildlife and local stories. Plus, the comfort of the boat and the steady crew make it suitable for anyone who prefers a smooth, hassle-free outing.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

While the experience is generally praised, a few aspects are worth noting. The stairs required to reach the vessel’s deck could be a challenge for travelers with mobility restrictions. Plus, the cost may seem steep for budget travelers, but considering the all-inclusive meals and drinks, plus the luxury setting, many find it worthwhile.

Weather can always be unpredictable—if poor weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Also, parking at the Outrigger Resort costs $8 plus HI tax for five hours, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This snorkel trip is ideal for those seeking a comfortable, luxury experience on Maui’s water. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups who want a balance of adventure and relaxation with excellent food and drinks. If you’re someone who appreciates quality amenities and a scenic sail, this tour checks all the boxes.

Travelers wanting a more rustic or budget-friendly snorkeling experience might prefer other options, but if value for comfort and cuisine matters, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking available near the departure point?
Yes, parking is available at the Outrigger Resort for $8 plus HI tax for five hours.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:30 am, giving you a full day of activity.

How long is the overall tour?
Approximately five hours, including snorkeling, lunch, and sailing.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, a tropical breakfast, BBQ lunch, dessert, and an open bar with unlimited sodas, juices, and filtered water are all part of the package.

Can I snorkel if I’m a beginner?
Absolutely. The snorkeling equipment includes premium masks, snorkels, and fins to make your experience comfortable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s especially recommended for families with teenagers. However, stairs to reach the deck may be a concern for those with mobility issues.

What wildlife might I see?
You might see dolphins, whales (seasonally), turtles, tropical fish, and colorful coral reefs.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Maui snorkel tour offers a rare blend of luxury, adventure, and culinary delight. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to make the most of their time on the water in comfort and style, all while exploring some of Maui’s most beautiful underwater environments. From the friendly crew and top-notch equipment to the gourmet meals and scenic views, it’s a well-rounded experience that leaves many guests raving.

If your idea of a perfect day in Maui includes snorkeling, sailing, good food, and plenty of drinks, this tour should be at the top of your list. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Maui’s marine life, relax on a luxury vessel, and savor some of the best local flavors—making it a memorable highlight of your trip.

In short, this tour offers excellent value for those who want a full day of Maui’s best snorkeling combined with comfort and good eats. It’s particularly recommended for families, couples, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet engaging water adventure.