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

Imagine sailing along the coast of Maui on a sleek, spacious catamaran, feeling the sun on your face, and spotting sea turtles gliding beneath you. That’s precisely what the Kaanapali Beach 5-hour Snorkel Adventure offers — a chance to explore some of Maui’s best underwater spots, enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch, and unwind with drinks in hand. This trip, operated by Teralani Sailing Adventures, is highly rated and packed with authentic experiences that showcase the island’s vibrant marine life and stunning scenery.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines the excitement of snorkeling with the leisurely luxury of sailing. The crew’s professionalism and friendliness make a huge difference, creating a relaxed atmosphere perfect for both seasoned snorkelers and newcomers. That said, it’s worth noting that the experience involves being on the water for several hours, so if seasickness or limited mobility are concerns, it’s something to consider.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a well-rounded day of adventure, good food, and scenic sailing — especially those who love spotting turtles, dolphins, whales, and other marine creatures in their natural habitat. If you’re looking for a fun, authentic, and family-friendly way to explore Maui’s waters, this cruise might just be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Authentic Marine Encounters: You’ll likely see turtles, dolphins, and even whales, thanks to the crew’s local knowledge and flexible itinerary.
• Beautiful Sailing Experience: The cruise on a luxury catamaran offers scenic views and the chance to feel the trade winds in your hair.
• Delicious Food & Drinks: Enjoy a chef-inspired barbecue lunch with options for vegan requests, plus an open bar with premium Hawaiian drinks.
• All-Inclusive Value: Snorkel gear, flotation devices, breakfast, lunch, and drinks are included, making it easy to relax without extra costs.
• Seasonal Flexibility: The stops adapt based on weather and ocean conditions, so your snorkeling experience is optimized for safety and visibility.
• Professional Crew: From guides to captain, the staff is consistently praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and attention to detail.

The Experience in Detail

The Morning Departure and Check-in

It all begins at the Aqualani Beach Activities Kiosk, located along the Kaanapali beach walk near the Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort. Parking is straightforward, with a flat rate of $8 at the resort (valid for up to 5 hours with validation). Arriving early ensures you snag a good spot and get checked in smoothly.

The crew, led by Captain Sam and his team, greets guests with warmth and efficiency. You’re provided with snorkel equipment, flotation devices, and a continental breakfast featuring Maui Oma coffee, tropical juices, island fruits, and pastries. This relaxed start sets the tone for the day — casual, friendly, and full of anticipation.

The Cruise and Snorkel Stops

Once underway, the boat glides smoothly over the Pacific, with stunning views of Maui’s coastline on either side. Depending on the season and weather, you’ll visit two different snorkel sites, carefully chosen by the crew to ensure optimal conditions.

Traveling on a state-of-the-art catamaran, you can expect plenty of space to relax or take in the scenery. Many reviews highlight how the crew finds spots where schools of fish and sea turtles are abundant. Kelly described it as “despite not ideal weather conditions, the crew found us two perfect snorkel spots to explore,” illustrating their dedication to providing a memorable underwater experience.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Once anchored, you’ll dive into waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs and colorful tropical fish. Many guests, like Sherri, mention seeing sea turtles, which Maui is famous for. Dolphin sightings are also common, with some lucky travelers catching glimpses during the cruise back.

The crew is typically very informative, explaining marine life behaviors and reef ecology, adding a layer of education to the fun. You’ll find that the calm, clear waters make for excellent visibility, allowing you to see the underwater world in all its glory.

Lunch and Refreshments

After your snorkeling session, everyone climbs back aboard to indulge in a barbecue lunch prepared fresh on the boat. The menu features barbecue chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs (with vegan beyond burgers available upon request), pasta salad, cheeses, rolls, Maui potato chips, and sweet bites.

The food is described as delicious and hearty, providing good fuel for the afternoon. Nicole summed up her experience with “great food and drinks, an overall amazing time.” As you chow down, you can grab a beer, cocktail, or soft drink from the open bar, which features premium Hawaiian beers, wine, Mai Tais, spirits, and mixers — all served with a friendly, no-pressure attitude.

The Return Sail and Scenic Views

Post-lunch, the boat sets sail again, often under a trade wind breeze, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenic coast. Many guests appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the opportunity to catch some rays or chat with fellow travelers. If you’re lucky, you might even spot whales during certain seasons, making the journey back just as exciting as the snorkeling.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Looking at the overall experience, the $183 per person fee covers nearly everything — from the snorkel gear and flotation devices to the breakfast, lunch, open bar, and the scenic sailing. Guests consistently praise the professionalism of the crew, the quality of the food, and the chance to see Maui’s iconic marine life.

The flexibility of visiting two different sites based on seasonal conditions adds to the appeal, ensuring your time snorkeling is productive and enjoyable. The reviews highlight how the crew goes above and beyond to find the best spots, even under less-than-ideal weather, which speaks volumes about their dedication.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. It suits those who enjoy being on the water, have an interest in marine life, and appreciate good food and drinks. Families, couples, and groups of friends all find something to love here.

However, it’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments, non-swimmers, or seasickness-prone travelers. Also, since minors under 21 need ID for the open bar, it’s not suitable for very young children expecting to partake in alcohol.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-organized, friendly, and fun way to explore Maui’s underwater world, this snorkel cruise offers excellent value. The combination of beautiful scenery, knowledgeable guides, fresh food, and drinks, and a chance to see sea turtles and whales makes it a memorable choice.

While it’s not a luxury private charter, the focus on comfort, safety, and authentic experiences makes it an ideal pick for most travelers. Whether you’re visiting Maui for the first time or returning for a favorite activity, this tour provides a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and local hospitality.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for this tour?
You’ll meet at the Aqualani Beach Activities Kiosk along the Kaanapali beach walk, ocean side of the Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort. Parking is available at the resort for $8 with Teralani validation.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including sailing, snorkeling, and lunch. Check specific start times when booking.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and your sense of adventure. Reef-safe spray-on sunscreens are recommended — avoid aerosols.

Is food provided?
Yes, a continental breakfast and a barbecue buffet are included. The menu offers barbecue chicken, hot dogs, hamburgers, pasta salad, and snacks, with vegan options available upon request.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there’s an open bar serving premium Hawaiian beers, wine, Mai Tais, spirits, tropical juices, sodas, and water. Guests must be 21+ with ID to consume alcohol.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Whale sightings are possible depending on the season, and guests have reported seeing whales during their trips.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkel gear and flotation devices are included, making it easy for first-timers or seasoned snorkelers to enjoy.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for children who are comfortable in the water. Unaccompanied minors are not allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or seasickness.

What if the weather isn’t ideal?
The crew will adjust sites based on ocean conditions, aiming to ensure the best possible snorkeling experience. Many reviews highlight their ability to find perfect spots despite weather challenges.

This Maui snorkel adventure combines the best of ocean exploration, scenic sailing, and relaxed dining — a trip that truly captures the spirit of Maui’s coastal paradise.