Name: Maui Eco-Raft Tour: Eye-Level Whale or Dolphin Watching - Lahaina
SKU: 104420P2
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (2855 reviews)

WizardTrip

Maui Eco-Raft Tour: Eye-Level Whale or Dolphin Watching - Lahaina

4.9(2.9 k)· Maui· By Hawaii Ocean Rafting Watch the video

Free cancellation

From

€77per person

1 to 15 travelers per booking.

Options1 of 8 available on this day

Time

1 × Adult × €88€88

Total€88

About the activity

Experience whale or dolphin watching from eye-level aboard our low-to-water small group zodiac rafts. Hawaii Ocean Rafting, a Native Hawaiian-owned company and TripAdvisor's Traveler's Choice winner for over 30 years, offers Maui's original ocean rafting adventure. Our intimate group tours provide a fun, family-friendly whale watching experience. While protected in Hawaii, whales often approach our small vessels for close, eye-level encounters. Please note that wildlife sightings in the wild can vary. During the summer months, search for dolphins. Early season whales can be spotted in November and May, and you can enjoy sightseeing on this tour during the off-season. The zodiac boat's low profile to the water ensures close-up, eye-level wildlife encounters and an eco-friendly adventure. We are conveniently located in Lahaina, Maui, a short drive from Kaanapali, Kahana, Napili, and Kapalua in West Maui. Visitors staying in Kihei or Wailea will also find this a great destination. This tour is not suitable for pregnant individuals or children under 3 years old.

What's included

✓Be prepared to get wet! This is a low-to-water boat, and ocean spray or light rain may occur during the tour.
✓Dolphin tours include snacks and beverages.
✓A hydrophone is available to listen to whale songs.
✓Life jackets are provided for emergencies but are not mandatory to wear during the tour.
✓*Wildlife encounters vary in the wild; close-up sightings are not guaranteed.*
✓Whales or Dolphins (depending on the option selected).
✓Tour Operator: Hawaii Ocean Rafting.
✓Available shade varies on the boat. Please bring sun protection: a hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen.
✓Narration by a Marine Naturalist.

What is not included

✕Not suitable for pregnant individuals or those with back/neck injuries.
✕Tours depart promptly. You must arrive 30 minutes prior to departure to board, or you will miss the tour.
✕Hotel pick-up and drop-off services.
✕Bring Your Own Beverage (Plastic bottles or cans only).
✕Whales or Dolphins (depending on the option selected at checkout).
✕Gratuities for the crew.
✕Close wildlife encounters are not guaranteed as animals are in their natural habitat.
✕No spray sunscreen is permitted; only reef-safe, rub-on sunscreen is allowed.
✕Physical mobility is required for boarding due to the boarding location.

Activity itinerary

Activity Schedule 2 h Join Maui's exclusive Hawaiian-owned eye-level whale watching and dolphin search tours on our low-to-water, small-group eco-rafts. Avoid the crowds and enjoy comfortable seating in a small group, offering spectacular views of Hawaii's humpback whales or Maui's friendly dolphins. From December to April, humpback whales return to the warm Hawaiian waters annually for their mating and calving season. Although whales are protected in Hawaii and we maintain a safe distance as per federal regulations, they frequently approach our small rafts, providing up-close, eye-level encounters. The nature of these encounters varies in the wild. From May to November, dolphins are commonly spotted year-round, and our eco-rafts offer eye-level encounters. In November, we begin searching for early-season whales. Your tour includes comprehensive narration from our naturalist on fascinating whale/dolphin and Maui facts, the opportunity to listen to whale songs via a hydrophone, and numerous photo opportunities! *Our locally native-owned eco-company is thrilled to share Maui's wildlife with you!* Departures are from Lahaina. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure you don't miss boarding your boat! Pregnant individuals are not permitted on this tour.

Places visited

LahainaMaui

How to use your ticket

Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One ticket per booking.

Meeting point and return

MANDATORY CHECK-IN 30 minutes prior to the start time at the tour operator Hawaii Ocean Rafting location. Park near Lahaina Cannery and check in at 1223 Front St., Dive Maui Shop, located next to Snorkel Bobs. No refunds will be issued for late arrivals. Due to road closures and traffic, please allow for extra travel time.

We look forward to seeing you for your eco-raft tour!

Check-in: PLEASE ARRIVE 30 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE to allow sufficient time for check-in and safety briefings. Boats depart promptly at their scheduled times. Arriving later than 30 minutes before departure means you will miss the escort to the boarding location. No refunds are provided for late arrivals.

Location: 1223 Front Street, next to Snorkel Bobs. Parking is available on Front Street or near Lahaina Cannery Mall.

![Description of image](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/mCuoE2uGSgKgaKd3RwR6)

Activity Inclusions: Please refer to your booking confirmation for specific activity inclusions. Whale watching is available during the migration season from December to April. Whale searches are conducted in November and April/May. Dolphin search tours run from May to November.

What to Bring: Sunglasses, a hat, and reef-safe (rub-on) sunscreen for sun protection. Wear footwear that is easy to remove for a barefoot cruise. Bring a refillable water bottle to support our eco-conscious efforts! (We also provide cups and purified water onboard).

Weather: Our tours frequently operate in light rain and wind. This is an adventure raft, so be prepared to get wet! Please store your belongings in waterproof bags.

Restrictions: Due to the vessel's design, the tour is not permitted for pregnant individuals, persons with back or neck injuries, or children under 3 years old. Guests must possess the physical ability to board the raft unassisted.

Cancellations: Tours are subject to change at any time by HIOCR due to weather, operational, or capacity reasons.

Meeting point

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Practical information

Public transportation options are available nearby.
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.
Not recommended for pregnant travelers.
Suitable for all physical fitness levels.
No infants allowed.
No pregnant persons or children under 3 permitted.
Mobility is required to board the vessel unassisted due to the boarding location and safety protocol.
Food Allergen Warning (Required Disclosure): Due to the nature of onboard food preparation and handling, we cannot guarantee that any menu item will be free from allergens. All meals or snacks served on this vessel may contain or come into contact with gluten, tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish, fish, soy, eggs, dairy, and wheat. If you have a known food allergy, please notify our team in advance and bring any required allergy medication (such as an EpiPen). We strongly recommend guests with severe allergies consult a physician prior to participating in the charter. We are not responsible for allergic reactions due to undeclared or cross-contact allergens.
No children under 3 years old.

Activity options

90 Min. Whale Watch RAFT
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes. Always check in 30 minutes prior to your tour to avoid missing your boat.
Water is available onboard.
90 Min. Raft Tour: The whale activity and experience are the same as longer tours, just with a shorter duration of 90 minutes. Vessel: RAFT. Guarantee a sighting or go again!
Preferred Whale Watch RAFT
Duration: 2 hours. Always check in 30 minutes prior to your tour to avoid missing your boat.
Water is available onboard.
Preferred Time Raft: The chosen time does not impact whale activity; it is selected based on guest schedules. Guarantee a whale sighting or go FREE!
5 Hour Snorkel & Dolphin Watch
Snorkeling: This snorkel and dolphin search tour takes you from Maui to the neighboring island of Lanai for snorkeling and dolphin searching.
Duration: 5 hours. Includes snorkeling at 2 stops, dolphin searching, marine education, snorkel instruction, gear, breakfast, and snacks!
Breakfast and Snacks: The tour includes a breakfast of pastries and fruit, and snacks such as Maui-style potato chips and cookies. Beverages include soda, green tea, and water.
Hawaiian-owned local business: Thank you for supporting our small, Lahaina-based, Hawaiian-owned eco-tour company!
2HR Whale/Dolphin Search Tour
Search for Dolphins & Whales: Look for dolphins and early/late season whales (whale season is December 1 - April 15). Sightings vary and are not guaranteed.
Duration: 2 hours. Always check in 30 minutes prior to your tour to avoid missing your boat. This is a 2-hour Dolphin/Whale Search Sightseeing Boat Tour.
Snacks & Beverages: Enjoy snacks, soda, green tea, and water.
Early/End Season Whale Search: Search for dolphins (year-round) and early/late season whales (November/April/May). No in-water activities; enjoy sightseeing from the boat!
5 Hour Snorkel + Whale Watch
Snorkel + Whale Watching: In addition to snorkeling at 1-2 stops, this tour includes whale watching!
Duration: 5 hours. Typically includes 1-2 snorkel stops to Lanai and whale watching on our eco-raft.
Light Breakfast & Snacks: Enjoy sweet pastries, fresh fruit, cookies, chips, and beverages including soda, green tea, and water.
ECO-RAFT: Embark on a 5-hour semi-private adventure snorkel aboard our small-group raft vessel. Experience small groups, a comfortable ride, and shade.
Combo Snorkel + Whale Watch: This snorkel tour includes 1-2 snorkel stops and whale watching! VESSEL: Small Raft vessel.
4 Hour Snorkel + Whale Watch
Snorkel & Whale Watch: In addition to a snorkel stop, whale watching is included in this snorkel tour by RAFT.
Duration: 4 hours. Check in at least 30 minutes before departure time. The boat always departs on time, and boarding begins 15 minutes prior.
Light Breakfast & Snacks: Enjoy sweet pastries, fresh fruit, cookies, chips, and beverages including soda, green tea, and water.
Small RAFT Vessel: Experience a small-group rafting tour. The raft is low to the water, offers a smooth ride, shade, and bench-style seating.
Combo Snorkel + Whale Watch: This snorkel tour includes 1 snorkel stop and whale watching!
Popular Whale Watch RAFT
Duration: 2 hours.
Water is available onboard.
2 Hour Raft Tour Popular Times: Enjoy a 2-hour eye-level whale watch. Vessel: Raft. Guarantee a whale sighting or go again for free!
2HR Dolphin (only) Watch Tour
Dolphin Watching Only: This seasonal (May-November) dolphin watch and sightseeing tour offers varying dolphin sightings, which are not guaranteed.
Duration: 2 hours. Always check in 30 minutes prior to your tour to avoid missing your boat. This is a 2-hour Dolphin Watch and Sightseeing Boat Tour.
Snacks and Beverages: Enjoy snacks, soda, green tea, and water.
Summer Dolphin Watching Tour: Watch dolphins from our eco-raft during the summer months. No in-water activities; enjoy sightseeing from the comfort of the boat! Duration: 2 hours.

Duration

2 h

How to prepare for your experience

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in.
Bring reef-safe, rub-on sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear that can be easily removed.
Store valuables in waterproof bags as you may get wet.
Stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle.

Embark on an unforgettable eco-raft adventure in Maui for close-up, eye-level whale and dolphin watching.

Cancellation conditions

For a full refund, please cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Any questions?

Product code: 104420P2

Activity offered by Hawaii Ocean Rafting via Viator.

Who is this activity suitable for?

Adventure seekers
Nature enthusiasts
Families (with children over 3)
Couples

Activity essentials

Experience close-up, eye-level whale and dolphin encounters.
Small group tours for a more intimate experience.
Native Hawaiian-owned and operated company.
Eco-friendly raft adventure.
Opportunity to listen to whale songs via hydrophone.

Maui: good to know

Population: 144,444 (2010)
Currency: United States dollar
Driving: on the right
Power plugs: A, B · 120 V
Emergency number: 911
Capital city: Washington, D.C.

Average temperatures

23°Jan
22°Feb
22°Mar
23°Apr
23°May
24°Jun
25°Jul
25°Aug
25°Sept
25°Oct
24°Nov
23°Dec

Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.

Frequently asked questions

What is the duration of the whale watching tour?

The duration of the whale watching tour is typically 2 hours, with some options for 90 minutes or 5 hours including snorkeling.

What should I bring on the tour?

You should bring sunglasses, a hat, reef-safe (rub-on) sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle. Wear footwear that is easy to remove.

Are there any age or health restrictions for this tour?

Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant individuals, persons with back or neck injuries, or children under 3 years old. Guests must be able to board the raft unassisted.

What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather?

Tours are subject to change or cancellation by HIOCR due to weather, operational, or capacity reasons. Please refer to the cancellation policy for refunds.

Is hotel pick-up available?

No, hotel pick-up and drop-off services are not included in this tour.

Reviews

4.94.9(2.9 k)

5 stars

2.7 k

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.

★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Spectacular
michellekA3623RK, October 2026
Wonderful Tour!! Both Captain and Guide were very friendly, knowledgeable and full of information about not only the Dolphins but the Ocean and the area surrounding. Definitely a must do while in Maui!!
★★★★★Viator review
No dolphins just snacks and history
Jasmine_R, October 2026
Unfortunately we weren’t able to see dolphins on this tour but we enjoyed the snacks and the history lesson.
Response from the operator · Jason N
Sorry we weren't able to find dolphins for you. Some days Maui's wildlife prove are elusive than others. We're glad you enjoyed the boat ride and knowledge our staff presented.
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Captain Jack on the high seas
Bigjoe71, October 2026
Captain Jack and Bree Lee us in a high sea adventure with so many dolphins. They were fun , knowable and cool! Come to Lahaina town for a great trip!
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Incredible experience
erictF8935VN, October 2026
Jack and Nicole were very accommodating and very persistent to find the school of dolphins and gave us an incredible experience. The best.
Response from the operator · Jason N
So glad you had an incredible experience on our dolphin watch! Our staff love to share their knowledge and passion for Maui's wildlife, culture and history. Mahalo for joining us.
★★★★★Viator review
Awesome dolphin tour!
Apurv_U, October 2026
Excellent trip. Saw lots of dolphins! The captain and other staff were very knowledgeable and friendly! Would definitely recommend!
Response from the operator · Hawaii O
Woohoo! Stoked you guys saw tons of dolphins! Mahalo for coming out with us!

55 activities · United States

Maui, United States, has 55 activities, tours and experiences to book. Also worth exploring nearby: Molokai.

01Activities to book

The best experiences in Maui

55 in the catalogue

Top pick

Deluxe Helicopter Tour of Molokai and Maui

from €367★ 4.9

Top pick

Luxury Helicopter Experience with Hana Rainforest Landing

from €368★ 4.8

Deal

Epic Waterfall Adventure, the Best of Maui

from €272★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Maui: Road to Hana Deluxe Rainforest and Waterfall Experience

from €200★ 4.7

Free cancellation

Small Group Coral Gardens Snorkel & Waterslide Adventure

from €119★ 4.6

Top pick

Maui: 2.5 Hour Xpress Snorkel from Ka’anapali Beach

from €152★ 5.0

Top pick

Turtle Town Coastal Kayak & Snorkel: Turtles Guaranteed

from €117★ 4.9

Top pick

Maui Parasailing Adventure from Ka'anapali

from €81★ 4.9

Top pick

Maui 8 Line Zipline Adventure: Soar Above Valleys & Island Views

from €215★ 4.8

Top pick

Doors Off West Maui and Molokai 45-Minute Helicopter Tour

from €410★ 4.8

Top pick

West Maui Afternoon Snorkel from Ka’anapali Beach

from €174★ 4.9

Free cancellation

West Maui Mountain Waterfall and Ocean Tour via Horseback

from €189★ 4.8

All activities · Maui · 55

02Complete your day

More to do in Maui

12 activities

Top pick

Kihei, Maui: Guaranteed Whale-Watching Tour by Raft

from €90★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Maui: Majestic Haleakala Sunrise Tour with Pick-up

from €240★ 4.8

Top pick

Maui Whale Watching: 2-Hour Small Group Raft Tour from Lahaina

from €73★ 4.9

Selling fast

Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise - A Hawaiian Hula Experience

from €153★ 4.5

Free cancellation

Maui: Whale Watching Cruise with Open Bar from Ka'anapali Beach

from €94★ 4.8

Free cancellation

Four Winds Molokini Snorkeling Tour from Maalaea Harbor

from €194★ 4.7

03Shows & Nightlife

Your nights out in Maui

1 activity

Free cancellation

Maui: Te Au Moana Luau at The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort

from €204★ 4.6

04On the water

Boats & cruises in Maui

4 activities

Selling fast

Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise - A Hawaiian Hula Experience

from €153★ 4.5

Free cancellation

Maui: Whale Watching Cruise with Open Bar from Ka'anapali Beach

from €94★ 4.8

Free cancellation

Maui Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise from Ka’anapali Beach

from €163★ 4.8

Top pick

Maui: Original Sunset Cruise with Open Bar from Ka’anapali Beach

from €125★ 4.8

05In the air

Planes & helicopters in Maui

3 activities

Top pick

Deluxe Helicopter Tour of Molokai and Maui

from €367★ 4.9

Top pick

Luxury Helicopter Experience with Hana Rainforest Landing

from €368★ 4.8

Top pick

Doors Off West Maui and Molokai 45-Minute Helicopter Tour

from €410★ 4.8

06Categories

Sports & adventure in Maui

21 activities

Free cancellation

Small Group Coral Gardens Snorkel & Waterslide Adventure

from €119★ 4.6

Top pick

Maui: 2.5 Hour Xpress Snorkel from Ka’anapali Beach

from €152★ 5.0

Top pick

Turtle Town Coastal Kayak & Snorkel: Turtles Guaranteed

from €117★ 4.9

Top pick

Maui Parasailing Adventure from Ka'anapali

from €81★ 4.9

Top pick

Maui 8 Line Zipline Adventure: Soar Above Valleys & Island Views

from €215★ 4.8

Free cancellation

West Maui Mountain Waterfall and Ocean Tour via Horseback

from €189★ 4.8

07Categories

Nature & wildlife in Maui

17 activities

Top pick

Luxury Helicopter Experience with Hana Rainforest Landing

from €368★ 4.8

Deal

Epic Waterfall Adventure, the Best of Maui

from €272★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Maui: Molokini & Turtle Town Snorkel & Waterslide Adventure

from €179★ 4.8

Free cancellation

Maui: Whale Watching from Ma'alaea Harbor

from €91★ 4.8

Selling fast

Maui Clear Kayak and Snorkel Tour with Sea Turtles

from €118★ 4.9

Top pick

Kihei, Maui: Guaranteed Whale-Watching Tour by Raft

from €90★ 4.9

08Categories

Water sports in Maui

13 activities

Top pick

West Maui Afternoon Snorkel from Ka’anapali Beach

from €174★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Four Winds Molokini Snorkeling Tour from Maalaea Harbor

from €194★ 4.7

Top pick

2-Hour Molokini Guaranteed Snorkel Trip from Maui

from €131★ 4.9

Top pick

Maui: Two Hour Beginner Group Surf Lesson in Kihei

from €89★ 4.9

Top pick

West Maui Half Day Snorkel from Ka’anapali Beach

from €186★ 4.9

Top pick

Molokini Crater Snorkel and Turtle Cove High Quality Adventure!

from €186★ 4.9

09Categories

Guided tours in Maui

11 activities

Free cancellation

Maui: Small Group Road to Hāna Tour 6 to 8 passengers

from €256★ 4.6

Free cancellation

Haleakala Sunrise Best Self-Guided Bike Tour

from €248★ 4.7

Free cancellation

Maui: Majestic Haleakala Sunrise Tour with Pick-up

from €240★ 4.8

Top pick

Maui Whale Watching: 2-Hour Small Group Raft Tour from Lahaina

from €73★ 4.9

Top pick

Maui: VIP Private Road to Hana Tour with Pick Up

from €544★ 5.0

Top pick

Lahaina: Maui Ku'ia Estate Guided Cacao Farm Tour and Tasting

from €90★ 4.8

10Explore nearby

Nearby cities

1 city

Molokai

Trending

Popular activities

Top pick

Maui: VIP Private Road to Hana Tour with Pick Up

from €544★ 5.0

Top pick

Maui Zipline Eco Adventure: 8 Lines Through the Jungle

from €161★ 4.9

Top pick

Maui Whale Watching: WHALES GUARANTEED with Makai Adventures

from €99★ 4.9

Top pick

Molokini Crater Snorkel and Turtle Cove High Quality Adventure!

from €186★ 4.9

Selling fast

Maui: Ultimate Whale Watch from Lahaina

from €70★ 4.9

Top pick

West Maui Half Day Snorkel from Ka’anapali Beach

from €186★ 4.9

Frequently asked questions about Maui

What is there to do in Maui?

Maui has 55 activities, tours and day trips you can book online. Among the most booked: « Deluxe Helicopter Tour of Molokai and Maui », « Luxury Helicopter Experience with Hana Rainforest Landing », « Epic Waterfall Adventure, the Best of Maui ».

What are the top-rated activities in Maui?

According to traveller reviews: « Maui: 2.5 Hour Xpress Snorkel from Ka’anapali Beach » (5.0/5, 391 reviews) ; « Maui: Molokini and Turtles Luxury Yacht Snorkel » (5.0/5, 641 reviews) ; « Molokini Crater + South Maui Coast Adventure from Kihei, Maui » (5.0/5, 1,648 reviews).

Can you cancel an activity in Maui for free?

Usually, yes: 21 of the 24 most popular activities in Maui offer free cancellation. The exact terms are shown on each activity page before you book.