Sunday mornings in paradise are hard to beat, y’all. They may even be better than Saturdays. Or Wednesdays. What I’m trying to say is that on Maui, it’s generally all good, always, all the time.
But like any other morning, the only way to make it better is to be on a boat, on the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of the beautiful wonder that is Maui. So I suggest you jump on it, literally and figuratively.
Sunday Morning Molokini Snorkel Cruise
The Malolo, which departs weekly from Maalaea Harbor on Sunday mornings at 6:30am (ouch, I know, but you can do it), is perhaps the most inexpensive way to reach Molokini Crater, the volcanic atoll located just a couple miles off of Maui’s south shore.
While Maui has many areas for snorkeling, Molokini is by far the most popular for its convenient location, excellent visibility, unique views, and vast marine life. Since its classification as a Marine Life Conservation District in 1977, the area has seen growth in formerly damaged coral formations, and because it hosts several hundred visitors per day, the tropical fish aren’t afraid to get up close and personal, allowing for beautiful underwater photos.
The Malolo, a 55 foot sailing catamaran, offers a fun and relaxed morning ride from the harbor, and a great way to watch the sunrise over Haleakala Volcano. The crew provides all snorkeling equipment, including a mask, snorkel, fins, and flotation devices, and instruction for those who need a quick refresher of the best snorkeling practices.
Continental breakfast and beverages are served aboard the boat, which is a nice touch, and the conditions at Molokini, especially early in the morning, are much calmer and more protected than other popular snorkeling areas around Maui.
Molokini’s Marine Life
While sightings of spotted eagle rays, manta rays, whale sharks, Hawaiian monk seals, Hawaiian spinner dolphins, and white tip reef sharks can happen, common marine life you’re more likely to see on a snorkeling adventure to Molokini includes eels, octopus, black triggerfish, Moorish idol, convict tang, bluefin trevally, Achilles tang, and parrotfish.
Post Snorkel Fun
When you’ve snorkeled to your Sunday morning heart’s desire, hop back aboard the Malolo to enjoy a fresh deli lunch and optional adult beverage, including beer and mai tais for $3. With those prices, if the Malolo were a open as a regular bar, let’s just say I’d be a regular. The service was friendly, welcoming, and helpful, and the boat was much like any other boat I’ve been on – awesome.
And remember, if it’s easy like Sunday morning, you can’t go wrong. Mahalo for reading!
