The South Maui Sunset & Celestial Cruise offers an enchanting 2.5-hour journey that blends stunning sunset vistas with immersive insights into Hawaiian culture and celestial navigation. Led by award-winning astronomer Harriet Witt, guests can savor delectable appetizers and refreshing beverages while listening to the captivating songs of humpback whales during the winter months. With a focus on Polynesian wayfinding techniques and stargazing, this cruise promises an unforgettable and enriching experience for all ages. Discover the secrets of the Hawaiian skies and unlock the mysteries of the deep as you embark on this captivating adventure.
Key Points
- A 2.5-hour sunset and night sky exploration cruise in South Maui, featuring an award-winning astronomer guide and opportunities to hear humpback whale songs.
- The cruise offers an educational focus on Polynesian navigation, Hawaiian culture, and celestial observations, as well as complimentary appetizers and alcoholic beverages.
- The cruise is accessible for all ages, with ADA-compliant boarding and facilities, and a flexible cancellation policy for full refunds up to 24 hours in advance.
- Guests can expect engaging commentary from astronomer Harriet Witt on traditional Polynesian wayfinding techniques and the cultural significance of the night sky.
- The cruise has an overall positive rating of 4 out of 5 based on customer reviews, with praise for the educational value and unique whale song experience.
Activity Overview
The South Maui Sunset & Celestial Cruise is a 2.5-hour activity that offers visitors an opportunity to witness the stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean and explore the captivating night sky.
Priced from £100.63 per person, the cruise features an English-speaking live tour guide, including award-winning astronomer Harriet Witt. Participants can learn about Polynesian navigation, Hawaiian culture, and celestial observations.
During the winter months, a hydrophone is lowered to enable the chance of hearing humpback whale songs.
The tour’s cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Wailuku.
Experience Highlights
Featuring an English-speaking live tour guide, the South Maui Sunset & Celestial Cruise offers an educational focus on Polynesian navigation (wayfinding), Hawaiian culture, and celestial observations.
This unique experience includes:
- Award-winning astronomer Harriet Witt providing expert commentary
- Insights into traditional Polynesian wayfinding techniques
- Exploration of Hawaiian cultural traditions and practices
- Lowered hydrophone to listen to humpback whale songs during winter months
- Opportunities to learn about the night sky and celestial phenomena
The combination of knowledgeable guides, culture, and natural wonders creates an engaging and enlightening cruise experience.
Food and Beverages
A variety of appetizing appetizers are served on the South Maui Sunset & Celestial Cruise, including furikake crusted ahi crostini, tiger prawn cocktails, BBQ kalua pork quesadillas, and vegetarian spring rolls. Refreshments include unlimited soda, juice, and filtered water, along with three complimentary alcoholic beverages such as vodka, gin, rum, beer, wine, and tequila. All onboard purchases are cashless, with only credit, debit, or digital payment methods accepted. Cash is accepted for gratuities.
| Appetizers | Refreshments |
|---|---|
| Furikake crusted ahi crostini | Unlimited soda, juice, filtered water |
| Tiger prawn cocktails | 3 complimentary alcoholic beverages |
| BBQ kalua pork quesadillas | |
| Vegetarian spring rolls |
Meeting Point and Accessibility
Participants can check in at the Pacific Whale Ocean Store, located within the Harbor Shops complex adjacent to the Maui Ocean Center Aquarium.
The activity is ADA compliant, with accessible boarding and restroom facilities available. To request accommodations, guests can call (808) 249-8811.
The experience caters to a diverse audience:
- Adults aged 13-99
- Children aged 3-12
- Infants 2 and younger (no ticket required)
Regardless of age or accessibility needs, this sunset and celestial cruise give you an engaging and memorable experience for all participants.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyParticipant Information
The South Maui Sunset & Celestial Cruise caters to a diverse audience, welcoming adults aged 13-99, children aged 3-12, and infants 2 and younger who can attend for free.
The experience is suitable for the whole family, with an engaging astronomer-led commentary that covers Polynesian wayfinding, Hawaiian culture, and celestial observations.
While the food and beverage offerings aren’t the main focus, reviews highlight the enjoyment of the overall experience, despite some guests feeling the catering could be better.
With an overall rating of 4/5 based on 2 reviews, the South Maui Sunset & Celestial Cruise provides an educational and memorable adventure for visitors of all ages.
Wayfinding and Celestial Observations
Knowledgeable and award-winning astronomer Harriet Witt leads the educational portion of the South Maui Sunset & Celestial Cruise, delving into the fascinating topics of Polynesian navigation and celestial observations.
Passengers learn about:
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Traditional Polynesian wayfinding techniques that rely on reading ocean swells, cloud patterns, and celestial bodies
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The significance of stars, moon phases, and other heavenly phenomena in Hawaiian culture and navigation
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How early Polynesian voyagers used their intricate knowledge of the night sky to navigate the open ocean
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Identification of prominent constellations and planets visible during the cruise
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Insights into the unique geography and climate of Maui that contribute to exceptional stargazing conditions.
Whale Watching and Humpback Songs
During the winter months, a hydrophone is lowered into the ocean, allowing participants to listen in awe as the hauntingly beautiful songs of humpback whales fill the air.
These majestic creatures, found in the waters surrounding Maui, migrate to the island’s warm, shallow banks to mate and give birth. The hydrophone captures their complex, multi-note vocalizations, which can be heard throughout the cruise.
Guests are often amazed by the power and emotion conveyed in the whales’ songs, providing a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. This special feature adds an extra layer of wonder and education to the South Maui Sunset & Celestial Cruise.
Customer Reviews
How do customer reviews for the South Maui Sunset & Celestial Cruise fare? Based on the limited reviews available, the experience seems to resonate well with participants.
Key highlights that emerge from the feedback include:
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Engaging commentary from award-winning astronomer Harriet Witt, who brings extensive knowledge and passion to the experience.
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An enjoyable overall experience, despite the food not being the primary focus.
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Appreciation for the educational aspects, covering Polynesian navigation, Hawaiian culture, and celestial observations.
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The addition of the hydrophone to hear humpback whale songs during the winter months as a special treat.
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While only a couple reviews are available, the cruise maintains an overall rating of 4 out of 5, suggesting a positive customer sentiment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?
There is no minimum number of participants required for this activity. The cruise operates with a set schedule regardless of the number of participants, allowing individuals or small groups to join.
Are Pets Allowed on the Cruise?
Pets are generally not allowed on cruises. The cruise operator’s policy likely prohibits bringing animals onboard for safety and sanitation reasons, unless they are certified service animals. Passengers should check with the cruise line prior to booking to confirm their pet policy.
Do the Alcoholic Beverages Include Mixers and Garnishes?
The alcoholic beverages on the cruise include complimentary mixers and garnishes. Guests can enjoy their choice of vodka, gin, rum, beer, wine, or tequila with the appropriate accompaniments during the 2.5-hour experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?
No, passengers cannot bring their own food and drinks on board. The cruise provides a variety of complimentary appetizers and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, as well as three alcoholic drinks included in the ticket price.
Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Cruise?
There’s no strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes. Layers are advised, as temperatures can cool down during the evening cruise. Formal attire isn’t necessary.
Recap
The South Maui Sunset & Celestial Cruise offers an enchanting and educational experience, blending breathtaking sunset vistas with insights into Hawaiian culture and celestial navigation. Guests can enjoy delectable appetizers, complimentary beverages, and the captivating sounds of humpback whales during winter months. With a focus on Polynesian wayfinding techniques and stargazing, this cruise promises an unforgettable journey for all ages.
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