South Maui: Whale Watching Cruise Aboard Calypso

Discover the wonders of the Pacific Ocean with South Maui’s premier whale watching excursion aboard the Calypso. Guests can expect an immersive 2-hour adventure filled with captivating whale behaviors, guided by experienced narrators. From the Calypso’s unique glass-bottom viewing area, visitors will have the chance to witness these majestic creatures up close while enjoying the vessel’s comfortable amenities. With a reasonable price point and convenient departure location, this tour presents a must-do activity for families and groups seeking to connect with the marine life of South Maui. What captivating sights and sounds await those who step aboard the Calypso?

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Whale Watching Experiences In Maui.

Key Points

• Whale watching cruise aboard the Calypso catamaran with a 2-hour duration, departing from Maalaea Bay in South Maui.
• Cruise priced at $59.95 per person, offering a unique glass-bottom viewing area and onboard hydrophone to listen to whale songs.
• Amenities include spacious cabins, comfortable seating, and a bar/snack area, with complimentary refreshments and adult beverages available for purchase.
• Experienced guides provide educational narration on whale biology, and the cruise offers sightings of dramatic whale behaviors like fin slaps, tail slaps, and breaches.
• Booking includes free cancellation up to 2 days in advance, and nearby parking is available for $0.50 per hour or $12.00 per 24 hours.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Whale Watching Cruise aboard the Calypso offers a 2-hour guided tour to observe the majestic marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Priced at $59.95 per person, the cruise departs from Slip 76-78 at the South Ferry Loading Dock in Maalaea Bay, providing guests with the opportunity to witness whale behaviors like fin slaps, tail slaps, and breaches.

The triple-deck power catamaran features a unique glass-bottom viewing area, allowing travelers to listen to whale songs via an underwater hydrophone while enjoying scenic views and commentary from the knowledgeable crew.

Travelers can take advantage of the spacious cabins, comfortable seating, and onboard bar and snack area, with cold beverages and adult drinks available for purchase.

Pricing and Inclusions

Priced at $59.95 per person, the Whale Watching Cruise aboard the Calypso offers a full 2-hour experience.

With free cancellation up to 2 days in advance, customers can enjoy the flexibility to book with confidence.

The cruise departs from the Maalaea Bay, with the meeting point at Slip 76 – 78 of the South Ferry Loading Dock.

Onboard, guests can expect comfortable seating, spacious cabins with tinted windows, and access to a bar and snack area.

Complimentary ice-cold water, soda, and juices are provided, while adult beverages are available for purchase.

The Calypso’s unique glass-bottom viewing area allows for exceptional whale sightings during the tour.

Whale Watching Itinerary

During the 2-hour Whale Watching Cruise aboard the Calypso, guests embark on an immersive journey to observe the captivating behaviors of these majestic marine mammals.

Aboard the triple-deck power catamaran, travelers can spot whales engaging in dramatic fin slaps, tail slaps, and breathtaking breaches. An onboard hydrophone allows guests to listen to the whales’ haunting songs.

The experienced guides provide engaging narration, sharing insights into whale biology and the local history. The unique glass-bottom viewing area offers an up-close perspective of the whales gliding through the waters.

With spacious seating, a snack bar, and included refreshments, the Calypso cruise ensures a comfortable and memorable whale watching experience.

Vessel and Amenities

Aboard the Calypso, passengers find themselves surrounded by the vessel’s spacious cabins boasting tinted windows for optimal whale viewing.

Comfortable seating is available throughout the triple-deck power catamaran, allowing guests to take in the scenic views and listen to the whale history narration in comfort.

The onboard bar and snack area provide refreshments, including ice-cold water, soda, and juices. For adult guests, a selection of alcoholic beverages can be purchased.

The unique glass-bottom viewing area offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to observe the whales up close as they showcase their impressive behaviors like fin slaps, tail slaps, and breaches.

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Customer Ratings and Highlights

According to over 124 customer reviews, the Whale Watching Cruise aboard the Calypso has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Passengers highlight the crew’s excellent service and interactions, scoring 4.8 out of 5. The transportation and organization of the tour also receive high marks at 4.7 out of 5.

The Calypso’s whale watching experience is widely recommended for families and groups, with the glass-bottom viewing area and underwater hydrophone allowing guests to fully enjoy observing the whales’ fascinating behaviors, from fin slaps to breaches.

The combination of comfort, amenities, and exceptional customer service makes this tour a top choice for those seeking an unforgettable whale watching adventure in South Maui.

Important Restrictions

Though suitable for most guests, the Whale Watching Cruise aboard the Calypso isn’t recommended for wheelchair users.

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times, and the minimum drinking age is 21 years.

Parking fees at the starting location are $0.50 per hour or $12.00 per 24-hour period.

Guests are advised to confirm the departure time prior to arrival, as it may be subject to change due to weather and season.

Plus, passengers should bring a passport or ID card and provide their cell phone number for any updates or changes regarding the tour.

Accessibility and Transportation

The Whale Watching Cruise aboard the Calypso caters to guests of all ages and abilities, with a few exceptions.

The vessel isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain on the dock and the multiple levels on the boat. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times for safety reasons.

Transportation to the departure point is easily accessible, with a nearby parking lot that charges $0.50 per hour or $12.00 for a 24-hour period. Guests are advised to confirm the departure time prior to arrival, as it may be subject to change due to weather and seasonal conditions.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking the Whale Watching Cruise aboard the Calypso is a straightforward process. Prices start at $59.95 per person for the 2-hour tour. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows for a full refund if cancelled up to 2 days in advance.

To book the tour, visitors can:

1. Visit the website and select their desired date and time.
2. Provide the number of guests and any special requirements.
3. Complete the booking and payment process.
4. Receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details.

The cruise also offers the flexibility of parking, with fees of $0.50 per hour or $12.00 per 24-hour period.

Guests should confirm the departure time prior to arrival, as it may be subject to change due to weather and season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Yes, passengers can bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks on the cruise. However, the tour provides cold water, sodas, and juices for guests, and there’s a bar on board for purchasing adult beverages.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?

There are occasional discounts and package deals available for the whale watching cruise. Customers should check the cruise operator’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any current promotions or bundle offers that may provide savings.

What Is the Best Time of Year to See Whales?

The best time to see whales is during the winter months, typically from December through April, when humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters to calve and breed. Whale sightings are most common during this peak season.

Can I Take Pictures and Videos During the Tour?

You can take pictures and videos during the tour. The crew encourages guests to capture the whales’ behaviors and the scenic views from the vessel’s glass-bottom viewing area and spacious cabins with tinted windows.

Are There Any Special Requirements for Children or Seniors?

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and there’s no minimum age. Seniors are welcome, though the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible. Passengers should confirm any special requirements when booking to ensure a comfortable experience.

Recap

The South Maui Whale Watching Cruise aboard the Calypso offers an immersive and thrilling experience for nature enthusiasts. With its glass-bottom viewing area, onboard hydrophone, and experienced narrators, this 2-hour adventure provides the chance to witness magnificent whale behaviors in the comfort of a spacious vessel. Whether with family or friends, this tour is an excellent way to explore the marine wildlife of South Maui.

You can check if your dates are available here: