There are many whale watching tours throughout West and South Maui, but why not go with those who are the most knowledgeable and economical? Not to mention this company is a non-profit organization and your ticket money goes directly to funding research on the preservation of these amazing animals, as opposed lining the pockets of a tour operator? For as low as $20 the Pacific Whale Foundation will take you out for 2 hours for a humpback whale watching adventure. They have a fleet of vessels that depart throughout the whole day everyday, but take my suggestion and book on the smallest boat you can. This makes for a more up close viewing experience as opposed to the larger boats in the fleet. The best time of year to go whale watching off the coast of Maui is in the winter months when the whales migrate to the warm waters for flirting with the ladies, competing with rival males and what looks like maybe just to have some fun. February is truly the peak with the highest whale activity. Humpback whales are seen literally everywhere. Blowing water in the air, splashing about, breaching (jumping out of the water) and even slapping their giant tails on the surface of the water. The staff at PWF is very friendly and knowledgable. Most are marine biologists or those with degrees in eco-tourism. I think it would be next to impossible to stump one of the guides with a question. They also offer cocktails and beers if you are into that like I am. The boats, staff and experience are all first rate. And all this for $20 a person when it goes to a good cause? Ther is no better choice. Check out my videos from my last outing with PWF. A yearling calf came up to our boat to curiously investigate us when moments later Mom showed up and put herself between us and her calf in an effort to steer the calf away from danger. This experience happened literally 2 feet off the stern of our boat. The tremendously close encounter moved several people so deeply they began crying. (strange?) Our guides stated they had never seen such an encounter as close and impressive, not during their tenure with Pacific Whale Foundation anyway. The law states that no vessel can come within 100 yards of a humpback whale, but the whales don't know this law so the whales that day were not charged with any criminal offenses.

We went on the sunrise whale watch while on Maui in March. The crew knew alot about the whales and shared it with the passengers. The showed the whales respect and even thoughthey kept a safe distance from the whales we all had a up ...

THE GOOD: The Dolphin and Whale tour on 4/23/10 @ 0900 was very informative. Enjoyed the tour even though we were on the tiny boat that our guide recommended to avoid. Luckily our group wasn't a full boat. Calm waters since it was still morning. Even though it's late in the whale watching season, we had two different sightings of a mom and calf swimming and one single male (no breaches). Didn't hear any singing. Didn't find any dolphins until we made the trip to Lanai (luckily the weather was permitting for the trip that far). Saw about 100 dolphins near Lanai. On our return trip, we got back early so we detoured north of the harbor and saw 3 green turtles, which was a great unexpected bonus. This was our free tour that we got as part of our annual membership. The marine biologists on board were very informative and answered our questions with ease. Although my wife wanted it, I don't recommend buying the photo the photographer takes of you right before you board ...

One of the highlights of our trip to Hawaii. We tremendously enjoyed the whales. My only comments about the trip was that the check-in was a huge mess -- there isn't enough space and it was confusing. Also, I read that their emissions are very low but I got sick on what certainly smelled like diesel fumes to me and my wife. I assume it was where I was standing but it was awful. The crew was fantastic as was the view of the multiple whale pods we saw. Incredible!‎

I recently returned from Maui, Hawaii and am very impressed with the oceanic involvement through the Pacific Whale Foundation. Their ocean is clean and crystal blue. Another reason to clean up our oceans that are dirty and polluted.‎