Beyond the Reef: Everything We Know About Moana 2!

Written by the Maui Snorkeling team, operating Molokini and Turtle Town tours out of Maʻalaea Harbor since 1985. We spend more days in these waters than on land!

Last updated: Updated after the November 27, 2024, release of Moana 2 and its 2025 Disney+ home release.

The ocean is calling again! Moana and Maui have officially returned in Disney’s 2024 sequel, Moana 2, which brings Polynesian culture, big ocean set pieces, and sing‑along songs back to the screen.

The first film introduced fans to Moana, Maui, and the vast world of Oceania; the sequel continues their story and asks what’s next for a confident wayfinder and a larger‑than‑life demigod. Now that Moana 2 is out, we can talk about what the movie gets right, how it connects to real‑world Polynesian traditions, and—of course—answer the much‑asked question: how old is Maui, really?

Moana 2: A New Voyage Begins

While the first film focused on Moana restoring the heart of Te Fiti and finding her place, Moana 2 is set a few years later and follows Moana as she answers a new call from her wayfinding ancestors, reunites with Maui, and assembles a crew to sail into long‑lost waters in search of a legendary island and a way to reconnect scattered ocean communities.

The sequel continues Moana’s journey of self‑discovery and leadership, deepening her connection to her Polynesian heritage as she explores farther beyond the reef and encounters new islands, peoples, and challenges.

One of the biggest joys of Moana 2 is the return of Auliʻi Cravalho and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as Moana and Maui—their banter, songs, and emotional growth feel like a natural continuation of the first movie and a huge part of the sequel’s charm.

Moana 2 Release Date: Mark Your Calendars!

Moana 2 premiered in Hawaiʻi on November 21, 2024, and opened in U.S. theaters on November 27, 2024—and it’s now available to watch at home on Disney+ and other digital platforms.

Who’s Who in The Cast of Moana 2

A huge part of the success of Moana was due to its talented cast, and Moana 2 brings many of them back. Auliʻi Cravalho once again brings warmth and strength to Moana, while Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson returns as Maui with his signature charisma and humor, joined by returning and new cast members who flesh out Moana’s crew and family.

Here’s what we know about the cast of Moana 2:

• Auli’i Cravalho as Moana
• Dwayne Johnson as Maui
• Temuera Morrison as Chief Tui (Moana’s father)
• Nicole Scherzinger as Sina (Moana’s mother)
• Rachel House as Tala (Moana’s grandmother)
• New characters voiced by Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda, Rose Matafeo, David Fane, Hualālai Chung, Awhimai Fraser, and Gerald Ramsey.

How Old is Maui from Moana?

One of the questions fans often ask is, “How old is Maui from Moana?” Given that he’s a demigod who’s been around for centuries, it’s tough to give an exact age. He mentions being stranded on an island for 1,000 years, so he’s at least that old! But in Polynesian mythology, Maui exists outside of normal time. He’s an ancient figure, practically a force of nature. So, while we can’t pinpoint his exact age, we know he’s very old and full of wisdom (and a few bad habits!).

Maui and Moana: A Dynamic Duo

One of the highlights of Moana was the relationship between Maui and Moana, which felt like a blend of friendship, mentorship, and family. Maui, initially resistant to Moana’s determination, eventually respects her strength and joins her in saving their island and others. In Moana 2, this bond could grow even stronger as the two continue their adventures, learning more about each other and themselves along the way.

Their relationship also reflects the cultural values of Polynesian communities, where mutual respect and learning from one another are key. Moana and Maui’s dynamic reminds us that even the mightiest demigod has something to learn, and that true strength often comes from kindness and collaboration.

The Influence of Moana and Maui on Maui’s Visitors

The characters of Moana and Maui have had a lasting impact on Hawaiian tourism, inspiring many to visit Maui and other Polynesian islands. With Moana 2 now released, Maui’s latest on‑screen adventures are inspiring even more visitors to enjoy the ocean responsibly and learn about the culture behind the scenery. Many fans want to explore the island firsthand, whether by snorkeling its vibrant reefs, hiking its lush trails, or learning more about Polynesian mythology and traditions.

Snorkeling tours in Maui often bring guests up close to the incredible marine life that Moana and Maui work to protect. With the soon-to-be-released Moana 2, Maui’s own adventures could inspire even more visitors to respect and enjoy the ocean responsibly.

What Moana 2 Gets Right About the Ocean & Polynesian Culture

Like the first film, Moana 2 leans on real Polynesian navigation traditions, community values, and a deep respect for the ocean—while still being a colorful Disney musical, not a documentary. The focus on wayfinding, family, and caring for the sea mirrors many of the themes you’ll hear from local cultural practitioners and guides when you visit Hawaiʻi.

Of course, the movie takes creative liberties and adds plenty of fantasy, but it’s a great jumping‑off point for families to talk about real Pacific cultures, learn correct place names, and remember that these stories belong to living communities, not just to Disney.

Maui Moana

Maui is a really important figure in Polynesian mythology, and he’s way more than just the funny guy from Moana (though he’s definitely that, too!). He’s a demigod, which means he’s part god, part human, and he’s known for his incredible strength, shapeshifting abilities, and his magical fishhook.

Here’s the lowdown on this awesome character:

• A Trickster and a Hero: Maui is a classic trickster figure. He’s mischievous and loves playing pranks, but his heart is usually in the right place. He uses his powers and cleverness to help humanity, even if he causes a little chaos along the way.

• Incredible Feats: Maui is credited with some amazing accomplishments. Some of his most famous deeds include:

• Pulling up Islands: Using his magical fishhook, Maui is said to have pulled islands up from the ocean floor, creating the islands of Hawaii and other Polynesian islands.

• Snaring the Sun: He slowed down the sun to make the days longer, giving people more time to work and play.

• Discovering Fire: Maui brought fire to humans by tricking the fire goddess Mahuika.

• Shapeshifter: One of Maui’s coolest powers is his ability to shapeshift. He can transform into different animals, like a giant bird or a fish, to accomplish his goals.

• Family Ties: Maui’s family is important in his stories. He has a close relationship with his mother, Hina, and often interacts with his brothers.

• Cultural Significance: Maui isn’t just a character in stories; he represents important cultural values in Polynesian societies. He embodies strength, resilience, and the connection between humans and the natural world.

What Moana 2 Got Right and What We’d Love to See Next

Now that we’ve actually seen the sequel, here are a few things Moana 2 delivers beautifully—and what we’d still love future stories in this world to explore.

• • More Polynesian Mythology: Moana 2 builds on the first film’s use of Polynesian stories by taking Moana farther across the Pacific, introducing new islands and legends, and highlighting the ties between people and the ocean.
  •  Moana’s Growth: The sequel shows Moana as a more confident Wayfinder and leader, wrestling with wider choices as she balances responsibility to her people with her drive to explore.
  • Maui’s Redemption Arc: Maui continues to grow, owning more of his past mistakes while still providing the humor and heart fans love—reminding us that even demigods are works in progress.
  • Stunning Visuals and Music: Moana 2 keeps the bar high with lush ocean animation and new songs that sit comfortably alongside the original soundtrack, giving fans plenty to sing on the way to the beach.

Moana‑Inspired Maui Experiences You Can Actually Do

If Moana 2 has everyone in your family dreaming about sailing and exploring, you can channel that energy into real‑life experiences on Maui. Here are a few ideas to get started:

• • Snorkel like a Wayfinder: Join a Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour to see real coral reefs, tropical fish, and honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) in clear, protected waters—while following reef‑safe, respectful guidelines.
  • Learn about local culture: Visit cultural centers, book experiences led by Native Hawaiian guides, and take time to listen to the stories and history of the places you’re visiting, not just snap the photos.
  • Practice ocean respect: Use reef‑safe sunscreen, keep your distance from marine life, and follow lifeguard and tour‑crew instructions so the ocean stays healthy for future generations of wayfinders.

Get Ready to Voyage Back to Oceania!

Moana 2 turned out to be another epic adventure full of heart, humor, and big‑screen ocean magic. Whether you saw it in theaters or streamed it at home, it’s a reminder of how powerful these stories about navigation, community, and caring for the sea can be.

Now that the movie is out, you don’t have to wait for a sequel to feel that same sense of wonder—you can plan your own Maui adventure, explore real coral reefs, and experience the respect for the ocean that Moana and Maui learn on screen. Ready to go snorkeling in Maui? Book your Maui Snorkeling tour and bring that Moana energy into the real ocean.

Resources: Disney – Moana 2, Wikipedia