Written by
Maui Snorkeling, operating tours to Molokini Crater, Turtle Town, and Coral Gardens from MÄÊ»alaea Harbor since 1985. Tours are led by USCG-licensed captains aboard a
USCG-inspected passenger vessel.
Quick Answer
The Lani Kai II waterslide adds an extra splash of fun to Maui Snorkelingâs morning and afternoon tours. This 25-foot inflatable slide can be used at crew-approved snorkel stops when ocean conditions allow. It isnât used at Molokini Crater. On morning trips, slide time may happen at the second stop; on afternoon trips, it may happen at the tourâs single reef stop.
Main takeaways:
- Best for: Families, kids, and first-time snorkelers who can swim independently and feel comfortable entering deep water
- Slide size: The Lani Kai II waterslide is a 25-foot slide that's used when conditions are safe
- Where it's used: At approved stops on morning or afternoon tours, depending on the itinerary and ocean conditions.
- Molokini note: The waterslide isn't used at Molokini Crater
- What's included: Snorkel gear, flotation, meals, nonalcoholic drinks, mineral sunscreen, and crew guidance.
- Good to know: Waterslide use depends on weather, ocean conditions, and the captain's safety call
A reef adventure with a little extra splash? Thatâs the appeal of the Lani Kai II waterslide. Families can enjoy snorkeling, ocean views, meals aboard, and a 25-foot inflatable slide when conditions allow.
Choose the five-hour morning tour for a planned visit to Molokini Crater and a second reef, or the three-hour afternoon tour for a shorter outing with one planned snorkel stop. Your captain can adjust the route to suit the dayâs ocean conditions.
Why Families Love The Lani Kai II
A Kid-Friendly Maui Snorkel Boat
The Lani Kai II is designed to make a Maui snorkel tour easier, more comfortable, and more fun for families. The boat has a roomy deck, shaded seating, clean restrooms, easy-access stairs, and plenty of space for parents and kids to move around during the trip.
Families also appreciate the crewâs support. For children who can swim independently and feel comfortable entering deep water, the crew explains the gear and offers flotation as extra support. Flotation and crew guidance donât replace swimming ability or active adult supervision.
Can You Come Along Without Snorkeling or Sliding?
Absolutely! You donât have to get in the water to enjoy a day aboard the Lani Kai II. Settle into the shaded seating, enjoy the ocean views, and join your group for the meal. Snorkeling and waterslide use are optional, so everyone doesnât need the same idea of a perfect boat day.
If a child stays aboard, a responsible adult from your group must stay with them. Decide whoâll stay together before anyone heads into the water so everyone can enjoy their part of the adventure.
When Guests Can Use The Lani Kai II Waterslide
Morning Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour
Our five-hour morning tour plans to visit Molokini Crater, then Turtle Town or another reef. Both planned stops offer snorkeling, while the waterslide stays packed away at Molokini and may be used at the second stop with crew approval. Your captain may change either snorkeling location according to the dayâs conditions.
Afternoon Snorkeling Tour
Our three-hour afternoon tour usually visits Coral Gardens or another nearby reef for one snorkel stop. With crew approval, we may use the waterslide at that same stop, so you donât have to wait for a second stop. On rare afternoons when the tour visits Molokini, the slide stays packed away.
What Sliding Into The Ocean Means
The Lani Kai II waterslide finishes in the ocean, not a swimming pool or shallow splash area. Anyone using it must be able to swim independently, feel comfortable entering deep water, and follow crew instructions.
Before deciding to slide, ask the crew how water entry and returning aboard will work at that stop. Children need active supervision from a responsible adult in their party. You can always watch from the boat, and nobody needs to slide to enjoy the trip.
What The Family Boat Day Includes
Having meals and snorkeling equipment included makes the packing part easier. Hereâs what comes with each trip:
- Morning tour: Breakfast and lunch.
- Afternoon tour: Lunch.
- Both tours: A mask, snorkel, fins, flotation options, crew guidance, nonalcoholic drinks, and mineral sunscreen.
Bring your own towels and arrange transportation to the harbor. Wetsuit rentals and optional photo purchases cost extra.
Add a Little Fish-Spotting Fun
Give the kids a few reef creatures to recognize before your trip with our Maui Snorkel Scavenger Hunt. Look through the pictures and identification clues together, then choose a couple of favorites youâd love to spot.
Leave the checklist aboard while you snorkel and compare your finds once youâre back on the boat. Thereâs no need to spot every animal. A colorful fish youâve never seen before can be just as memorable as that big waterslide splash!
Helpful Tips For Families
Make your day smooth sailing with these quick tips:
- Book ahead: Reserve your preferred date before your trip, especially if youâre planning around school breaks.
- Allow time for parking: Morning check-in is at 6:30 AM; afternoon check-in is at 12:30 PM at MaÊ»alaea Harbor, Slip 64. Allow another 20â30 minutes before check-in to park, pay, and walk to the boat.
- Plan for sunshine: Mineral sunscreen is provided aboard. Bring hats, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing.
- Pack for the ride home: Bring a towel and dry clothes for each person.
- Capture the memories: Bring a waterproof camera if youâd like your own pictures. A professional photographer is typically aboard, and photo purchases are optional and cost extra.
Final Tips Before Booking Your Family Snorkel Trip
A good family boat day has room for different kinds of fun, from spotting reef fish to enjoying the view from the deck. Choose the morning or afternoon trip that fits your plans, pack your towel, and let the waterslide be a bonus when conditions allow. Happy snorkeling! đ€ż
Sources & Updates
Before your familyâs boat day, use these resources to check tour inclusions, waterslide policies, Molokini rules, and current ocean conditions.
