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Whales, Whales Whales!

© Lottie Tagupa

Winter is Maui draws more than just Snowbirds from Canada trying to escape from the Arctic freeze, it is also the best time of year to view Hawaii's marine visitors. Humpback season begins in mid December through mid-May and the best place to view these magnificent creatures are from Maui's south shore. Humpbacks frolic in the warm water between the islands of Molokai, Lanai and Maui and provide an opportunity to view these wondrous mammals up close. Whale watching cruises are popular on Maui during this time of year, but most cruise operators for most of the season guarantee whale sightings.

Several whale-watching cruises are available to choose from. Schedules vary from company to company, but all are required to maintain a minimum distance from these protected animals, so bring a good pair of binoculars and don't expect to get too close for your price of admission of around US$20.00.

Pacific Whale Foundation operates the best of all whale-watching cruises. Led by expert marine biologists and marine research naturalists, whale sightings are guaranteed from December 1 through mid-May. Onboard you will find scientific hydrophones that will allow you listen to whale songs. There are 15 cruises daily operating from both Maalaea and Lahaina boat harbors.

If you plan to visit Maui during the whale off-season, be sure to contact Pacific Whale Foundation about one of their great dolphin or snorkel tours. Dolphin and snorkel tours are aboard the sailing catamaran Manute'a takes you along the scenic coast of Lanai and include a BBQ lunch and reef snorkeling. These trips depart daily from Lahaina.

Of course, with all outdoor activities, remember to wear sunscreen and drink lots of fluids.

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