Pacific Whale Foundation – Sunset & Celestial Cruise
Sail along the South Maui coastline on a one-of-a-kind sunset cruise that blends breathtaking views with Hawaiian culture and stargazing. Enjoy appetizers and drinks as you learn about Polynesian wayfinding and how ancient navigators used the stars to voyage across the Pacific and discover the Hawaiian Islands. On board, award-winning astronomy writer Harriet Witt shares engaging stories about the night sky and its cultural significance, making the evening both entertaining and educational. In winter, a hydrophone lets guests hear the enchanting songs of humpback whales under the stars, adding to this magical experience.
🍽️ Dinner Menu
✨ Appetizers
- Furikake crusted ahi crostini (sustainably caught tuna) with cilantro aioli and unagi glaze
- Grilled and chilled (sustainably farm-raised) tiger prawn cocktails with wasabi sauce
- BBQ kalua pork quesadillas with Maui Gold pineapple chutney and cilantro lime aioli
- Vegan "pork" gyoza (dumpling)
- House fried corn tortilla chips with salsa
- Artisan cheese platter
- Fresh fruit
- Dessert of Kula strawberries and chocolate chip cookies
- Unlimited soda, juice, Social Hour coffee and filtered water
- For adults age 21+, up to 2 complimentary alcoholic drinks included (such as Maui Brewing Co. beer, vodka, gin, rum, wine and tequila)
Special Instructions
Where & When
6:30 pm - 9:00 pm (March 16 - September 15)
5:30 pm - 8:00 pm (September 16 - March 15)
Check in 45 minutes prior to departure at Pacific Whale Foundation's Ocean Store at the Maui Harbor Shops, which shares a parking lot with Maui Ocean Center, located at 192 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku (GPS address). View Map
Parking is paid throughout the harbor. Please review signage upon arrival.
Restrictions
Operation Days
Not available on Valentine's Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sunset & Celestial Cruise mainly a stargazing tour?
The 2.5-hour experience combines a Maui sunset cruise with guided stargazing and stories about Polynesian navigation. Astronomy expert Harriet Witt explains the night sky and its cultural significance after guests enjoy coastal views, appetizers and drinks.
What food and drinks are included on the cruise?
A selection of appetizers is included, such as ahi crostini, tiger prawns, kalua pork quesadillas, vegan gyoza, artisan cheese, fruit and dessert. Unlimited soda, juice, coffee and filtered water are also provided during the evening.
Can guests hear humpback whales during the celestial cruise?
During Maui’s winter whale season, the crew may use an underwater hydrophone so guests can listen for humpback whale songs beneath the stars. Whale activity and vocalizations vary, so hearing whales cannot be guaranteed on every departure.