Maui Shore Excursions - Holland America
"Crater Rainbow" Helicopter Tour
Enjoy a thrilling 45-minute narrated helicopter flight over the most requested points of interest of east Maui: the Seven Sacred Pools (Oheo Gulch), Haleakala Crater, Hana Town, Hana rain forest and the shoreline of northeast Maui.
NOTES:
For purposes of weight and balance, guests weighing more than 250lbs must pay a surcharge of 50% over the published fare. All passengers will be weighted in at the heliport, in accordance with new FAA regulations.
Adventure to Hana
Travel to an isolated region between the eastern slopes of Haleakala and the Pacific Ocean. You'll stop at the Seven Sacred Pools followed by lunch at Hana Ranch. The tour will also stop at the grave of the world-renowned aviator Charles Lindbergh. Returning to the ship, you will travel along the famous 30 miles of narrow winding road that offer views of rugged coastline, and see areas that have produced taro, bananas, and yams for hundreds of years.
NOTES:
Not recommended for guests who suffer from motion sickness or back problems, or for pregnant women. In inclement weather, this tour may not be able to make the complete circle. After the tour, there is an optional drop-off at Hilo Hattie's for shopping.
This tour includes a meal--lunch on daytime tours, or dinner on evening tours.
Atlantis Submarine Dive
Submerge yourself in the underwater world of Atlantis Submarines. This once-in-a-lifetime journey aboard a 65-foot, fully air-conditioned submarine presents an opportunity to experience and see Maui's magnificent underwater world. Your tour begins with a two-mile boat ride along the breathtaking Maui coastline. From December through April, guests often see whales from the shuttle vessel. Upon arrival at the site, you will transfer to the submarine to begin your underwater adventure. The Atlantis submarine is the world's most technologically advanced passenger submarine, and descends to depths of 125 feet. You will witness this watery world through two-foot viewports and see a variety of exotic tropical fish, coral gardens, moray eel, and other fascinating marine life. The friendly crew will share their love of the ocean and explain its role in Maui's rich culture and history.
NOTES:
Wear comfortable clothes and sensible shoes for boat transfers and navigating the submarine ladder. Dive time is approximately 45 minutes. Minimum height is 36 inches. Guests must be able to safely navigate a nearly-vertical, seven-step ladder into and out of the submarine without assistance.
Circle Island Helicopter Tour
Find out why the locals say Maui no ka oi --Maui is the best! Thrill to a one-hour completely narrated helicopter tour of Maui--including all the attractions of east and west Maui. See Haleakala Crater, the seven Sacred Pools, the Pali Coast, and the valleys of Halawa, Wailua and Pelekune.
NOTES:
For purposes of weight and balance, guests weighing more than 250lbs must pay a surcharge of 50% over the published fare. All passengers will be weighed in at the heliport, in accordance with new FAA regulations.
Drums of the Pacific Luau
Take a musical and culinary journey through Polynesia at the Drums of the Pacific Luau. Toast the evening's festivities with a refreshing exotic drink from the Sunset Terrace, as a delicious suckling pig presented at an imu ceremony takes center stage at the all-you-can-eat buffet. Share traditional local dishes and luau favorites at this sumptuous feast. Then, get ready for a glorious South Seas extravaganza! Witness the authentic dance and music of Polynesia--Samoa, Tonga, Rarotonga, Fiji, New Zealand, Tahiti and Hawaii--including the acrobatic feats of Samoan fire- & knief-dancing. This evening is destined to be a highlight of your trip to Maui.
NOTES:
This tour includes a meal--lunch on daytime tours, or dinner on evening tours.
Haleakala Crater & Iao Valley
Haleakala Crater, the highest point on the island of Maui, stands at 10,032 feet above sea level, and is the tip of a volcano that last erupted in 1790. You'll reach the summit by way of a switchback road overlooking Maui's diverse scenery. At 7 1/2 miles long, 2 1/2 miles wide and 21 miles around, the crater is bigger than Manhattan Island. From the viewpoint, appreciate firsthand the unique beauty of this massive landmark. Enjoy lunch at Maui Tropical Plantation, then stroll the grounds and discover some of the exhibits. Next you will visit Iao Valley State Park-home to the Iao Needle--a 2,250-foot cinder cone pinnacle that dominates its lush, natural surroundings.
NOTES:
Bring a sweater and wear comfortable walking shoes. Guests who have a heart condition or respiratory difficulties should note that the altitude of Haleakala is 10,032 feet above sea level. Lunch is included en route. After the tour, there is an optional drop-off at Hilo Hattie's for shopping.
Haleakala Crater & Maui Ocean Center
The magnificent Haleakala Crater is the highest point on the island of Maui, at 10,032 feet above sea level. All of Manhattan Island with room to spare, and the Empire State Building could be vertically stacked four times in the crater without reaching the top! This dormant volcano last erupted in 1790. Travel up the mountain through Maui's diverse scenery to Haleakala National Park--a favorite for its panoramic views. The crater measures 7 1/2 miles long, 2 1/2 miles wide and 21 miles around. From the viewpoint, appreciate firsthand the unique beauty of this massive landmark. Next, you'll visit one of Maui's newest and most unique sights, the Maui Ocean Center is the largest tropical aquarium in the western hemisphere with spectacular marine life found in Hawaiian waters.
NOTES:
Bring a sweater and wear comfortable walking shoes. Guests who have a heart condition or respiratory difficulties should note that the altitude of Haleakala is 10,032 feet above sea level. Lunch is included en route. After the tour, there is an optional drop-off at Hilo Hattie's for shopping.
Lana'i 4x4 Trekker Expedition
Lana'i is the sixth largest of the Hawaiian Islands and is known as the most secluded, located at the center of the island chain. Your tour begins when you board a fast passenger ferry to Lana'i from the main pier at Lahaina Harbor. During the 45-minute voyage across the Auau Channel, you will enjoy open ocean viewing of all the islands of Maui County, including Maui, Moloka'i, Kahoolawe, Molokini and, of course, Lana'i, also once known as the Pineapple Island. Watch for spinner dolphins and whales (during whale watch season) on the trip over. You'll be met upon arrival at Manele Harbor by your guide, and your adventure will begin. You will travel in a roomy, air-conditioned 4-wheel-drive vehicle. Your guide knows the terrain, flora and fauna, and will share with you interesting stories and legends throughout your 3 1/2-hour 4x4 trek around Lana'i. You will experience a unique ironwood forest, where the wind is the only voice you'll hear, on your way to the Garden of the Gods--a stunning, natural red rock formation in the crater that inspires visions of a visit to Mars! Other highlights include Shipwreck Beach, where the breathtaking views of Moloka'i are interrupted only by the wreck towering just offshore, lending the beach its name. Upon completion of your 4x4 tour, you will be taken back to the ferry terminal for your ferry ride back to Lahaina pier.
NOTES:
Wear comfortable clothing, hiking or sports shoes, sunscreen and sunglasses. The ferry is public transportation and is not exclusive.
This tour includes a meal--lunch on daytime tours, or dinner on evening tours.
Maui Tropical Plantation & Ocean Center
Begin at the Maui Tropical Plantation with a fully-narrated, 30-minute tram tour of agricultural villages, sugarcane fields, macadamia nut orchards and flower gardens. View coconut husking, and browse in the Made-On-Maui Marketplace. Next is one of Maui's newest sights--the Maui Ocean Center--the largest tropical aquarium in the Western Hemisphere with spectacular marine life found only in Hawaiian waters.
NOTES:
Comfortable shoes are recommended. After the tour, there is an optional drop-off at Hilo Hattie's for shopping.
Ulalena: Maui Theatre
Ulalena is a unique theatrical experience staged at the Maui Theatre in historic Lahaina. The theatre features the latest in lighting, sound, stage and multi-media technology. With original music, song, authentic Polynesian dance, and acrobatics performed by an international cast, Ulalena artfully weaves powerful images of Hawaiian mythology and history.
NOTES:
This tour does not operate on Sunday and Monday. Actual show time is 1 1/2 hours. The theatre is a five-block walk from the pier. Transportation can be arranged, but is not included.
Valley to Ocean Discovery
Explore Maui from above the ocean and below! You will visit the lush landscape of Iao Valley, followed by the Maui Ocean Center. In the Iao Valley you will stop at the scenic lookout called the Iao Needle. History claims that the Valley was where King Kamehameha conquered the forces of Maui in the Battle of Kepanewai. Walk through the fragrant, fresh island flowers while basking in the serenity of the valley. Next is a journey beneath the waves at the Maui Ocean Center--the only aquarium in the world devoted solely to Hawaii's unique marine environment. Explore the creatures of the Living Reef, the Turtle Lagoon and the Stingray Cove exhibits. Learn about Hawaii's largest undersea inhabitants at the Whale Discovery Center, and stroll through the Underwater Journey's transparent tunnel to see exotic fish and sharks swimming all around you. The live exhibits and hands-on activities make this a trip to remember.
NOTES:
Wear confortable walking shoes. After the tour, there is an optional drop-off at Hilo Hattie's for shopping.
West Maui & Molokini Crater Snorkel Cruise
Join the friendly and knowledgeable staff on board the 92-foot air conditioned m/v Prince Kuhio for a scenic ride along West Maui's coastline to stunning Molokini Crater. During whale season, this is the prime location to see humpback whales, many with juveniles recently born in the warm blue waters around Maui. A full crew is ready to serve your every need--they will brief you on boat safety, hand out snorkel equipment and give thorough instruction on snorkel technique and safety, and then they will accompany you into the water for a look around some of the best snorkeling sites in Hawaii. Keep your eyes open for green sea turtles, magnificent tropical reef fish, and maybe even a moray eel. After your snorkel experience, relax and savor the dramatic views of Maui on your way back to Ma'alaea Harbor. Relax while the staff serves you refreshments and shares interesting facts about Maui and the marine life in the beautiful waters surrounding it. Enjoy complimentary beer, wine, Mai Tais from the bar as well as fruit juices, bottled water and snacks.
NOTES:
Occasionally, weather and sea conditions make it unsafe to visit Molokini Crater. In this case, the Captain will take you to other fabulous snorkel sites off West Maui. Depending on sea conditions, plan on spending between 45 minutes to an hour total time in the water. Participants should be comfortable in the water. Wetsuit rental is $5 payable on the snorkel boat. Bring a towel. Participants should be in reasonable physical condition. Snacks, water, fruit juice and, on the return journey, beer, wine and Mai Tais are served.
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