Photo Credit: Chloe Cryan 2024 > 2.7.24 Gemini Snorkel > Island Dream Productions
"There's a spout in the distance! Look to your left!" I exclaimed as a mist of air shot up from the ocean, roughly 400 meters away. Everyone pointed and took pictures as the tail of a humpback whale lifted out of the ocean. We were sailing with Gemini Sailing Charters heading north toward Honolua Bay along the Au’au Channel. Thousands of humpback whales travel 3,500 miles from Alaska to mate and give birth within the Au’au Channel. Whale season in Maui runs from December to March, with the peak time being February.
We had embarked on the Gemini Catamaran at Kaanapali Beach, and we sailed to Honolua Bay to snorkel. Honolua Bay is well-known by locals and travelers alike as being one of the most calm, pristine places to snorkel and surf.
On board the cabin felt very spacious and clean, and our guides were very informative and helpful. There was even a photographer, Chloe on board taking everyone’s pictures! She captured epic underwater photos of the passengers!
Photo Credit: Chloe Cryan 2024 > 2.7.24 Gemini Snorkel > Island Dream Productions
Photo Credit: Chloe Cryan 2024 > 2.7.24 Gemini Snorkel > Island Dream Productions
Sailing north along the channel, before we stopped at Honolua Bay, we passed by Napili Bay and Kapalua Bay. Further north is DT Flemming beach, the beach right next to the Ritz-Carlton Resort. DT Flemming beach is where you can get great milk shakes at the Burger Shack restaurant and explore Mahana Ridge Trail, a trail that snakes into the West Maui Mountains. The beach north of DT Flemming beach is Mokuleia Beach (Slaughterhouse Beach), a challenging dive spot and fun place to hang out and surf or snorkel. It was there that we had seen at least 20 dolphins while diving!
Further north from Mokuleia beach is Honolua Bay. Honolua Bay is sheltered from the wind, and when we arrived, the water became instantly calmer, and the air felt warmer. The crew buoyed up the catamaran and everyone geared up to snorkel. The crew provided snorkeling equipment and a snorkel lesson for beginners. They also provided reef safe sunscreen and flotation devices. Since my husband and I are pros, we brought our own gear and jumped into the water before everyone else!
Honolua Bay is protected by cliffs with clusters of boulders and large rocks along the perimeter.
Photo Credit: Chloe Cryan 2024 > 2.7.24 Gemini Snorkel > Island Dream Productions
Photo Credit: Chloe Cryan 2024 > 2.7.24 Gemini Snorkel > Island Dream Productions
Within Honolua Bay, you can see many different types of small, colorful fish nibbling on the mounds of coral and hiding within the small crevices. The coral grows large in some parts of the bay and almost touches the surface of the ocean from 10 feet down! As I floated weightlessly, I enjoyed the warm ocean water and the sun on my back.
As I marveled at the fish crisscrossing and twirling in circles, a movement caught my eye. Something large swam by, and to my amazement, it was a barracuda! My eyes widened, captivated by the striking beauty of the silvery barracuda gliding through the water. I was exhilarated to witness such a magnificent creature, especially after observing the smaller marine life around me. The encounter left me in awe of the ocean's wonders. The experience reminded me of when I was swimming in Kauai with Chad at Kalihiwai Bay and a barracuda just came out of nowhere! Our guide said that the barracuda’s name is Barry, and he swims around the area occasionally.
After an exhilarating and lengthy snorkeling adventure, we returned to the boat, famished and eager for a hearty meal. Awaiting us was a delicious hot lunch, the aroma wafting through the air and making our mouths water in anticipation.
We devoured succulent, juicy chicken that was perfectly seasoned, accompanied by flavorful fried rice adorned with colorful vegetables. After the meal we were presented with freshly baked cookies that provided a sweet finish. To wash it all down, we sipped on strong, refreshing Mai Tais that added a tropical touch to our feast. The meal was not only delectable and satisfying but also plentiful, ensuring that everyone on board had more than enough to enjoy.
Photo Credit: Chloe Cryan 2024 > 2.7.24 Gemini Snorkel > Island Dream Productions
After lunch, the Gemini Catamaran sailed south, back toward Ka’anapali as we rocked out to music! The sky was clear, and the sun was blazing, and it was a smooth ride back. We spotted a whale and her calf breaching out of the ocean just next to us! The catamaran slowed to a stop for a moment to give us a chance to observe the whales. The crew then gave everyone a very informative and interesting speech about humpback whales.
Fun Facts about Humpback Whales: Female whales are bigger than the males and only have temporary relationships. However, males can often be seen protecting the young. The males can often be seen showing off and fighting with other males to impress females. Females can get pregnant as young as four years old! In Maui, the food for the whales isn’t as abundant as it is in Alaska, which is why they come here for a short time only to give birth and mate.
As a seasoned snorkeler and scuba diver, I highly recommend The Gemini Snorkel Sail Adventure! If you are visiting Maui, and looking for relaxing day out in the ocean, Gemini Sailing Charters is the way to go! Happy Sailing! To book a tour check out their website now!
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