Humpback Whale Season in Hawaii
It's that time of year again...Whale season is in now in full effect. If you are visiting Maui anytime from now until May be sure to book your whale watch tour with Hawaii Ocean Project for guaranteed sightings.
Below are some interesting facts about the majestic humpback whales that visit our islands each year:
- Humpback whales migrate to the Hawaiian Islands each winter for mating and birthing their young. The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary has actually recognized Hawaii to be the only state in the U.S. to experience this remarkable occasion.
- It is believed that the humpback whales migrate to Hawaii each winter because of the ideal warm waters, varying ocean depths, and lack of natural predators.
- Humpback whales are known for their unique songs. While scientists are still researching, they have found that the males sing while in their breeding grounds, possibly to attract a mate.
- Some of the behaviors that can been seen from above water are: a breach, spy hop, tail slap, pectoral or peduncle slap, or a fluke up dive. The most common sighting is of a humpback whale breathing through their blowhole, creating a huge burst of water into the air.
If you're interested in learning more about these magnificent mammals, Hawaii Ocean Project offers daily whale watch tours with an expert whale narration by the experienced Captain and crew members. We also place a hydrophone into the waters below so that guests can experience the whale songs first hand. Book your whale watch tour today, we are sure you will not be disappointed as the Hawaiian waters are currently full with humpback whales ready to put on a show.
Historic Lahaina Lighthouse Landmark
In our previous blog we provided you with some interesting facts about Hawaii Ocean Project's history and our dedication to marine conservation. This week we'd like to tell you about one of the oldest standing landmarks in Lahaina, located just steps away from our loading dock: the Lahaina Lighthouse.
In the 1800's, historic Lahaina was a popular whaling village. Consequently, Kamehameha III commissioned for a 9-foot tall wooden lighthouse tower to be built, in order to guide the abundance of ships entering the harbor. Using whale oil to fuel the lamp, it was first lit on November 4, 1840. According to the Lahaina Restoration Foundation, this landmark became the first lighted navigation tower in all of the Hawaiian Islands, also predating any lighthouse on the U.S. Pacific Coast.
In 1866, improvements were made to increase the height to 26-feet tall, with a ladder leading to the top where the, now kerosene, lamp could be lit. Ownership of this lighthouse passed through multiple hands, until a new lighthouse was constructed, by the U.S. Lighthouse Board, in 1905. This new lighthouse featured a 55-foot tall wooden pyramid, equipped with a Fresnel lens. In 1916, this lighthouse was dedicated to the U.S. Coast Guard. In 1917, the wooden structure was reinforced with concrete and an automatic light was installed.
By 1937, the lighthouse was being powered by electricity, it has since advanced to solar power. In 1996, the Lahaina Restoration Foundation signed a 30-year lease with the U.S. Coast Guard and assumed responsibility for maintenance of the site. Today, the Lahaina Restoration Foundation offers a map of a historic trail, where you can get more information about the Lahaina Lighthouse and many other landmarks in Lahaina.
We hope you enjoyed learning the brief history of how the Lahaina Lighthouse has evolved since it's construction in 1840. Before or after joining us on one of our Maui whale watch or other boat tours, be sure to check out this historic landmark.
The History of Hawaii Ocean Project
Many visitors participate in some sort of boat tour while on their Maui vacation. When searching for a boat tour company, what things do you look for? Most visitors decide based on price, location, and/or reviews. What about the company history? By learning more about a company's history you can gain some excellent insight into the value offered to our guests.
Below are some interesting facts about Hawaii Ocean Project's 30 year history on Maui:
- Captain Dave - Hawaii Ocean Project's President and Senior Captain - has been cruising Maui waters since 1970, sharing his seaworthy knowledge and contributing to the growth and success of HOP.
- Hawaii Ocean Project is known for our eco-friendly vessels and ecological research projects.
- Direct Research is supported by voluntary donations for genuine research. With no director salaries or administrative fees, HOP is able to ensure that all funds collected and gift shop profits will go to direct research.
- Among the numerous boat tours offered, we also operate the only interisland ferry, commuting to and from Moloka'i.
- By educating our visitors and island community, HOP displays commitment to keeping our surrounding waters safe and healthy for the marine life.
To find out about more ways to support genuine research or to book a boat tour during your Maui vacation, contact HOP today!
Cruise to the Island of Lanai
Are you in search for some adventure? If so, consider booking one of our exceptional Lanai Snorkel boat tours. The Hawaii Ocean Project offers a fabulous snorkeling excursion aboard the Kaulana.
Enjoy a continental breakfast provided by HOP, as the Lanai Snorkel boat tour departs from the Lahaina Harbor at 7:30am. Once we reach the private island of Lanai, you will observe some of the most magnificent reefs and an abundance of marine life. You will be able to snorkel in two different spots amongst the wild spinner dolphins, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and amazing tropical fish.
When not in the water, you can soak up some sun on one of the decks while relishing in the astonishing views of the Lanai coastline. It is assumed that snorkeling can work up quite an appetite. Accordingly, we will provide a full barbecue for guests. Once you are fully done snorkeling for the day, sit back and relax while sipping on a tropical island cocktail.
For those staying in West Maui, we offer an exclusive courtesy bus service to and from many of the resorts. We provide all necessary snorkel gear; all you need to bring is a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. We are sure the entire family will enjoy this unforgettable snorkeling adventure.
While on your Maui vacation be sure to book a boat tour in order to fully experience the unique coral reefs and marine life, surrounding the Hawaiian Islands.
Cruising The Waters Of Maui In Style
With a whole fleet of large luxury cruisers, Hawaii Ocean Project is able to offer a variety of boat tours for our guests. Here is a little information about the vessels in our fleet:
- Prince Kuhio - This 92 foot motor yacht was designed to accommodate 150 passengers. Its main cabin is fully air-conditioned, with a large upper sun deck to experience unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and coastline.
- Kaulana Maui - This vessel is currently used for our Maui whale watch tour. This vessel is a 70-foot double deck catamaran, incredibly stable, and holds up to 130 guests.
- Molokai Princess - This 100-foot yacht is used for our Maui to Molokai boat tours. The Molokai Princess is one of the fastest, large ships on Maui and the primary vessel used for the ferry between the islands of Maui and Molokai.
- Island Princess - This vessel is currently operated for the Lanai Snorkeling boat tour. This 65-foot yacht offers seating for up to 149 passengers, on the open-air upper deck or the air-conditioned main cabin.
- Maui Princess - This vessel is currently utilized for our Sunset Dinner Cruise. It is Maui's largest and most stable 120-foot luxury yacht, designed for passenger comfort. This vessel has it all; an air-conditioned main cabin, spacious open-air observation deck, cocktail lounge and snack bar.
While aboard our vessels, we are confident that you will be impressed - as comfort and safety is a top priority. Now, all you have to do is decide which ocean adventure you are going to book while on your Maui vacation.
Are you going to be on Maui for Halloween this year? If so, be sure to check out the festivities happening in Lahaina. Front Street is where all the action goes down, making Halloween in Lahaina world-famous. The atmosphere created by the costumed guests closely resembles a Mardi Gras theme. Below is the schedule of events to take place on Friday, October 31, 2014:
- From 3pm until midnight the roads will be closed to vehicular traffic from Baker to Prison Street. Front Street parking will be closed as well.
- The 36th annual Keiki Halloween Costume Parade will take place, down Front Street to the Banyan Tree Park, starting at 4:30pm.
- Live entertainment will feature The Haiku Hillbilly’s at Campbell Park, beginning at 6pm until 8pm.
- An adult costume contest will run from 7pm to 9pm at Banyan Tree Park. Sign-up begins at 6pm at the Pioneer Inn. The winner will be announced at 9:30pm.
- Other activities throughout the evening, at Campbell Park, are to include: keiki activities, face painting, photo opportunities, and food booths.
- Both, Campbell Park and Banyan Tree Park, will close at 10pm.
Last year this event attracted approximately 28,000 participants. Accordingly, parking will be a challenge; ensure plenty of time to get there early or, better yet, reserve a taxi or shuttle for transportation to and from the festivities. While in the West Maui area, consider booking a Hawaii Boat Tour or Cruise with Hawaii Ocean Project.
Upcoming Whale Watch Season in Hawaii
Whale season is quickly approaching, have you booked your adventure yet? Tourists are not the only ones that love the warm tropical waters surrounding Maui. Each year, from December to May, the humpback whales migrate to the Hawaiian Islands for a number of reasons. Here are a few reasons to book your Maui whale watch tour with Hawaii Ocean Project:
- Hawaii Ocean Project has been an avid supporter of whale research and education since 1988.
- During the tour our captain and crew will conduct expert whale narration and have the ability to answer any questions that arise about the sea life observed.
- HOP's two-hour Maui whale watching tours are both educational and informative, for the entire family to enjoy.
- Our boats present 360-degree views with an enclosed main cabin and upper observation deck, offering spectacular sightseeing and photo opportunities.
- HOP offers daily tours with four different departure times. Whether you are an early bird or like to sleep in, we want to ensure your opportunity to see these majestic mammals while on your Maui vacation.
- We guarantee whale sightings on every tour. If no whales are spotted during your tour, you can go again for free!
If you are planning to be on Maui between December and May, be sure to book your whale watch tour with Hawaii Ocean Project today. Our crew looks forward to providing you with a memorable voyage during your vacation.
TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence
Each year the popular TripAdvisor website recognizes the Top Performing businesses with a certificate of excellence. In 2013, Hawaii Ocean Project / Lahaina Cruise Company was awarded with this certificate. Now you may wonder, what is this award and what does this mean for our customers?
- TripAdvisor is the world’s largest travel site, offering trusted advice from real customer reviews.
- The recipients of the certificate of excellence, including Lahaina Cruise Company, represent the top 10 percent of businesses.
- This award is only given to those companies that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on TripAdvisor.
- Our customers can trust the reviews written by previous participants when deciding to book your ocean adventure with Hawaii Ocean Project, the conservation division of Lahaina Cruise Company.
Our TripAdvisor profile continues to receive top rated reviews from customers. All reviews are read by us and greatly appreciated, as customer satisfaction is a top priority for us. Join us for a Maui Boat Cruise or Tour and write your own review.
Sunset Dinner Cruise Live Entertainment - Featuring Greg diPiazza
As our previous "Sunset Dinner Cruise" blog expressed all the amazing aspects of this cruise, we would now like to talk more about the live entertainment. Here are just a few interesting facts about Greg diPiazza, our featured on board performer:
- Greg diPiazza has been playing at top venues in Hawaii since the late 1980's as a songwriter, guitarist, singer, and producer with various groups.
- As an up and coming musician in Southern California, Greg opened for such artists as: Willie Nelson, The Grateful Dead, Dave Mason, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers.
- Greg is the lead guitarist and vocalist for the band, Maui Underground. He also wrote and produced their latest album, World's in a Mess.
- His performances include incredible vocals and memorable melodies, featuring classic rock covers and exciting original compositions.
- Greg's passion for performing and entertaining is evident as he senses and responds to his audiences' musical preferences.
Greg diPiazza joins our Maui Sunset Dinner Boat Cruise - aboard the Maui Princess - Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Book your cruise now to enjoy panoramic views, impeccable dinner service, and a concert at sea.
Only The Best On Our Sunset Dinner Cruise
By Captain Dave
Just a few reasons why you must experience a memorable evening on our Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise:
- Our sunset dinner cruise offers a unique experience of fine dining and dancing beneath the stars while cruising steadily off West Maui's beautiful coastline.
- Experience an A M A Z I N G island sunset and three hundred sixty degree panoramic views of the beautiful West Maui Mountains
- Live entertainment provided by famed musician, songwriter, and producer, Greg diPiazza.
- Festivities take place aboard the 120' Maui Princess: Lahaina's largest, most luxurious and stabilized yacht.
- "White Glove" Service provided by our extensively trained wait staff.
- The ONLY cruise to offer premium seating at no extra charge!
- Departure from the calm waters of Lahaina Harbor: Just minutes away from your Lahaina, Kaanapali, or other West Maui accommodations.
Ready to create some lasting memories? Book your Sunset Dinner Cruise today!