By Laura Nowak
Visitors to Maui may feel overwhelmed with all the activities and excursions available on the island. There are adventure-filled ATV tours,
romantic evenings on dinner
cruises, and nature-inspired experiences with hiking trails and submarine dives. Scheduling ahead of time is highly recommended for those that want to enjoy additional savings with discounted activity packages.
Submarine Tour and Helicopter Package
Atlantis submarine
The Atlantis Submarine travels 125 feet below the ocean to explore Maui's beautiful waters and marine creatures. During the 45-minute submarine ride, passengers will be amazed by the beauty of the coral reefs underneath the ocean's floor. Colorful reef fish, lobster, and the occasional shark are among the creatures visible from the submarine. The Atlantis submarine departs from Lahaina Harbor daily at 8:30 a.m, 10 a.m, and 11:30 a.m. The tour lasts around 90 minutes.
As for helicopter tours, there are three different options. Exploring the West Mountains of Maui and seeing the valleys and rainforests are highlights of the 30-minute helicopter ride. Views of the famous Haleakala Crater are the main event of the 45-minute ride. For a splurge, the 60-minute helicopter ride gives passengers panoramic views of the mountains, the rainforest and Haleakala Crater. The helicopter departs daily from Kahului Heliport three times a day. The package price will vary depending on the helicopter ride, and ranges from $299 to $449 a person.
Hawaii Active
44 Nonohe Place
Paia, HI 96779
(866) 766-6284
Dinner Cruise and Luau Combination
Royal Lahaina luau
romance and culture are all part of Maui's finest events, the Royal Lahaina Luau and the Pacific Whale Foundation Dinner Cruise--which take place on separate evenings. At the luau, guests will be decorated with lei, and invited to enjoy drinks while waiting for the buffet dinner. Hawaiian dishes, such as Kalua roasted pig, Hawaiian sweet potatoes, island chicken, fresh pineapple slices and coconut cream cake are among the tasty dishes that are included in the feast. Hula performances are another highlight of the evening. The luau is held on the grounds of the Royal Lahaina resort on weekends starting around 6 p.m.
During the Pacific Whale Foundation Dinner Cruise, lovebirds can gaze at the sunset from the cruise ship, while enjoying a romantic evening. Dinner features Cajun-spiced steaks, pineapple rice, Hawaiian sweet rolls, seasoned vegetables and macadamia nut tortes. Live entertainment and dancing round out the night. The cruise ship departs Lahaina Harbor daily around sunset. This package costs $131 to $176 a person, depending on if it is on sale or not.
Hawaii Activity World
(800) 662-7055
Hana Rainforest and Waterfall Hike
Rainforest
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate getting closer to nature on a tour with Hawaii Activity World. The experience entails hiking along the most tropical part of Maui, the Hana Rain Forests. The group then travels through the Hana Highway in a van with a tour guide, who will stop at various waterfalls and rainforest locations. This package includes transportation, continental breakfast, towels and a deli-style lunch by the waterfalls, and costs $145 a person. It departs daily from East Maui at 7 a.m. and will return at 5 p.m.
Hawaii Activity World
(800) 662-7055
ATV Solo Adventure
ATV tour
Activity Warehouse offers adventure seekers the opportunity to drive a dune buggy down private dirt roads along West Maui, where they can enjoy unparalled views of the West Maui Mountains. Lahaina Town, Ka'anapali and the Kahoma Valley are among the highlights of this excursion. This package includes a driving lesson, the ride and snacks in the garden area. Drivers must have a valid license and be at least 16-years-old. This package runs $199 a person.
Activity Warehouse
(800) 923-4004
Resources
About the Author:
Laura Nowak is a freelance writer who combines her love of travel and research to write travel articles. She has been published in various print and online publications, including the "Western Herald," where she wrote arts and entertainment articles. Nowak earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in practical writing from Western Michigan University.
