Whale-Watching in Molokai

Although Maui gets all the credit for the local wintering humpback-whale population, the big cetaceans also come to Molokai from December to April. Mokuhooniki Island at the east end serves as a whale nursery and courting ground, and the whales pass back and forth along the south shore. This being Molokai, whale-watching here will never involve floating amid a group of boats all ogling the same whale.

Boats and Charters

Alyce C.. Although this six-passenger sportfishing boat is usually busy hooking mahimahi and marlin, the captain will gladly take you on a three-hour excursion to admire the humpback whales. The price, around $75 per person, is based on the number of people in your group. Kaunakakai Wharf, Kaunakakai Pl., Kaunakakai, HI, 96748. 808/558-8377. www.alycecsportfishing.com.

Ama Lua. The crew of this 32-foot dive boat, which holds up to 18 passengers, is respectful of the whales and the laws that protect them. A 2-hour whale-watching trip is $79 per person; it departs from Kaunakakai Wharf at 7 am from December to April. Call Molokai Fish and Dive for reservations. 61 Ala Malama St., Kaunakakai, HI, 96748. 808/553-5926 or 808/552-0184. molokaifishanddive.com.

Fun Hogs Sportfishing. The Ahi, a flybridge sportfishing boat, takes you on 2½-hour whale-watching trips in the morning from December to April. The cost is $70 per person. Bring your own snacks and drinks. Kaunakakai Wharf, Kaunakakai Pl., Kaunakakai, HI, 96748. 808/567-6789 or 808/336-0047. www.molokaifishing.com.