Snorkel Cruise

We took a snorkel outing to Molokini and "Turtle Town" with the Pacific Whale Foundation.  Cathy and I did all the snorkeling as Sarah was spooked by the depth of the water in which the boat parked (probably 40 feet). She later ventured out on a special boogie board.  The water was a bit chilly, so that too was a quick trip.  Lauren was unsure about leaving the boat.  Ashley managed a quick trip on a boogie board.  Regardless, the girls had a nice boat ride.  The highlight was the whale watching on the return trip.  We saw at least a dozen humpback whales, including 3-4 calves.

Approaching Molokini

Fish off the back of the boat - this too may have been overwhelming as a first deep water experience...

Sarah saw this type of fish from the boogie board and immediately commented about it swimming differently than traditional fish with side fins.






Boogie board trip with Dad escort


After an hour in the water at Molokini we moved to "Turtle Town."  While we spotted no turtles, the reef was more developed and quite beautiful.



Fascinating facts given by the whale foundation marine biologists:  baby humpbacks are 15 feet long and 3000 pounds at birth.  Mothers are 45 feet long and 80,000 pounds!  Big animals.  In the distance we even saw some "head-slapping."  This is where the whale comes 1/2 to 2/3 out of the water and splashes back down.  It's like watching a 2-3 story building come out of the sea and crash back down with a massive splash.  Really awe-inspiring even from several miles distant.  Here's a typical view of what we saw close to the boat (150-200 yards).

Ashley captured our sentiments

Return to harbor