NOVA
Private Maui snorkeling, sunset, and custom cruises
While travelers may flock to Maui for the island’s luxury resorts, lush rainforests, numerous hiking trails, or any myriad of reasons— we can all agree that Maui’s biggest allure is its warm, crystal clear seas. For most visitors, spending time on the ocean is all but mandatory. From snorkel tours to dinner cruises and everything in between, there are numerous ways to get your sea legs while on Maui, and many businesses are willing to help you do so. However, Maui Custom Charters is arguably the best local company to offer ocean excursions. Maui Custom Charters provides a handful of private sailing experiences, including exclusive snorkel tours and intimate sunset sails.
About the Vessel
Maui Custom Charters utilizes a 42′ Catalina MKII sailing yacht dubbed ‘Nova.’ 42′ Catalina MKII are USA-built vessels and are widely regarded as leaders in design and performance. Nova is equipped with a spacious saloon, well-equipped galley, two onboard heads, two sleek cabins, a shaded cockpit, and plenty of room on deck to cruise around, spot whales, or enjoy the sunset.
The Crew
The Nova boasts a remarkable crew, experts in both hospitality and sailing. Collectively, the crew has nearly 100 years of boating experience. Meanwhile, most captains aboard the Nova were born and raised on Maui, proving there’s no better crew to sail around the island with! In addition, the Nova crew prides themselves on utilizing the power of the wind as often as possible, very rarely relying on motors.
The Excursions
While customized charters and seasonal whale watches are available to book, private snorkel tours and sunset sails are the most popular tours aboard the Nova. Excursions with Maui Custom Charters are entirely private, welcoming aboard only six guests from the same group per charter. Not only does this guarantee personalized service, but you won’t have to share the boat with dozens of strangers.
Two private snorkel/sail excursions are offered per day (morning and afternoon), departing out of Ma’alaea Harbor. Snorkel tours aboard the Nova typically visit Coral Gardens, just a short sail from the harbor. This snorkel spot is only accessible by boat, so crowds are usually minimal (if not zero), and the reef is pristine. Guests are treated to an in-water guided tour by one of the passionate crew members, a spread of tasty snacks, a deli lunch, and all the gear necessary for a fantastic day of snorkeling.
If snorkeling isn’t your forte, Maui Custom Charters offers a delightful alternative— sunset sails. This two-hour excursion sails around Ma’alaea Bay, delivering stunning views of the West Maui Mountains and, naturally, the sunset. In addition to whipping up tasty appetizers for guests to enjoy, the Nova crew also offers hands-on sailing lessons for any guest interested in learning the ins and outs of sailing. Keep in mind that alcohol is not provided during any charter, but guests are more than welcome to BYOB. The galley is even stocked with a collection of glassware for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking to celebrate a birthday, wedding, engagement, or just hoping to escape the crowds and make memories with your friends and family, there is no better place to do so than aboard the Nova.
Call Captain Anna at (808) 874-1110 or visit Maui Custom Charters to learn more. Happy sailing!
