I needed to wake up early to get to Ma’alaea Harbor, where we assembled before boarding Ocean Voyager. It was about 6:45am, and our cruise departed at 7:15am. We did the check-in at the Pacific Whale Foundation Ocean Discovery Store, where I purchased Banana Boat sunscreen spray. After about 15 minutes, we had a short briefing from our cruise guide on the dos and don’ts of the cruise. Next, we proceeded to the Ocean Voyager and chose deck seats. After everybody was seated, the boat departed for its journey to Molokini, a moon-shaped island off the south shore of Maui. During the journey, hot breakfast was served, which featured Maui coffee, island juices, tropical fruits, and freshly baked pastries. There were also unlimited ice refreshments throughout the entire journey.
I started to feel giddy and nauseous after we had been sailing for 15 minutes. One of the staff members onboard was very helpful and caring. After knowing I was seasick, she offered me a cup of ginger tea and led me to the lower-rear cabin of the boat, saying this would help to reduce my giddy spell. As the boat was still in motion, I did not feel good and began to throw up for before reaching Molokini. When the boat finally came to a stop, I felt better. Resting for about 5 minutes, I grabbed the snorkeling gear provided on the cruise. I got an optical mask, boogie board, and personal flotation device before sliding down the water slide.
The ocean was splendid, alovely ecosystem of diversified fishes and corals. The water surface was smooth and clear. I dived deeper into the sea and made my own exploration around Molokini, as I thought different parts might bring new surprises. There were different community of fish and coral. When the school of fish comes in a larger group, they may be more brazen. They would swim and slither around your feet. Otherwise, you would have a hard time touching them. The snorkeling lasted for about an hour. We had our barbeque meal onboard before leaving for Turtle Arch.
The moment when we reached Turtle Arch, we saw a couple of turtles frolicking in the middle of the sea. By the time I could react to take pictures of them, they vanished into the deep-blue sea. It was then that I realized turtles are fast swimmers after all. Then I had my flotation devices ready and dived into the sea again. About 20 minutes later, I left the island and ended my 1-day snorkeling trip.
P.S. All meals, refreshments, and snorkeling equipments are included in the whole package! The total cost per person was only $65!!!