How Do Returns/Refunds Work? What Is Your Refund Policy?

Name: Auntie Snorkel Beach Rentals and Activities
Price range: $$

<span data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"We offer no-hassle full refunds with no fees for all rentals reserved through our website, at the shop in person, or over the phone. Once you have picked up your rental equipment from our shop we generally only offer a shop credit for returns unless there are special circumstances.\r\n\r\nWe offer no-hassle full refunds for all island activity reservations booked through our website, at the shop, or over the phone 48 hours before the activity is to begin. Once we are within 48 hours of the activity start time we must follow the activity provider’s return policy. They typically require 48 hours’ notice for refunds."}" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":33563645,"3":{"1":0},"5":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"6":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"7":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"8":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"9":0,"10":1,"11":4,"12":0,"16":9,"28":1}">For rentals, we offer no-hassle full refunds with no fees for all rentals reserved through our website, at the shop in person, or over the phone. Once you have picked up your rental equipment from our shop we generally only offer a shop credit for returns unless there are special circumstances. For activities, we offer no-hassle full refunds for all island activity reservations booked through our website, at the shop, or over the phone 72 hours before the activity is to begin. Once we are within 72 hours of the activity start time we must follow the activity provider’s return policy. They typically require 72 hours' notice for refunds. For retail purchases in our stores, all sales are final.

Sunset Season: The Best Maui Sunset Cruises to Book in the Fall

If golden hour had a favorite island, it would be Maui, especially in the fall season. The trade winds can mellow, the summer rush eases, and the evening sky turns into a sherbet swirl of pinks and oranges that feels almost too perfect. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about our favorite Maui sunset cruises – what you’ll see, which harbors to sail from, and the options that fit your vibe, from casual cocktail sails to full sunset dinner cruises. Expect golden light on the West Maui Mountains, views of Lanai and Molokini, and calm evening seas that are perfect for couples, families, and groups. Ready to choose? You can book top Maui sunset cruises right on Auntie Snorkel’s site, with options for every budget and style, so you spend less time researching and more time watching the sun sink into the sea.

🌅 Why Fall is a Sweet Spot

Fewer crowds: You’ll find more elbow room and better rail space for photos.
Cozy temps: Evenings are warm but not sweltering. Bring a light layer and you’re golden.
Off-peak pricing: Ticket prices can at times come down from peak summer demand. Ask our Fun Specialists about the best prices for your sunset special!

⛵️ Where Do Sunset Cruises Depart?

You’ll see most departures from two main areas:

West Maui (Kāʻanapali): Picture-perfect backdrops and loads of catamarans. Many Kāʻanapali boats beach-load, which means you’ll board right from the sand (barefoot = shoes off).
Central Maui (Māʻalaea): Harbor boarding (no sandy ankles) and easy central access no matter where you’re staying. Pro tip: afternoons can be breezy here, but that breeze can paint some drama into your sunset.

Not sure which departure is closer to your condo or hotel? Ask our Fun Specialists – we’ll line up the best option and directions.

👉 Pick Your Perfect Sunset Cruise

1) Cocktail & Appetizer Sail

Vibe: Social and fun—think plated pupus, local beers, and signature mai tais.
Why you’ll love it: You’ll graze, sip, and watch the sky put on a show. Extravagant dinner not required afterward; grab a casual bite on shore and keep the night open for shave ice or a beach walk.

Book It:

Teralani’s Holo Holo Sunset Sail is a perfect match if you want tasty bites, cocktails, and a smooth sail.

2) Dinner Cruise (Seated Service)

Vibe: Date night at sea.
Why you’ll love it: Sit-down service, more substantial menus, and a built-in evening plan. Ideal if you want one “special” night: sunset views + dinner = done. Motion-prone? A larger catamaran or double-decker vessel can feel steadier.

Book It:

Calypso Sunset Dinner Cruise on a big, comfortable power cat with dinner and great sight lines; an easy crowd-pleaser for couples and families.

3) Small-Group/Luxury Sail

Vibe: Intimate, elevated, lots of personal attention.
Why you’ll love it: Fewer passengers, adults-only, and premium touches—think upgraded beverages, quieter decks, and plenty of rail space for sunset photos. Perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or a splurge night. Transportation available.

Book It:

Ali‘i Nui Royal Sunset Dinner Cruise is a luxe, adults-only option with a reputation for top-tier service. Call us to book!

4) Family-Friendly Easy Button

Vibe: Chill and kid-approved.
Why you’ll love it: Plenty of room to move, nature-forward crew, and a welcoming atmosphere for keiki.

Book It:

Pacific Whale Foundation Premium Dinner Cruise is an eco-minded operation with dinner service and a great team. (Bonus: during whale season, they bring the naturalist magic.)

✅ Quick Chooser: What’s Right For You?

Romance & photos: Small-group luxury sail or cocktail and appetizer sail.
Families with kids: Dinner cruise and family-friendly easy button; easy boarding and stable ride with more space bubbly excitement.
Motion sensitive: Dinner cruise; bigger catamaran or double-decker boat, harbor boarding if beach-loading feels tricky.
Budget-minded: Cocktail/appetizer cruises often deliver big vibes without the dinner price tag.
Foodies: Dinner cruise or luxury sail; let the views be your dining room backdrop.

🎒 What To Expect & Bring

Check-in: Usually 30–45 minutes before departure. Parking can be busy, so aim early and keep stress low.
Footwear: Flip-flops or flats are perfect. For beach-loading boats on Kāʻanapali, you’ll likely go barefoot during boarding.
Layers: Ocean breeze + sunset = a light jacket or windbreaker is your friend.
Sun & spray: If your cruise combines earlier daylight, use reef-safe sunscreen (no aerosols) and bring sunglasses or a hat that secures with a chin strap.
Photos: A wrist strap for your phone/camera is smart, or bring a GoPro that comes with a wrist strap. Salt spray and ocean swell happens, even on “dry” rides.
Seasickness: If you’re prone, eat a light, non-greasy snack beforehand, skip the cocktails until you’re sure you’re good, and consider motion remedies recommended by your doctor.
Etiquette: Be mindful at the rail, help others take great photos, and always tip your crew – they’re the sunset MVPs.

🏆 Pro Tips for Fall Sunsets

Reserve early: Fall is calmer but still popular.
Time it right: Golden hour comes sooner than peak summer. Plan your daytime activities so you’ll have ample time to cruise to your sunset cruise.
Plan dinner smart: Doing a sail with drinks? Ask our Fun Specialists about cruises that offer ground transportation to and from the boat, or ride hire options so you can enjoy the cruise to the fullest and get back to your accommodations safe and sound.
Watch the wind: Māʻalaea can be breezy in the afternoon, which is great for sails, but brutal for hairdos. West Maui can be gentler late-day. We’ll help you choose based on the day’s forecast.

🎟️ Book Your Perfect Sunset With Auntie Snorkel

Tell us your group (honeymooners, grandparents, little kiddos, gals’ trip), your vibe (quiet sail or social hour), and your home base on the island. We’ll pair you with a sunset cruise that checks all your boxes, and make sure you know where to park, what time to arrive, and how to board. While you’re at it, pop into our Kihei or Lahaina shops for any last-minute add-ons: sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, waterproof phone cases, and of course snorkel sets for the next morning.

Ready to paint your evening in Maui colors? Book your sunset cruise online with Auntie Snorkel or swing by our shops and chat with a Fun Specialist. We’ll get you out on the water, right where the sky does its best work.