ReefDancer Semi-Sub Underwater Adventure
When not everyone in the family can go snorkeling, let the ReefDancer crew let you explore Mau’s reefs. All ages are welcomed making it the perfect activity to get in the water without getting wet.
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Activity Overview
Our Experience
This is so much more than a glass-bottom boat! Watch our experience going out on the Reefdancer below!
Erica would go on the Reefdancer when she was young and now my son Henry loves to go out on Maui’s only glass-bottom boat. We don’t call it a glass-bottom boat on Maui as it is semi-submersible. So much better! Go below deck to have your own seat and magnified viewing window to explore the reef offshore Lahaina, West Maui. An onboard marine naturalist will answer every question you may have about the fish and reef outside your window. Our favorite part was the scuba divers in the water bringing up urchins, shells, and even an octopus! Henry went crazy. Then they give you this professional photo at the end of your trip, included!
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ReefDancer Highlights
To be honest, I viewed the Reefdancer as a tourist trap until I took Henry for a trip. As an avid snorkeler, I loved going below the water to explore the reef while staying dry. The unique experience was perfect for Henry and me. Henry, as he wasn’t snorkeling yet, was fascinated with the semi-sub and looking out of the windows. I enjoyed asking the marine naturalist questions and watching the scuba divers bring new discoveries to the window for us to check out.
This activity is perfect for your family excited about the ocean. A semi-sub is a unique and only-on-Maui experience. If you plan to visit historic Lahaina for the day, jump aboard the Reefdancer.
Departs from Lahaina
The Reefdancer departs from Lahaina Harbor in West Maui. Their slip is in front of the Historic Courthouse. Click for directions to Lahaina Harbor. Click for directions to parking.
All Ages Welcomed
As a parent, this is clutch. Bring your newborn, toddler, pregnant, or kapuna (grandparents) as they will all love the experience.
Explore Lahaina’s Reef
The moment you leave the harbor, you will be immersed in the beautiful waters and reefs of Maui. Reefdancer takes a short trip to the reef in front of the famous Lahaina Baby’s Beach.
75-Min Tour
The moment you leave the harbor, you will be immersed in the beautiful waters 75-minute reef viewing and dive adventure. A perfect amount of time for young kids to see the ocean and marine life without losing interest. Numerous tours are offered daily.
Hawaiian Fish, Octopus, and More
Two scuba divers explore the reef to bring up marine life for a close inspection at the windows.
Air Conditioned, Circulated Air Cabin
While below deck, enjoy A/C comfort. On the way back to the harbor, go above deck for a leisurely cruise on a semi-sub down Maui’s coast.
Get the Details on the ReefDancer
Please note the cancellation policy below. Parking can be challenging in Lahaina, especially for the mid-day and afternoon tours. Give yourself over 30 minutes to find parking. The 3-hour free parking lot near the Banyan Tree and elementary school is large but fills up fast (directions to parking).
What is the Cancellation Policy?
NO REFUNDS FOR NO-SHOWS OR MISSED BOATS. Parking in Lahaina can be extremely limited and drive time into town can vary. Reefdancer will not issue refunds or guarantee to reschedule if you miss the boat.
PLEASE PLAN PLENTY OF TIME FOR PARKING AND ANY TRAFFIC ISSUES. The Reefdancer is scheduled to leave on time from the harbor and can not guarantee any delay. Again, they will not issue a refund if the tour is missed.
All cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance by phone at 808-667-2133 no messages. Phone hours are 7am-7pm HST if unable to call please send an email, though reservation cancellation is not guaranteed until the message is answered. A full refund will be given in the event of weather or any other cancellation made by Reef Dancer staff.
Are there stairs to go below deck?
Yes, there are regular stairs with a handrail to get below deck. You don’t have to go down a submarine ladder. There are three exit points once below deck.
Is it crowded? Can the kids get a view?
Everyone gets a bench seat with a window to look out into the sea. The window is large and is magnified for an increased viewing experience.
Does it feel cramped below deck?
I thought it was spacious, more than I expected. At 6’2″ tall I could stand up straight and walk around freely. If at any time you don’t want to be below deck, you can go above deck.
About the Reefdancer
The ReefDancer started operating on Maui over 30 years ago.
Semi-submersibles are now popular around the world because they offer a much better alternative to the old-style glass-bottom boats where you just look down through a window in the bottom. The cabin is comfortable and offers large viewing windows, plus the opportunity to interact with our narrator and divers.
Reefdancer has been featured on Good Morning America and has won various awards such as “Best Underwater Viewing in Maui.” Our goal is to provide a fun way to see underwater without getting wet, but we are also proud that it is an educational experience for everyone.
We are affiliate partners with ReefDancer (Kolea Charters. of Lahaina Inc) which means we receive a small commission for each completed booking made through this site. This is done without any additional cost to you. You can read more about our affiliate policies here. Know that we only recommend tour operators that we know and trust. Your positive experience and your trust in us mean more than any affiliate commission. By booking tours through our website you help us to provide free information and videos to help you and other readers plan their perfect Hawaii vacation. Thank you so much for your support — you are amazing!