From the 19th century to the 1950s, private steamships and ferries were the main sources of transportation between the Hawaiian Islands. As recently as a decade ago, locals and tourists alike could travel from Oahu to Maui on the Superferry, but the operation was shut down in 2009. Today, there is only one inter-island ferry operating out of Hawaii: the Maui-Lanai Passenger Ferry.
Traveling from Lahaina to Lanai’s Manele Harbor, this hour-long ferry boat adventure across the Auau Channel is one of our favorite transportation methods.
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Passengers will experience spectacular views of Lanai’s rugged southern coastline, as well as three other Hawaiian Islands: Maui, Molokai, and Kaho’olawe.
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Don’t forget to bring your camera aboard this smooth ride between Maui and Lanai. The photo opportunities aboard this ferry are truly endless.
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During the winter months, it is common to spot Humpback whales from the ferry’s outdoor deck, and pods of Hawaiian Spinner dolphins can often be spotted year round.
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The Expeditions Ferry is certified by the United States Coast Guard and provides a smooth ride sure to satisfy anyone looking for a unique transportation option between these two stunning islands.
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If you want to explore all that Lanai has to offer, you can leave Lahaina on the first ferry of the day at 6:45 a.m. and return on the last ferry, which departs at 6:45 p.m., which allows for plenty of exploration.
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Alternatively, if you’re staying on Lanai and want to head to Maui for the day, the first ferry leaves Manele Harbor at 8 a.m. and returns from Lahaina at 5:45 p.m. Either way, you’re sure to have a magical adventure on one of these two dreamy Hawaiian Islands.
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The Maui-Lanai Passenger Ferry departs Lahaina in front of the Pioneer Inn at 6:45 a.m., 9:15 a.m., 12:45 p.m., 3:15 p.m., and 5:45 p.m. The ferry departs Lanai at Manele Harbor at 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 6:45 p.m. Passengers are required to check in 30 minutes prior to boarding. Adult tickets are $30 each way, and child tickets are $20 each way. There are also kama’aina discounts available with valid Hawaii drivers license. For more information, click here.
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And if you aren’t sure what to do on Lanai, click here.
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