luxury yacht maui

Sea Monkey is Maui’s Premier

Luxury private charter, re-opening mid january, awaiting the arrival of our brand new vessel, you can book a tour on our parent company, blue water maui by clicking here., check our calendar, recommended tours.

Aloha and Welcome aboard the Sea Monkey

Our luxurious private vessel is in lahaina harbor on maui, hawaii  our bespoke boat tours will take you on an unforgettable journey through some of the most spectacular sights that the pacific ocean has to offer., experience a unique blend of luxury and adventure as you explore maui's pristine coastline and crystal-clear waters on board our distinguished vessel, sea monkey. our private boat tours offer an exclusive and tailor-made experience that is personalized to your preferences. whether it's a private snorkeling tour, whale watching, or sunset tour, our expert crew will ensure an unparalleled experience for you and your group….all with aloha., with cutting-edge catamaran hull technology, sea monkey is designed to offer a smooth and comfortable ride so that you can sit back, relax, and take in the breathtaking views of maui's natural wonders. our private tours allow you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy a more intimate experience with your group. our knowledgeable crew will provide you with insider information about the island, its people, and its unique history., discover the magic of maui as you snorkel in pristine coves teeming with vibrant marine life. get up close and personal with majestic humpback whales as they breach the surface of the ocean. take in the stunning hawaiian sunset with your loved ones as you cruise across the pacific waters., at sea monkey, we pride ourselves on delivering the ultimate luxury experience with unmatched hospitality, service and aloha join us for an unforgettable adventure that you will cherish for a lifetime..

​​​ Kainani Sails

​ makai adventures, choosing to sail with us means you are choosing to support a locally owned and family operated business that employs  full-time maui residents, many of whom have lost their homes. we appreciate you #lahainastrong.

Snorkel with a sea turtle! Private half-day snorkel sails available at an affordable rate. Great option for couples, families, or small groups looking for a unique experience. Maui Sailing Charters

Enjoy Hawaii on a private yacht.

Sail without the crowds. .

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Set sail on Maui's newest private yacht. Experience performance sailing, personalized snorkel trips , whale watching , or relaxing sunset cruises aboard a yacht all your own. Departing from world famous Ka'anapali Beach!

Sit back and relax as we discover true hawaii from the sea. , maui snorkeling tours, maui sunset sail and maui private charters.

Snorkel | Sunset | Charter

Come as guests & leave as friends.

RECOMMENDED PLACES TO EAT:

BEST HAPPY HOUR: http://www.dthmaui.com

BEST EATS WITH A VIEW: http://malatavern.com

BEST SHAVE ICE: http://www.breakwallmaui.com

BEST BREWERY: http://www.koholabrewery.com

BEST PIZZA: http://prisonstreetpizza.com

BEST BURGER: http://www.coolcatcafe.com

BEST FRESH POKE:  https://www.tobismaui.com/

BEST VEGETARIAN: https://www.mokuroots.com

What We Offer

3-hr  Intimate Maui Sunset Sails

3-hr Memorials At Sea or Ash Scattering Services

5-hr Maui Snorkeling & Sailing Adventures

6+ hr All Day Fun Under The Sun

We specialize in private sailing charters. Whether you are looking for some time to relax and kick back, or if you want to real in luxury - give us a call and see how we can help you make the most of your time while onboard. 

Real Sailing Aboard a Private Sailboat...

Lana'i is home to a resident pod of spinner dolphins, seen regularly playing off the rugged coastline. See them play at the bow with Kainani Sails of Maui Sailing Charters

*All trips depend on the weather and sea conditions. Destinations are at the Captain's discretion.*

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Snorkel with Fish Seen Nowhere Else on Earth

Exclusive Tours for Private Snorkeling and Sightseeing in Maui, Hawaii.

Our crew is utilizing advanced sanitizing procedures for your health and safety. you can book now for private luxury sailing tours. call 808-669-7827 for availability..

We invite you aboard our luxury yacht, the Island Star for a world-class private sightseeing and snorkeling tour in Maui, Hawaii.

Our classic Columbia 57’ Sailing Yacht comfortably hosts up to 16 guests and comes complete with crew so you can sit back and relax. 

Welcome Aboard!

~ press play to spend 3 minutes in maui ~, maui offers some of the most magical waters and marine life for private snorkeling and sightseeing on the planet there is no better way to experience it than aboard your very own private sailing yacht..

Close encounters with Maui’s marine life are common as we explore the stunning coast and coral reefs of the island. Our experienced crew know Maui intimately and can guide you to the most memorable destinations. 

You will enjoy your private snorkeling and sightseeing tour, saying “aloha” to Green Sea Turtles, and swimming with tropical fish. Explore Maui’s exquisite reefs away from the crowds. There is nothing more beautiful than seeing the breathtaking coastlines aboard a luxury sailboat. Scuba diving is also available with proper notice. Fishing lines are always out in hopes of catching an Ahi, Mahi Mahi, or even an Ono. 

All of our sails come complete with crew. Our crew are current in First Aid and C.P.R. as well as being Coast Guard licensed captains.

Sunset at Sea with Appetizers and Cocktails

End your day by joining us for two hours of sailing aboard the Island Star. Break away from the crowds to admire the stunning beauty that Maui has to offer. For this tour, we will cruise around looking for sea life sightings in Maalaea Bay while enjoying delicious crew-prepared appetizers and your favorite beverages. Your journey will continue as we head west to chase the sun and watch it set. There is nothing more extraordinary than seeing the clouds in a Hawaiian sunset change into vibrant hues of pink, purple and orange. The Island Star provides a relaxing ambiance for all to enjoy!

All tours include light appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages such as water, juices and sodas but you are also welcome to bring your own alcohol on board. Should you wish to designate one of our crew members to purchase beverages on your behalf before your charter, this can also be arranged.

Many people dream about the opportunity to come to Maui to sail on our turquoise blue waters. Finish your day off right by joining the Island Star’s expert crew for a sunset sail.

Most Popular! Half Day Snorkel and Sightseeing Tour

There is no better way to experience a snorkeling adventure than aboard your very own private sailing yacht. Island Star Excursions offers word-class private charters for anyone who wants to break away from the crowds and enjoy an intimate day out on the water. We will set sail from Maalaea Harbor and head to the beautiful snorkel locations of either Olowalu or Coral Gardens, the largest and healthiest reef in Maui. On this tour, you will swim with an abundance of tropical fish, varieties of colorful corals, and endangered Hawaiian Sea Turtles. Home to a vast variety of marine life, Maui’s waters are an ocean playground for all who want to jump in! All tours include light appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages such as water, juices and sodas.

TIP: We recommend this as a morning trip as Tradewinds tend to increase in the afternoons. Whale watching season typically starts mid-December and ends mid-April.

Our Location

Click on the red pin for our address and a link to driving directions.

Island Star Sailing

Island Star Sailing Excursions

300 Maalaea Rd, Slip #42

Maalaea, HI   96753

(808) 669-7827

– Click here for driving directions

Hawaii Sailing Adventures, LLC

Private Charters in Maui, Oahu, Lanai, Kauai

Private Catamaran Sailing Charter Trips in Maui

Perfect for family trips, weddings, honeymoons and vacations..

1/2 day, one-day, sunset, dinner, multi-day to multi-week inter-island vacation, and trip options are available.

As Hawaii's second largest island, Maui boasts white sand, crystal clear water, black sand beaches, waterfalls & mountains. With Hawaii Sailing Adventures, you can sail Maui by booking a private sailboat charter and luxuriously exploring the white, black, and red beaches or many activities, including sailing, surfing, paddleboard, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba, biking, windsurfing, swimming, shopping, eating. Our boat routes are perfect for family trips, friends, weddings, honeymoons, birthdays, anniversaries, and vacations.

We offer the only private vacation sailing catamarans and the most extensive fleet of monohulls available on and inter-island to Maui from the neighboring island for just your family and friends.

Contact us today to talk about booking your Hawaiian vacation!

Explore Our Maui Fleet

Fountaine Pajot Bahia 46

Lagoon 440 Fly Bridge

Excess 12 – 39’

Beneteau Oceanis 50

Beneteau Oceanis 48

Nautor Swan 46

Visit one of the luxury spa resorts on Kaanapali beach.

• See “tons” of frolicking Humpback whales.
• Snorkel, sunbathe, fish, surf, sail, swim, relax.
• Maui, Lanai and Molokai, short sails between islands.
• Fishing is great and we know the most amazing snorkel spots.
• Lahaina is a historic whaling town, beautiful art galleries, wonderful upscale restaurants.

Sailing Maui and Oahu is a weather friendly option for Winter.

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Private Yacht Charters on Luxury Sport Yacht "Aurora"

Ideal location in slip#3 in lahaina harbor at historic lahaina town, lahaina harbor and aurora were destroyed in the recent wildfire with lahaina town. we have acquired a new aurora which will be in hi first december, but we still cannot use our slip in lahaina, but stay tuned we will be back.

A day on Aurora is a unique experience

Would you rather be on Aurora or

on shore wishing you were on Aurora

The whales love Aurora and vice versa

Copyright © 2018 Lahaina Charter Co - All Rights Reserved.

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Maui officials: Luxury yacht that ran aground near marine sanctuary leaked fuel into bay

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Maui officials confirmed the luxury yacht grounded near a marine sanctuary leaked fuel into the bay.

The 94-foot vessel got stuck on the reef on Monday at Honolua Bay. The extent of the leak is unknown at this time, and it’s prompting calls for action.

“The whole community is kind of little disturbed ... it’s just kind of shocking ... from an environmental aspect,” said West Maui resident Darren McDaniel. “So many people that have given so much of their heart and soul into taking care of this place, makes me teary eyed.”

On Tuesday, a sheen of diesel fuel was visible in waters surrounding the boat and people nearby complained of the stench of fuel in the air.

“People are angry. People are pissed. That’s for sure,” said Napili resident Mike Jucker. “It is very sad.”

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), and a private contractor are trying to dislodge the 94-foot Nakoa and prevent any more pollution.

“Honolua Bay is in our Marine Life Conservation District. It’s got a wealth of marine life. It’s important environmentally, ecologically, culturally. And of course, also from ocean user point of view, it has a high recreation value. This is one of the most popular waves on Maui,” said Lauren Blickley, Surfrider Foundation Hawaii Regional Manager.

DLNR officials said the yacht can’t be moved until all fuel, batteries, and any other pollutants on board are removed. That process may involve a helicopter and is expected to take at least through Wednesday.

“What I understand, there’s no boom, which is used to contain an oil spill, or fuel spill. There’s no boom readily available on Maui. So, it’s having to be flown or shipped in from Oahu,” said DLNR Senior Communications Manager Dan Dennison. “That may take a little while.”

DLNR officials said it will likely be a few more days before the vessel is freed from the rocks and reef.

“Once the fuel and other potential hazards are removed, the USCG will release the vessel back to the owner. At that time, he will need to provide the DLNR an acceptable salvage plan for the vessel’s removal,” Dennison said.

DLNR said it’s investigating what led to the Nakoa grounding and citations and fines could be levied based on the findings of that investigation.

“This morning, a team from the DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) did an initial underwater assessment of potential damage to coral reefs and live rock. Divers noted an estimated 30 coral and live rock were damaged but will need to return to do a more thorough assessment once the vessel is removed. Based on those findings, the boat’s owner could face significant penalties as determined by the State Board of Land and Natural Resources. Corals and live rock (other non-coral reef organisms) are protected by State law,” said Dennison.

DLNR said active leaks have stopped because one of the owner’s friends managed to board the yacht and shut off all the pumps.

The Coast Guard said the Federal On-scene Coordinator opened the National Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund “federalizing efforts to mitigate potential pollution to the environment.”

Maui County issued an emergency permit allowing special equipment to remove the yacht to prevent further damage to the reef and the ecosystem.

Maui Mayor Richard Bissen Jr. issued a statement on the incident:

“I spoke with Governor Green today and shared the concerns our community has on what has happened at Honolua Bay and the need to expedite response efforts to protect the marine sanctuary and remove the grounded vessel. I share those concerns as well. I also received an update from DLNR director Dawn Chang that outlined the department’s actions and next steps requiring the involvement of the U.S. Coast Guard. I’ve conveyed that this is a serious matter and appreciate the attention of the Governor and his administration to address the situation. I understand that this is under the jurisdiction of State and Federal agencies and I’ve been assured that their efforts are being done urgently. I’ve assigned senior staff to carefully monitor the situation and offer support when appropriate.”

The owner of a luxury yacht has apologized.

Jim Jones, the owner of Noelani Yacht Charters, told Hawaii News Now he was anchored offshore with his family for the past two days, and then something went wrong at around 5:45 a.m. Monday.

“While we’re underneath the boat during our pre-check, the mooring line broke,” said Jones.

“As we come out of the boat, it was too late.”

Jones said he’s sorry for running aground at Honolua Bay and added that no negligence was involved.

“It was a freak accident and worst timing ever,” said Jones. “We couldn’t have done anything about this, and we’re doing everything we possibly can to try to get off of here.”

The 94-foot boat called The Nakoa is stuck in a prime surf spot and near a marine sanctuary where Honolua Coalition has been opposing developments and protecting the bay for nearly 15 years.

“It is a terrible optic, it’s just something you just would dream of never seeing, and it happened today,” said John Carty of Honolua Coalition.

”We’re hoping for the best that the damage can be minimized.”

The nonprofit Malama Kai Foundation said the public is allowed to use Day-use Moorings Buoys on a first-come, first serve basis with a two-and-a-half hour time limit.

Jones said he wasn’t warned of the rules and stayed there for two days.

“There’s nobody that contacted us ever about, ‘hey, you can’t be in this bay, you can’t hook up to an anchor here,’” said Jones. “And so, if somebody would have said that, we would have got out of here.”

Maui Community Advocate Tiare Lawrence is asking for the State to step up.

“Really push forward and passing sensible legislation to protect these places and to enforce,” said Lawrence. “There’s a lack of enforcement, we hear it all the time, and they really need to step up.”

Jones said they’re hoping to be out by 4 a.m. on Tuesday when it’s supposed to be high tide. The company will have to pay for the removal costs.

Maui County issued the following statement:

“In response to the increasing risk of damage to the reef and ecosystem at Honolua Bay, a marine sanctuary in West Maui, the County of Maui exercised its ability to issue an emergency Special Management Area permit that would allow equipment to access the site via the shoreline and assist in dislodging the vessel from the reef it is resting on and enable it to reach deeper water to exit the area. The emergency permit, authorized by Acting Planning Director Kathleen Ross Aoki was issued late this afternoon following discussions with West Maui Councilmember Tamara Paltin and the excavation company. This action comes after attempts during an afternoon high tide failed. The State must still issue a corresponding permit for the work that also involves DLNR jurisdiction beginning at the high water mark and into the ocean. We are pleased to be able to rapidly respond to a situation in dire need. The longer the vessel remains in the sensitive area the higher the risk of damage.”

Despite an offer from a private excavation company and an emergency permit provided by Maui County, the land department said it does not currently plan to issue a permit allowing an excavator to try and push the boat out from land.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Copyright 2023 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.

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10 Best Places To Propose In Maui

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We reccomend Maui as one of the most romantic islands on earth. Proposing in Maui offers one of the world’s most captivating backdrops. Imagine kneeling down on a secluded beach as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange, with the gentle sound of the waves as your soundtrack. We have outlined the ten best places to propose in Maui below:

• Wailea Beach
• Haleakalā National Park
• Hāna Highway Waterfalls
• Wai’anapanapa State Park
• Kapalua Coastal Trail
• Molokini Crater
• Ho’okipa Beach Park
• Iao Valley State Park
• Private Yacht Trip
• Private Helicopter Tour

Wherever you decide to stay, book via our luxury travel concierge to get prioritized room upgrades, free breakfast, welcome amenities, and more.

1. Wailea Beach

This stunning stretch of shoreline is renowned for its soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and neighboring islands. This pristine beach in South Maui provides a picture-perfect setting for a beachfront proposal with the sound of the ocean as your soundtrack.

Even better, the best luxury hotels in Maui border this beach, so you can easily escape to a sunset bar to enjoy a cocktail or some fine dining to celebrate this special occasion.

This is one of the best beaches in Maui for sunsets, and if you can stretch to it and splurge for a night’s stay at the Four Seasons Resort Maui , you can take a short stroll from your room, and you’ll be right on the beach, which is hugely convenient.

This Four Seasons is one of the best Four Seasons in the world , and if you have the budget to stay here, even for one night, it offers a fantastic resort experience. After the proposal, you can enjoy the rest of the sunset or the twinkling stars and tiki torches at one of the many bars and restaurants at this exquisite resort, which are all open-air, so you can feel the warm breeze tickling your hair for this special occasion.

2. Haleakalā National Park

Sunrise or sunset atop the summit of Haleakalā offers a breathtaking backdrop for a romantic proposal, with panoramic views of the island and the dramatic volcanic landscape.

Haleakalā National Park is a spectacular location for a proposal for several reasons. First and foremost, the summit of Haleakalā offers breathtaking panoramic views of Maui and its surrounding islands.

Whether you propose at sunrise, when the sky is painted with vibrant colors, or at sunset, when the landscape is bathed in golden light, the beauty of the setting is sure to enhance the romantic moment. Additionally, the serene and otherworldly atmosphere of the volcanic landscape creates a sense of awe and wonder, making the proposal even more memorable.

Finally, the sense of adventure and accomplishment that comes with reaching the summit adds an extra layer of significance to the proposal, symbolizing the journey you’ve taken together and the adventures that lie ahead.

3. Hāna Highway Waterfalls

Along the scenic Road to Hāna , you’ll find numerous secluded waterfalls and lush tropical landscapes perfect for a private and intimate proposal surrounded by natural beauty.

Hāna Highway Waterfalls offer a magical and romantic setting for a proposal because the lush tropical surroundings and the soothing sound of cascading water create a serene and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic moment. The secluded nature of many of the waterfalls along the Hāna Highway provides privacy and intimacy, allowing you to enjoy the proposal without interruption.

The breathtaking beauty of the waterfalls, framed by lush vegetation and surrounded by natural pools, adds a sense of wonder and enchantment to the occasion. The journey along the scenic Hāna Highway, with its winding roads and stunning coastal vistas, sets the stage for a memorable and adventurous proposal experience, creating lasting memories of this special moment.

10 Best Beaches To Watch The Sunset In Maui

Recommended Post In "News"

Watching the sunset in Maui is a magical experience, and here are ten beaches renowned for their stunning sunset views: Wailea Beach Kaanapali Beach Napili Bay Beach Kapalua Bay Beach Big Beach Baby Beach Ho'okipa Beach Park Secret Beach Polo Beach Waianapanapa State Park Wherever you decide to stay, book via our luxury travel concierge to get prioritized room upgrades, free breakfast, welcome amenities, and more.

4. Wai’anapanapa State Park

Wai’anapanapa State Park offers an idyllic and romantic setting for a proposal. The park’s dramatic black sand beach and rugged coastline create a unique and picturesque backdrop that will impress. The contrast of the dark sand against the vibrant blue ocean and lush greenery provides a stunning setting for a memorable moment.

Additionally, the park’s natural beauty and remote location offer a sense of seclusion and intimacy, with the sound of the waves crashing against the shore and the fresh ocean breeze, which add to the romantic ambiance of the setting. The park’s lava tubes, sea caves, and scenic hiking trails offer plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure, making the proposal even more special and memorable.

5. Kapalua Coastal Trail

The Kapalua Coastal Trail presents an ideal setting for a proposal due to its stunning natural beauty and romantic ambiance. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastal cliffs, and lush greenery, providing a picturesque backdrop for a memorable moment.

The trail’s easy accessibility and leisurely pace make it suitable for couples of all fitness levels, ensuring you can savor the moment without any stress or rush in a peaceful and secluded atmosphere.

6. Molokini Crater

Molokini Crater offers a truly unique and unforgettable setting for a proposal. This crescent-shaped volcanic crater, located off the coast of Maui, boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with marine life, making it a spectacular underwater paradise. Proposing while snorkeling or scuba diving in the pristine waters surrounding Molokini allows for a breathtaking and intimate moment amidst colorful coral reefs and exotic fish.

The underwater environment’s serene and secluded nature adds exclusivity and romance to the proposal, creating a memory that will last a lifetime. Additionally, the stunning backdrop of the crater itself, rising majestically from the ocean depths, adds to the awe-inspiring beauty of the moment. Whether you choose to propose while exploring the underwater wonders of Molokini or from the comfort of a boat overlooking the crater, this iconic location will surely make your proposal an unforgettable experience.

Cheapest Marriott Bonvoy Hotel In Hawaii

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Which are the cheapest Marriott Bonvoy hotels Hawaii? We have already reviewed the cheapest Marriott Bonvoy ski hotels along with the best Marriott Bonvoy hotels in Florida, now we turn our attention to Hawaii, which are the best Marriott Bonvoy hotels in Hawaii, and which are the cheapest Marriott Bonvoy hotels in Hawaii. If you fly into Honolulu (HNL) you will probably head straight to the resort of Waikiki for your stay in Hawaii, but don't miss out on the other islands as there are some fantastic Marriott Bonvoy properties in Maui, Big Island, and Kawaii too.

7. Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm

Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm offers a serene and picturesque setting for a proposal, making it an ideal location for a romantic moment. The fragrant fields of lavender provide a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a private and intimate proposal. The stunning views of the surrounding Maui countryside, with its rolling hills and distant ocean vistas, create a backdrop of natural beauty that enhances the romantic ambiance of the occasion.

The farm’s peaceful gardens and walking paths offer plenty of secluded spots where you can find the perfect spot to pop the question. Whether you propose amidst the blooming lavender fields, under the shade of a flowering tree, or at a scenic overlook, Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm provides a charming and memorable setting.

8. Iao Valley State Park

Iao Valley State Park offers a breathtaking and romantic backdrop for a proposal, making it an ideal location for this special moment. The park’s lush tropical landscape, with its towering emerald-green peaks, cascading waterfalls, and serene streams, creates a tranquil and enchanting setting that will captivate your partner’s heart.

The iconic Iao Needle, a natural rock formation rising dramatically from the valley floor, adds a sense of grandeur and beauty to the scene, providing a stunning backdrop for your proposal. Whether you choose to pop the question amidst the lush vegetation, beside a babbling stream, or with the majestic Iao Needle in the background, Iao Valley State Park offers a romantic and memorable setting for your proposal.

9. Private Yacht Trip

A private yacht trip in Maui offers an exceptionally romantic and intimate setting for a proposal. The stunning backdrop of Maui’s azure waters, pristine beaches, and dramatic coastlines sets the stage for an unforgettable moment. The privacy and exclusivity of a private yacht create a sense of intimacy, allowing you and your partner to share this special moment without any distractions.

The luxurious amenities and personalized service onboard the yacht add elegance and sophistication to the proposal, making it even more memorable. Whether you propose against the backdrop of a radiant sunset, beneath the starlit sky or during a tranquil cruise along Maui’s picturesque coastline, a private yacht trip provides the perfect ambiance for a romantic and unforgettable proposal.

10. Private Helicopter Tour

A private helicopter tour on Maui offers an incredibly romantic and memorable setting for a proposal for several reasons. Firstly, the breathtaking aerial views of Maui’s stunning landscapes, including lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, rugged coastlines, and majestic mountains, provide a picturesque backdrop for your special moment. The sense of awe and wonderment experienced while soaring above these natural wonders adds an extra layer of magic to the proposal.

A private helicopter tour also offers exclusivity and privacy, allowing you and your partner to share this intimate moment without distractions or interruptions. The exhilarating experience of flying in a helicopter adds excitement and adventure to the proposal, creating a truly unforgettable memory. Whether you choose to pop the question during a scenic flight over the iconic Haleakalā Crater, along the breathtaking Hāna Coast, or above the lush West Maui Mountains, a private helicopter tour on Maui provides a romantic and stunning setting.

Copyright Luxury Travel Diary 2014 - 2024. Duplication outside of luxurytraveldiary.com is forbidden.

Image © shanemyersphoto / Adobe Stock.

Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing but may be amended at discretion of the vendor. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.

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Luxury yacht finally freed from Maui near-shore reef only to sink in 800 feet of water

Nearly two weeks after a 120-ton, 94-foot luxury yacht grounded in Honolua Bay on Maui, a salvage ship and a tugboat from Honolulu finally freed the vessel named Nakoa from the rocky shoreline.

But there is no happy ending for the yacht.

It is now at the bottom of the ocean, about 800 feet deep.

The multimillion-dollar yacht had suffered severe holes in the hull during the days it was grounded, with the rough surf pounding it repeatedly against the rocks of the shoreline.

“It had taken on water, was listing starboard and riding bow high after being pulled free by a tractor tug early this afternoon,” according to the state Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation.

The yacht sank.

It was the end to an ordeal that began nearly two weeks ago when the yacht grounded just outside the Honolua-Mokulē‘ia Bay Marine Life Conservation District. Although the area has day-use moorings with a time limit of two hours, yacht owner Jim Jones told media that he didn’t know the rules  and stayed overnight with his family when one of the lines snapped and the boat hit the rocks.

It has been quite the ordeal to salvage the boat.

Once the boat stated leaking fuel, the U.S. Coast Guard federalized the vessel, meaning it has jurisdiction over the yacht which cannot be moved until all hazardous material was removed .

When that process was done the state Department of Land and Natural Resources took over because Jones said he did not have the money to pay for the salvage operation. The state organized and is paying for the operation, but will be sending Jones a bill, which initially was for $460,000 plus. But that will be sure to go up due to all the problems encountered during the salvage.

Once the hazardous material was removed, Visonary Marines’s salvage ship Kahi from Honolulu tried to removed the yacht from the reef but failed after multiple pulls. Sause Brothers’ tractor tug Mary Catherine was called in from Honolulu to help, but the second attempt with both boats also failed. Then bad weather forced both salvage boats to return to Honolulu.

They returned to Maui on Saturday.

A crew from the salvage ship rigged lines to the yacht Nakoa   all day Saturday and Sunday morning to prepare for the third attempt.

Prior to the 3,300-horsepower tug hooking up, the salvage crew used a carbon cutter to free either the yacht’s prop or rudder, believed to be the reason earlier attempts did not succeed, according to the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

On Sunday, there were ideal weather and ocean conditions for the complex and costly operation. Once the tug turned the boat 90 degrees it pulled out into deeper water. 

“The yacht was listing to one side and riding bow high and it’s unknown at this time whether it was successfully pulled all the way to Honolulu or had to be scuttled in 1,000-foot-deep water offshore,” the Department and Land and Natural Resources said.

Department Chair Dawn Chang watched the salvage operation on Sunday with Maui Mayor Richard Bissen and Maui County Council member Tamara Paltin. Chang said she heard almost immediately from Randy Cates, the owner and operator of Visionary Marine. 

“I’m beyond words,” Chang said. “I extended our appreciation to him and his crew for doing a tough, thankless job when others in the industry were questioning the wisdom of taking it on. We all thought today was it. It was either going to happen or not. I’m extremely pleased.” 

Chang said the state will aggressively pursue recouping all salvage costs from the owner, which originally were set at $460,000 plus before delays and the need for a second boat were included in the cost.

It also does not include the cost to repair damage to coral reefs and live rock. A team from the state Division of Aquatic Resources will return to the grounding location this week to conduct a post-incident damage assessment. 

To read more about yacht tales in Hawai’i waters involving a pop star, Russian oligarch, coral wrecker and thief, click here .

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Maui Yacht Owner: ‘I Didn’t Know What I Was Getting Into’

Jim Jones says he wants to make things right, but former employees and Maui residents say he shouldn't have a boat.

Jim Jones says he wants to make things right, but former employees and Maui residents say he shouldn’t have a boat.

The owner of a luxury yacht that ran aground last month in Honolua Bay is trying to salvage his reputation as efforts continue this week to remove his 94-foot Sunseeker from a delicate reef off Maui.

“We are taking full responsibility for this,” Noelani Yacht Charters owner Jim Jones said Thursday. “We’re not running.”

That assurance may not be enough to persuade Maui politicians, community advocates and local mariners who say he shouldn’t stay in business at all. Several of his former workers have said he repeatedly ignored state boating regulations and skirted recommended safety practices, to the point where multiple people who worked with Jones said they quit because of risky behavior.

“He shouldn’t be allowed to have a boat,” a former worker said, speaking on the condition of anonymity .

Jones said he started out with a dream to buy a boat. A woodworker by trade, he began looking for one a few years ago around Honolulu and first set his eyes on a 65-footer — a “big monster boat.”

But his friend, a boat captain, cautioned him against getting one so big for his first vessel. Plus, harbors to store boats of that size are scarce in Hawaii. Where would he put it?

So Jones kept looking until 2020, when he settled on what he thought was the perfect opportunity: a 74-foot yacht that came with its own slip in Kewalo Basin Harbor. It had been used for charters in the past, and by renting it out in the future, Jones hoped it would pay for itself. The owner agreed to let him pay it off over time, sealing the deal.

In the height of the pandemic, Jones began pouring his resources into marketing and establishing a “luxury yacht image,” equipped with private chefs, bartenders and local musicians. 

“I’ll be honest, I didn’t know what I was getting into. I just figured it was something to pay the bills,” Jones said. “And then once this thing took off, we’re going, ‘Holy shit.’”

Now Jones is trying to assure government officials and the community that he will cover the cost of a nearly $500,000 salvage job .

On Feb. 20, Jones said he was on a family outing, spending the weekend in Honolua Bay, when his mooring line failed while attached to a mooring that’s only allowed to be used for two hours at a time.

The Nakoa, a 94-foot yacht that Jones said he brought to Hawaii in December, ended up drifting onto the reef. By the next day, the hull had been punctured, and diesel fuel spilled into the water leading into one of Maui’s most beloved marine sanctuaries . 

In the days that followed, the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources announced that it was putting up $460,000 to try to haul the 120-ton yacht away. But after unsuccessful attempts and delays because of stormy weather, the yacht remained on Thursday evening.

DLNR officials said earlier this week that the salvage ship Kahi, operated by Visionary Marine, will return to Maui on Friday or Saturday. 

“We’ve been talking to the DLNR to let them know we’re not leaving them with the bill,” Jones said.

Jones said he was working with his insurance company to cover the cost. Asked to provide a copy of his coverage, he declined, citing the current investigation into the incident. He said he didn’t know the specifics of his insurance policy or how much it covered. 

“I feel his actions were extremely irresponsible,” said Maui County Council member Tamara Paltin, who has long fought to protect Honolua Bay. “I don’t think he fully understands how special a place Honolua is to so many of us and just how much aggravation he has caused our community.” 

As Jones works with attorneys, insurance agents and the state, he said he’s also determined to make amends with the Maui community and work to restore his company’s reputation. Since the incident in Honolua, he said he’s continued to run charters on his Oahu-based yacht, the Noelani, which will help him pay the debts he owes. 

But the Noelani has its own history of problems. The boat caught fire in Kewalo Basin Harbor in October, according to the Honolulu Fire Department.

Asked about the incident, Jones said the fire broke out in a guest suite, just as he was flying out of state to purchase the Nakoa. He blamed the fire on incandescent light bulbs that are common in older boats. Fortunately, he said, the Honolulu Fire Department responded and contained the fire from spreading out of the room. 

“When I first got a boat, my friends were telling me, ‘No, don’t get a boat; it’s nonstop problems,’” Jones said. “There’s constantly stuff going on.”

But mariners interviewed by Civil Beat say fires aren’t one of the nonstop problems boat owners regularly face.

“I can’t think of a reported fire incident in Maalaea Harbor in the 40 years I’ve been here,” said Michael Wildberger, a captain on Maui who’s run thousands of snorkel tours.

Catering To The Jet Set

After buying his first yacht in 2020, Jones said he quickly realized that catering to the ultra-wealthy in search of day trips on megayachts was an untapped market in Hawaii. High-end hotels were looking for luxury activities to send their clients on, Jones said.

In his marketing strategy, he made it clear: Noelani Yacht Charters wasn’t a basic fishing or snorkeling charter. His website advertises trips on Maui starting at $9,800 . 

“We cater to these guys that are flying in on their private jets,” Jones said. 

For almost two years, Jones grew his business with the Noelani, until he found an investor willing to help him acquire the Nakoa, the vessel that ran aground last month.

At first, Jones said he thought the investor would pay the transportation costs to have the Nakoa sent to Hawaii from overseas. When the investor suddenly said he wouldn’t cover that cost, Jones said he put up the money for the transport, which meant he missed out on paying almost $290,000 for the final payment he owed for the Noelani.

He was later sued for not making that payment, as well as failing to pay back $100,000 he borrowed from another person to pay for the Noelani.

Jones downplayed the lawsuits, calling them mutual agreements and “just records of the payment plans that we’ve created.”

With the Nakoa, Jones dreamed of expanding his business to allow multinight charters to Maui, where he planned to whisk clients away to snorkel trips around Molokini or head over to Hulopoe Bay on Lanai. He said he discovered Honolua Bay during trips on the Noelani, describing it as a place he couldn’t believe he could visit with a yacht of that size. 

Jones said he took his family to Honolua for a holiday weekend last month, and tied up at the mooring that’s only supposed to be used for two hours at a time. Asked if he was aware of the rule, Jones said was never informed of it by the Coast Guard or DLNR but had been “getting flak from day one” from Maui tour companies in the bay. 

“When you have the same company coming in, they’re switching boats every two hours,” he said. “What’s the difference of that versus us just staying there?”

It’s not the only law that community members have complained about Noelani Yacht Charters allegedly violating.

A month before the Nakoa ran aground, Tina Wildberger, South Maui’s former state lawmaker, wrote to DLNR about a dinghy shuttling passengers between the yacht and Kihei Boat Ramp, which she said isn’t allowed without a permit.

“There’s some serious high end pirate action happening here with these yachts,” Wildberger said in her January email to DLNR. “Does this vessel have a special permit to pick up passengers at Kihei Boat Ramp today?”

The next day, Wildberger got her answer: The boat didn’t have a special permit. 

Jones said he often stopped at Kihei Boat Ramp to make crew runs, including going to Ace Hardware. He denied picking up passengers though. He said that he doesn’t have a commercial permit for the Nakoa, but that he operates his business in a way that allows him to get around that. 

“That’s a whole other gray area,” Jones said.

His first boat, the Noelani, has a commercial permit. But Jones said he ran the Nakoa with a workaround called “bareboat charters.” That means that he rents the boat out to people without providing any crew. Instead, he can suggest when they rent the boat that the clients hire the crew that he’s vetted ahead of time. It’s a business model that’s popular among yacht rental businesses.

For now, Jones said he’ll keep running tours on the Noelani out of Oahu while charting his next steps. He’s hoping to find a replacement for the Nakoa and continue his expansion to Maui — if residents will have him.

“I’m hoping that we can meet everybody personally, to apologize to them face to face — let them know that and show them that I am local,” Jones said. “I think once we talk, they’ll realize I’m just like them.”

Civil Beat’s coverage of Maui County is supported in part by grants from the Nuestro Futuro Foundation and the Fred Baldwin Memorial Foundation.

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