If you’re visiting Hawaii, you may have wondered, “Is there a ferry between Maui and The Big Island?”
Chances are you have your heart set on seeing the majestic volcanoes of Hawaii or snorkeling in the clear waters of Maui’s beaches.
But what if you want to get from one island to another? It can’t be done by boat.
So, if you want to travel between Maui and the Big Island, your best bet is to fly or take a cruise ship.
Alternatively, you can take the ferry between Lāhainā (Maui) and Lānaʻi, which departs at 6:45 am and arrives at Manele Harbor (Lānaʻi) at 09:45 am.
How to get between Maui and the Big Island
There is no ferry service between Maui and the Big Island. However, there are several ways to get between Maui and the Big Island, including commercial flights.
You can also take a private air or sea transfer.
If you’re on Maui, a helicopter tour will take you from Maui to Hilo on the Big Island and then pick you up after your visit.
You can also take a cruise ship between Maui and Kailua-Kona on the Big Island.
Lastly, there are daily flights between Kahului Airport (OGG) in Kahului and Hilo International Airport (ITO) in Hilo or Kona International Airport (KOA) in Kalaoa.
One way to reach the Big Island is by boat tour, which departs from Lahaina Harbor on Maui and takes you to Lanai before heading there.
It’s a fun excursion that lasts about five hours (and costs $99 for adults).
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Alternatives to Hawaii Superferry
The Hawaii Superferry is no longer available between Maui and the Big Island, but there are other ways to get between the islands.
Previously, private steamships were the only way to get from island to island. However, since Hawaii became a state in 1959, private ferries have returned twice.
From the early 1960s, a ferry service operated between the big islands. By the mid-1970s, fast hydrofoils were operating between the main islands.
Today, only one major ferry connects these two islands, and that service is provided by Expeditions, which departs from Oahu and returns to Oahu, with stops at neighboring islands.
The Hawaii Superferry service operates between four famous Hawaiian islands. It was controversial for a while and shut down for environmental reasons.
Lahaina-Lanai ferry service
If you want to travel to Lanai, alternative means of transportation exist.
The Lanai Ferry operates five times a day on an hour-long route and costs $30 for adults and $20 for children.
This convenient mode of transportation is fast and comfortable and can help you save money on your Hawaii vacation.
There are also other options, including taking a car rental or booking a tour.
The Expeditions ferry service offers dependable, affordable service between Maui and Lanai.
In addition, you can board the ferry between Lahaina and Manele Harbor in 45-60 minutes to enjoy the scenery and wildlife of four Hawaiian islands.
The boat is certified by the United States Coast Guard and offers a smooth ride.
If you’re looking for a cheap way to travel from Maui to Lanai, Hawaii Discount offers one-way or round-trip tickets.
You can also take a flight to Lanai. Several inter-island flights are available, and depending on when you book, they can cost as little as $39 for a round-trip.
In addition, Hawaiian Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, and Southwest operate flights to the Big Island and Maui. For more information, check out our Lanai ferry review.
Travel from Maui to Halona Blowhole on Molokai
If you’re planning a Hawaiian vacation, you should consider visiting the stunning Halona Blowhole, a 1,000-year-old rock formation that shoots water into the air.
Although it’s more visible during large waves, the site is still impressive on a calm day.
Unfortunately, the area also features steam and mist that is dangerous to approach up close.
However, you can do that if you’d instead take in the view from a scenic lookout.
Getting to the island is easy; two interisland passenger ferries serve the islands.
Molokai Island is 90 minutes away from Lahaina, Maui. Both the Molokai and Lanai Expeditions ferries depart from Lahaina five times daily.
When you’re ready to explore Halona, you can choose between the ferry departing from Lahaina twice or five times daily.
The ferry to Halona Blowhole on Molokai can take you to the island in 90 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get from Maui to Kona?
You can travel from Maui to Kona by plane. Several airlines offer regular flights between the islands.
Are there ferries from the Big Island to Maui?
There are no ferry services between the Big Island and Maui. The best way to travel between these islands is by plane.
What island can you ferry to from Maui?
You can take a ferry from Maui to Lanai.
How long is a boat ride from the Big Island to Maui?
Due to the challenging ocean conditions, no boat services exist between the Big Island and Maui. However, some boat tours may offer excursions that last about five hours.
How do you get from Maui to the Big Island?
The most common way is by air; several airlines offer flights between the two islands.
Can you do a day trip from the Big Island to Maui?
Yes, it is possible to do a day trip from the Big Island to Maui. The most convenient way is to take an inter-island flight.
Why are there no ferries between Hawaiian islands?
There are no ferries between the major Hawaiian Islands, mainly due to the extreme ocean conditions like high winds, waves, and currents that make regular ferry service difficult and potentially dangerous