Ferry to Lanai

Hello,

We are visiting Maui in early October and would like to spend a day on Lanai. Is Expeditions the only ferry company that goes to Lanai? Seems that their schedule is pretty limited as far as departure times.

Mahalo

Aloha! If you're planning to visit Lanai from Maui, Expeditions is indeed the primary ferry company that operates between Lahaina (Maui) and Manele Harbor (Lanai). They run a few departures each day, but as you mentioned, their schedule can seem limited, especially for visitors who want more flexibility in departure times.

Expeditions operates daily ferries between Lahaina and Lanai, typically with departures in the morning and afternoon. The journey takes about 45 minutes each way. The schedule does change depending on the time of year, so it's always a good idea to check their website or contact them directly for the most current departure times when you're planning your trip. While the schedule may seem limited, it’s usually sufficient for a day trip to Lanai, with ferries leaving in the morning and returning in the afternoon.

Regarding other ferry options, Expeditions is currently the only ferry company offering service between Maui and Lanai. However, there are other ways to visit Lanai:

  • Private Charters: If you're looking for more flexibility in terms of departure times or a private experience, you might consider booking a private charter. Some companies offer boat tours or charters to Lanai, allowing you to customize the schedule to fit your needs.
  • Helicopter Tours: Another option to reach Lanai is via helicopter, which offers stunning aerial views of the islands. Several helicopter tour companies provide transportation to Lanai, though this is a more expensive option compared to the ferry.

For most visitors, the ferry with Expeditions is the most economical and convenient way to get to Lanai. If you're looking to make the most of your day trip, consider checking the schedule early and planning activities on Lanai based on their ferry times. Once on Lanai, there are plenty of beautiful sights to see, including beaches, hiking trails, and the charming town of Lanai City.

Hope this helps with your planning! Enjoy your time on Lanai!


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