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Even Better than Flipper...
Dolphins!

One of the highlights of any boat tour in the islands is an encounter with wild dolphins. Seemingly carefree, these marine mammals may perform amazing acrobatics as if on cue. Hawaii is home to eight different species of dolphin, but the most famous and instantly recognizable are the Pacific bottlenose as seen in the move, "flipper", and are featured at many marine parks. Up to ten feet in length, they are easily identified by their rouded forehead or melon, large-sized and amicable expression. Usually seen in small groups or singly, they spend most of their time in the channels between the islands but will sometimes approach passing boats.

Spotted dolphins also frequent the channels separating the islands. The adults bear beautiful, speckled flanks and are distinguished by their white snout. Smaller and more streamlined than the bottlenose, spotted dolphins generally associate in large groups or pods.

Spinner dolphins are, however, the most frequently observed species and during the summmer months they can be seen almost daily along the south shore of Lanai. Gregarious by nature, pods of 50 to 150 are common. Favorite foods include flying fish and squid. Spinners feed cooperatively and usually at night, foraging in the deep channels between the islands. During the day, spinners rest in sheltered bays along the coast. Their characteristic "spinning" is believed to be an important part of the communication within the group and helps keep the pool together. Maintaining such large pods during these resting periods provides protection from predators such as tiger sharks.

Whenever approaching resting dolphins, it is important that we respect their requirements and ensure that the process of observing and interacting with them does not disrupt their behavior or disperse the pod, as this could ultimately lead to increased stress and even mortality.

Rafting Tours In Slight Detail
Rafting tours are the best way to see the spinner dolphins on Lanai. When carefully approached, the dolphins will actually swim over to the raft and hitch a ride right on the bow wave. These smaller boats are less intrusive and allow for a real up-close and personal encounter with these delightful marine mammals.
These are few moments as memorable as an encounter with a wild dolphin, and it leaves no doubt of the intelligence of these enchanting creatures and perhaps a lingering thought about who was really playing with whom. (101 Things To Do On Maui)
Ocean Riders adventure rafting offers one of the most innovative and exciting trips on Maui. Circumnavigate the "Private island of Lanai" or explore Molokai’s majestic north shore. Come face to face with Shipwrecks ancient Hawaiian burial caves and remote sandy beaches. See dolphins, caves, turtles and sea caves. Numerous coves offer splendid snorkeling where marine creatures of all types can be found. Captain Steve's Wild Lana’i excursion offers you the most exciting raft tour departing from Mala Wharf in Lahaina. Imagine 200 Spinner dolphins putting on a show just for you. Feeling an octopus’ slippery arms and swimming right beside rare green sea turtles while snorkeling and ocean reef are just a few of the adventures he has in store for you. If you want to explore the inside of a secluded sea cave or see ancient Hawaiian burial caves, this is a great way to do so. Hawaiian Rafting Adventures offers full and half day trips to Lanai. Try their famous BBQ lunch served in a sea cave at the mysterious Five Needles, on the remote back side of Lanai. See the wild Spinner Dolphin population and learn about their habitat. Experienced captains and crew provide a wealth of information about the history of Lanai and it’s marine life. (101 Things To Do On Maui)

Recommended Rafting Tours

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