Back Wall of Molokini

Most people have seen Molokini in a picture, brochure, or guide book.  However, I'd bet lots haven't seen much of the back wall, that is, the rear end of Molokini.  The crater, which sits about 3 miles off South Maui, erupted 230,000 years ago, and it is a very popular dive and snorkel attraction.  If you're not diving however, and just like to stay on the surface or hold your breath like me, then most boats will only drop you on the inside as there are moorings available.  The backside offers a wonderful drift dive and the wall drops straight down to about 300ft.  The presence of currents also makes it a less than ideal location for beginning snorkelers.  However, when conditions are right, snorkel boats WILL take people to the back wall.  It is mesmerizing due to the sheer drop off and the sunlight reflecting back at you from the blue depths.  You will most likely also see schools of resident pennant butterfly fish hanging out back there.

You remember that pic of the submarine I posted earlier?  Well, one the divemasters from Mike Severns Diving shot a video of the sub cruising by while on a drift dive along the back wall!

The water on this day was especially calm and clear.  You can see the wall underwater from the surface!  

If you snorkel, the only company I know of that regularly goes to the backside AND drops you in the water as long as conditions are suitable is Blue Water Rafting.  Otherwise, if you want to see this amazing facade of Molo, then you need to learn how to SCUBA.

Please note, I am not affiliated with, nor have I been compensated by either Blue Water Rafting or Mike Severns Diving.

Planes, Trains, and Submarines

On the way back to shore, we encountered the Sea Aviator from Sub Aviator Systems leaving the Kihei Boat Ramp.  According to the coconut wireless, S.A.S. is surveying the reef damage off Keawakapu Beach, doing shoots for National Geographic, and spying various wrecks.  This James Bond-esque craft is capable of diving to 1000ft!

Full story here:  Underwater Airplane

Rainbows at The Ramp

Our snorkel trip got cancelled today due to bad weather and we turned around almost as soon as we left for Molokini.

However, I did manage to fire off a shot of Molokini with Kaho'olawe in the background amidst angry seas.

Kaho'olawe is the uninhabited island that was used as target practice by the US military for almost 50 years.  You can see the eroded, stark beauty of the island even from my vantage point.

Back on land, we encountered a boat returning from Kaho'olawe welcomed back by double rainbows.