Maui Dreams Dive Co. has been making bubbles on Maui since 1999. Now helmed by longtime instructors Javier and Christina Cantellops, this family-run, 5-Star PADI Instructor Development Center welcomes everyone—from first-time expl...
With an exceptional reputation built over years of service, this dive operation consistently delivers professional, safety-focused experiences for divers of all levels. The dive masters, particularly Joel, Jordan, and Kerri, earn repeated praise for their extensive knowledge of marine life, calm professionalism, and attentiveness to individual diver needs. They're especially skilled at working with newly certified divers and those returning after long breaks, creating a comfortable environment while spotting incredible sea life like turtles, spotted eagle rays, and frog fish. The shore dives at locations like Makena Landing and Oluwalu are popular offerings, though they also run boat trips to sites like Lanai's Cathedrals. Staff handle logistics smoothly, from advance gear sizing to flexible location changes based on conditions. The instructors strike a nice balance between education and fun, even managing groups with varying ages and experience levels. One reviewer did have a frustrating experience with their no-exceptions return policy on gear purchases, so it's worth being certain about fit before buying. Overall, though, this is a trusted local operation that makes both beginners and experienced divers feel confident and well-cared-for in Maui's waters.
I visited Maui Dreams Dive Co. based on a colleague's recommendation and solid online reviews, and they absolutely lived up to the expectations. We logged 15 dives in total during our trip, and having such a reliable shop made a huge difference. We booked two dives at Molokini Crater (one regular dive and one on the back wall), and both were quite good. We went out on their boat, Double Scoop. It gets a little tight when the boat is full, but it felt incredibly safe and very well maintained. All of their equipment was in excellent condition, too. A major highlight was that we were visiting during whale season. The crew actually allowed us to stop during our surface interval while traveling to a different site just to watch some whales nearby. It was an incredible bonus to an already great day on the water. The customer service really stood out as well. A massive shoutout to John, Brandon, Scotty, and the owner, Javier. The entire team, from the boat crew to the divemasters and rental shop staff, was fantastic. They were incredibly helpful when we were figuring out our shore diving plans, renting tanks, and grabbing extra gear. They even let us try on and test some masks before making a purchase, which we really appreciated. Prices for the guided boat tours are on the higher side, but that is pretty standard for Maui and the service justifies it. That said, if you are an experienced diver with some or all of your own gear, I highly recommend using them for your rentals to do your own shore diving. It is a fantastic and much cheaper way to see Maui's underwater life if you are comfortable navigating shore dives under 40 feet deep. Overall, a top notch dive shop that I highly recommend!
Tom Ulanowski
March 11, 2026
I visited Maui Dreams Dive Co. based on a colleague's recommendation and solid online reviews, and they absolutely lived up to the expectations. We logged 15 dives in total during our trip, and having such a reliable shop made a huge difference. We booked two dives at Molokini Crater (one regular dive and one on the back wall), and both were quite good. We went out on their boat, Double Scoop. It gets a little tight when the boat is full, but it felt incredibly safe and very well maintained. All of their equipment was in excellent condition, too. A major highlight was that we were visiting during whale season. The crew actually allowed us to stop during our surface interval while traveling to a different site just to watch some whales nearby. It was an incredible bonus to an already great day on the water. The customer service really stood out as well. A massive shoutout to John, Brandon, Scotty, and the owner, Javier. The entire team, from the boat crew to the divemasters and rental shop staff, was fantastic. They were incredibly helpful when we were figuring out our shore diving plans, renting tanks, and grabbing extra gear. They even let us try on and test some masks before making a purchase, which we really appreciated. Prices for the guided boat tours are on the higher side, but that is pretty standard for Maui and the service justifies it. That said, if you are an experienced diver with some or all of your own gear, I highly recommend using them for your rentals to do your own shore diving. It is a fantastic and much cheaper way to see Maui's underwater life if you are comfortable navigating shore dives under 40 feet deep. Overall, a top notch dive shop that I highly recommend!
Tom Ulanowski
March 11, 2026