Honolulu: Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Jazz

Planning a special night out in Honolulu? If you’re after an experience that’s a mix of fine dining, beautiful scenery, and a touch of live music, the Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise might catch your eye. This cruise offers a 2.5-hour journey along Oahu’s southern coast, with a luxurious dinner and live jazz creating a memorable atmosphere. It’s designed to be a romantic escape or a classy way to end your day, and it’s quite popular, with a solid 4.3-star rating from the provider.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines several appealing elements: a five-course meal featuring Maine lobster and prime beef, and the chance to sway to live jazz music while taking in the sights of Waikiki’s glittering lights. Plus, the option to enjoy premium beverages adds a touch of indulgence. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the cruise doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to plan your transport to the departure point. This cruise suits travelers looking for a relaxed, upscale evening—especially couples or anyone wanting to celebrate a special occasion with a touch of class.

Key Points

• Gourmet Dining: Savor a 5-course meal with Maine lobster and tenderloin beef.
• Premium Drinks: Enjoy a welcome Hawaiian Bellini and two super premium beverages.
• Live Entertainment: Sway to jazz music and dance as you cruise.
• Spectacular Views: See Waikiki lights from the water, creating a romantic backdrop.
• Flexible Options: Book now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Additional Delights on Fridays: Extra hour plus views of the Friday fireworks show.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Nova Sunset Dinner Cruise

This experience is built around a luxurious two-hour cruise, with the option for three hours on Fridays—when you can also catch the local fireworks display. As you check in at the Aloha Tower Marketplace from 4:45 PM, you’ll be greeted with a Hawaiian Bellini (non-alcoholic) and then board the Star of Honolulu. The cruise departs at 5:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to settle in and admire the scenery.

One of the highlights is the dining experience. You’ll be served a beautifully prepared 5-course meal, with signature dishes of Maine lobster and prime tenderloin of beef served tableside. The attention to detail in presentation and quality is often highlighted in reviews. Many travelers appreciate the meal’s flavor and presentation, which elevates the whole evening to something special.

Along With the food, you’re treated to live jazz music that provides a smooth, relaxing soundtrack to your cruise. The musicians are professional, and the atmosphere is intentionally cozy—perfect for unwinding and enjoying the views. Some find the jazz sets to be a highlight, adding a sophisticated touch to the evening.

The Dining Experience

The menu is seasonally inspired, which means it can vary slightly but consistently focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Maine lobster and tenderloin beef are the signatures, served at your private table. This setup makes the experience feel intimate and personalized, especially if you’re celebrating something special.

Couples often mention how the combination of good food and live music creates a romantic vibe. The cruise’s elegant setting is perfect for an anniversary, a date night, or a memorable way for visitors to indulge in Honolulu. The champagne toast adds a celebratory feeling, making it clear that this is more than just a dinner — it’s an event.

What About the Views?

This cruise offers a wonderful perspective of Waikiki’s glittering lights from the water, which many reviews describe as breathtaking. As the sun sets, the sky shifts into warm hues, and the city lights twinkle just beyond the horizon. On clear evenings, you might find yourself captivated by the panoramic views—an Instagram-worthy moment for sure.

On Fridays, the extra hour at sea allows you to enjoy an aerial fireworks show, which many guests find adds an extra magic to the evening. It’s these small touches that elevate the experience from a simple dinner to a true Honolulu highlight.

Drinks and Atmosphere

Included in the price are two super premium beverages plus a welcome drink, so you’ll have plenty to sip while enjoying the cruise. The lounge area is comfortable, and the staff are attentive, making sure your glasses stay filled. While the cruise doesn’t include hotel transportation, the meeting point at Pier 8 is straightforward to reach if you plan ahead.

The atmosphere is refined but relaxed, with casual dress being perfectly acceptable. It’s not a formal black-tie affair, but most guests lean toward smart casual. Remember that short pants aren’t recommended, so pack appropriately if you want to embrace the experience fully.

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Who Will Love This?

This cruise is ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, anyone wanting an elegant and relaxed evening, or those simply looking to enjoy top-tier cuisine with stunning views. It’s not designed for kids under 3 or for travelers prone to seasickness; the waters are generally calm but worth considering if you’re sensitive.

People who appreciate live jazz and gourmet dining will find this experience particularly enjoyable. Travelers seeking an all-inclusive experience with transportation might need to arrange their own transport, but the quality of the cruise itself makes up for that.

The Bottom Line

If you’re craving a sophisticated night out in Honolulu, the Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a compelling mix of gourmet food, beautiful scenery, and live jazz music. Its blend of high-quality cuisine and relaxing ambiance makes it a standout choice for those celebrating romance or simply wanting to elevate their Honolulu visit. While the cost might seem high, many find the experience’s intimacy, views, and overall vibe worth every dollar.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to indulge in a bit of luxury without the fuss of formal dress codes or overly structured tours. Just remember to plan your transportation to the departure point, and you’re set for a memorable Hawaiian evening.

FAQs

Does the cruise include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Pier 8 at Aloha Tower Marketplace.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The standard cruise runs for 2.5 hours, but on Fridays, it extends to 3 hours, including the fireworks viewing.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, you get a welcome Hawaiian Bellini and two super premium beverages, plus the champagne toast during dinner.

Is there live entertainment?
Yes, professional live jazz music accompanies the cruise, which many guests find adds a warm, inviting vibe.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is fine, but avoid short pants. Dress comfortably yet neatly to match the relaxed, upscale atmosphere.

Can children join this cruise?
It’s not suitable for children under 3, and consider seasickness if you’re prone, as the waters can be slightly choppy.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the surfaces are wheelchair accessible, and the experience can accommodate most travelers with mobility needs.

Do I need to call ahead for special requests?
Yes, it’s recommended to call the provider 72 hours in advance if you have any specific requests or dietary restrictions.

If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance, enjoy some fantastic food, and see Honolulu from a new perspective, this sunset dinner cruise is worth considering. Just be sure to plan your logistics, and you’ll be set for a memorable night.

You can check availability for your dates here: