Pacific Star Sunset Buffet and Show

If you’re visiting Oahu and looking for a relaxing, scenic evening with good food and entertainment, the Pacific Star Sunset Buffet and Show might catch your eye. This cruise offers a chance to enjoy the island’s stunning coastline from the water while indulging in a buffet of Pacific Rim dishes and live performances.

We haven’t personally been on this boat, but after sifting through reviews and details, it’s clear this experience appeals to a wide range of travelers—from romantic couples celebrating special occasions to groups wanting a fun night out. We love the spectacular sunset views and the variety of Pacific Rim cuisine, which promises a delicious and engaging evening. On the flip side, some reviews mention cold food and long lines, so it’s worth weighing these considerations before booking.

This cruise is ideal if you’re after a relaxing, scenic dinner with entertainment, especially if you’re keen to see Oahu’s coastline from the water. If you’re traveling with kids or seeking a more niche activity, this might not be the top pick, but for most visitors wanting a straightforward evening cruise with good food and fun, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning sunset views over Oahu’s coast make this cruise a photo-worthy experience.
• Pacific Rim buffet offers a variety of dishes, emphasizing local flavors.
• Live contemporary entertainment adds an energetic vibe to the evening.
• The cruise includes one alcoholic drink, coffee, and tea, making it easy to unwind.
• The experience lasts around 2 hours, with an optional 3-hour Friday cruise.
• Pre-booking is recommended, with most travelers securing tickets about a month in advance.
• The price of $128 per person reflects a full evening of food, views, and entertainment, though some reviews suggest the food quality can vary.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Setting Sail from Honolulu’s Aloha Tower Marketplace

The meeting point is at the Aloha Tower Marketplace, a lively spot in downtown Honolulu. From here, you’ll board the Star of Honolulu, a well-maintained vessel certificated to go beyond Diamond Head, offering some of the best views of Kahala’s Gold Coast. The boat’s stabilizing features help ensure a smooth ride, even when the sea gets a bit choppy.

The Itinerary and Route

The cruise typically lasts about 2 hours, with a 3-hour option on Fridays for those wanting a longer experience. The captain has the discretion to alter the route depending on sea conditions, but most excursions will head out past Diamond Head, offering panoramic views of the coastline and the islands’ natural beauty. Many reviews comment on the fireworks display during the ride, which adds a special touch to the evening.

The Buffet: Pacific Rim Cuisine

As you settle into your private table, the highlight for most will be the buffet featuring Pacific Rim dishes. It’s all-you-can-eat, and the presentation receives praise, with some reviews calling the food “great” and “delicious.” However, a couple of comments point out that the food can be cold and the lines long, so arriving hungry and patient might be wise.

The buffet includes a variety of dishes, and while soft drinks aren’t listed as part of the meal, coffee, tea, and one Signature Mai Tai are included. You’ll want to indulge in the tropical cocktails—many guests mention the good value for the drink included in the ticket price.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The live contemporary entertainment is generally well-received. Expect a lively atmosphere with a pianist, saxophonist, and perhaps some island dance performances. Some reviews highlight how engaging and fun the crew makes the show, with guests encouraged to participate in hula lessons or disco dances. The finale, in particular, seems to be a crowd favorite, with some reviewers describing it as “so much fun.”

Customer Feedback: What’s Been Said?

Review summaries paint a mixed picture but mostly lean positive. Several guests praise the friendly staff and beautiful sunset views, with one guest sharing, “We had a wonderful time, the staff was exceptional.” Others, however, mention cold food and slow service, with one reviewer stating, “Food was cold and line took far too long to get food, the meat was not cooked half raw.” A few unhappy guests felt their expectations weren’t fully met, citing issues like missed opportunities for photos and long wait times for drinks.

Pricing and Value

At $128 per person, this cruise is on the higher end, but considering it includes dinner, a drink, entertainment, and scenic views, many find it a decent value—especially for a special occasion. However, some reviews suggest the food quality can vary, which might influence how worth the price feels for different travelers.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Cruise

• Book early—most people reserve about 29 days in advance, so securing your spot early helps avoid disappointment.
• Arrive a little earlier to avoid any stress and to get a good seat—although the private tables are assigned, early arrival helps you settle in comfortably.
• Dress casually, but avoid shorts; a light jacket might be useful if the evening gets cooler.
• Bring your camera or smartphone early—there are plenty of great photo opportunities, especially during sunset and fireworks.
• If you’re celebrating a special occasion, consider the photo package—some reviews mention frustration over missing photo opportunities, so ask in advance if you want professional shots.
• Patience with food and service—a few guests said the lines for food are long and the food can be cold, so plan accordingly.

Is This Cruise Right for You?

This experience suits travelers who want a combination of scenic beauty, good food, and entertainment in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special event or simply wanting to enjoy an evening on the water with a laid-back vibe. If you’re after a romantic night or a fun group outing, the views and lively atmosphere make this a memorable choice.

However, if you’re highly particular about food quality or prefer a more intimate or quiet setting, you might find some aspects lacking. The long lines and the possibility of cold food are worth considering, especially if you’re dining on a tight schedule or seeking a gourmet experience.

The Sum Up

The Pacific Star Sunset Buffet and Show offers a solid way to experience Oahu from the water. With its breathtaking sunsets, Pacific Rim dishes, and live entertainment, it provides a lively, enjoyable evening for many visitors. While some guests have experienced issues like slow service or food temperature, the majority find it to be a fun and worthwhile outing, especially if booked well in advance.

This cruise is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed evening of scenic views, tasty cuisine, and island entertainment rather than a gourmet dining affair. It’s a great choice for those celebrating something special or just wanting to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Just keep in mind that, like any large group experience, it can come with some inconsistency, so approach it with flexible expectations and a sense of adventure.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
While not explicitly geared toward families, children who enjoy boat rides and scenic views might find it enjoyable. Just note that the atmosphere is somewhat lively and adult-oriented.

How long is the cruise?
The basic cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, with an option to extend to 3 hours on Fridays.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the cruise, the Pacific Rim buffet, one Signature Mai Tai, coffee, tea, and live entertainment. Taxes and harbor fees are also included.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is recommended, but shorts are not advised. A light jacket can be handy if it gets cooler in the evening.

Is there a specific route taken on the cruise?
The boat usually goes beyond Diamond Head to view the Kahala Gold Coast, with the captain reserving the right to alter the route based on sea conditions.

Are drinks other than the included Mai Tai available?
Beverages outside the included coffee, tea, and one Mai Tai are not listed as included, so you might want to bring extra cash if you wish to purchase additional drinks.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and lively evening on the water, the Pacific Star Sunset Buffet and Show can be a memorable way to cap your day in Oahu. Just go with an open mind and enjoy the island views, good company, and tasty local flavors.