Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise with Drinks and Appetizers

Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise with Drinks and Appetizers: A Relaxed Night on the Water

If you’re exploring Honolulu and looking for a way to unwind while soaking in some iconic scenery, the Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise might catch your eye. This half-hour cruise promises beautiful views, tasty bites, and drinks in a laid-back setting, making it an appealing choice for travelers wanting something a little different from the usual beach day or city tour.

What we really like about this experience is its straightforward charm: a scenic sail along Waikiki’s shoreline with plenty of opportunities for photos, and a relaxed, barefoot vibe that lets you truly enjoy the moment. The two standout features for us are the stunning sunset views—including the chance to spot the elusive green flash—and the quality of the drinks and appetizers that come included.

That said, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. For many, the cruise’s duration of just 1.5 hours might feel a bit short if you’re craving a longer experience or sunset viewing. Also, note that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the meeting point. This cruise suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic, and social way to enjoy Waikiki’s evenings without a lot of fuss—ideal for couples, friends, or anyone craving a peaceful sunset with a drink in hand.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: At 1.5 hours, it’s a quick but memorable way to enjoy Waikiki’s shoreline at sunset.
• Stunning visuals: Views of Diamond Head and the chance to see the green flash make for memorable photo moments.
• Comfortable setting: The cruise is on a spacious sailboat, and you’re encouraged to go barefoot for a relaxed vibe.
• Good food and drinks: You’ll get a light, healthy bento-style dinner and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, plus two alcoholic drinks included.
• Ideal for sunset lovers: Perfect timing and scenery to catch the sun dipping below the horizon.
• No included hotel transfer: Remember, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the port.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

When considering this cruise, think of it as a cozy, semi-private evening escape rather than a lengthy tour. Check-in is smooth—arrive about 20 minutes early at the Port Waikiki Cruises kiosk near Hilton Pier, on the Diamond Head side of the Tropics Cafe, and get ready to step aboard a comfortable, spacious sailboat.

The boat itself is described as beautiful and suitable for a barefoot experience, which instantly sets a relaxed tone. As you set sail, your journey heads south along Waikiki’s lively shoreline, offering sweeping views of the city’s famous beaches and the volcanic cone of Diamond Head. From the deck, you’ll be close enough to feel the wind and hear the gentle sounds of the water, creating an atmosphere of calm and enjoyment.

The highlight of the cruise is, without doubt, the sunset. As the horizon darkens, you’ll watch the sun’s glow cast a golden hue over the water. It’s the kind of scene that makes you reach for your camera—and if you’re lucky, you might catch the green flash, an elusive optical illusion seen as the sun dips below the horizon in some months.

Food and Drink

The onboard menu is light but thoughtfully prepared. The main options include marinated chicken with a soy and sake glaze, served wrapped in lettuce, along with taro and whole wheat slider rolls, and pineapple relish. For those who prefer gluten-free options, steamed rice and chicken are available. Vegetarians aren’t forgotten either—there’s a tofu dish with garlic vegetables, steamed rice, and a lemon-miso salad.

Pairing these bites with two included alcoholic beverages—choices might include microbrews or wine—and unlimited non-alcoholic drinks makes for a well-rounded experience. Many reviews praise the quality of the drinks and the way they complement the scenery, making it a laid-back, enjoyable evening.

The View and Photography

We loved the way the cruise provides a unique vantage point of Diamond Head and Waikiki’s sparkling shoreline. Many travelers mention how picture-perfect the sunset is, especially with the silhouette of Diamond Head in the background. This is a fantastic chance to get some scenic shots away from crowded beaches or busy streets.

The timing of the cruise varies through the seasons, starting around 5pm in fall/winter and slightly later in spring/summer, to optimize sunset viewing. Watching the sun go down over the Pacific while sipping your drink is genuinely memorable.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback overall is quite positive, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 7 reviews. Burney from the U.S. described it as “beautiful” with “amazing sights,” praising the staff and the boat. On the other hand, a traveler from Germany felt it was “a solid event” but noted the cruise ends earlier than some might prefer, at around 7pm instead of 10pm—so if you’re after a longer evening, this might not be the best fit.

One critical note was about the dinner—the review from a U.S. traveler rated the meal poorly, indicating it might not satisfy everyone looking for a substantial or gourmet option. However, the focus on fresh, healthy, and light bites seems to work well for most, especially if you’re expecting a relaxing, scenic evening rather than a full meal experience.

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Practical Details and Tips

• Price: At $151 per person, this cruise falls into a moderate price range—consider it an investment in a beautiful, peaceful hour and a half with great views and good drinks.
• Duration: 1.5 hours is perfect for an early evening activity—long enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
• Inclusions: You’re getting a reasonable selection of drinks and a light dinner, making it fairly good value considering the scenery and ambiance.
• What to Bring: Remember to bring a jacket for cooler evenings and some cash for extras or tips.
• No Hotel Pickup: Make sure to plan your transportation to the port; arriving early ensures you get settled without any rush.
• Booking Flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, plus cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance—a benefit if your plans are still a bit uncertain.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This cruise is ideal if you want a laid-back way to enjoy Waikiki’s sunset with a small group and no fuss. It’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic evening, friends wanting to relax after a day of sightseeing, or anyone who appreciates a calm, scenic setting with good drinks and tasty bites.

It’s not a long, party-style cruise—if you’re after a lively atmosphere or a full evening experience with entertainment, you might prefer a different option. Also, if you’re particularly hungry or expecting a gourmet dinner, this cruise’s light menu might not satisfy. But if your goal is to unwind, take memorable photos, and enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty, this cruise hits the mark.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available for this cruise?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the port near Hilton Pier.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, and consider bringing a jacket as it can get cool on the water in the evening.

How long does the cruise last?
It’s about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity for an early evening.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, you get two alcoholic drinks and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, plus a light bento-style dinner.

Can I see the green flash?
You might! It occurs in some months when the sun dips below the horizon, and it’s a special moment to witness.

Is the dinner suitable for gluten-free or vegetarian diets?
Yes, gluten-free and vegetarian options are available with advance notice, including steamed rice and tofu dishes.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed for children, it could be suitable for older kids who enjoy calm, scenic outings. It’s a short, relaxing cruise with a focus on scenery and drinks, not entertainment.

In the end, the Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise offers a peaceful, scenic way to cap off a day in paradise. It’s not a wild party, but for those seeking a serene sunset with good company and drinks, it’s a solid choice. Just plan your transportation, bring a jacket, and prepare for a beautiful evening on Hawaii’s waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: