Honolulu: Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Jazz

Planning a special night out in Honolulu? The Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a blend of fine dining, live jazz, and breathtaking ocean views. Whether you’re celebrating a romantic occasion or simply seeking a memorable way to end the day, this cruise promises a floating feast on the waters of Oahu’s southern coast.

What we love most about this experience is the gourmet 5-course meal, featuring Maine lobster and prime tenderloin of beef, paired with premium beverages and the chance to sway to smooth jazz tunes onboard. Plus, the spectacular Waikiki lights as a backdrop makes it a visual treat. On the flip side, a consideration is that hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan your transport to the departure point.

This cruise is ideal for travelers craving a sophisticated, relaxing experience with excellent food and music. If you enjoy a dash of luxury paired with incredible views, you’ll find this outing well worth the price.

Key Points

• Gourmet Dining: A 5-course dinner featuring Maine lobster and tenderloin beef served tableside.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy the Waikiki lights reflecting off the water as you drift along.
• Live Jazz Music: Relax to professional live entertainment and dance if you wish.
• Premium Beverages: Includes a welcome Hawaiian Bellini, champagne toast, and two super premium drinks.
• Flexible Options: 2 hours on most days, with an extended 3 hours on Fridays to enjoy the fireworks.
• No Included Transportation: You’ll need to arrange your own transfer to Aloha Tower Marketplace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Nova Sunset Dinner Cruise

Setting the Scene: A Classic Honolulu Evening

Imagine stepping aboard the Star of Honolulu just after sunset, with the island’s evening glow fading and Honolulu’s famous lights beginning to sparkle. The check-in process is straightforward; most travelers find the check-in time of 4:45 PM easy to plan, especially if you’re staying nearby.

Once on board, you’ll be greeted with a Hawaiian Bellini (non-alcoholic), setting a relaxed and festive tone for the evening. The cruise departs from Aloha Tower Marketplace, Pier 8 at 5:30 PM—so arriving a little early is advisable. If you prefer, some hotels offer optional pickup, with times starting from around 4:20 PM, making the logistics easier for those staying in Waikiki.

The Itinerary: Dining and Entertainment at Sea

The highlight of this cruise is undoubtedly the five-course meal. Expect a thoughtfully curated menu that emphasizes seasonally-inspired cuisine, with signature dishes like Maine lobster and prime tenderloin served tableside—giving a sense of special occasion dining. The presentation and quality of the food, as described by travelers, are impressive, especially for a cruise of this length.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll be served a glass of champagne to toast the evening, plus two additional super premium beverages of your choice. This is a nice touch, elevating the experience beyond a simple dinner.

As for the entertainment, the cruise features live jazz music performed by professional musicians. The melodies are smooth and unobtrusive, perfect for relaxing or dancing on the deck if you’re feeling lively. Many reviews note how the jazz complements the breathtaking scenery, creating a romantic atmosphere.

The Views: Waikiki Lights and Ocean Breeze

What makes this cruise stand out is the views. Watching Waikiki’s lights flicker on as you glide across the calm waters is simply magical. On a clear evening, you can see the coastline stretch out in both directions, and the open deck provides ample space for photos and mingling.

If you book the Friday cruise, there’s an extra hour to enjoy the surroundings, culminating in a fireworks display. Watching the sky erupt over Honolulu from the water adds a spectacular touch to the evening.

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Comfort and Atmosphere

The cruise is described as luxurious yet relaxed. The comfortable lounge and private tables create an intimate setting, but there’s enough space for mingling or dancing. The art deco Super Nova Room offers a private lanai for those who want a quieter spot with a view.

The group size can be quite large—up to 999 travelers—so it’s not a secluded, romantic-only charter, but most find the atmosphere friendly and refined.

Value for Money: Is It Worth $236?

At around $236 per person, this experience offers a substantial dose of luxury. The inclusion of a five-course meal, champagne toast, premium beverages, and live jazz justifies the price for many travelers. It’s a good value if you’re seeking a refined, all-in-one evening that combines great food, entertainment, and scenery in one package.

However, it’s worth noting that transportation isn’t included—adding a taxi or ride-share cost to get to the departure point. Still, many find the convenience of the cruise’s amenities and the quality of the experience make it worth the extra effort.

Authenticity and Authentic Experience

While this cruise is quite polished and tourist-oriented, it offers a taste of Hawaiian hospitality combined with classic luxury. The onboard service is generally praised for professionalism, and the live jazz adds a local, cultural touch that feels genuine. Most reviews highlight how the experience is both memorable and relaxing—ideal for travelers looking to indulge without feeling overly formal.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This cruise suits those celebrating a special occasion, couples seeking romance, or anyone wanting a luxurious way to enjoy Honolulu’s sunset. It’s also a good choice for travelers who appreciate live music and gourmet dining in a scenic setting. If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer more casual outings, this might feel a bit formal, but for a special night, it delivers.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

In the end, the Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a compelling mix of fine dining, live jazz, and stunning vistas. It’s a well-rounded experience that provides good value for those looking to splurge a little on a memorable evening. The combination of gourmet food, smooth entertainment, and beautiful scenery makes it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to experience Honolulu from the water in style.

While it’s not a casual activity—no included hotel pickup or budget price—its elegance and quality shine through. Perfect for couples or anyone desiring a relaxed, romantic, and scenic cruise with a touch of sophistication. Just remember to plan your transportation ahead, and you’ll have an evening to remember.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the departure point at Aloha Tower Marketplace.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts 2 hours on most days, but on Fridays, it extends to 3 hours to include the fireworks show.

What should I wear?
The dress code is casual, but short pants are not recommended. Comfortable clothes suitable for an evening out are best, and a hat and sunscreen are advisable if you’re arriving early.

Are children allowed?
The tour is not suitable for children under 3 years old, and most travelers can participate unless prone to seasickness.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the surfaces are wheelchair accessible, and the cruise is stroller accessible. Service animals are allowed.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a sunset cruise, a 5-course dinner with Maine lobster and tenderloin beef, champagne toast, two super premium beverages, and live jazz entertainment.

Can I see the fireworks?
Yes, if you book the Friday cruise, you get an extra hour to enjoy the views, including the fireworks display over Honolulu.

Do I need to call ahead for special requests?
Yes, you should call the provider 72 hours in advance if you have special requests or dietary restrictions.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

This cruise offers a taste of island elegance—savor the views, the music, and the meal. It’s a memorable way to close out a day in paradise, especially if you’re after a mix of luxury and local charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby