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Enjoy an enchanting Honolulu sunset with a 3-course dinner on a moonlight cruise, offering stunning water views of Waikiki and Diamond Head.
Our review of the Moonlight Dinner Cruise in Honolulu offers a detailed look at an experience that promises a blend of scenic beauty, fine dining, and a touch of Hawaiian magic. Priced at around $106.42 per person, this one-and-a-half-hour cruise takes you along Waikiki Beach, providing a unique perspective on Honolulu’s most iconic sights. With options to upgrade to outdoor upper-deck seating, it’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a memorable evening, especially those looking to combine stunning views with a good meal.
One thing we genuinely love about this cruise is the careful attention to the dining experience. Unlike many dinner cruises that rely on buffet or pre-packaged meals, here you get a freshly prepared 3-course meal served onboard the Prince Kuhio. Plus, the setting—cruising near vibrant Waikiki and Diamond Head—is truly spectacular. However, a potential consideration is that the overall experience hinges heavily on good weather and sufficient bookings, as evidenced by a recent cancellation due to low attendance.
This cruise is best suited for honeymooners, couples celebrating special occasions, or anyone wanting an intimate, scenic night on the water. If you’re after a relaxed, romantic vibe with good food and stellar views, this might be right up your alley. Conversely, if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more lively, energetic atmosphere, you may want to explore other options.
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Starting at 9:00 pm from 1009 Ala Moana Blvd, the cruise departs Waikiki, a vibrant hub famous for its lively nightlife and iconic beach. The 1 hour 30 minutes on the water is a chance to unwind and view Honolulu in a new light—literally. As the boat gently moves along, you’ll see the glittering city lights reflected on the water, with Waikiki’s bustling shoreline providing a lively backdrop.
The cruise is operated on the Prince Kuhio, a vessel equipped to serve a mid-sized group—up to 100 travelers—creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere. The onboard staff is noted for their attentive service, ensuring that your meal and drinks are well taken care of.
One of the highlights of this cruise is its restaurant-quality meal. You will be asked to specify your main course choice when booking; options include:
The emphasis on freshly prepared cuisine rather than pre-packaged food elevates the experience. Reviewers have appreciated the quality of the food, noting the freshness of the fish and the flavorful sauces.
The cruise’s route takes you past some of Honolulu’s most recognizable sights. You’ll see Waikiki Beach glowing beneath the night sky, a scene described as “magical” by those who have experienced it. As the boat moves along, you get a clear view of Diamond Head, a volcanic crater that’s the city’s most iconic landmark. Passing the Diamond Head Lighthouse offers a stunning photo opportunity, especially as the lighthouse’s light flickers against the dark ocean.
The standard seating is indoors, offering comfort and protection from the elements. However, for those wanting an outdoor experience, upgrading to the premium upper deck is recommended. The open-air space allows you to feel the ocean breeze, get closer to the starry sky, and fully appreciate the scenic surroundings.
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After the meal, guests are encouraged to stroll the decks, enjoy the starlit skies, or grab a cocktail from the onboard Tiki bar, which currently operates on a BYOB basis. While the bar offers a variety of island-inspired cocktails, bringing your own alcohol is a bonus for those wanting to enjoy their favorite drinks without extra cost.
Reviews mention the excellent wine selection, which is a notable perk if you’re a wine lover. The relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for unwinding, chatting, and taking in the beautiful night scenery.
While the experience is pleasant and scenic, some travelers might find the overall value affected by the unpredictability of cancellations and weather. The price point of just over $100 per person is reasonable considering the fresh meal and scenic cruise, but it’s important to keep in mind that it’s not an all-day tour—more a romantic evening than a full excursion.
A notable point from reviews is the cancellation due to low attendance, which underscores the importance of booking early and confirming the tour status before your trip. If the cruise isn’t running, you’ll be refunded fully, but it’s an element to consider when planning.
This cruise appeals most to romantic couples and honeymooners seeking a quiet, scenic evening away from the daytime crowds. The combination of beautiful water views, a gourmet meal, and star gazing appeals to those wanting a special night out. Those with a taste for fine, freshly prepared food and a relaxed atmosphere will find this cruise particularly satisfying.
On the other hand, travelers with young kids might find the experience less ideal—especially since it’s a more subdued environment, and the boat’s movement may not suit all children. Plus, if you’re looking for an energetic party vibe or a longer cruise, you might want to explore other options.
The Moonlight Dinner Cruise in Honolulu presents a charming way to see some of Oahu’s most famous sights from the water while enjoying a well-prepared meal. It’s a thoughtful, romantic experience that captures the essence of Hawaiian hospitality and scenery, especially if the weather cooperates.
While it’s not the cheapest activity in Honolulu, the combination of a scenic cruise, quality cuisine, and the potential for upgrade makes it a good value for those celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to add a memorable touch to their Hawaiian holiday. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate calm, scenic evenings and aren’t bothered by the uncertainties related to weather or minimum bookings.
If you’re after a peaceful, picture-worthy evening under the stars with good food and drinks, this cruise might just fit the bill.
Is this tour suitable for people prone to motion sickness?
It’s not recommended for those who are prone to unmanageable motion sickness, as the boat’s movement could cause discomfort.
Can I bring my own alcohol?
Yes, you can bring your own alcohol for the onboard mixologist, as the cruise currently operates on a BYOB basis.
What is included in the price?
The price covers a 3-course meal, bottled water, soda, and access to the upper deck (capacity dependent). The cruise also provides a scenic route past Waikiki and Diamond Head.
What should I wear?
Smart casual is appropriate. Consider bringing a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evening breeze, especially if you upgrade to outdoor seating.
How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a perfect short evening outing.
Are drinks available on board?
Yes, there’s a Tiki bar onboard, but since it’s BYOB, you’ll want to bring your own preferred alcohol.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
To sum it up, this Moonlight Dinner Cruise offers a delightful blend of scenery, cuisine, and Hawaiian ambiance. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a romantic and authentic night out on the water, provided they’re prepared for potential weather disruptions. With its focus on quality dining and stunning views, it’s an experience worth considering for a memorable Hawaiian evening.