Premier Waikiki Sunset Party Cruise with Live DJ and Full Bar

If you’re visiting Oahu and looking for a way to combine beautiful scenery with a lively party atmosphere, the Premier Waikiki Sunset Party Cruise might just be your ticket. This two-hour cruise offers a chance to enjoy Hawaii’s iconic sunset, dance to a live DJ, and mingle with fellow travelers—all aboard a boat with two decks designed for fun. While it’s a relatively short outing, it packs in enough entertainment and breathtaking views to make it a memorable evening.

What we like most about this cruise is how seamlessly it blends the stunning natural beauty of Waikiki and Diamond Head with a vibrant party vibe. Plus, the inclusion of a complimentary drink and the chance to see local marine life makes it feel like a well-rounded experience. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that parking is limited and the tour is adults-only, which could be a consideration for some travelers.

This tour fits best for those wanting to enjoy Hawaii’s sunset with a lively twist—perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone looking to add some upbeat energy to their evening after a day of sightseeing. If you enjoy music, scenic views, and socializing, this cruise could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• The cruise offers an energetic, party atmosphere with lights synced to music from a live DJ.
• You’ll enjoy spectacular views of Diamond Head during golden hour, along with city lights and coastlines.
• The chance to spot marine animals like dolphins and sea turtles adds a touch of wildlife excitement.
• The tour includes one complimentary adult drink ticket, with additional beverages available for purchase.
• Limited parking at Kewalo Basin Park makes ride-sharing a smart choice.
• The group size is capped at 50 travelers, ensuring a lively but not overcrowded experience.

An Inside Look at the Sunset Party Cruise

This cruise is designed to bring the party to the water, and it succeeds quite well in creating a lively, upbeat environment. The boat departs from Kewalo Basin Harbor, just a short drive or ride from Waikiki Beach. The meeting point at 1125 Ala Moana Blvd is near public transportation, which is handy if you prefer to skip the parking hassle. You’ll board the vessel, which features two decks—one for dancing and socializing, and another to take in the views more quietly if you prefer a break from the music.

The departure takes place just before sunset, allowing you to cruise past the iconic Diamond Head crater as the sky transforms into shades of gold and pink. The captain and crew are friendly and professional, ensuring smooth sailing. As the boat gently glides along the coast, the DJ kicks off the music, with lights that dance along with the beats, creating a true party environment.

What we loved about the setup is how it balances scenic beauty with entertainment. The views of Waikiki and Honolulu’s city lights are striking, especially when paired with the mood lighting and energetic music. During the cruise, you might also catch glimpses of dolphins and green sea turtles—a bonus for wildlife enthusiasts.

The Itinerary – What to Expect

The cruise features a straightforward but delightful itinerary focused on sightseeing and socializing.

• First stop: As the boat sets sail, you’ll take in the glow of Diamond Head at golden hour. The view of this famous volcanic crater from the water is simply stunning and makes for fantastic photos. Many reviews highlight how impressive and iconic this sight is, with one reviewer noting how “the sunset was beautiful and the staff was friendly.”

• Main cruise: After passing Diamond Head, the vessel continues along Waikiki’s coast, offering panoramic views of the Honolulu skyline illuminated at dusk. The music is already pumping—thanks to the live DJ—and onboard lights are synchronized to heighten the party mood. This is the time to dance, socialize, or just enjoy the scenery from the decks.

• Wildlife spotting: During the cruise, some travelers have reported seeing dolphins and sea turtles, adding an element of nature to this lively evening. While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, the opportunity is certainly there.

• End of the cruise: The boat returns to the harbor after about two hours, leaving you with memories of a beautiful sunset, energetic music, and a feeling of having experienced a different, more festive side of Waikiki.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the ticket price is a live DJ performance and one adult drink ticket. This means you can enjoy your first beverage on the house—a nice touch that allows for some initial relaxation and socializing. Be aware that drink tickets are non-refundable, and outside alcohol isn’t permitted, so you’re limited to purchasing drinks onboard, starting at $6.

Additional tips for maximizing your experience: arrive early to find parking—though limited, it costs about $1 per hour—or consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to avoid parking hassles altogether.

Gratuities aren’t included, so if you feel like your crew went above and beyond, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Shoes are not allowed onboard, a small detail but one that helps keep the boat clean.

The Experience in Perspective

This cruise offers incredible value for the $80 price tag. When you consider the scenic beauty, the lively ambiance, and the included drink, it’s clear that you’re paying for a fun, memorable evening rather than just a scenic tour. Many reviewers praise its affordability and the quality of the experience, with one stating, “This trip turned out to be everything advertised.”

The group size, capped at 50, ensures that you won’t feel lost in a crowd. Instead, you’re likely to meet fellow travelers, share laughs, and dance the night away with a diverse group of adults. Many reviews mention how much fun they had, with comments like “so much fun” and “the DJ was AMAZING.”

However, keep in mind it’s an adults-only tour—21 and over—so it’s not suited for families or children. If you prefer a quiet, romantic sunset or are traveling with kids, this might not be the best fit.

Practical Tips for Your Sunset Cruise

• Book early. Most travelers seem to reserve about two weeks in advance—securing your spot early guarantees availability, especially during peak seasons.
• Arrive prepared. Arriving at least 15 minutes early helps you settle in without rushing, especially since parking is limited and the pier location is not immediately obvious.
• Dress comfortably. Casual attire is fine, but consider bringing a light jacket or sweater for the evening, as it can get breezy on the water.
• Bring cash or cards. While one drink ticket is included, additional drinks start at $6 each, so plan accordingly.
• Use ride-sharing. Parking costs and availability are limited; a ride-share can make your evening smoother.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This sunset party cruise is ideal for travelers who want to blend scenic beauty with a lively, social atmosphere. If you love music, dancing, and a vibrant crowd, you’ll find this cruise energizing and fun. It’s a fantastic way to experience the iconic Waikiki coast and Diamond Head from the water, all while enjoying a party vibe.

It’s also well-suited for those celebrating special occasions or just wanting a memorable evening after a day of sightseeing. The inclusion of a drink and the chance to spot marine life makes it a well-rounded, affordable option for couples or groups of friends.

However, if you seek a quiet, romantic sunset without the noise and crowd, or travel with children, you might want to consider a different experience. The focus here really is on the energy and social aspect of Hawaii’s evening scene.

FAQ

Is parking available at the meeting point? Limited parking is available at Kewalo Basin Park, costing about $1 per hour. Arriving early or using ride-sharing services is recommended.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery, music, and socializing.

Can I bring outside alcohol? No, outside alcoholic beverages are not allowed onboard. Drinks are available for purchase, starting at $6.

Is this tour suitable for children? No, this is an adults-only tour, recommended for ages 21 and above.

What should I wear? Casual, comfortable clothing is fine. Shoes are not permitted onboard, so dress accordingly.

What’s included in the ticket price? One adult drink ticket and live DJ entertainment are included.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

Will I see marine animals? You might spot dolphins and green sea turtles, but sightings are not guaranteed.

Is the experience weather-dependent? Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, the Premier Waikiki Sunset Party Cruise offers a lively, scenic, and affordable way to enjoy Hawaii’s famous sunset. With lively music, beautiful views, and a fun crowd, it’s an experience that can easily become a highlight of your trip—so long as you’re prepared for the energy and adult-oriented atmosphere.