Sunset Dinner Cruise on North America’s LARGEST Solar Boat! (6PM)

If you’re exploring Charlottetown and looking for something memorable that combines technology, history, and great food, the Sunset Dinner Cruise aboard the Isola Solaretto might just fit the bill. This isn’t your average boat tour—it’s a voyage into a sustainable future, set against the scenic backdrop of Canada’s birthplace, with a hearty, locally-sourced meal to match the views.

From what we’ve seen in reviews and tour descriptions, this experience offers a rare chance to enjoy a delicious 4-course meal while gliding across the harbor on North America’s largest solar-powered dinner boat. The unique blend of eco-conscious design, historic vessel charm, and breathtaking sunset views makes it a standout.

However, it’s worth noting that while this experience is ideal for those who love scenery and good food, it’s not a city sightseeing tour in the traditional sense. Plus, because it’s weather-dependent and has a maximum group size of 34, planning ahead is wise. It’s best suited for travelers eager to combine a sophisticated dinner with a relaxed, scenic cruise.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly luxury: The boat’s solar tech ensures a quiet, fumes-free ride.
• Hearty, locally-sourced dinner: Lobster, beef, seasonal veggies, and desserts.
• Rich history and scenic views: Historic sites and Charlottetown harbor vistas.
• Intimate group size: Only 34 guests, perfect for a relaxed atmosphere.
• Pre-booking with a good lead time: About 34 days in advance on average.
• Good value for a memorable experience: Around $140 per person for 2 hours of fun and food.

An Overview of the Experience

This cruise hits all the right notes for travelers seeking a blend of sustainability, history, and gourmet dining. The boat itself is a conversation piece—a fully rebuilt 55-year-old Canadian Heritage vessel from the 1967 Montreal Expo—now outfitted with a 6 kW solar array, 40 kW batteries, and a 20 kW electric motor. It’s impressive not just for its eco credentials but also for how smoothly it operates, with no diesel fumes or noise.

The itinerary begins with a glimpse of Charlottetown’s historic defenses, including cannon battalions used in the 1800s. You’ll also see the area where the Mi’Kmaq people settled, and where the French once built a fort to guard the harbor mouth—now a national historic site. These stops aren’t just facts; they set the scene for understanding the deep roots of the city you’re floating through.

The cruise lasts about two hours, providing ample time to relax, soak in the sunset, and indulge in a surf and turf dinner. The meal kicks off with steamed PEI blue mussels and fresh rolls, followed by Caesar salad with house-made dressing, a half lobster, and grass-fed PEI beef steak with seasonal vegetables. You then get to choose two desserts—a sweet finish to a well-rounded meal—and enjoy tea or coffee.

The Scenic and Historic Highlights

Beyond the delicious food, this cruise offers some terrific views of Charlottetown’s waterfront, especially at sunset. The harbor becomes a canvas of warm colors, and the boat’s large windows let you enjoy the scenery from every seat.

The historic sites you’ll pass add another layer of interest. While the primary focus is on the scenic cruise and dinner, some reviews note a desire for more historical commentary. One reviewer appreciated the knowledgeable crew but also expressed a wish for more detail about Charlottetown’s past. Still, the boat’s connection to the famous 1967 Montreal Expo and its history as a Canadian Heritage vessel lend a special character to the experience.

Dining and Atmosphere

The dinner itself garners high praise—“Excellent supper” and “Great dinner” are common sentiments. The surf and turf offering provides a generous portion of PEI lobster and grass-fed beef, reflecting local culinary traditions. The seasonal vegetables and house-made Caesar dressing add freshness, and the choice of two desserts keeps the meal light and enjoyable.

Many reviews mention the friendly crew and the social, intimate setting—the boat’s booth seating is designed for relaxed conversation, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to enjoy a special evening in good company.

Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing at around $140.10 per person is quite reasonable given the combination of a gourmet dinner and scenic cruise on a unique, environmentally sustainable vessel. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, which is just enough time to savor your meal and enjoy the sunset without feeling rushed.

The tour departs from 1 Weymouth St, Charlottetown, and includes WiFi and restroom facilities onboard—important comforts for a two-hour outing. Alcoholic beverages aren’t included but are available for purchase, so you could consider bringing your favorite drink to enhance the experience.

Since the tour is weather-dependent, a poor-weather day could mean rescheduling or a full refund. This is a common aspect of outdoor activities, but it’s worth planning accordingly, especially if you’re traveling during shoulder seasons.

The small group size of 34 travelers keeps the atmosphere cozy, allowing for more personalized service and conversation. The age restriction for alcohol (19+) is typical, and service animals are welcome, making it accessible to most travelers.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who appreciates sustainable travel, this cruise offers an eco-friendly way to see Charlottetown’s harbor. Food lovers will adore the locally-sourced surf and turf menu, and history buffs will find the vessel’s origins and the harbor’s past intriguing—even if you wish for a bit more historical commentary.

It’s ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or families with older children who can appreciate the scenic views and the meal. Those looking for a luxurious, relaxed evening with a focus on comfort and quality will find this cruise a worthwhile splurge.

However, if you’re seeking a more active or city-focused tour, this might not be the best fit. It’s a quiet, scenic, and culinary-focused experience that emphasizes the harbor’s beauty and the boat’s innovative tech.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This dinner cruise manages to combine technology, scenic beauty, and gourmet food in a way that feels both meaningful and enjoyable. The solar-powered vessel offers a glimpse into a sustainable future, while the delicious, locally-sourced meal makes the evening special.

For travelers craving a relaxing, intimate experience that combines learning, beautiful views, and good food, this cruise delivers in spades. The reviews overwhelmingly endorse it, and the effort to incorporate eco-conscious design into a pleasurable outing is commendable.

In terms of value, $140 gives you not just a meal but an experience—an opportunity to see Charlottetown from a different perspective, powered by the sun. Perfect for those who want a memorable night that combines innovation, history, and great food in one smooth package.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the alcohol restriction (minimum age 19) applies only to drinking; children are welcome to join and enjoy the scenery and meal.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs approximately two hours, providing enough time for sightseeing, dining, and enjoying the sunset without feeling overly long.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included but are available for purchase onboard.

What should I wear?
Since the cruise takes place outdoors, dress comfortably for the weather, and consider layers, especially in cooler evenings.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour is on a historic vessel that has been refurbished, but specific accessibility details are not provided. It’s best to contact Ride Solar directly for precise info.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Most bookings are made about 34 days in advance, so last-minute reservations may be challenging, especially during peak times.

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

In sum, the Sunset Dinner Cruise on North America’s largest solar boat offers a thoughtful mix of sustainability, history, and culinary delight. It’s a well-rounded experience that makes for a memorable evening, especially for those who enjoy scenic water views paired with good company and great food.