Oahu: Sunset Sail Cruise in Waikiki

A Sunset Sail Cruise in Waikiki offers a peaceful way to enjoy Oahu’s coastline from the water. Set on a 55-foot double-decker catamaran, this tour combines spectacular sunset views, marine life encounters, and comfortable onboard amenities for just $54 per person. With a duration of 2 hours, it’s an ideal evening activity for those seeking a serene experience with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to see dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and native fish.

While the tour is praised for its stunning vistas and welcoming crew, a notable consideration is the potential for a rocky boat ride that might cause discomfort for some guests. This experience suits visitors looking for a relaxed, scenic, and informative cruise that offers a fresh perspective on Waikiki and the surrounding ocean environment.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The cruise costs $54 per person and lasts 2 hours.
• Boat and Decks: It features a spacious, double-decker catamaran with both open-air and shaded areas.
• Marine Life Viewing: Access an underwater viewing room to observe dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and native fish.
• Sunset Views: Witness Waikiki’s coastline as the sun sets, providing ideal photo opportunities.
• Snacks and Drinks: Enjoy complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages; BYOB (21+) is allowed.
• Meeting Point: The tour departs from Kewalo Harbor, a short 5-minute ride from Waikiki hotels.

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The Boat: Spacious, Double-Decker Catamaran

The 55-foot catamaran offers plenty of room with comfortable seating on both decks. The open-air upper deck provides unobstructed views of the sunset and coastline, perfect for panoramic photos. The lower shaded cabin allows guests to relax out of the sun while still enjoying the surrounding scenery.

A major highlight is the underwater viewing room, giving guests a unique perspective on marine life beneath the boat. The vessel also comes equipped with two restrooms for convenience, ensuring comfort during the cruise. The surround sound system plays music to enhance the relaxing atmosphere as the evening unfolds.

Meeting Point at Kewalo Harbor

The cruise begins at Kewalo Harbor, located at 1025 Ala Moana Blvd, Slip F06 in Honolulu. The pickup from Waikiki hotels takes about 5 minutes, making it easy to reach without long transfers. Guests are advised to check in 30 minutes before the scheduled departure, as missed boats are not eligible for refunds.

Marine Life Encounters and Underwater Viewing

One of the tour’s standout features is the underwater viewing room. This allows guests to observe dolphins, whales, and sea turtles below the surface, adding an exciting element to the sunset cruise. Sightings of native fish are also common, giving an authentic glimpse of Hawaii’s marine ecosystem.

This feature, combined with the stunning coastal scenery, makes for a memorable and photo-worthy experience. The chances of marine life sightings depend on the weather and season, but the dedicated underwater viewing area enhances the likelihood of seeing marine creatures close-up.

Sunset and Coastal Views from Waikiki

As the boat drifts along the Waikiki coastline, the setting sun creates a warm, glowing backdrop for photos and peaceful moments. The views of Waikiki Beach and the city skyline from the water are particularly striking during the golden hour.

Guests enjoy the tranquility of the ocean and the chance to capture beautiful pictures of the iconic scenery. The serene atmosphere makes this cruise a perfect way to unwind after a day exploring the island.

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Food, Drinks, and Onboard Comfort

Complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are included, making the cruise comfortable without additional costs. Guests also have the option to bring their own alcoholic beverages aboard if they are 21 years or older.

The comfortable seating and ample space on the boat allow guests to relax and enjoy the surroundings at their own pace. The surround sound music system adds to the ambiance, creating a mellow and enjoyable environment onboard.

Considerations and Practical Tips

A notable review mentions that the boat can be rocky, which might cause discomfort for some guests, especially those prone to motion sickness. It’s advisable to wear comfortable clothes and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera to make the most out of the experience.

Since the trip is weather-dependent, it’s wise to check the forecast before booking. Also, walking over an hour from Waikiki hotels to the meeting point was noted as a lengthy walk, so planning transportation accordingly can help avoid delays.

The Crew and Atmosphere

The crew is praised for being friendly and professional, contributing to a warm, welcoming environment. The music and commentary during the cruise add to the overall enjoyment, helping guests feel engaged with the scenery and marine life.

The boat was reported to be almost empty during one trip, providing a private feel and plenty of space to spread out, which enhances the overall comfort.

Price and What’s Included

At $54 per person, this cruise offers good value considering the scenic views, marine encounters, and onboard amenities. The tour includes access to both decks, the underwater viewing room, snacks and drinks, and use of restrooms.

Additional costs include a fuel surcharge of $7 and an ocean usage fee of $1, which are payable on the day of the trip.

Who Would Most Enjoy This Tour

This cruise is ideal for those seeking a relaxing evening activity, photographers wanting sunset shots, and marine life enthusiasts. It’s suited to guests comfortable with a potentially rocky ride and looking for a peaceful, scenic experience. The informative crew and beautiful coastal scenery make this a memorable addition to any Waikiki itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the sunset cruise last?
The cruise lasts 2 hours, usually scheduled in the evening.

Where does the tour depart from?
The departure point is Kewalo Harbor, located at 1025 Ala Moana Blvd, Slip F06 in Honolulu.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, guests may bring their own alcoholic beverages if they are 21 or older.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the spacious decks and comfortable seating make for a relaxing experience. The underwater viewing room adds a special touch.

Are marine life sightings guaranteed?
Sightings depend on season and weather conditions, but the underwater viewing room increases the chances of seeing dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a camera, snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes for the cruise.

This Sunset Sail Cruise in Waikiki offers a calm, scenic way to enjoy Oahu’s coastline during the golden hour with the added thrill of marine life viewing. With spacious decks, live music, and complimentary snacks, it provides an enjoyable and affordable evening out. Despite potential motion sickness issues for some, the stunning views and friendly crew make it a worthwhile experience for many visitors.

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