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Hawaii
So fun! Found it through a Groupon, and we totally got our money's worth. Take this cruise!
[Reviewed by HawaiiActivities.com Staff]
The evening began with a warm welcome as guests boarded the catamaran around 5:00–5:15pm, accompanied by live music at the dock. Light snacks were available and an open bar offered a variety of tropical cocktails and local beers, creating a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The boat was quite full, which led to long lines at the bar and limited snacks at times. The sail departed around 5:30pm and lasted about an hour. Ocean conditions were still a bit rough following recent storms, but we were still able to spot a few whales, which added a special touch to the experience.
After returning to shore, we headed straight to the luau and arrived while dinner and entertainment were already in progress, so we likely missed some of the pre-show activities such as hula lessons and cultural demonstrations. Dinner was described as a buffet, but it was actually set up more like a series of food trucks, kiosks, or booths, where guests visited different stations to receive plated items. While this setup provides a wide variety of options, it can also lead to using multiple plates per person.
The food was catered by Moani Island Bistro, which was flavorful and well-prepared. Seating was first-come, first-served for this event, but even though we were seated in the back, we still had a good view of the stage. The show itself featured engaging storytelling, Polynesian dances, and impressive production elements like lighting and visuals, giving it a polished, theatrical feel.
Overall, the combo offers a unique way to experience both a sunset sail and luau in one evening. However, timing overlaps may cause guests to miss some activities, and those sensitive to motion may find the boat portion challenging.
Take motion sickness pill before the cruise, and arrive early to secure a good spot on the catamaran
I couldn't see the whales well because I didn't know where they would come from. The boat was rocking, and I couldn't stand up and move around, so to avoid injury, I stayed seated and enjoyed the view of Waikiki Beach.
クジラがどこから出てくるか分らないのでよく見えませんでした。
船も揺れるし立ち上がってウロウロできないのでケガしないように椅子に座ったままで
ワイキキビーチを眺めて楽しみました。
Translated by OpenAI
I felt quite restricted due to my lack of English skills. There were no Japanese participants. As for the whales, I was able to spot them surfacing about three times, but they were only the size of my fingernail for a brief moment, and they were too far away to take any pictures, which was disappointing. I suppose it's just luck, so there's nothing to be done about it.
As everyone mentioned in their reviews, the sea breeze was cold, and during the sunset tour in March, wearing an ultra-light down jacket was just right. There was no place inside the boat to shield from the wind. The strong swaying and cold, along with the surprisingly long duration of the trip, caused my mother, who is in her 70s, to feel unwell.
I would recommend this for those who want to "enjoy a leisurely cruise while feeling the sea breeze" rather than for whale watching! There were small children moving around the boat, but I was quite worried they might fall through the gaps in the handrails due to the significant rocking.
英語力が皆無なので、結構不自由を感じました。
日本人の参加者はいませんでした。
肝心の鯨は３回ほど息継ぎを遠くに見つけられましたが、爪の先ほどのサイズが一瞬で、写真を撮れるほどの距離でも無く残念でした。これは運なので仕方ないです。
皆さまのレビューどおり、海風が寒く、3月晴れのサンセットツアーではウルトラライトダウンを着てちょうど良かった程です。船内は風を防げる場所もありません。
強い揺れと寒さと、航行が意外と長くて、70代の母は体調を崩してしまいました。
鯨目的より、「のんびり海の風を感じながらクルーズしたい」という方にはオススメです！小さなお子さんが船上を行き来していましたが、かなり上下左右に揺れるので手すりの隙間から落ちてしまわないか心配でした。
I didn't understand much from the reception, so it would be better to have at least some English listening skills. The sunset in March was chilly with the sea breeze, and the ultra-light down jacket w
受付からよく分からなかったので、英語力はある程度聞き取れるくらいはあった方が良いです。
３月のサンセットは海風が寒く、ウルトラライトダウンでちょうど良かったです！
Translated by OpenAI
The tour in Hawaii was affordable and great. The location was also good since it was near the Ala Moana Shopping Center.
ハワイのツアーの中で安くて良かったです。
近くにアラモアナショッピングセンターもあったので、場所も良かったです。
There was a restroom at the meeting place, but it was very dirty.
待ち合わせ場所にトイレはあったけど、すごく汚いです。
Translated by OpenAI
Everything was smooth sailing from our pick up at the Hyatt to being delivered back to the Hyatt after. Boarding was quick and easy. We had a member with mobility issues and even though the boat was rocking a little bit while going through the buffet she made it safely back to her seat with all her food still on the plate. Our waiter was Ryan and he was great. Very efficient and he loves to dance. He led us on a music train around the room, then got up and danced on the stage.
Food was decent, what I will say is it is typical buffet food. Nothing stood out as a WOW. The entertainment was good and lively. Also typical Polynesian dances if you've been to a Luau. Fireworks at the end of the night were spectacular and watching them from the water was a highlight.
If bus pick up is near where you are staying I would say it is worth the money.
Very friendly team. Highly recommend. Thank you very much
Friendly staff. Good drinks. Clear directions and information.
We booked this charter primarily for snorkeling, with sightseeing and fishing as secondary goals. Despite calling twice before the trip to express concerns about a 30 mph wind forecast, we were repeatedly told it was fine to proceed.
On the day of the trip, the conditions were so poor that other local companies canceled their snorkeling tours. Our captain even explicitly stated that snorkeling was unsafe. We pivoted to whale watching, but saw nothing due to the weather; the conditions were so miserable we had to cut the trip short.
Most disappointing was the company’s response. When I reached out, they claimed snorkeling was still possible "for strong swimmers"—a reckless statement considering we had children with us and the waves were objectively dangerous. It’s clear this business prioritizes keeping your money over customer safety and satisfaction. Avoid this company; they do not have their customers' best interests in mind.
Mahalo for your feedback. A quick note: the Captain has full discretion to assess safety within a 72 hour window, and guests may cancel or reschedule earlier. Safety is our priority, and non swimmers are often advised not to snorkel. This trip involved a non guided snorkel, with a second, safer spot chosen based on conditions. We acknowledge the experience wasn’t ideal for young children, including the 3 year old, and appreciate your concerns. In response, we offered 12 complimentary bottom fishing spots, though we recognize you received this after your trip and were off island to utilize it. The crew worked to maximize the arrangements given the weather, and future guests can expect clearer guidance on weather variability. Wildlife sightings included a manta ray and monk seal. Thank you again for helping us improve! We’re committed to safer, more predictable experiences for all guests.
The best staff!
The best views!
The best cruising!
Definitely get on and enjoy it!!
It was so good that there’s no reason not to ride!
最高のスタッフ！
最高の景色！
最高のクルージング！
是非乗って楽しんで下さい！！
乗らない理由がないくらい良かった！
Translated by OpenAI
Last time I participated in a whale watch was in March 2018, but I didn't see any whales then. This time, I was able to see them several times, and I was moved to see whales for the first time. Although I didn't get to see them jump high, I did see them surface and blow water.
The waves were calm, so I was able to participate without getting seasick. As sunset approached, we enjoyed a cruise up to Diamond Head and were able to see a beautiful sunset.
前回2018年3月に来た際にもホエールウォッチに参加しましたが、その時は見れずでした。
今回は数回に渡り見る事ができ、初めて見るクジラに感動です。
大きくジャンプする姿は見れませんでしたが、背中を出して潮を吹く姿は見れました。
波も穏やかで船酔いもせずに参加できました。
日没が近づくとダイヤモンドヘッド手前まで遊覧も楽しめて綺麗な夕日を見る事もできました。
At sunset, it can feel a bit chilly, so it's good to have a jacket.
サンセットだと、多少寒く感じるので上着があると良いです。
Translated by OpenAI
We were able to see dolphins shortly after the boat departed. It rained occasionally, and thanks to that, we also saw a rainbow. Miraculously, we were able to see whales about three times. The sea and Diamond Head from the ocean were both very beautiful, and I was extremely satisfied.
船が出発して早々にイルカを見ることが出来ました。
雨が時折降ってきて、そのおかげで虹も見れました。
奇跡的にクジラも3回程見る事が出来ました。
海も海から見るダイヤモンドヘッドもとても綺麗で大満足です。
Since we departed early in February, it was cold. I think those participating should wear or bring a hooded jacket that blocks the wind.
2月の早朝に出発した為、寒かったです。
参加される方は風の通さないフード付きの上着を着て行くか持って行った方がいいと思います。
Translated by OpenAI
Capt Jamie and the crew were amazing and very knowledgable! We got to see a pod of whales pop up 4 times or more, we saw flying fish, and a pid of dolphins with babies! Great cruise!
I participated in the morning tour. There were a lot of participants, and I think all the seats were full. I was looking forward to seeing whales since February is said to be a good season for it, but unfortunately, I didn't see any. They announced that we can reattempt for free at any time. The boat was larger than I expected, but it swayed a lot. I think having motion sickness medication would help. Also, since the wind was strong, it's better to have a light jacket or something to wear.
朝イチのツアーに参加しました。参加者はとても多く、椅子は満席だったと思います。
２月はクジラが見やすいシーズンとの事で期待してましたが、見れなかったです。
再チャレンジをいつでも無料でできるとアナウンスありました。
船は予測より大きいものでしたが、めちゃくちゃ揺れます。酔い止めあれば大丈夫かと思います。
あと、風が強いので薄手羽織ものある方がいいです
Translated by OpenAI
A mother and baby whale appeared. Although we didn't see them jump, we were able to see the mother's impressive tail fin, the cute baby's back, and their spouts.
親子の鯨が出てくれました。ジャンプは見られませんでしたが母親の立派な尾ヒレと、可愛いベビーの背中、潮吹きが見られました。
Please wear warm clothing because it's cold.
寒いので防寒着を着て行ってください
Translated by OpenAI
My first time in Hawaii, I was worried about the wind and waves, constantly checking the weather forecast. There were some waves, and I got wet up to my knees when boarding, but once we set sail, the ride was smooth, and I experienced a wonderful sunset. I was able to see the whales spouting and their tails, and the unlimited Mai Tais made it all a great memory.
初めてのハワイ、風や波の心配があり、天気予報と睨めっこ。少々波はあり、乗船時に膝上まで濡れましたが、出港してからは揺れが少なく、素晴らしいサンセットを体験。クジラの潮吹き、尾まで見ることができたこと、飲み放題マイタイ、全てが良い思い出です。
Translated by OpenAI
Really wonderful to upgrade to this awesome dinner schedule
Sunset views from the deck were absolutely stunning, and the buffet had a great variety of delish foods!
Overall a fun night out with great food, beautiful scenery, and an unforgettable show.
Wonderful evening!
Delicious dinner, polite efficient staff
It was a group of 10:30, but it seems we couldn't see the previous group. 😭
When we went out to sea, there were three parent whales and their baby, and they looked beautiful like in the pictures. Just as we were about to head back, the captain quickly turned around because the whales became more active. Thanks to that, we were able to see the baby whale jump multiple times. 🐳 Thank you, Captain! 🧑✈️ But since it was a baby, it looked more like the jumps of dolphins. 🤭
The view of Diamond Head from Waikiki by the sea is stunning.
Since it was a windy day in February, the boat rocked quite a bit. If you're sensitive to motion sickness, I recommend taking some medication beforehand. Also, while the sun is strong, there are times when the wind feels cold. I think having a long-sleeved cover-up would be a good idea.
1030のグループでしたが、その前のグループは見れなかったようです😭
沖に出ると三頭の親子がいて、写真のように見えました。
帰りかけた時に、クジラの動きが活発になったと、キャプテンが機転をきかして戻ってくれました。お陰でベビークジラのジャンプが何回も見れました🐳
ありがとう、キャプテン🧑✈️
でもベビーなので、イルカ🐬のジャンプのようでした🤭
海側からのワイキキからダイヤモンドヘッドの眺めは見事です。
2月で風の強い日だったので、かなり揺れました。揺れに弱い方は酔い止めを飲んでおくのをお勧めします。
また、陽射しは強いですが、風が寒いと感じる時も。長袖の羽織るものがあると良いと思います。
Translated by OpenAI
We were the only Japanese couple on board. During the departure, everything was in English. That said, you can manage just fine without being fluent. You can make it work. The drinks included Mai Tais and beer, which are all-you-can-drink and highly recommended for those who enjoy a good drink.
However, the yacht is quite large, but it moves up and down a lot. If you're not careful, you might fall into the sea. If you get really drunk, there's no doubt you'll fall in. Please be careful. If you're okay with roller coasters, you'll definitely enjoy it. Getting splashed by seawater also became a great memory.
The crowd was on the younger side, but even as a couple in our 50s, we thought that since we came to Hawaii, we should enjoy ourselves to the fullest. Japanese people tend to look younger, so there's no need to worry! Enjoy and Aloha~
日本人は私達、夫婦だけでした。
出航の際は全て英会話です。とは言え、何となく適当に乗れます。なんとでもなります。お酒はマイタイ、ビールなど、飲み放題で好きな方にはおすすめです。
ただ、ヨット船は大きいですがかなり上下運動します。へたしたら海に落ちます。泥酔したら間違いなく落ちます。気をつけて下さい。ジェットコースター大丈夫ならOK楽しめます。海水も被りながらそれもまた良い思い出となりました。
周りは若めな感じですが50代の私達夫婦でもハワイに来たからには楽しんだもん勝ちでしょう。日本人は若くみられますから心配ない！！楽しんでアロハ〜
Hold on tight so you don't fall into the sea.
しっかりつかまって、海に落ちないように
Translated by OpenAI
My companion boarded for the first time. Unfortunately, we couldn't see the sunset due to the weather, but the live music, food, and the night view of Waikiki were wonderful and felt extraordinary. There were also many newlyweds on board. There was a photo service (limited to Japanese customers?), and we received our pictures in a nice frame. I think it will be a great keepsake.
同伴者が初の乗船。生憎の天候でサンセットは見られてませんでしたが、生演奏や食事、夜景のワイキキなどの非日常が良かったです。新婚旅行の方も大勢おりました。写真もサービス(日本人限定？)があり、台紙に入れて貰えました。良い記念になると思います。
Once you head offshore, the boat tends to sway quite a bit, so if you are prone to seasickness, it would be wise to take some motion sickness medication in advance.
沖合に出ると割とゆらゆら揺れますので、船酔いされる方は酔い止めを予め飲んでおいた方が無難かと思います。
Thank you very much for coming aboard the Star of Honolulu as a couple. We are very pleased that you both enjoyed the five-star cruise. It is an honor for all of our staff to have been able to help create wonderful memories for you in Hawaii. We also appreciate your very positive review. We look forward to welcoming you again.
この度は私共のスターオブホノルル号にご夫婦でお越し頂き誠に有難うございました。ファイブスターでのクルーズをお二人で満足して頂き大変嬉しく思っております。そして、ハワイでの素敵な思い出作りのお手伝いができた事をスタッフ一同光栄に思っております。大変ポジティブな口コミも有難う御座います。又のお越しをお待ちしております。
Translated by OpenAI
Fun crew- free flowing drinks. Hooch ok could have been stronger. Overall a good experience
We went on this cruise for our anniversary… Had so much fun. We booked it for a few days later. The crew is always awesome and so much fun. We do this every time we are in Hawaii.
Just go… You’ve got to go! I don’t recommend this cruise for kids.
We have done this cruise every time we go to Hawaii. We had so much fun a few days prior that we booked it again! The crew always shows you a good time!
I would recommend the sunset cruise. Sometimes you mean see whales during whale season!
We have been to Hawaii several times and I kind of wanted to do a luau again, but also love getting on the water… This cruise is both… Quite a good deal! Also always fun!
I would recommend doing this dinner cruise, one of your first nights in Hawaii.
This time, we were lucky enough to see a mother and baby whale! It seems that whether you can see them depends on the day, so it's a matter of luck. However, we were able to go further out to sea following the whales and saw them spouting water, their tails, and even jumping. The crew members were friendly and chatted with us, making the journey enjoyable as well.
今回は運よく2頭の親子？クジラを見ることができました！やはり見られるかはその日によるそうなので運次第ではありますがクジラを追って沖にどんどんでてくださり潮吹きや尾びれ、ジャンプする姿まで見ることができました。CREWさん達も気さくにお話してくださるので移動中も楽しかったです。
As expected, since the sunlight is strong, I think a hat and sunglasses are necessary. Since it was the end of January, it was a bit chilly in the morning, so having a light jacket would be good.
やはり日差しが強いので帽子、サングラスは必要かと思います。1月末だったので朝は少し肌寒く薄手の上着があると良いかと思います。
Translated by OpenAI
The sunset was very beautiful, with pleasant music and a nice breeze, creating a comfortable atmosphere. However, when it comes to whale watching... We were unable to see any whales here. Therefore, my rating is disappointing.
サンセットは、とても綺麗で雰囲気の良い音楽と気持ちの良い風で、心地よい雰囲気♡
しかし、クジラウォッチングとなると…。
こちらでは、鯨を拝見することは出来ませんでした。
なので、残念な評価になってます。
The sunset, atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and pleasant feeling are all amazing! Don't rely on seeing whales, but if you go, it's fun! They also sell drinks, which is great!
サンセットと雰囲気と綺麗な景色と気持ちの良さは最高です！
鯨は当てにせず、乗るなら楽しいです！
飲み物なども販売してるので、良き！
Translated by OpenAI
I participated in this casual and affordable tour off the coast of Waikiki with low expectations. It was a 7:30 AM tour, but when the time came, the staff from Pink Sails Waikiki had not shown up, and there was no sign, which made me anxious. However, since they were Americans, it turned out to just be a delay. The entire tour was conducted in English, but I didn't feel any language barrier in my desire to see whales. Half of the passengers were American, while the rest were from Asia and India, with three groups of Japanese.
As for the whales, they showed themselves about ten times, but where they would surface was a matter of luck. There were many families with children present. The boat was a catamaran, which had less rocking, but it seems that you can get closer to the whales on a smaller boat. Therefore, binoculars are essential. I took photos with a super telephoto lens; I don't think it's possible with a smartphone.
ワイキキ沖の気軽で、格安ツアーなのでダメ元の覚悟で参加しました。朝イチ7:30のツアーでしたが時間になっても主催者のPink Sails Waikiki のスタッフは現れず、看板ひとつ出していないので不安でしたが、相手はアメリカ人、ただの遅刻でした。このツアーは全て英語のみの案内ですが、クジラを観たい気持ちに言葉の壁は感じませんでした。乗客は半分がアメリカ人残りがアジアやインド系、日本人は3組でした。肝心のクジラは10回ほど姿を見せてくれましたが、何処に顔を出すか？は運次第。親子連れが多く現れてました。船は双胴船で揺れが少ないですが、クジラに近寄れるのは小さなボートのようです。したがって双眼鏡が必需品と云えます。写真は超望遠レンズで撮影しました。スマホでは無理だと思います。
1. Line up quickly on the pier side to secure the front row seats.
2. Bring binoculars just like for bird watching.
①早く桟橋側に並んで、最前席を確保する
②バードウォッチング同様に双眼鏡を持参
Translated by OpenAI
