Sunset Cocktail Cruises

Finish up your day on Oahu with a sunset cruise, and you will soon have one of the best experiences in Hawaii. While there are many places to watch the sunset in Hawaii, there is no better way to enjoy the views than being out on the water with nothing between you and the sun slipping below the horizon. Watch as the skies and clouds turn into a beautiful and colorful array of pink, orange, with hints of purple, and in the moment where the sun finally disappears from view, keep an eye out for the famed, yet elusive, “Green Flash”. From casual sailing catamarans to party boat booze cruises, there is something for everyone on a sunset cruise in Honolulu!

• Although Oahu is usually nice and warm throughout the year, it can get a bit chilly on the Waikiki sunset cruises once the sun has set so you will want to bring a light jacket or sweater.
• Many of the sailing catamarans are “barefoot cruises” meaning you will be asked to take off your shoes before boarding the boat. Some boats will even have you go through ankle deep water to launch directly from the beach!
• While there is no dress code, most guests wear casual attire on Oahu sunset cocktail sails and cruises.
• There are a wide variety of restaurants around many of the cruise departure locations, and you can plan on having dinner before or after your Oahu sunset cruise.
• The sunset cruises on sailing catamarans will often have a lounging net to relax on during your tour. You might get splashed if you sit on the net, so be careful when you are in the area.
• Hold on tight! When you are cruising, keep on hand on the boat at all times to make sure you don’t slip and fall.
• If your tour is BYOB, many boats will not allow glass bottles, and it is safer to bring drinks that are in cans.
• It is customary to give the captain and crew a gratuity if you feel they did an excellent job, and cash tips are always appreciated.

Oahu sunset cruises depart from Waikiki, Ko Olina, and the North Shore, and depending on where you are staying on Oahu, the check-in location could be anywhere from a quick walk from your hotel to an hour long drive.

The Oahu sunset cocktail cruise tours do not offer transportation, so you will want to choose a cruise with a departure location close to where you are staying. The majority of the tours are within walking distance or a quick taxi or rideshare from Waikiki hotels, and there are also a few options for guests staying in Ko Olina or North Shore.

Q: How long is the sunset cruise in Honolulu?
A: Most Hawaii sunset cocktail cruises range from one to two hours in duration.

Q: What kind of drinks are served on Oahu sunset cruises?
A: Depending on the cruise, most serve a variety of drinks like mai tais, pina coladas, margaritas, beer, wine, and signature cocktails as well.

Q: Are Honolulu sunset cruises family-friendly?
A: Many of the cruises are family-friendly and welcome guests of all ages.

Q: Is food served on Oahu sunset cocktail cruises?
A: Some cruises will serve light appetizers, and many of the boats also allow guests to bring their own snacks on board as well.

Q: How much should you tip on a sunset cruise on Oahu?
A: It is customary to give 20% of your tour total to the captain and crew. If you total was $100, $20 to the crew is a good amount.