Reviewed by: Derek S.
I had been looking for a nice dinner cruise that is a little more intimate than the large ships with several hundred people. The Makani sunset dinner cruise was perfect with only 30-40 people and a much more personal feel. Check-in was 5:00 and we boarded the catamaran around 5:20. We were given a quick overview of the ship, safety protocol, and facilities and were off around 5:30.
The initial drink service was a little slow with only one bartender but after the first round, ran fairly quickly. The food came out about 30-45 minutes into the trip and was a very tasty buffet line, similar fare to most Asian buffets in Hawaii.
The catamaran is a great design with a lot of exposed areas to stand, sit, and sunbathe as well as rails all around the ship. There is also a covered seating/dining area below deck in the center with the bar that is perfect for getting out of the wind and/or enjoying your dinner.
The night we went out was pretty windy/choppy but it didn't bother us and didn't look like anyone else aboard the ship had any motion sickness issues. The crew was very friendly and helped to deliver a great dinner cruise experience. We had captain Johnny, bartender Jenna, and can't remember the first mates name.
The fireworks display finished off our night and then we quickly returned to the harbor. I'd definitely recommend this dinner cruise and will take friends and family visiting Hawaii on this again in the future.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Friday Fireworks Sail 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/04/20 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/04/17 |
Reviewed by: Alc
It was perfect, the food, the sunset, fireworks and staff, we even met some very nice people aboard as well, the whole experience made our vacation even better
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Island Buffet & Friday Fireworks Package |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/04/10 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/03/27 |
Reviewed by: Justin
My friend and I had a really enjoyable time on the Makani Sunset Dinner Sailing cruise. Used the shuttle service that picked up right at the hotel and was comfortable, convenient and the driver was professional and courteous. The check-in process was simple and easy. The ship itself was in good condition, larger size and the group was manageable, good mix of people and not overcrowded. The Captain was professional yet casual and fun along with the staff including the entertaining bartender. The drinks were fun and good and the food was also good and filling and good mix of options with more than enough for seconds. The cruise itself was a highly enjoyable great experience on the water, view of Waikiki and the Crater. The full moon over the crater was an awesome treat along with the crew keeping the boat in perfect position to watch the Friday night fireworks. They returned the boat right on time and the shuttle back was also convenient. All-in-all, it was a great experience and recommend it to others.
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| Packages: | Friday Fireworks Sail 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2015/04/09 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/04/03 |
Reviewed by: Maiwayalways1
Do not skimp on this cruise... The window seating is spacious and the views are breathtaking! And when you arrive back@ the Harbor, you will be allowed off first. No cramped, uncomfortable seating and no waiting for your meal or to exit off. We're not impatient people but when you have small children and want the views this upgrade is worthy.
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| Packages: | Royal Sunset Dinner & Friday Fireworks |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2015/04/07 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/04/03 |
Reviewed by: Maiwayalways1
The deluxe dinner cruise was great! We upgraded to the window seating and that was a fantastic choice for our family. The investment was worthwhile.The children had front views of the water and full moon. The dinner was good but the beef was the highlight. It was so tender like prime rib! So good!
The fireworks were nice and the entertainment was engaging. The entire staff including the Captain were hospitable and welcoming. It was our second cruise with Navatek but our children's first and it's definitely one of our families' favorite excursions.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Royal Sunset Dinner & Friday Fireworks |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2015/04/07 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/04/03 |
Reviewed by: Janine Batley
This dinner cruise was very entertaining and relaxed. We came away at the end of the night thoroughly impressed. The staff on board were very nice, they talked to us personally about Hawaii and what to do while we were staying. The dinner was buffet style and the food was very tasty. Be sure to take warm clothing, as it got later into the night there was a cool sea breeze. The fireworks were impressive, however even without the fireworks the dinner cruise would still be just as good. The boat was in lovely condition and fit lots of people easily. The 2 free drinks was an extra bonus! Overall, we had a lovely night out and would highly recommend as a lovely night out on the water in Honolulu.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Friday Fireworks Sail 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2015/04/05 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/04/03 |
Reviewed by: Stephen
We didn't get up to Diamond Head as announced as we had to head back to port for a health emergency with one of the crew.
Otherwise food was great and atmosphere fantastic!
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Pacific Star Dinner Buffet, Polynesian Show & One Cocktail |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/04/04 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/03/14 |
Reviewed by: Gail
This dinner cruise was truly spectacular. We checked in and seemed to be upgraded from the roast beef dinner to the steak and crab dinner. Love it! We were seated at an intimate table for two on the side of the stage and were able to start eating while the rest of the guests were seated with efficiency. It didn't take long for us to be on our way and dinner was served. The steak was medium rare and delicious and the crab (if not a little cold) was wonderful. Entertainment was superb! We enjoyed the beautiful sunset and even spotted a few whales in the distance and enjoyed the Polynesian entertainment. We were able to stroll all decks and since the 2nd deck was not occupied enjoyed a quiet moment before returning to the dock. Enjoyed every minute.
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| Packages: | Pacific Star Dinner Buffet, Polynesian Show & One Cocktail |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/03/31 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/03/28 |
Reviewed by: Crystal Liu
Everything was pretty good except tables were too close.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Royal Sunset Dinner & Friday Fireworks |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2015/03/30 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/03/20 |
Reviewed by: Brad
There really isn't any better way to see the Hawaiian sunset than cruising off Waikiki beach - with only the sound of wind whistling through the sails...great food and good conversations. The crew are very friendly - sharing their sailing experiences and interesting facts about the island and Pacific ocean. The captain is very personable and experienced (having raced large sailboats). He set the sails just right for a comfortable cruise and even allowed some to take a try at the helm. In addition to the great panoramic view of Waikiki and sunset we saw a sea turtle and whales. If we had more time on this trip we would do this sailing cruise again...and most definitely will the next time we're on Oahu.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Standard Package 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/03/27 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/03/22 |
Reviewed by: kar52
the food is delicious but choices are limited. There were wonderful view and music & performence
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Island Buffet Package |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/03/27 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/03/24 |
Reviewed by: Shea
It was a good fun thing to do as a family. My only complaint was we were to be released by tables for the food but apparently the Japan folks didn't get that and we ended up having to wait a long time. The ship was clean and the staff we nice.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Pacific Star Dinner Buffet, Polynesian Show & One Cocktail |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2015/03/25 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/03/22 |
Reviewed by: Aidan
Being on a quiet catamaran sailboat is a unique experience in comparison to a noisy motorboat. The buffet dish I like the most was the BBQ teriyaki chicken. The staff were experienced and friendly, starting off with a comical safety briefing and ending off with a friendly goodbye. The bartender was very knowledgeable about dealing with seasickness and different types of liqueurs. The drink special was a delicious tropical blend that fits perfectly with the environment. It was smooth sailing going out and back in, and we saw multiple whale spoutings in the distance. Listening to the relaxing music with the rhythmic movements of the ocean made a relaxing trip.
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| Packages: | Standard Package 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/03/23 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/03/22 |
Reviewed by: Ms. Kitty
My friends and I were finally able to get together on Oahu, and we knew that we wanted to spend it out on the water. This cruise was the perfect choice since we got to snorkel at TWO spots (both filled with fish, coral, urchins, etc.), sipped on cocktails, devoured plates and plates of food, watched the sunset AND got to see whales! We literally couldn't ask for more!
After leaving the harbor, we headed out to the first snorkel spot and got the first glimpse of whales and after we got out of the water (which was really warm by the way), we saw even MORE whales!
The food was really hearty and filling (pulled pork, teriyaki chicken, a really tasty pasta salad, white rice, veggies and fruit) and the crew kept all of our drinks topped up :)
Really happy that we got to go on this cruise, and can't wait to go again on my next visit!
| Rating: | |
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| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2015/03/18 |
Reviewed by: Ms. Ems
I had an amazing time! Cruise was fun! I've been to many dinner cruises on the island and the Navatek boat is indeed by far the smoothest ride I've ever been. We went during the Nagaoka Festival in Waikiki and the fireworks display was so outstanding, which made it more enjoyable and memorable for us!
The staff at the Ticket Desk were also very friendly. We got there 45-minutes early and Josh was very kind enough to answer the many questions I had while we were waiting. It wasn't their normal schedule that night and Josh was able to share their regular schedule with me, the transportation and check-in procedures, and wait times from boarding to departure.
As for the servers on the boat, they were okay but they could have been better! I would have preferred them to be more energetic and quicker. Our server that night seemed a little too tired and it also took us a while to get the drinks we ordered. Very good food though! The teriyaki garlic chicken was my favorite..yummmm!!!!
The Polynesian entertainment was good but I wish it was longer. They only performed three (3) different dances and that was it. The host and singer was also good, I like that she interact with the audience while singing but I wish she could have sang songs that are more familiar to the audience. I thought the songs were too old to be sung these days.
Something that I never expected though is the dancing at the end of the cruise! We danced the night away and that was so much fun! I loved it! I'm glad I took this trip as I didn't know this is also available at Navatek. I've always thought this to be more intimate, for couples celebrating their anniversaries or honeymooners who want a quiet and romantic moment but this can be for families or group of friends as well.
Thank you Navatek for allowing me and my family to enjoy your cruise!
| Rating: | |
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| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2015/03/13 |
Reviewed by: こうちゃん
It was a lot of fun to experience the boat trip with my friends. The boat was small and swayed a bit, but after having a cocktail, I felt energized. When I went out on deck, suddenly a whale appeared, surfacing multiple times and spouting water—it was a surprising and happy moment. We had a great view of Diamond Head, and the sunset was absolutely perfect for the mood. Just when I thought it was time to head back, the whale showed its tail several times, as if inviting us to come back to the waters of Hawaii. I plan to come again next year. The sunset cruise was amazing!
友人夫婦と一緒に初体験船は小さいがとても楽しかったです。船は少し揺れカクテルを少し頂いたら元気になれ甲板に出ると突然鯨が~背中を何度も出し潮吹きを目のあたりし驚き幸せのひと時でしたダイヤモンドヘッドが良く見られ日が落ちるサンセットはムード最高でした。そろそろ帰るのかな~と思っていると又クジラが尾びれを何度も見せていただき又ハワイの海に来て~
て行っているようでした。来年も来る予定です。サンセットクルーズは最高~です。
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | 通常プラン(2017年12月31日まで) |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2015/03/04 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/02/07 |
Reviewed by: Debbie
Highly recommend it! Crew was wonderful. Made sure we had drinks and the appetizers. View of Waikiki absolutely breathtaking!the sunset was magical! Also saw humpback whales as a bonus! Would do it again.
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| Packages: | Sunset Sail (Until 12/31/2017) |
| Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/24 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/02/21 |
Reviewed by: AMAM
We liked this. There were very few food options. The crew were friendly and the view stunning.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Pacific Star Dinner Buffet, Polynesian Show & One Cocktail |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/15 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/02/12 |
Reviewed by: Maria Presta
It was a great experience. I would like to do it again. great staff on board very well organised , and the show was amazing, good to see that great atmosphere. Thank you so much to give us that great night we will remember my 50th birthday.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Island Buffet Package |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/03 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/31 |
Reviewed by: Mike
We had a fantastic time and a great meal. The entertainment was also great. I would recommend this to anyone - couples or famalies.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Pacific Star Dinner Buffet, Polynesian Show & One Cocktail |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/07 |
| Activity Date: | 2014/09/24 |
Reviewed by: Alex
I really enjoyed the cruise. They started on time and I didn't have any issues confirming my seat through this website. I was on their list promptly. It lasts roughly two hours and the first 15 minutes generally consists of a safety briefing before everyone gets started. The crew was very informative and they allowed you to fully walk the boat as well as take pictures while you are stirring the boat. The sunset itself was beautiful and we happen to catch a few whales while out there. Overall it was well worth the experience. It's definitely a little pricy however if you are looking for a good cruise, this should definitely be something you consider.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Standard Package 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/06 |
| Activity Date: | 2014/12/31 |
Reviewed by: dolphin
We got a free shuttle bus from Waikiki but arrived in the harbor an hour earlier. I don't know why the driver pick us so early. We just stayed in the harbor and took pictures of us to kill the time. After we had done the tour, we needed to go back to the hotel by ourselves by using the city bus.
Hospitality, food, drink and music were all good! If you are lucky, you can see whales during winter. (We couldn't see them.) Besides that, the sunset was beautiful and hilarious.
We suggest that you had better to bring sweater, jacket or whatever you like to wear in December and January as it is chilly and windy. Overall, we highly recommend you join this tour if you have enough time in Waikiki. If you don't expect too much, then this cruise is for you. The ship was small but it was okay for us to enjoy having dinner and seeing the sunset.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Standard Package 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/05 |
| Activity Date: | 2014/12/30 |
Reviewed by: dolphin
It was windy and chilly because we joined this tour in the end of December. We thought Hawaii is hot even in winter but it wasn't. Early morning and evening was chilly. Jackets or sweaters are must! My dad felt bad as he wore short sleeves and short pants. I saw some people had sea sick. Some of them were lying on the chair and did nothing. One of the staffs take them and told them to breathe a fresh air. I realized staffs were considerate and generous. Besides, food was good. They had six dishes, which were teriyaki chicken, white rice, broccoli with beef, vegetable burritos, macaroni salad, and cookies. Everything was fine.I think teriyaki chicken was the best. Most of the dishes were cooked with vegetables so everybody can enjoy having dinner. However, the dinner would be better if all the food was hot until we started to eat.
Overall, We highly recommend you take long sleeves if you will join the cruise in winter. The sunset was beautiful and was the last time to see in 2014.(We're suppose to join the cruise on 30th but it was cancelled due to a bad weather. So, we did it the following day instead.) I guess all generations can enjoy this cruising!
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Standard Package 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/05 |
| Activity Date: | 2014/12/30 |
Reviewed by: Tina
We had a great time on the sunset fireworks cruise. We had a friendly crew and the food was pretty good. I would definitely recommend this cruise.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Friday Sunset & Fireworks Sail |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2014/12/30 |
| Activity Date: | 2014/12/26 |
Reviewed by: mysticlair
Ocean Joy Snorkel & Sunset Dinner Cruise was worth every penny!!!! As Kamaaina, my husband and I enjoy participating in various so called "tourist" activities. Not everyone who lives in Hawaii has a boat...so activites that offer ocean fun is very appealing. The trip started with a very comfortable pick up and ride aboard a full sized air conditioned bus. The driver was even early for pick-up. Ocean Joy fulfilled our every need from the moment we arrived at the check-in location to the time we departed the boat. The staff were very attentive and informative. The food was plentiful and the bar was flowing. We experienced one of the best views of our local sunset and even got to see a whale breach off the side of the boat. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting Hawaii and other "Locals" who are looking for new things to do.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2014/12/16 |
| Activity Date: | 2014/12/13 |
Reviewed by: Chad
My wife and I did this as part of our honeymoon. And even though it was a cloudy evening and we didn't get to see the sunset, we still really enjoyed the trip. The crew was very personable and friendly. And even in choppy seas, the ride was smooth and peaceful. Got to see Waikiki from a different perspective, being on the ocean, and all lit up at night. The food was good, but the only thing that I would change is that the food could have been warmer. Overall an enjoyable time and I would recommend.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Standard Package 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2014/12/13 |
| Activity Date: | 2014/12/11 |
Reviewed by: Jen
This cruise was amazing. The Royal Sunset dinner was absolutely superb. I wish I could have done it every night of my vacation.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Special Christmas Dinner Cruise |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2014/12/07 |
| Activity Date: | 2014/11/03 |
Reviewed by: Desi Babu
I had been many dinner cruises in Chicago, Portland and New Orleans, But this was the best one !!! so far.
First time & confused couples must try this !!
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Pacific Star Dinner Buffet, Polynesian Show & One Cocktail |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2014/11/30 |
| Activity Date: | 2014/11/28 |
Reviewed by: William
This sunset dinner and snorkel sail was excellent! The catamaran was very spacious with plenty of space to walk around and two spacious clean bathrooms. The staff was incredibly friendly and the photographer was exceptional! The food for dinner was also very good! After being in Hawaii for four days already and snorkeling each day, I am so glad I took with snorkel tour since it was by far the best snorkeling with beautiful reefs and sea life, and the photographer came into the water and took underwater photos of us! A jump drive with all the photos cost $40 and was well worth it! Of note do take some motion sickness medicine, you are on a boat! Overall I would highly recommend this trip to any one who wants to see great corral and beautiful sea life!
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2014/11/23 |
Reviewed by: In awe!
Our Makani Sunset Dinner Cruise was simply amazing!Everything about this trip was memorable-from checking in, boarding, cruising, and (sadly),returning to port.The wonderful and hospitable staff, delicious dinner, refreshing drinks, and the stunning sunset made this experience the best bang for your buck on the island. The evening started with us boarding the catamaran and choosing a seat next to the captains. We took photos and then assembled for a friendly,but thorough welcome by the small but mighty crew of three. We then fired up the bar and the engines and headed out on the ocean listening to a variety of island vibes. It was so picturesque- Heads bobbing, couples hugging, boat sailing, and the sun slowly going down.And did I mention a bridal shower group on the boat.!We chatted with others (local and first timers) and shared one common theme.....we were on the fun boat. We ate a delicious buffet of rice, colorful pasta salad, islandy tofu rolls, sweet glazed teriyaki chicken, beef and crunchy broccoli, mini egg rolls, and macadamia nut cookies (there was even food left over). The coolest part of the trip came with the sunset. We hung out on the catamaran (trampoline bed) chatting and feeling the breeze. We also took turns passing around our cameras for photo opps. As the sun disappeared into the horizon, we began to feel the 180 of the boat.While the cityscape was absolutely beautiful as it lit up the shoreline, we didn't want it to end. What an excellent adventure! Many thanks to that awesome crew for a lifetime reflection of what paradise really feels like! Mahalo!
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Standard Package 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2014/11/16 |
| Activity Date: | 2014/11/12 |
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Reply from activity provider
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Aloha,
We are very happy that you guys had a wonderful experience on our Sunset Dinner Cruise.
Makani wants our customers have the best time on all of our Sails.
Hope to see you guys again on another Sail:)
Mahalo,
Makani Crew