Waikiki offers a variety of sunset cruise experiences, each tailored to different preferences and group sizes. Understanding the types of vessels available can help you choose the perfect setting for your evening on the water. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the main boat types used for Waikiki sunset cruises, complete with examples and key features.
Sailing Catamarans
Sailing catamarans are twin-hulled vessels known for their stability and spacious open decks. They provide a smooth sailing experience, allowing guests to enjoy the ocean breeze and panoramic views.
Examples:
- Na Hoku 3: Departing directly from Waikiki Beach near Duke’s Restaurant, this vibrant yellow and red catamaran offers 1.5-hour sunset sails with complimentary drinks, creating a lively and fun atmosphere
- Holokai Catamaran: Known for its friendly crew and open-bar policy, Holokai provides a 90-minute sunset sail, often turning strangers into friends as they enjoy the scenic views of Waikiki and Diamond Head.
Key Features:
- Open-air decks with ample seating
- Beach boarding for easy access
- Often include complimentary drinks or open bars.
- Restrooms available onboard
Power Catamarans
Power catamarans combine the stability of twin hulls with motorized propulsion, allowing for faster travel and the ability to cover more area regardless of wind conditions. They often feature multiple decks and additional amenities.
Examples:
- Living Ocean Tours’ Coral Kai: A 50-foot double-decker vessel offering 90-minute BYOB sunset cruises along the Waikiki coastline, complete with panoramic views and a family-friendly environment.
- Haleiwa Queen: Operated by Hawaii Glass Bottom Boats, this 50-foot power catamaran features glass-bottom viewing areas illuminated at night, providing a unique perspective of marine life during sunset cruises.
Key Features:
- Multiple decks with indoor and outdoor seating
- Faster speeds for extended cruising areas
- Family-friendly with amenities like restrooms and shaded areas
- Some offer unique features like glass-bottom viewing
Multi-Deck Cruise Ships
These larger vessels provide a more traditional cruise experience, often featuring multiple levels, indoor dining areas, and live entertainment. They are ideal for those seeking a comprehensive evening with dining and scenic views.
Examples:
- Majestic by Atlantis Cruises: A sleek 150-foot yacht-style vessel with three decks, offering sunset cocktail cruises with live entertainment, full-service bars, and panoramic views from the open-air top deck.
- Star of Honolulu: Hawaii’s largest dinner cruise ship, featuring multiple dining rooms, live entertainment, and a variety of dinner packages, including gourmet meals and Polynesian shows.
Key Features:
- Multiple decks with indoor and outdoor seating
- Onboard dining with a buffet or plated meal options
- Live entertainment such as music or cultural performances
- Spacious restrooms and accessibility features
Vessels with Indoor Cabins
For those who prefer a more enclosed environment, certain boats offer indoor cabins with amenities like air conditioning and large viewing windows, providing comfort without sacrificing views.
Examples:
- Pau Hana: Offers private sunset sails aboard a catamaran with a large shaded cockpit and indoor cabin, departing from Ala Wai Boat Harbor and cruising along the Waikiki coastline.
- Honu Lani: A 65-foot catamaran featuring a completely enclosed and covered cabin area with table and bench seating, offering sunset cruises with free cocktails and appetizers.
Key Features:
- Enclosed cabins with climate control
- Large windows for unobstructed views
- Additional amenities like dining tables and comfortable seating
- Suitable for guests seeking shelter from the elements
Single-Hull Vessels
Single-hull boats, or monohulls, offer a traditional sailing experience with the classic feel of cruising on the open sea. They are often chosen for their intimate settings and authentic sailing ambiance.
Examples:
- Prince Kuhio: A 100-foot ferry offering sunset dinner cruises along the Waikiki shore to Diamond Head, featuring freshly prepared meals by an onboard chef and open-air upper deck seating.
Key Features:
- Traditional sailing experience
- Intimate settings, often with smaller group sizes
- Authentic nautical ambiance
- Ideal for private charters or romantic outings
Rafting Boats (RHIBs – Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boats)
Rafting boats offer the most adventurous take on a sunset cruise. These low-profile, high-speed vessels provide close-to-the-water experiences and are perfect for small groups looking for excitement, swimming, or off-the-beaten-path sunset views.
Examples:
- The Adventure Boat – A 30-ft high-performance RHIB for up to 12 guests. This private cruise includes soft drinks, water, and an optional swim stop near the coast.
Key Features:
- Fast, agile rides close to the water
- Intimate group setting – typically 6–12 guests
- Often includes optional swim/snorkel time
- Great for thrill-seekers, couples, and small private groups
Each of these vessel types offers a unique way to experience the breathtaking sunsets of Waikiki. Whether you’re seeking a lively social atmosphere, a family-friendly adventure, or a romantic evening, there’s a cruise option tailored to your preferences.
Choosing the Right Sunset Cruise for You
Comparison Table: Waikiki Sunset Cruise Boats
| Boat Type | Examples | Capacity Range | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sailing Catamaran | Maitaʻi, Na Hoku III, Holokai | 30–49 guests | Beach boarding, bow nets, cocktails, social vibes | Friends, couples, families |
| Power Catamaran | Ocean and You, Living Ocean | 40–65 guests | Motorized, stable, sound system, bar or BYOB | Social groups, partygoers, relaxed riders |
| Multi-Deck Ship | Star of Honolulu, Majestic | 130–500 guests | Dinner shows, air-conditioned decks, live music, upscale service | Celebrations, families, romantic evenings |
| Indoor Cabin Vessel | Prince Kuhio, Makani | 49–130 guests | Enclosed dining, shaded areas, all-weather comfort | Older travelers, indoor comfort seekers |
| Single-Hull (Monohull) | Prince Kuhio | Up to 130 | Traditional sail feel, smaller group setting, nautical style | Romantic, small groups, private charters |
| Rafting Boat (RHIB) | The Adventure Boat | Up to 12 guests | Fast-paced, swim stops, open design, low to water | Adventurous couples, private groups |
Ready to cruise into the sunset? Whether you want to toast with a mai tai, dine in style, or jump in for a swim, HawaiiActivities.com has the perfect Waikiki sunset cruise for your adventure.