Honolulu: Pacific Star Sunset Buffet and Show

Imagine drifting away from the bustling Waikiki Beach, on a large, award-winning Hawaiian cruise ship called the Star of Honolulu. For about two hours, you’ll enjoy a Pacific Rim buffet dinner, sip on a signature Mai Tai, and watch a lively Polynesian show with hula dancers, all while savoring the breathtaking Hawaiian sunset. The cruise departs from Pier 8, Aloha Tower Marketplace, about a 20-minute walk from Waikiki, making this a convenient and relaxed way to experience the coast of Oahu from the water.

We love how this cruise combines delicious food, authentic entertainment, and stunning scenery into a compact evening. The friendly crew makes you feel welcome from the moment you step aboard, and the live Polynesian show adds a genuine cultural touch that’s both fun and memorable. Plus, if you plan to go on a Friday, there’s an extra hour of sailing along with a fireworks display that lights up the sky — perfect for a special evening.

One thing to consider is that transportation to the pier isn’t included, so you’ll need to walk or arrange your own ride. Also, if you’re sensitive to motion, the two-hour sea cruise might be a bit rough for those prone to seasickness, especially on a breezy evening.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy beautiful scenery, lively entertainment, and a relaxed, casual atmosphere. It’s particularly appealing if you’re looking for a value-packed evening that combines great food with cultural shows and gorgeous views.

Key Points

• Stunning Sunset Views: You’ll see a vibrant Hawaiian sunset while sailing along the coast of Oahu.
• Hearty Pacific Rim Buffet: The dinner includes a roast beef carving station and a variety of fresh, flavorful dishes.
• Authentic Polynesian Entertainment: Enjoy lively performances with hula dancers and traditional music.
• Casual & Friendly Atmosphere: Perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed yet memorable experience.
• Extra on Fridays: Longer sail time and fireworks show add a special touch to your evening.
• No Included Transport: You’ll need to walk to the pier or arrange your own transportation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Setting and Departure

The cruise begins at Pier 8, Aloha Tower Marketplace, conveniently situated about a 20-minute walk from Waikiki Beach. This location is a practical starting point, especially for those staying near Waikiki, but it also means you’ll want to plan your walk or transport ahead of time. The Star of Honolulu, Hawaii’s largest cruise ship, is a comfortable, award-winning vessel designed to host lively, yet relaxed, Hawaiian evenings.

If you’re staying at the Hilton Hawaii Village, Hyatt Regency, or Romer Waikiki, pickup options are available, leaving from select hotel entrances between 4:20 and 4:40 pm, making the process even smoother. The cruise departs in the early evening, with starting times depending on your booking, so it blends nicely into an evening plan after a day of sightseeing.

The Dinner Experience

Once onboard, the Pacific Rim buffet offers a generous spread that caters to a variety of tastes. Expect a roast beef carving station, along with other dishes inspired by Pacific flavors. We loved the high-value aspect of this meal — for $128, you get a hearty dinner, a Mai Tai, coffee, tea, and entertainment. The buffet is casual, designed to be enjoyed leisurely as you watch the scenery glide by.

Guests frequently mention how the food quality exceeded expectations, especially considering the price. The variety and freshness make this a worthwhile part of the experience, especially for those who enjoy trying local and regional flavors.

The Sunset and Scenic Views

One of the main reasons to choose this cruise is the spectacular sunset over the Hawaiian coast. We’ve heard from several reviewers that the views are simply breathtaking, with the sky transforming into hues of orange, pink, and purple, all framed by the lush coastline. Bring your camera — this is a photo opportunity you won’t want to miss.

As the boat glides along, you’ll get a great vantage point for snapping shots of the tropical scenery, from the rugged coastlines to distant islands. The crew often shares interesting tidbits about the scenery, adding a layer of local knowledge to your visual experience.

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The Polynesian Show

The highlight for many is the live entertainment. Expect a lively Polynesian show featuring traditional dance and music, complemented by hula dancers that embody the spirit of aloha. The show’s casual and engaging nature makes it accessible and fun, even if you’re not a dance aficionado.

Guests have commented on how friendly and enthusiastic the performers are, with some reviews noting that the captain even interacts with your, sharing stories and showing off the boat. This personal touch can turn a simple cruise into a warm cultural experience.

Friday Special: Longer Sail and Fireworks

If you opt for the Friday night cruise, you’ll enjoy an extra hour of sailing and a fireworks display that lights up the night sky over Honolulu. This makes it especially popular among visitors looking for a memorable and festive evening. The fireworks add a spectacular visual element, making the Friday cruise a standout.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

The cruise concludes back at Pier 8, with plenty of time to head out for a relaxed post-cruise stroll or dinner elsewhere. The entire experience, from boarding to disembarkation, is straightforward and well-organized, with friendly staff ensuring a smooth ride.

Who Is This Tour For?

This sunset cruise is perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking for a relaxed, culturally rich evening. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in combining scenic views with Polynesian entertainment and good value for money. Those seeking a lively, fun, and authentic Hawaiian experience in a casual setting will find this cruise hits the mark.

Final Summary

This cruise offers a comprehensive Hawaiian evening packed into just two hours. You get a generous buffet, stunning sunset views, and live Polynesian entertainment — all served up onboard Hawaii’s largest cruise ship. While transportation isn’t included, the central location and optional hotel pickups make it accessible for most visitors staying near Waikiki.

The friendly crew and authentic cultural touches like hula dancers help bring the spirit of aloha alive. The optional extra on Fridays — longer sail and fireworks — can elevate the experience into a truly memorable night.

For those valuing authenticity, scenic beauty, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, this cruise offers a wonderful taste of Hawaiian hospitality and scenery. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting an engaging, reasonably priced experience that combines food, fun, and fantastic views.

FAQ

• How long is the cruise? It lasts approximately 2 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery, food, and entertainment.
• Where does the cruise depart from? From Pier 8 at Aloha Tower Marketplace, about a 20-minute walk from Waikiki Beach.
• Is transportation included? No, you must arrange your own transportation, though hotel pickups are available at certain locations and times.
• What should I bring? Bring a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes suited for an outdoor evening.
• Is there an age limit? The tour is suitable for most ages; however, those prone to seasickness should consider the two-hour sea cruise.
• What’s the dress code? Casual attire is fine; just dress comfortably for the outdoor setting.
• Can I cancel my booking? Yes, with a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Are drinks included? One signature Mai Tai is included in the ticket price, along with coffee and tea.
• Is the cruise wheelchair accessible? Yes, the vessel is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all guests.

The Pacific Star Sunset Buffet and Show combines the best of scenic beauty, Hawaiian culture, and good food, making it a memorable evening activity for most visitors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a relaxing Hawaiian sunset, this cruise offers a refined yet casual way to experience the islands from the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: