Late Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu

Discover the Laid-Back Charm of the Late Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu

If you’re looking to start your day with a peaceful cruise along Waikiki Beach, this Late Breakfast Cruise offers a refreshing way to enjoy Hawaii’s stunning coastline. For about an hour and a half, you’ll hop aboard the Prince Kuhio, a vessel that takes you towards Diamond Head, with the ocean breeze in your hair and a delicious breakfast in hand. At $96.86 per person, this experience is ideally suited for those wanting a gentle morning adventure without the early morning rush.

What we love about this cruise is the ability to enjoy local Hawaiian dishes while soaking in the scenic views—imagine French toast topped with Lilikoi/Strawberry syrup and the aroma of Kona coffee from the Big Island. And of course, the opportunity to spot migrating whales, dolphins, and Hawaiian sea turtles makes this more than just a breakfast; it’s a mini wildlife safari on water.

The only caveat? Some reviews mention that cancellations do happen, often due to low attendance or weather, so it’s wise to book well in advance and stay flexible. That said, this cruise can be a fantastic fit for late risers, families with kids, or anyone wanting a relaxed start to their Hawaiian day—especially if you’re eager for stunning ocean views and a chance to see marine life.

Key Points

• Relaxed Schedule: Perfect for those who prefer a late start, with a 9:00 a.m. departure.
• Wildlife Sightings: Chances to see whales, dolphins, and turtles enrich the experience.
• Authentic Hawaiian Food: Enjoy local dishes like island sweet taro French toast and Kona coffee.
• Beautiful Coastal Views: Enjoy vibrant cityscapes and the iconic Diamond Head from the water.
• Weather Dependent: Cancellations can occur due to weather or low bookings, so confirm before planning.
• Group Size: Limited to 100 travelers, making it a more intimate experience.

A Close Look at the Honolulu Late Breakfast Cruise

Starting Point and Logistics

The cruise departs from 1009 Ala Moana Blvd in Honolulu, a location that’s accessible via public transportation, making it fairly convenient regardless of where you’re staying. The tour begins promptly at 9 a.m., giving you plenty of time to enjoy breakfast and sightseeing before the heat of midday.

The Prince Kuhio is equipped to carry up to 100 guests, and the seating on the upper deck provides ample opportunity to take in the panoramic views. The mobile ticket system streamlines your check-in, so you won’t need to worry about paper tickets or long lines.

What the Experience Looks Like

Once aboard, you’ll find the crew eager to make your morning memorable. The menu features local Hawaiian specialties, including Kona Coffee, Sweet Taro Bread French Toast, and a hearty Captain John’s Island Loco Moco—a comforting dish of roasted short rib, scrambled eggs, and gravy over steamed rice. The food is prepared onboard, which often adds to the freshness and enjoyment.

The cruise heads out toward Diamond Head, offering sweeping views of the Honolulu coastline awakening to the day. As you glide past Waikiki Beach, you’ll see the bustling city behind you, contrasted sharply with the quiet, expansive ocean ahead.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

This is the part that makes the cruise special. Many travelers rave about spotting dolphins playing in the ship’s wake, or catching glimpses of migrating whales during the right season. One reviewer called it a “remarkable whale and dolphin sighting,” mentioning how the enthusiasm of the crew added to the adventure.

Other reviews note that the view of Diamond Head from the water is stunning and makes for excellent photo opportunities. The chance to stand at the bow and feel the wind, as one reviewer did, provides a sense of freedom and connection to the ocean.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While many guests enjoy this cruise, a few mention drawbacks. Cancellations due to low attendance or weather are possible, which can be disappointing if you’ve built your morning around it. Some reviews report being rescheduled or refunded unexpectedly, so booking with a flexible mindset is wise.

Another point to consider is that the experience isn’t suitable for those with unmanageable motion sickness—the ocean can be unpredictable. Also, some guests felt that the service could be more personalized, as crew interaction varied.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate a relaxed, scenic experience over adrenaline-packed adventures. It’s especially well-suited for families with children, early risers who want to sleep in a little, or anyone eager to combine local cuisine with wildlife viewing. If you’re after a romantic sunrise or sunset cruise, this might not be your best bet, but for a casual, flavorful start to your day, it hits the mark.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Meeting and Departure

You meet at the Ala Moana location at 9:00 a.m. After a quick check-in with your mobile ticket, you’ll board the Prince Kuhio, a vessel with a capacity that keeps the group feeling intimate but lively.

Cruising toward Diamond Head

The first part of the cruise is primarily sightseeing. You’ll cruise along Waikiki Beach, enjoying views of the cityscape and the famous Diamond Head crater looming in the distance. This part of the journey is perfect for photos, with many guests describing the scenery as peaceful and picturesque.

Breakfast on the Water

As the boat moves, breakfast is served. You can enjoy hot French toast with sweet fruit syrup, sipping on Kona coffee — some say it’s the best in the world, directly from Hawaii’s Big Island. The Loco Moco is hearty and satisfying, providing a true taste of Hawaiian comfort food.

Wildlife Watching and Scenic Viewing

After breakfast, the boat often slows down for wildlife watching. Dolphins are common, sometimes engaging playfully with the boat, and whale sightings are possible during migration season. Many guests, like William, describe the experience as “fabulous,” especially when whales or dolphins are spotted.

Return to Port

By the end of the cruise, you’ll head back toward the pier, with the city’s skyline in the background. Some guests linger on the bow to enjoy the wind and the waves, making the most of their last moments on the water.

The Value of This Experience

For the price, this cruise offers more than just a meal; it’s a chance to see Waikiki from the water, enjoy local flavors, and maybe even witness some playful marine life. The combination of scenic views and authentic Hawaiian food creates a well-rounded experience that justifies the cost for many.

While the chance of cancellations or less-than-perfect service exists, the overall feedback points to a fun, laid-back morning that balances sightseeing, dining, and wildlife spotting. If you’re looking for an activity that’s easygoing yet memorable, this cruise fits the bill.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed morning adventure. It’s ideal if you enjoy good food, scenic water views, and wildlife encounters without the hustle of more active tours. If your Hawaii plans include a desire for authentic, low-pressure sightseeing with a taste of local cuisine, this cruise can be a delightful addition.

However, if you’re prone to motion sickness or looking for a more exclusive or high-energy experience, you might want to explore other options. Also, keep in mind the potential for cancellations and plan accordingly—booking early and confirming details can help ensure smooth sailing.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers with children enjoy the laid-back nature of this cruise, though parents should consider their child’s comfort with boat motion and weather.

What should I wear?
Light, casual clothing and a hat are recommended. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses for sun protection. Since breakfast is onboard, no special attire is required.

Is it possible to see whales on this cruise?
Yes, wildlife sightings, including whales, dolphins, and turtles, are common, especially during migration seasons. But sightings are not guaranteed.

How long is the cruise?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, which is enough to enjoy the scenery and a hearty breakfast without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers breakfast, bottled water, coffee/tea, soda, and the scenic cruise. Not included are motion sickness medication and optional extras.

Are there any cancellations I should know about?
Yes, cancellations can occur due to weather or low attendance. It’s best to book in advance and stay flexible.

Is it accessible near public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit options, making it easy to reach.

What if the tour is canceled?
You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Confirm cancellation policies before booking.

Can I reserve a specific seating area?
Seating is capacity-dependent, with outdoor upper deck seating available, but specific seats are not usually guaranteed.

What should I do if I experience motion sickness?
Bring motion sickness medication, as it is not included. The water can be choppy, especially during whale migration season.

To sum it up, the Late Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu offers a relaxed, scenic, and tasty way to kick off a Hawaiian morning. Its blend of authentic local cuisine, stunning coastal views, and wildlife sightings makes it a great pick for travelers who value comfort and authenticity. While it’s not suited for everyone—particularly those sensitive to motion—it provides a memorable, low-key experience that captures the essence of Hawaii’s oceanic beauty. If you’re in search of a gentle, flavorful, and scenic start to your day, this cruise deserves a spot on your Hawaii itinerary.