Moonlight Dinner Cruise in Honolulu

Moonlight Dinner Cruise in Honolulu: A Detailed Review

Imagine slipping onto a boat at sunset, the sky turning a soft amber as you glide past Honolulu’s shimmering coastline. For about 90 minutes, you’ll enjoy a 3-course dinner aboard the Prince Kuhio while taking in iconic sights like Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach from the water. Priced at around $106 per person, this experience is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of scenic beauty and a touch of luxury without veering into overly touristy territory.

What we really appreciate about this cruise is the chance to see Honolulu from a different perspective — the water offers a unique vantage point for landmarks like Diamond Head and the Diamond Head Lighthouse. Plus, the onboard chef-prepared meal elevates what might otherwise be a simple boat ride. The option to upgrade to premium outdoor seating on the upper deck is a smart choice if you’re after the best views and a more immersive experience.

A potential snag to keep in mind is that the tour is dependent on good weather and minimum attendance, which means cancellations can happen unexpectedly — as one reviewer experienced when their trip was canceled due to low numbers. Also, since alcohol isn’t provided, you’ll need to bring your own drinks to enjoy the onboard Tiki bar (currently BYOB). This cruise suits couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a relaxing, scenic evening with good food and drinks.

Key Points

• Scenic Water Views: See Honolulu’s coast, Diamond Head, and Waikiki lit up at night.
• Quality Dining: Enjoy a fresh, chef-prepared 3-course meal on board.
• Flexible Seating: Upgrade options for better outdoor views.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Stargazing, cocktails, and gentle ocean breezes.
• Weather & Attendance Risks: Cancellations possible due to weather or low bookings.
• Best for: Couples, small groups, and those wanting a romantic, scenic dinner experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Moonlight Dinner Cruise

A Scenic Journey with a View

Starting from 1009 Ala Moana Blvd in Honolulu, the cruise begins at 9:00 pm, just as the city winds down and the night begins to sparkle. As you leave Waikiki Beach behind, the lights of the city flicker and soften, providing a beautiful contrast to the darkening sea. The cruise heads toward Diamond Head, one of Honolulu’s most recognizable landmarks, giving passengers a water-level view of its legendary crater.

The highlight of this cruise is undoubtedly the sunset turning to moonlight — you’ll experience a genuine Hawaiian evening filled with soft ocean breezes and the vast, darkening sky. Many reviews praise the spectacular views, with Hardy_W noting their disappointment when their trip was canceled due to low attendance, which they described as frustrating and confusing, especially since they had been looking forward to the experience.

The Itinerary

The cruise’s main stopping point is near Waikiki Beach, where the twinkling shoreline becomes a glowing ribbon of lights beneath the Hawaiian night sky. From here, the boat sails toward Diamond Head, offering a unique water-level perspective on this iconic volcanic crater. You can expect to see the Diamond Head Lighthouse from the water, adding to the picturesque scenery.

While onboard, you’ll enjoy a meal that’s anything but ordinary — freshly prepared on the boat by the onboard chef. The menu offers several options, including seared mahi-mahi, braised beef short ribs, and a garden salad. If you’re traveling with kids, there’s a kid-friendly grilled chicken dish too. Desserts are also available, and you’ll want to tell the staff your choice when booking.

Food and Drinks

The 3-course menu reflects a thoughtful approach. For the main course, options like Chef’s Catch of the Day or Lightly Smoked Beef Short Ribs allow for some flexibility. The inclusion of fresh, locally sourced ingredients is a nice touch, especially the mahi-mahi, which is caught by Waikiki fishermen—adding a layer of authenticity to your meal.

Currently, the cruise operates as BYOB, so if you want to enjoy a favorite wine or cocktail, bring your own along. The onboard Tiki bar has a good reputation for serving the island’s signature drinks, which enhances the relaxed, festive vibe of the evening.

The Atmosphere

Once you’ve finished your meal, the deck becomes an ideal spot for stargazing or simply strolling around. Many travelers find the moonlit ocean and brilliant night sky a magical backdrop for conversation, relaxation, or a quiet moment of reflection. The upper deck—which you can upgrade to—offers outdoor seating and a more panoramic view, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the views without glass barriers.

The Experience and the Reviews

One thing to note, based on reviews, is the uncertainty around cancellations. Hardy_W’s experience, where their trip was canceled just the night before, highlights the importance of flexible travel plans and understanding that weather or low bookings can affect your plans.

However, many travelers, like the reviewer who found the excellent wine selection and the quality of the meal the highlights of their evening, felt it was a worthwhile splurge. The well-prepared menu and friendly staff contribute to a genuinely enjoyable experience when the cruise takes place.

Who Should Consider This?

This experience works best for those seeking a romantic evening or a special occasion. It’s also suitable for small groups and couples eager to combine a scenic water tour with a decent meal and drinks. Since it’s not a large group — limited to 100 travelers — you’ll find it more intimate than some larger cruise options.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

We see the value in this cruise as a relaxing, scenic outing with a focus on quality food and memorable views. It’s not the cheapest option, but considering the freshly prepared meal, the stunning scenery, and the evening ambiance, many travelers will find it to be a worthwhile splurge. Be aware of the cancellation policy and weather dependence, and plan accordingly.

FAQs

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable but memorable evening activity.

Can I upgrade my seating?
Yes, you can upgrade to premium upper-deck outdoor seating when booking, which offers better views and a more open-air experience.

Is alcohol included in the price?
No, the cruise currently operates as BYOB. You should bring your own alcohol to enjoy at the onboard Tiki bar.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise itself, bottled water, soda, and the 3-course dinner. The upper deck seating is also included if you opt for that upgrade.

Are there any restrictions or considerations?
The tour is not recommended for travelers prone to motion sickness. Also, it depends on good weather — cancellations can occur if conditions are poor.

What if the cruise is canceled?
You’ll be offered a full refund or the chance to reschedule if the tour is canceled due to weather or low attendance.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 1009 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, and the activity ends back at the same point.

How far in advance should I book?
This tour is typically booked 125 days in advance on average, reflecting its popularity for special occasions.

Final Thoughts

This Moonlight Dinner Cruise in Honolulu offers a charming way to enjoy the island’s coastal beauty, especially at sunset and under the stars. It combines the pleasures of good food and scenic views, making for a memorable evening. Its small group feel and the option to upgrade seating make it ideal for couples or those celebrating a special occasion.

However, keep in mind the potential for cancellations and weather disruptions. If you’re flexible and prepared, this cruise can be a highlight of your trip, providing a unique perspective of Honolulu’s famous shoreline and landmarks from the water. Bring along your favorite drinks, dress comfortably, and be ready for a relaxing, scenic evening that captures the magic of Hawaiian nights.