Bora Bora: Combo Sunset Cruise & Romantic Dinner at St James

Imagine gliding across Bora Bora’s tranquil lagoon on a traditional Polynesian outrigger canoe, watching the South Pacific sun dip below the horizon, all while sipping champagne. A few hours later, you’ll settle into a cozy, waterside restaurant, enjoying a delicious dinner with lagoon views. This experience, offered by MOANA ADVENTURE TOURS for about $267 per person, lasts around four hours and promises an intimate, memorable evening perfect for couples.

What we love most about this tour? First, the chance to experience Bora Bora’s sunset from the water—something truly magical and often cited by travelers as a highlight. Second, the dinner at St James Restaurant is not just a meal but an experience—attentive staff, beautiful lagoon vistas, and excellent food make it a standout.

A possible consideration is the pre-arranged hotel transfer—if you’re staying on a motu (small islet), you’ll need to organize your transportation to the restaurant, as it’s not included. This tour is best suited for couples who appreciate romantic settings and stunning scenery, and who want more than just sightseeing—they want an experience that feels personal and special.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Romantic atmosphere with sunset views from a traditional Polynesian canoe
Includes champagne and a gourmet dinner overlooking Bora Bora’s lagoon
Small group for personalized service, with up to six couples on the boat
Hotel pickup and drop-off for main island accommodations, making logistics easier
Price reflects quality, with excellent reviews praising staff and scenery
Not suitable for children, focusing instead on adults seeking a romantic night

Planning more time in Bora Bora? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

An in-Depth Look at the Bora Bora Sunset & Dinner Experience

Setting the Scene: An Authentic Polynesian Sunset

As soon as we arrived at the designated pick-up point, we appreciated the punctuality and professionalism, with the guide, Sam, making us feel welcome. The small group size (just a few couples) ensures a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The boat itself, a traditional Polynesian outrigger canoe, adds an authentic touch and makes the experience feel more personal than riding on a large cruise liner.

The cruise begins in the late afternoon, just as the sky starts to turn shades of orange and pink. You’ll glide gently over Bora Bora’s coral reefs, with stunning views of the island’s volcanic peaks and expansive lagoon. The gentle rocking of the canoe and the soft sound of the water create a peaceful vibe, perfect for unwinding and soaking in the natural beauty. As one reviewer put it, “the sunset was just spectacular,” and many echoed that sentiment.

Watching the Sunset: A Truly Memorable Moment

The highlight for most travelers is witnessing the sunset from the water—an experience that feels both calming and awe-inspiring. We loved the way the guide orients the boat for the best views, making sure everyone gets a chance to take photos. You’ll sip champagne—a small but thoughtful touch—that elevates the moment.

While weather can sometimes be unpredictable, even if it’s cloudy, the guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling often make up for it. One traveler from the UK noted, “The weather didn’t show up for us, but the tour guide made a brilliant experience,” illustrating how the guides go beyond just navigation—they enhance the experience with their knowledge and friendliness.

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Transition to the Dinner at St James

After the cruise, you’ll be transported to St James Restaurant in Vaitape, overlooking the lagoon. The restaurant offers a relaxed, yet refined atmosphere, with views that make every bite feel special. Reviewers praise the attentive staff, who seem genuinely interested in making your night memorable, and the delicious food, which many describe as the best on the island.

The dinner includes a romantic setting, perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to indulge in a memorable night out. The menu features a variety of options, and the restaurant’s reputation for attentive service makes it a worthwhile destination.

Practical Details and Logistics

Included in the package are hotel pickup and drop-off for those staying on Bora Bora’s main island, and a taxi transfer from the restaurant back to your hotel, making the evening quite seamless. However, if you’re staying on a motu, you’ll need to organize your own transfer to and from the restaurant, since that part isn’t included.

The entire experience lasts about four hours, with the sunset cruise taking roughly two hours, followed by dinner. Starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability when booking. The small group size (up to six couples) provides a more personalized experience, which many travelers appreciated, especially when the guide shares insightful stories or points out interesting sights.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and spectacular views. Alessandro from Italy called it a “magnificent experience,” mentioning the timely hotel pickup and unparalleled sunset views. Sarah from the UK loved the “spectacular sunset” and the beautiful singing of the boat driver, adding a touch of local charm.

Many reviewers also praise the quality of the dinner and the friendly, attentive staff at St James. Riddhi from the UK appreciated the good weather, but even with less-than-ideal conditions, “the guide made a brilliant experience,” showing how much effort the guides put into making the trip enjoyable.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

Given the small group setting, authentic Polynesian atmosphere, and the combination of scenic cruising and fine dining, the $267 price tag is reasonable. It’s a bigger splurge than a generic tour, but many feel the personalized experience, stunning scenery, and the romantic ambiance justify the cost.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for couples or small groups wanting a romantic, intimate night out. It’s ideal if you value authentic Polynesian culture, beautiful scenery, and high-quality service. It’s also a good choice for those celebrating a special occasion or seeking a memorable way to mark a romantic vacation.

If you prefer adventure-focused tours or are traveling with children, this might not be the best fit, as it’s designed for relaxed, adult enjoyment. However, if you want to combine scenic beauty with fine dining in a small, intimate setting, this tour delivers.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you’re staying on Bora Bora’s main island. For motu accommodations, you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the starting point.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately four hours, including the cruise, sunset viewing, and dinner.

Can I join if I don’t speak English or French?
The tour is offered in both English and French, so language shouldn’t be an issue.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s primarily designed for adults seeking a romantic or relaxed experience.

What’s included in the price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off (for main island hotels), a glass of champagne, sunset views from the boat, and a romantic dinner at St James.

Are drinks provided at dinner?
The package includes champagne during the cruise; additional drinks and extras at dinner are not specified but are typically available for purchase.

What if the weather is cloudy or rainy?
Weather can influence the sunset experience, but the guide will do their best to make the outing enjoyable regardless.

Are there any additional costs?
If you stay on a motu, you will need to organize your own transfer back to your hotel, which is not included.

What makes this experience stand out?
The combination of authentic Polynesian sailing, stunning sunset views, and delicious, attentive dining creates a truly memorable evening.

Can I customize this experience?
It’s best to check with the operator, but the small group setting suggests limited customization. However, the guide’s personal attention often makes the experience feel tailored.

Final Thoughts

This Bora Bora Sunset Cruise & Dinner offers a perfect way to celebrate romance amidst some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. The mix of traditional sailing, spectacular views, and delicious food makes it stand out as a memorable evening for couples. The small group size and attentive guides provide a comfortable, personalized feel, while the lagoon vistas enrich the experience with natural splendor.

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate experience that combines authentic culture with luxurious comfort, this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially suited for those who want to create lasting memories with their loved one in one of the most idyllic settings on Earth.

Note: Always check the latest availability and confirm pick-up details when booking, as logistics can vary depending on your accommodation.

You can check availability for your dates here: