Maui’s top dining options combine stunning ocean views with quality local cuisine. The standout dinner cruises include the Pride of Maui’s excellent island buffet and the Pacific Whale Foundation’s thoughtful 4-course offering. My favorite is the Alii Nui Catamaran experience – their premium cocktails and intimate 3-course dinner make for a memorable evening. For authentic Hawaiian culture and food, I recommend the Gilligans Island Luau, where you’ll enjoy traditional Polynesian entertainment while sampling local specialties from their all-you-can-eat buffet. These experiences represent the best of what makes dining in Maui special. Let’s explore our top-rated dinner options.
Key Points
- Maui offers a variety of sunset dinner cruises with panoramic views, island-inspired buffets, open bars, and live Hawaiian music for a unique dining experience.
- Luxury catamarans and cruises provide gourmet three-course meals, premium cocktails, and intimate settings for a high-end dining experience on the water.
- Luau experiences like Gilligans Island Luau offer all-you-can-eat Hawaiian buffets, Polynesian storytelling, and fire dancing for a immersive cultural dining experience.
- Cruises feature opportunities to spot wildlife like humpback whales and spinner dolphins, adding excitement to the dining experience.
- Flexible booking policies, dietary accommodations, and accessibility considerations make these dining experiences convenient and inclusive for visitors.
Maui Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise From Maalaea Harbor Aboard Pride of Maui
The Pride of Maui’s sunset luau dinner cruise from Maalaea Harbor offers a captivating coastal excursion.
This 2-hour experience aboard Maui’s largest catamaran features panoramic views of the island’s stunning scenery, including the West Maui mountains and Haleakala.
Theres some good a bountiful buffet of island-inspired dishes, complemented by an open bar and live Hawaiian music and Polynesian dance performances.
The cruise is designed for families and couples, ensuring a relaxing atmosphere.
While stroller-accessible, it’s not wheelchair-friendly, with a maximum capacity of 74 travelers.
Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund, making it a flexible option for visitors.
Read our full review: Maui Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise From Maalaea Harbor Aboard Pride of Maui Review
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Maui: 2 Hour Sunset Dinner Sail With Open Bar and Appetizers
Departing from the beachside of The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, the Maui: 2 Hour Sunset Dinner Sail With Open Bar and Appetizers takes guests on a luxurious catamaran cruise along the island’s picturesque coastline.
Aboard the Gemini, guests enjoy ample cushioned seating, sun or shade options, and smooth tradewind sailing with views of the West Maui Mountains, Molokai, and Lanai.
The attentive crew provides live narration, drink refills, and assistance throughout the 2-hour experience. Offering an open bar, appetizers like Hawaiian fried rice and chocolate chip cookies, and stunning sunset vistas, this dinner sail is a popular way to experience Maui’s beauty.
With a 4.7/5 overall rating from 58 reviews, it’s a highlight for many visitors.
Read our full review: Maui: 2 Hour Sunset Dinner Sail With Open Bar and Appetizers Review
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Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise From Ka’Anapali Beach
Nestled along the pristine shores of Ka’anapali Beach, the Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise offers an unparalleled dining experience amidst the breathtaking beauty of Maui’s coastline.
This 2-hour 30-minute cruise showcases scenic views of the Pacific sunset and potential whale spotting during the winter months. Guests can enjoy a gourmet buffet-style dinner and an open bar, all while being serenaded by live music on selected days.
With a maximum capacity of 49 travelers, the cruise provides an intimate setting for couples, families, and special occasions. Reservations are recommended, and additional costs may apply for upgraded menu options.
Read our full review: Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise From Ka’Anapali Beach Review
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South Maui: Sunset Cruise With 4-Course Dinner and Drinks
Situated along the stunning South Maui coastline, the Pacific Whale Foundation’s Sunset Cruise offers guests a captivating dining experience amidst the island’s natural beauty.
During this 2.5-hour excursion, guests can enjoy scenic views, wildlife sightings, and live music. The four-course meal features locally sourced ingredients, including warm purple taro rolls, local watermelon and tomato salad, and a choice of grilled entrées like yellow curry marinated shrimp or teriyaki chicken.
Guests aged 21+ receive 3 complimentary alcoholic beverages. While the cruise isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, the overall experience is highly rated, with positive feedback on the food quality, staff, and relaxing atmosphere.
Read our full review: South Maui: Sunset Cruise With 4-Course Dinner and Drinks Review
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Maalaea Harbor: Sunset Prime Rib or Mahi Mahi Dinner Cruise
The Maalaea Harbor Sunset Prime Rib or Mahi Mahi Dinner Cruise aboard the 3-story catamaran named The Calypso provides guests with a captivating dining experience as they watch the sun dip into the Pacific Ocean.
Priced at $149.95 per person, the 2-hour cruise offers a Lowest Price Guarantee, free cancellation, and a Reserve Now, Pay Later option.
Guests can choose from a variety of dinner options, including prime rib, baby back ribs, and the well-received mahi-mahi.
With tableside service, live island music, and an overall rating of 4.5 stars, this sunset dinner cruise is a must for those seeking a memorable dining experience in Maui.
Read our full review: Maalaea Harbor: Sunset Prime Rib or Mahi Mahi Dinner Cruise Review
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Maui: Luxury Alii Nui Catamaran Royal Sunset Dinner Sail
As the sun dips below the horizon, guests aboard the luxurious Alii Nui Catamaran are treated to a captivating Royal Sunset Dinner Sail experience.
This 5-hour excursion from Maalaea Harbor offers a gourmet 3-course dinner, premium cocktails, and unparalleled views of Maui’s stunning coastline.
With a price tag of $200 per person, it’s one of the more expensive dining experiences in the area.
However, the rave reviews – 4.8 out of 5 from 184 customers – suggest the upscale offering is well worth the investment.
Guests can expect an evening filled with Hawaiian hospitality, live music, and unforgettable memories as they sail into the sunset.
Read our full review: Maui: Luxury Alii Nui Catamaran Royal Sunset Dinner Sail Review
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From Maalaea Harbor: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver
Departing from Maalaea Harbor, the Quicksilver sunset dinner cruise offers a captivating two-hour sail along the Lahaina coastline.
Priced at $139.95 per person, the cruise includes drinks, a 3-course dinner, and live music. Guests may even spot humpback whales during the winter months.
While the majority of reviewers praise the cruise’s stunning sunset views and friendly crew, some note concerns about food temperature and portion sizes. The host has acknowledged these issues and expressed a commitment to improvement.
Read our full review: From Maalaea Harbor: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver Review
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South Maui: Gilligans Island Luau With Dinner and Drinks
Frequently, visitors to South Maui flock to the Gilligans Island Luau, a locally-owned and intimate Polynesian experience that transports guests into the vibrant cultural traditions of the islands.
Priced from $166.49 per person, the 2.5-hour luau features engaging storytelling, mesmerizing fire dancing, and audience participation opportunities.
The all-you-can-eat Hawaiian buffet offers a delectable spread, including kalua pork, teriyaki chicken, and mahi mahi, complemented by a generous selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
While reviews are mixed on the food quality and service, the entertainment and cultural insights receive positive feedback.
With limited seating and a tendency to sell out, early booking is recommended to secure a spot at this unique South Maui attraction.
Read our full review: South Maui: Gilligans Island Luau With Dinner and Drinks Review
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Luxury Royal Catamaran Sunset Dinner Cruise in Maui
One of the most popular sunset dinner cruises in Maui, the Luxury Royal Catamaran Sunset Dinner Cruise whisks visitors away on a 2.5-hour journey along the island’s scenic southern coastline.
Cruisers can expect a confirmation at booking, with a maximum of 40 travelers per tour. Though not wheelchair accessible, the crew is available to assist with boarding the vessel, which requires walking down a pier and stepping across a gap.
Restrooms are accessible via 2-4 steps down into the cabin. With an overall 5-star rating based on 30 reviews, this cruise highlights the scenic views and dining experience, while providing safety measures and friendly crew assistance.
Read our full review: Luxury Royal Catamaran Sunset Dinner Cruise in Maui Review
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South Maui: Sunset Prime Rib or Mahi Mahi Dinner Cruise
Travelers often embark on the South Maui: Sunset Prime Rib or Mahi Mahi Dinner Cruise, a 2-hour excursion that departs from Maalaea Harbor.
At $149.95 per person, guests can enjoy a tropical sunset, live entertainment, and a choice of entrees like rosemary garlic roasted prime rib or freshly sourced Mahi Mahi.
The experience highlights wildlife sightings, such as humpback whales and Hawaiian Green sea turtles.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 from 208 reviews, this dinner cruise offers value for money and positive feedback on the food quality, views, and service.
Guests should note any dietary needs at booking and be aware of restrictions on wheelchair access and minimum drinking age.
Read our full review: South Maui: Sunset Prime Rib or Mahi Mahi Dinner Cruise Review
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From Maalaea: Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise Aboard the Calypso
The Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise aboard the Calypso offers a festive experience for visitors exploring the stunning South Maui coastline.
Priced at €122.94 per person, the 2-hour cruise features a table-side Hawaiian-influenced Thanksgiving feast, live music, and panoramic views of Molokai and Lanai.
Passengers can enjoy two complimentary alcoholic drinks and relax to the sounds of the ocean waves.
With the possibility of spotting spinner dolphins and humpback whales, this cruise provides an unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday.
Conveniently located at Maalaea Harbor, the Calypso offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option, making it an accessible and flexible dining experience.
Read our full review: From Maalaea: Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise Aboard the Calypso Review
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From Maalaea: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver
Departing from Maalaea Harbor, the Sunset Dinner Cruise aboard the Quicksilver offers visitors an enchanting way to experience Maui’s stunning coastline.
Priced from $139.95 per person, the 2-hour cruise includes a 3-course meal, two alcoholic beverages, and live island-style music. Diners can choose from a selection of entrees, such as rosemary garlic roasted prime rib, fresh Mahi-Mahi, or a vegetarian penne pasta.
The experience also features unobstructed views of the sunset and neighboring islands. Guests are advised to arrive early for better seating and bring a light jacket for the chilly evening.
With an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5, the Sunset Dinner Cruise is a popular dining experience in Maui.
Read our full review: From Maalaea: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver Review
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Maui: Sunset Dinner Sail in Kaanapali
Guests seeking a luxurious sunset experience in Maui can embark on the Kaanapali Luxury Sunset Dinner Sail. This 2.5-hour cruise aboard a luxury catamaran offers breathtaking oceanfront views, a guaranteed dolphin sail, and a buffet-style menu featuring local flavors.
The open bar serves premium Hawaiian beer, wine, and cocktails. Reviewers praise the attentive crew, delicious food, and stunning 360-degree views of the ocean, wildlife, and West Maui Mountains.
While not suitable for wheelchair users, the cruise departs from a conveniently located check-in point with nearby parking. At $150.97 per person, it’s an indulgent way to enjoy Maui’s natural beauty during the golden hour.
Read our full review: Maui: Sunset Dinner Sail in Kaanapali Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Transportation to and From the Cruise Included?
Transportation to and from the cruise is typically not included. Guests are usually responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the cruise port. Some cruise lines may offer optional transportation services for an additional fee.
Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages on Board?
Passengers generally can’t bring their own alcoholic beverages on board. Most cruise lines have policies prohibiting outside alcohol for safety and liability reasons. Guests should check the specific rules of their cruise line before attempting to bring any alcohol on board.
Do the Cruises Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
Cruises generally accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Guests can usually request special meals when booking, and the staff is trained to handle food sensitivities. However, it’s best to double-check with the cruise line about their specific policies.
Are There Any Age or Children’s Policies for the Cruises?
Most cruises in Maui offer accommodations for children and have policies regarding age limits. Parents should check with the specific cruise operator to understand any age restrictions or children’s programs offered onboard.
What Is the Seating Arrangement Like on the Cruises?
The seating arrangements on the cruises vary, but they typically offer a mix of communal and private tables. Some cruises have open seating, while others may assign specific seating. Guests can expect comfortable and scenic dining experiences during the voyage.
The Sum Up
Maui offers a fantastic selection of sunset dinner cruises to experience. From the Pride of Maui to the Quicksilver, visitors can enjoy delicious meals, open bars, and breathtaking views of the island’s coastline. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable evening, these sunset dinner cruises provide an exceptional dining experience in a stunning setting.