Honolulu: Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Jazz

If you’re looking for a memorable evening that combines fine dining, beautiful scenery, and live entertainment, the Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise in Honolulu might just be your ticket. This experience promises a blend of luxury, relaxation, and authentic Hawaiian sunsets — all aboard the Star of Honolulu. It’s a popular choice for couples, celebrating special occasions, or anyone wanting to enjoy Oahu from the water in style.

Two things we especially like about this cruise are the 5-course gourmet meal featuring Maine lobster and prime tenderloin — a true treat for seafood lovers and meat enthusiasts alike — and the live jazz music that provides a smooth, enjoyable soundtrack to the evening. That said, it’s worth noting that the cruise doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to plan your transportation. It’s best suited for those who appreciate good food, a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, and stunning sunset views.

This cruise offers a refined experience without the high price tag of some exclusive dinner options in Waikiki. It’s perfect for travelers looking to indulge in a luxurious, all-in-one evening that balances scenery, cuisine, and entertainment.

Contents hide

1 An In-Depth Look at the Experience

2 Who Will Love This Experience?

3 Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

4 FAQ

Key Points

Gourmet dining on the water: A 5-course meal featuring Maine lobster and tenderloin of beef, served with a champagne toast.
Live jazz entertainment: A relaxing soundtrack that enhances the sunset experience.
Beautiful views: Witness Waikiki’s lights and Oahu’s southern waters from a comfortable cruise.
Flexible beverages: Enjoy two super premium drinks of your choice, plus a welcome Hawaiian Bellini.
Ideal for special occasions: Romantic, elegant, and memorable — perfect for celebrating.
No included hotel transfer: Plan your own transportation to the departure point.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Honolulu

Setting the Scene: A Sunset Cruise in Honolulu

Imagine starting your evening at the Aloha Tower Marketplace, Pier 8, where you check in around 4:45 PM before boarding the Star of Honolulu. The cruise departs at 5:30 PM, giving you enough time to settle into your private table and take in the atmosphere. The boat itself offers a comfortable setting, with a luxurious yet casual vibe that is perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

The deck is designed to maximize your view — wide open spaces and a lanai for those who want to be outside, but also cozy lounges for those preferring a more sheltered experience. The boat’s wheelchair accessibility and stroller-friendly surfaces make it inclusive for most travelers, and service animals are welcome.

The Itinerary: From Check-in to Sunset

Once aboard, you’re welcomed with a non-alcoholic Hawaiian Bellini — a lovely way to kick off the evening. As you cast off into the waters of Oahu’s southern coast, you’ll start to see the sky changing colors as the sun begins its descent. The two-hour cruise (which extends to three hours on Fridays to include the fireworks show) is a leisurely pace, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and the company.

Throughout the sail, the five-course meal is served tableside, with signature dishes of Maine lobster and prime tenderloin of beef. The cuisine is seasonally inspired, meaning each ingredient is fresh and thoughtfully prepared, offering a true taste of luxury. The inclusion of champagne adds a celebratory touch, making this a perfect occasion for a romantic night, anniversary, or just a special treat.

Dining and Beverages

The dinner is a highlight: a carefully curated menu that balances indulgence with presentation. Many reviews mention the quality of the seafood and beef, pointing out that the lobster is cooked to perfection and the tenderloin is tender and flavorful. The two premium beverages available are a welcome perk, allowing guests to indulge in extra drinks beyond the included champagne toast.

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Live Jazz and Dancing

After the meal, the real fun begins. The live jazz band sets a smooth, upbeat tone, encouraging some guests to dance, while others simply enjoy the music as a backdrop. The professional entertainment adds a classy, lively element to the evening. For those interested in dancing, the cruise’s private lanai of the Art Deco Super Nova Room offers a cozy space to move to the music.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Honolulu

The Views and Atmosphere

While the main attraction is the sunset, the views of the Waikiki lights flickering on as dusk falls make for a truly enchanting scene. The atmosphere is a blend of elegance and casual fun, making for an evening that feels special without being overly formal.

Friday Extra: Fireworks

Book on a Friday, and you get an extra hour to enjoy the cruise, culminating with the spectacular Friday aerial fireworks show. This adds a dramatic, colorful display that elevates the entire experience, and many guests consider it a highlight.

Considerations for Travelers

While the cruise is largely praised, it’s important to note that hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the departure point. The cost of $236 per person is reasonable considering the quality of food, entertainment, and the views, but it’s still a significant spend for some travelers. The dress code is casual, but short pants are discouraged, and comfortable clothes are recommended, especially if you plan to dance or enjoy the outdoors.

The cruise isn’t suitable for children under 3, wheelchair users (unless accessible), or those prone to seasickness, due to its open-water setting. It’s best to be aware of these limitations when planning your evening.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This dinner cruise appeals to those seeking a romantic, elegant evening with a focus on gourmet cuisine and live music. Couples celebrating anniversaries or special occasions will find it particularly charming. It’s also a good fit for foodies wanting to indulge in Maine lobster and prime beef in a scenic setting. Travelers who enjoy live jazz and dancing will appreciate the lively atmosphere, and those wanting a relaxed yet upscale way to see Honolulu’s coastline will find this cruise offers excellent value.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule, or prefer a more active day, this may not be the best fit since it’s an evening affair with limited flexibility. Also, those with accessibility needs should verify details beforehand, even though the boat is wheelchair accessible.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience. You get delicious food served in a beautiful setting, complemented by live jazz that keeps the mood lively. The scenic views of Waikiki lights and ocean sunsets are genuinely spectacular and make for memorable photos. While it’s priced higher than some casual dinners, the combination of atmosphere, cuisine, and entertainment gives it a strong sense of value.

This cruise is best suited for romantic couples, special celebration travelers, or anyone who wants to indulge in a luxurious evening without leaving Honolulu. Just remember to plan your transportation and dress comfortably — and prepare for a relaxing, scenic, and enjoyable night on the water.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup is not included. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the departure point at Aloha Tower Marketplace.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, but on Fridays, it extends to three hours to include the fireworks show.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is recommended. While short pants are discouraged, comfortable clothes suitable for an evening out and possibly dancing are ideal.

Are there any accessibility options?
Yes, the cruise has wheelchair-accessible surfaces and is stroller friendly. Service animals are also allowed.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers a 5-course dinner with Maine lobster and prime tenderloin, a champagne toast, two super premium beverages, live jazz entertainment, and dinner at your own private table.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This dinner cruise promises a blend of elegance, scenic beauty, and lively entertainment — a perfect way to end a day in Honolulu with style and sophistication.