Oahu: Waikiki Sunset Cruise With Live Music Entertainment

A sunset cruise around Waikiki with live music sounds like a quintessential Hawaiian experience—and, honestly, it just might be. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the combination of scenic views, vibrant entertainment, and relaxed atmosphere makes it a popular choice among visitors seeking a memorable evening.

What we particularly like is the stunning backdrop of Diamond Head and Waikiki’s skyline, combined with live Hawaiian or jazz music that sets the perfect mood. The BYOB policy (for guests 21+) is a big plus, allowing you to bring your favorite drinks and truly tailor the vibe to your liking. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the additional $7 fuel surcharge, which adds a small extra cost to the base price.

This cruise suits anyone looking for a blend of scenic beauty, good music, and a relaxed social setting—perfect for couples, friends, or even solo travelers wanting to soak in the sunset and local flavors without a fuss. If you’re after a lively, entertaining, and genuinely Hawaiian experience, this cruise fits the bill.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views of Waikiki, Diamond Head, and the city skyline
• Vibrant live music options, including Hawaiian music, jazz, or DJ sets—depending on the night
• BYOB (bring your own alcohol for guests 21+) for a personalized drinks experience
• Comfortable open-air and shaded seating, ensuring a relaxing atmosphere
• Complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and snacks keep you refreshed and satisfied
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Setting Sail on a Beautiful Catamaran

As you arrive at the meeting point—at 1025 Ala Moana Blvd near the bright yellow Go Hawaii Watersports booth—you’ll find a lively scene. The boat itself is a 55-foot double-deck catamaran, offering plenty of space for relaxing and socializing. The open-air decks mean you can breathe in the sea air and watch the coastline drift by, while shaded areas provide respite if the tropical sun gets too intense.

Once aboard, you’ll notice the friendly crew, whose professionalism and enthusiasm help set the tone for a fun evening. The cruise lasts roughly 3 hours, giving you ample time to unwind, enjoy the scenery, and mingle.

The Scenic Journey

The route is designed to showcase Waikiki’s most iconic sights. As you glide past Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, you’ll see why these views are so often photographed and celebrated. The boat’s high vantage point offers excellent photo opportunities of the coastline, especially during sunset as the sky erupts into shades of gold, pink, and fiery orange.

The crew often narrates some background about the sights, enhancing your appreciation of the scenery. Many reviews mention the “beautiful views” and how the boat’s position offers a unique perspective not available from land.

Live Music and Entertainment

One of the main highlights is the musical entertainment. On Wednesday nights, you’ll experience live Hawaiian music or jazz, performed by talented musicians. The atmosphere is described as laid-back yet captivating, perfect for relaxing and letting the sound of slack-key guitars or jazz tunes drift over the water.

Jazz nights happen on the last Wednesday of each month, featuring a renowned jazz pianist and vocalist. This elevated vibe—think elegant, smooth, and sophisticated—appeals to those wanting a more refined experience. The live performances create a soundtrack that complements the sunset, making the entire cruise feel like a special occasion.

Saturday nights turn up the energy with a DJ spinning tropical house, old-school hits, and dance beats. The open deck becomes a dance floor, with people mingling, dancing, and soaking up the lively atmosphere. This option suits those looking for a fun, energetic, and social evening on the water.

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Food and Drinks

The cruise includes complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, such as water and juices, keeping everyone hydrated under the Hawaiian sun. The light hors d’oeuvres are a nice touch, offering a grazing table of snacks to nibble on as you enjoy the views.

For those wanting a little more personal flair, the BYOB policy (for guests 21+) means you can bring your favorite beverages. Whether it’s a bottle of wine, craft beer, or tropical cocktails—just remember the $7 fuel surcharge will be added to your bill. This flexibility lets you craft a drinks experience that fits your style, whether you prefer a quiet sunset sip or a lively toast.

Comfort and Convenience

The boat’s spacious open-air decks and shaded seating mean you can find a spot that fits your mood—whether you want to lounge in the sun or stay out of the direct rays. The onboard dance floor and lively energy, especially on Saturday nights, make the deck a hub of activity.

The restrooms are clean and conveniently located, which is a small but appreciated detail during a three-hour trip. The crew’s professionalism ensures smooth sailing, and many reviews praise their friendly attitude and helpful guidance.

The Value of the Experience

At $105 per person, this cruise offers good value if you’re looking for a scenic, entertaining, and social evening. The inclusion of live music and snacks, plus the flexibility of BYOB, makes this a well-rounded experience.

Compared to land-based Waikiki sunset outings, this boat trip offers a unique vantage point and a relaxed atmosphere that’s hard to beat. The ongoing reviews highlight the stunning views and the knowledgeable crew as major pluses.

While there’s an additional $7 fuel surcharge, many travelers see it as a minor extra for the overall experience. Keep in mind, the size of the boat and the duration mean you get a substantial taste of Waikiki from the water—without feeling rushed or crowded.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy music and scenic views, and who want an authentic Hawaiian vibe. It’s perfect for romantic couples, groups of friends, or even solo explorers who appreciate a relaxed social scene.

The Wednesday Jazz Night is especially suitable if you’re after a more refined and cultural experience, while the Saturday party offers a lively, dance-oriented option. If you’re simply seeking a beautiful sunset with some good tunes and the chance to unwind, this cruise covers those bases.

The Sum Up

A Waikiki sunset cruise with live music by Go Hawaii Watersports offers a memorable way to experience Hawaii’s coast. The combination of stunning scenery, lively or relaxing entertainment depending on the night, and the flexibility of bringing your own drinks makes for a real value-packed evening.

You’ll love the beautiful views of Diamond Head and Waikiki’s skyline, paired with friendly crew service and good vibes. It’s a solid option whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to enjoy a laid-back night at sea.

While the fuel surcharge is an added cost, the overall experience—especially with live Hawaiian or jazz music—justifies the price. For travelers seeking a fun, scenic, and culturally engaging activity, this cruise is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery, music, and drinks.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
You should arrive at least 30 minutes early at 1025 Ala Moana Blvd, near the bright yellow Go Hawaii Watersports booth at Slip F06.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, BYOB (for guests 21+) is welcome. Just be prepared for the $7 fuel surcharge added to your bill.

What kind of music will I hear?
Depending on the night, you might experience live Hawaiian or jazz music or a DJ set with tropical hits, creating a lively or relaxed atmosphere.

Are there any restrictions on the type of drinks I can bring?
The tour specifically mentions alcoholic beverages for guests 21+, so minors should stick to non-alcoholic drinks.

Is food included, or should I bring snacks?
The cruise provides light snacks and hors d’oeuvres, but bringing your own drinks and perhaps some extra treats is a good idea for a more personalized experience.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether a Waikiki sunset cruise with live music fits your Hawaii vacation plans. It combines scenic beauty, lively entertainment, and flexible options—an authentic way to toast an unforgettable evening on the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: