Honolulu: Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Jazz

Planning an evening out in Honolulu that combines fine dining, breathtaking views, and lively entertainment? The Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise offers just that—an enjoyable blend of luxury and authentic Hawaiian charm. While we haven’t boarded this cruise ourselves, detailed reviews, the itinerary, and the experience descriptions paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

One of the best aspects of this cruise is the five-course meal featuring Maine lobster and prime tenderloin of beef—a feast that elevates the usual dinner outing. Plus, the live jazz music provides a sophisticated soundtrack that makes the entire event feel like a special occasion.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the absence of hotel pickup, meaning you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the departure point. Still, this cruise suits travelers looking for a romantic, elegant night or a memorable celebration on the water.

If you’re someone who appreciates good food, scenic views, and live entertainment, this cruise is a strong candidate for your Honolulu itinerary. It’s especially ideal for couples, anniversary celebrations, or anyone who wants a taste of luxury without sacrificing the spirit of adventure and authenticity.

This experience made our article of 4 Best Dining Experiences In Honolulu.

Key Points

• Luxury dining on the water with a 5-course Maine lobster and tenderloin beef menu.
• Enjoy a welcome Hawaiian Bellini and two super premium beverages of your choice.
• Live jazz entertainment provides a classy, relaxing soundtrack for the evening.
• Unbeatable views of Waikiki lights as you drift along Oahu’s southern coast.
• Fridays include an extra hour to enjoy fireworks, making it an even more spectacular experience.
• Dinner at your own private table ensures a comfortable and intimate setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

The Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a two-and-a-half-hour voyage that promises a blend of culinary delight and scenic beauty. Starting at Aloha Tower Marketplace, the check-in process begins around 4:45 PM, giving you ample time to settle in before the cruise departs at 5:30 PM. On Fridays, the cruise extends to three hours, featuring a fireworks display that lights up the sky—an extra treat if you’re visiting on that day.

The cruise takes place onboard the Star of Honolulu, a vessel known for its comfortable lounge and elegant atmosphere. As you cast off from Pier 8, you’re greeted with a Hawaiian Bellini, a non-alcoholic refreshment that sets the tone for a tropical evening. You’ll then be served a five-course dinner, with signature dishes of Maine lobster and prime tenderloin of beef, served tableside. This means you should expect attentive service and beautifully presented plates, making for an enjoyable dining experience.

The dining setup is at individual private tables, allowing for an intimate experience without feeling crowded. The cuisine is described as seasonally inspired, and the signature entrees highlight the cruise’s commitment to quality. Many reviews note the meal’s excellent presentation and flavors, although some mention that portion sizes are modest—so if you’re especially hungry, plan accordingly.

The Music and Atmosphere

What sets this cruise apart from many dinner outings in Honolulu is the live jazz entertainment. As the boat slowly drifts along, you can relax to smooth jazz, which complements the stunning waterscape and twinkling Waikiki lights. The music is professional and adds a layer of sophistication, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

In the later part of the cruise, you’re encouraged to dance or simply enjoy the ambiance from the comfort of the private lanai of the Art Deco Super Nova Room. This space offers a more exclusive setting where you can savor your beverages—two super premium drinks included in the price—while soaking in the views. Many guests appreciate the relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, noting it as a highlight of their evening.

Scenic Views and the Honolulu Skyline

The main attraction is, of course, the spectacular scenery. As you glide along Oahu’s southern coast, the twinkling lights of Waikiki come into view, creating an enchanting backdrop for your meal. On Fridays, you’ll get an extended window to enjoy the fireworks show above Waikiki, which adds a festive and memorable touch.

Many travelers mention the calmness of the water and the chance to see Honolulu from a different perspective. The gentle rocking of the boat combined with the music and delicious food creates an experience that feels both relaxing and celebratory.

Practical Details and Value

Priced at $236 per person, this cruise offers a high-value experience for those seeking a combination of luxury, scenery, and entertainment. The included dinner, champagne toast, and two premium beverages add to the feeling of indulgence without hidden costs. The fact that the dinner is served at your private table ensures comfort and privacy, perfect for couples or small groups.

While the absence of hotel pickup might be inconvenient for some, the meeting point at Aloha Tower is easily accessible by taxi or public transportation. There are also several optional pickup points around Waikiki, with pickups starting as early as 4:20 PM, giving some flexibility for travelers staying nearby.

The duration—two hours on most nights and three hours on Fridays—is ideal for an elegant evening out without feeling overly long. The dress code is casual, but travelers should avoid shorts and opt for neat, comfortable clothing. Sun protection and camera gear are recommended, especially if you want to capture the stunning views.

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What Travelers Say

Reviewers generally rate this experience positively, praising the food quality, atmosphere, and scenic views. Many mention that the music adds a classy touch, and that the fireworks on Fridays are a spectacular addition. Some note the limited time for the cruise, but others appreciate that it’s enough to enjoy a memorable evening without feeling rushed.

A few reviews mention that the portion sizes could be larger, but overall, the consensus is that the experience provides good value for a special night out. The professional service and comfortable environment frequently earn praise, making it a popular choice for celebrating romantic occasions or simply treating oneself.

Final Thoughts

This sunset dinner cruise offers a genuinely enjoyable way to end a day in Honolulu. It combines delicious food, beautiful views, and live jazz music into one elegant package. The five-course meal and premium beverages make it feel special, while the relaxed atmosphere is accessible to most travelers. If you’re looking for a romantic or celebratory experience that showcases Waikiki’s nightscape, this cruise is worth considering.

However, if you’re traveling on a tight schedule or prefer a more budget-friendly option, keep in mind that this experience is a splurge. The lack of hotel pickup might be inconvenient for some, but the centrally located departure point is manageable with a short taxi ride. Overall, for those wanting a sophisticated, scenic evening with great food and entertainment, this cruise hits the mark.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. The main meeting point is at Aloha Tower Marketplace, Pier 8.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts 2.5 hours on most nights, but on Fridays, it extends to 3 hours with additional fireworks viewing.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers dinner for one person, a champagne toast, two super premium beverages, live jazz entertainment, and a private table.

Are there any special considerations for Fridays?
Yes, on Fridays, you get an extra hour to enjoy the cruise and view the fireworks over Waikiki, making it a more festive experience.

What is the dress code?
Casual attire is recommended, but avoid short pants. Dress comfortably yet neatly for an elegant evening.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely. Bring your camera to capture the beautiful Waikiki lights and scenic views.

Are children allowed?
Children under 3 years old are not suitable for this cruise, and the experience may not be ideal for those prone to seasickness.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise and surfaces are wheelchair accessible, and service animals are allowed.

Do I need to confirm my reservation?
Yes, you should call the provider 72 hours in advance to confirm any special requests. Booking is flexible with a full refund if canceled 24 hours before.

To sum it up, the Honolulu Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a well-rounded, scenic, and delicious evening out. It’s best suited for those celebrating something special or simply wanting a touch of elegance in their Hawaiian vacation. With its combination of great food, live jazz, and spectacular views, it promises a memorable night on the water—an experience that’s worth every penny if you’re seeking a luxurious and authentic taste of Honolulu at sunset.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby