Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner and Jazz

Looking for a special way to end a day in Honolulu? The Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner and Jazz cruise offers a blend of elegance, scenic beauty, and live music that’s hard to match — especially if you’re after a memorable night out. This experience is designed for those who appreciate good food, beautiful views, and a touch of class, all wrapped up in a three-hour cruise along Oahu’s southern coast.

What we really love about this tour is the top-notch cuisine — a carefully curated 5-course Maine lobster and prime beef tenderloin dinner, served in a setting that’s both intimate and luxurious. Plus, the live jazz performances add a delightful, relaxing soundtrack to your evening.

On the flip side, be aware that this cruise is on the pricier side, and weather can sometimes affect the sunset views, especially if rain rolls in unexpectedly.

This experience suits couples celebrating special occasions, families seeking an elegant outing, or anyone wanting a taste of Hawaiian luxury with a view. If you’re looking for a romantic, scenic, and gourmet experience that’s distinctly upscale, this cruise might just be your perfect evening.

This experience made our article of Our Picks For The 14 Best Dining Experiences In Oahu.

Key Points

• Elegant setting with private tables and beautiful ocean views
• Delicious 5-course meal featuring Maine lobster and tenderloin steak
• Live jazz music performed by top local artists
• Spectacular views of Diamond Head, Waikiki, and fireworks (on Fridays)
• Premium beverages included in the package, with options to purchase more
• Ideal for celebrating special occasions or enjoying a romantic night out

An In-Depth Look at the Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner and Jazz Experience

The moment you step aboard the Star of Honolulu, you’re greeted with a welcoming Hawaiian Bellini (non-alcoholic), setting a festive tone for the evening. The cruise departs promptly at 5:30 pm from Aloha Tower Marketplace, just in time to catch the sunset as you drift along the southern coast of Oahu. The atmosphere is relaxed but refined — think elegant linens, soft lighting, and a sense of occasion.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The cruise lasts approximately three hours (or four on Fridays, when you get an extra hour to enjoy the fireworks show). You’ll settle into a private table with a perfect view of the ocean, where the staff quickly serve your signature 5-course dinner. This meal features seasonally inspired dishes with signature entrees of Maine lobster and prime tenderloin beef, served tableside with finesse. Several reviews mention that the food is consistently delicious, with one guest describing it as “amazing” and praising the served-in-perfect-intervals pacing that keeps the meal enjoyable without feeling rushed.

Throughout the evening, live jazz from Oahu’s top artists provides a smooth, elegant soundtrack. The performers often include piano, saxophone, and vocals that elevate the mood from dinner to dance if you’re inclined. Many guests note the high quality of the entertainment, with glowing comments about the music, saying it “enhanced the experience” and provided a wonderful backdrop to the stunning views.

The Views: Why They Matter

As the cruise moves slowly along Waikiki’s coast, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of Diamond Head, the famous volcanic crater that forms the iconic backdrop of Honolulu. The twinkling lights of Waikiki shimmer in the background, creating a picturesque setting that’s perfect for photos or simply soaking in the scenery. On clear nights, the sunset’s vivid colors paint the sky, making for unforgettable moments.

If you opt for a Friday cruise, you’ll have the bonus of Friday Fireworks. The fireworks show is visible from the deck and adds a dramatic flourish to your evening, especially if you’ve booked the extra hour. Many reviews remark that the combination of a delicious meal, live music, and fireworks makes for a “highlight of the trip.”

Beverages and Additional Costs

Included in your ticket are two super-premium beverages and a champagne toast (non-alcoholic options available). You’re also free to order additional drinks from the onboard lounge, which offers a selection of premium beverages. Guests have noted the drinks are “delicious,” and the staff is attentive in keeping glasses filled.

What About Weather?

Weather can be unpredictable. While most cruises run rain or shine, heavy weather or storms might lead to cancellations or a less than ideal sunset view. One reviewer shared that their trip was affected by rain, which limited the sunset experience but still offered great food and entertainment. If you’re booking well in advance, it’s worth checking the forecast closer to your departure date.

The Overall Experience: Is It Worth It?

Many travelers rave about the value for money. The combination of fine dining, a scenic cruise, and live jazz makes this experience feel special, especially given the quality of the food and entertainment. Several reviews called it “deluxe,” “romantic,” or “one of the best experiences” they had in Hawaii. The five-course meal has been praised for being both delicious and generously portioned, often cited as a highlight.

That said, some mention that the ship’s interior feels a little dated, and on rainy or cloudy evenings, the sunset may not be as spectacular as hoped. The price point, at around $236 per person, is on the higher end, but many agree that the experience justifies the cost if you’re after a refined, scenic, and culturally rich evening.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This tour is perfect for couples celebrating anniversaries or romantic getaways, families seeking a memorable evening, or anyone eager to combine Hawaii’s natural beauty with an elegant culinary experience. If you prefer more casual or active outings, this may not be your best fit. But if you’re after a relaxed luxury experience with a side of spectacular views, this cruise ticks those boxes.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Choice for You?

If you’re looking for an upscale dinner experience with a scenic backdrop, this sunset cruise offers both. The quality of the food, the live jazz, and the stunning vistas of Waikiki and Diamond Head all contribute to an evening that feels special without being over-the-top expensive. It’s a wonderful option for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious way to admire Oahu’s evening sky.

That said, it’s important to remember that weather can influence the sunset view, and the price reflects the upscale nature of the experience. If you’re after an authentic, relaxed Hawaiian vibe with a casual reggae or hula show, other tours might suit you better. But for those craving a refined, romantic, and scenic dinner, this cruise is hard to beat.

In summary, the Nova Five Star Sunset Dinner and Jazz cruise is best suited for travelers who value gourmet cuisine, majestic views, and live entertainment — all wrapped into a single, memorable evening. It’s worth considering if you want to add an elegant chapter to your Hawaiian holiday.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a family-friendly experience, but keep in mind that the environment is quite refined and adult-oriented. Short pants are not recommended, so dress accordingly.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately three hours, but on Fridays, it extends to four hours with the fireworks show.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Aloha Tower Marketplace at 5:30 pm, with check-in starting at 4:45 pm.

Are beverages included?
Yes, your ticket includes a champagne toast plus two super-premium beverages. Additional drinks are available for purchase.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the cruise. Refunds are not available if canceled less than 24 hours in advance.

Is there a dress code?
Casual attire is fine, but shorts are not recommended to maintain the evening’s elegant vibe.

What if the weather is bad?
Heavy rain or storms may affect the cruise or the sunset views. Check the forecast closer to your date and be prepared for possible rescheduling or changes.

Are special dietary requests accommodated?
You must call the provider 72 hours in advance if you have specific requests. While the reviews praise the food, it’s best to confirm any dietary needs beforehand.

Is there entertainment besides the jazz band?
The main entertainment is the live jazz performance, which many reviews describe as top-notch. The focus is on the music, scenery, and cuisine.

Can I get a different seating option?
Most guests are seated at private tables, but the cruise offers an upper deck package for better views, especially to catch the fireworks on Fridays.

This cruise strikes a balance between refined luxury and memorable scenery, making it a splendid choice for those seeking an elegant, scenic, and musical evening in Hawaii. With its combination of delicious food, captivating views, and live jazz, it’s an experience that many will cherish long after the last notes fade away.