Honolulu Sunset Sail – Makani Catamaran
Duration
~2 hours
Distance
Waikīkī South Shore
Included
Catamaran Cruise, Onboard Amenities, Optional Transport
The Experience
Hawaiʻi sunsets are famous the world over — but the best way to watch one isn't from a crowded beach. It's from the deck of a catamaran, with nothing between you and the horizon but open ocean. The Honolulu Sunset Sail aboard the Makani Catamaran is a 2-hour evening cruise along Oʻahu's south shore, departing from Kewalo Basin Harbor just as the sun begins its descent. The timing is deliberate — September through April, sails run 5:00–7:00 PM; May through August, they run 5:30–7:30 PM, always positioned to catch the full arc of the sunset. As you leave the harbor, the Waikīkī skyline, Diamond Head's volcanic silhouette, and the distant Koʻolau Mountains come into view in one sweeping panorama. The catamaran is a modern, USCG-certified vessel with lounge nets over the bow, open-air deck seating, a covered cabin for shade, and a full bar serving tropical cocktails, beer, wine, and more. The crew is friendly and experienced, and the sound system sets the perfect laid-back mood. What makes this sail stand out from other sunset cruises is the balance — it's scenic and relaxed without being overcrowded or overly chaotic. The chill vibe, combined with one of the best views in Hawaiʻi, makes it a natural fit for couples on a date night, families wrapping up a long beach day, or first-time visitors who want to experience something genuinely memorable. Keep your eyes open for Hawaiian green sea turtles gliding through the waves, spinner dolphins playing in the wake, and during winter months, humpback whales passing through these waters on their annual migration. Optional hotel pickup is available for $15 per person from the Waikīkī area.
Pricing
All rates are per hour. Military and Kama'āina (Hawaii resident) discounts available with valid ID.
| Bus / Option | Standard Rate | Military / Kama'āina |
|---|---|---|
| Senior (63+ yrs) | $118/hr | — |
| Adult (13–62 yrs) | $135/hr | — |
| Child (3–12 yrs) | $105/hr | — |
| Infant (2 and under) | $0/hr | — |
* Valid military ID or Hawaii driver's license required for discounted rates. Rates subject to change — contact your Aloha Ambassador for a personalised quote.
Unforgettable Moments
Golden Hour from the Ocean
Watch the sky transform into shades of gold, orange, and pink as the sun sets over the Pacific — a view that belongs on any Hawaiʻi bucket list
Diamond Head at Dusk
Oʻahu's iconic volcanic crater silhouetted against the sunset sky — one of the most photographed views in all of Hawaiʻi, best seen from the water
Honolulu Skyline Glow
As dusk settles, the lights of Honolulu and Waikīkī begin to glow against the darkening sky — a beautiful contrast to the disappearing horizon
Bow Nets over the Pacific
Lie back on the forward hammock nets with the ocean beneath you as the sun sets ahead — pure relaxation on open water
Marine Life at Sunset
Hawaiian green sea turtles and spinner dolphins are frequently spotted along this route — the golden hour light makes every sighting even more magical
Tropical Cocktails & Ocean Breeze
Sip a Mai Tai or a cold local beer as the trade winds cool the deck — the most relaxing happy hour on Oʻahu
⚠️ Safety Notes
- ✓All ages welcome — infants (2 and under) sail free
- ✓It can get breezy after sunset — a light jacket is recommended
- ✓Wildlife sightings are common but not guaranteed
- ✓Alcohol available for purchase — please drink responsibly
- ✓Operates rain or shine; tours may be modified in severe conditions
- ✓Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in
🌿 Environment & Values
- ✓Non-spray sunscreen required to protect coral reefs and marine life
- ✓$1 Ocean Stewardship Fee per guest supports ocean conservation in Hawaiʻi
- ✓USCG-certified vessel operated by experienced local crew
- ✓Low-impact sailing experience with minimal disruption to wildlife
- ✓Locally operated, supporting Oʻahu's ocean tourism community
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting at
Senior (63+ yrs)
$118 each
Adult (13–62 yrs)
$135 each
Child (3–12 yrs)
$105 each
Infant (2 and under)
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