Maui is one of the best places if you’re looking to really relax and enjoy life. One of the most enjoyable activities one can do on Maui is take advantage of one of their beautiful sunset dinner cruises!

You’ll get to take in the stunning citrus colors of the sunset, reflected on the crystalline waters with a delicious drink in your hand.

Let’s go ahead and cover the best sunset dinner cruises Maui has to offer, so you can plan ahead! Be sure to see our reviews of Maui snorkeling tours and Maui whale watching tours.

Top Maui Sunset Dinner Cruises

Maui Deluxe Sunset Sail from Lahaina		Departure: Lahaina Harbor public loading dock in front of Pioneer Inn Duration: 2.5 hours Includes: Hot/cold hors d’oeuvres, locally-brewed beer, wine, champagne, Mai Tais	Check Tour Availability
Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise from Ma’alaea Harbor		Departure: Ma’alaea Harbor, Slip #82, South Ferry Loading Dock Duration: 2.5 hours Includes: Dinner, music, alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, tableside service	Check Tour Availability
Maui Sunset Sailing Cruise with Champagne from Lahaina		Departure: Lahaina Harbor public loading dock Duration: 2 hours Includes: Hot/cold hors d’oeuvres, locally-brewed beer, wine, champagne, Mai Tais	Check Tour Availability
Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise from Lahaina Harbor		Departure: Main loading dock at Lahaina harbor Duration: 2 hours Includes: Dinner cruise, 3-course meal, 2 alcoholic drinks, soda, on-board restroom, experienced captain and crew, tableside service	Check Tour Availability

The 4 Best Rated Dinner Cruises in Maui

1. Maui Deluxe Sunset Sail from Lahaina
2. Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise from Ma’alaea Harbor
3. Maui Sunset Sailing Cruise with Champagne from Lahaina
4. Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise from Lahaina Harbor

Now lets take a closer look at the Maui dinner cruises so you can find the right one for you!

Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise Reviews

1. Maui Deluxe Sunset Sail from Lahaina

Lahaina is one of the top destination spots on the island of Maui, and you’re bound to see why when you hop on to this sunset sail adventure. This 2.5-hour cruise is the perfect length for you to sit back and relax (or jump around!) without getting stir crazy.

You’ll start out by meeting up with your group at Lahaina Harbor public loading dock, along with any other passengers that may be boarding. Just what will you be boarding, you may be wondering?

A deluxe catamaran that’s sure to get you in the island mood! The catamaran is smooth enough for you to fully enjoy all drinks and eats without feeling like you’re being bounced around.

However, if you do like bouncing around, they have just the thing for you: forward trampolines! Okay, so these aren’t exactly used for jumping, but they are incredibly comfortable and let you almost sink into them.

However, there is plenty of seating offering panoramic island views. If you prefer, there’s also covered cabin space for you to sit under. Now, let’s talk about the good stuff.

The tour is technically a BYOB-type situation so if you want to bring your favorite bottle of wine or beer, then that’s more than welcome. However, there are also plenty of delicious onboard drinks available, too!

While indulging, you can even catch a glimpse of a stunning humpback whale who make their way to Hawaii annually. Make sure you book early from December to May if this is a must for you!

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2. Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise from Ma’alaea Harbor

If your stomach is craving something more substantial than appetizers, then we have you covered. The sunset dinner cruise from Ma’alaea Harbor is just the ticket, with a relaxing 2.5-hour boat journey, fine dining, and an unbeatable view!

This luxurious cruise offers a more private restaurant feel with smaller crowds than the previous cruise we just covered. You’ll board a deluxe, 3-story catamaran that has more than enough room for everybody to move around freely.

From the very beginning, you’ll feel like the VIP you are, being escorted to your table.

Before dinner is served, you’ll get to choose a complimentary drink of your choice. Both alcoholic and soft drinks are offered, so the choice is yours.

The boat is very spacious, so take this time to snap some photos, discover different nooks and crannies to enjoy your drink, and just take in the gorgeous ocean view.

Throughout it all, festive tropical music will be playing in the background to really get you in the mood to let go of stress.

Dinner will be served shortly after, and when you head back to your table, you’ll get to delight in Hawaiian cuisine prepared by Chef Keoni.

You’ll have to choose before booking, so make sure to do this before boarding. While you dine, you’ll also get the choice of a second included drink.

It’s hard to decide what to stare at – the delicious dinner or the incredible views around Molokini Crater, Kaho’olawe, and Lanai. The Kahalawai Mountains are also jaw-droppingly beautiful, with its green peaks raising high into the clouds.

Again, if you happen to book from December to May, the humpbacks are making their way from islands off the coast of mainland Alaska and are all over the place during this time.

Not only whales tend to make an appearance, and the captain and crew will make announcements over the sound system if there are any mammalian visitors!

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3. Maui Sunset Sailing Cruise with Champagne from Lahaina

Somehow, sunsets, sailing, and champagne just make for the perfect romantic evening. Even if you aren’t going with a significant other, however, the sunset sailing cruise with champagne from Lahaina is sure to offer up a memorable experience for you.

First off, you’ll board the ultralight catamaran: the Paragon.

This boat is super smooth and practically glides on top of the water as you cruise along the stunning west Maui coast.

The west is known for being one of the hottest tourist spots on the island, and you’ll get to see it all from up close and a distance now.

As it can get a little bit chilly on the water with the wind, it’s recommended that you wear a light jacket. This is a casual setting, too, so wear something comfortable!

Remember, that if you are trying to spot whales you’re not going to be going in the summertime. However, there are covered areas and even a closed area to protect you if it does get too cold.

Enjoy the picture-perfect view with an array of different beverages, including locally-brewed beer, Mai Tai cocktails, your choice of wine, and champagne. To keep your stomach happy, they also offer traditional Hawaiian pupus, or appetizers.

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4. Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise from Lahaina Harbor

This one is a favorite of many, no matter who they’re with, their age, or background. The sunset dinner cruise from Lahaina Harbor is simply incredible, and ideal if you enjoy the finer things in life. That’s why you’re in Maui anyway, isn’t it?

This 2-hour journey is the perfect way to end an evening, departing from Pier One in Lahaina Harbor. As soon as you board the beautiful catamaran, you’ll experience local tropical music playing in the background.

Before dinner is served, you’ll get to partake in various appetizers and your choice of a soda or fresh tropical juice. Catch a spot in the sunlight or the shade – there’s plenty of room here to lounge around.

Once the catamaran leaves the harbor, you can order an alcoholic beverage, as well. There are 2 different decks to explore, and we recommend checking both out for great views and photo ops.

Once you’re settled at your table, the main meal will be served. What’s for dinner?

A finger-licking selection of traditional Hawaiian dishes like Mahi-Mahi, pan-seared white fish with a tangy mango salsa, or a prime rib (carved on board).

No matter which one you choose, you’ll get tasty sides like Hawaiian sweet rolls and a chocolate brownie, too.

These creatures are incredibly majestic, and seeing them in person is an unreal experience that is worth the entire cruise, alone!

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Maui Travel Guide

Getting There

In order to partake in any of these Maui dinner cruises you need to get to there first. Maui’s main airport if Kahului Airport (OGG), however, there are also 2 smaller airports: Kapalua Airport (JHM) located in West Maui and Hana Airport (HNM) in East Maui. The vast majority of airlines feature direct Maui flights, so this is pretty easy. From Kahului Airport to Lahaina is about 45 minutes away by car.

Getting Around

Renting a car is highly recommended, just because you’re free to go wherever, whenever you want. It’s the best way to really experience Maui to its fullest, and you can do so by reserving a rental car ahead of time at either the Kahului or Kapalua airports. However, if you want to let someone else take the steering wheel, you can also get around by shuttle, taxi, or even public transportation.

Where to Stay

The vast majority of the aforementioned tours are located in West Maui and South Maui, so you’ll probably want to choose your place based on that first.

West – This area remains one of the most popular areas to stay on Maui, since the 60’s. Here, you’ll likely choose from Lahaina or Kaanapali. Lahaina is an old whaling village, whereas Kaanapali offers more places to stay and more dining options. This is where the vast majority of resorts and condos are, making it easy to pick a place from low-key to high-end. If you’re looking for souvenir shops, this is absolutely the place to go. Just remember that it can get pretty crowded and is very touristy.

The Sharaton, Hyatt, and Marriot resorts are just north of Lahaina and are all beachfront, making it easy to get to your snorkeling tour. However, we are a bit partial to the Westin Maui Resort and Spa, the Royal Lahaina Resort, and the Kaanapali Beach Hotel.

South Maui – The south includes Kihei and Wailea, which is not quite as crowded, though still offers its own charm. For example, the beaches have fewer people, leaving you to take in the view without disturbances. If you’re looking to bask in a calm, relaxing vacation without the hustle and bustle, then head to the south.

Kihei offers a variety of condo rentals, and you’re sure to find something to accommodate any budget. However, if you don’t mind spending more, head to Wailea which boasts various beachfront resorts, newer condos, a beautiful outdoor mall, and tons of high-end restaurants. Some of our favorites are Hotel Wailea, Wailea Beach Resort, and if you’re on a budget, Wailea Grand Champions Villas.

Restaurants and Eating Out

The areas also vary a bit in terms of dining quality and the types of restaurants you may be looking for.

West – When we’re talking about Lahaina and Kaanapali, as we previously mentioned, the latter offers many more dining options. One thing you definitely need to try to do is book at least weeks ahead of your trip, as some of the more popular eats book up quickly. If you’re dining in Kaanapali and are a fish taco fan, you have to try Monkey Pod Kitchen at least once during your stay. They’re also famous for the traditional Hawaiian Mai Tai cocktails, but theirs are served with mouth-watering passionfruit on top! There’s one in Wailea, too, so you have an excuse to go twice!

Another fun place to explore is the Hoopiilani Food Truck Park in Kaanapali, which is open nightly from 4 to 9. If you end up not making a reservation in time or feel like something spontaneous, this place has everything from poke bowls to Thai food to burgers. Depending on where you’re staying, you can realistically walk or take advantage of the free parking if driving.

South – You have a ton of dining options in south Maui, though the experiences vary greatly. You may have to work a bit harder to find something specific you’re looking for, or to find “tourist-approved” restaurants. One of the things we figured out is that south Maui has some of the best coffee on the entire island – just take a look at Akamai Coffee Company. Everything is locally-grown and locally-roasted, so you’re really supporting their local economy.

Are you a Top Chef fan? Even if you’re not, you have to stop by and try a bite at the Top Chef alumni, Sheldon Simeon’s “Lineage”. Paying homage to Hawaii’s traditional culture, the décor is unbeatable. The menu features varied influences, from Portuguese, Japanese, and of course Native Hawaiian dishes.

For seafood, you can’t forget Pa’ia Fish Market Southside. The original is in the Upcountry, though this open-air spot is just as good. Serving ono, mahi mahi burgers, incredible fish and chips, and more, we hope you’re hungry. Servings are enormous, and are great for sharing.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Maui has a thriving, pulsing nightlife, however nowhere on the island compares to Lahaina. If you come alive at night, then this former whaling port is the place to be. Bars, clubs, live music, karaoke, DJs – you name it and they have it. The Old Lahaina Luau is a beachside restaurant where you’ll get to watch cultural dances, demonstrations, and enjoy traditional dishes!

In the south, you’ll find more laid-back vibes, though still great nightlife and experiences. The South Shore Tiki Lounge in Kihei features a lineup of great DJs every night, along with live music during happy hour. Plus, they have delicious cocktails and pizza! Afterwards, you can go just south of Kihei where there’s a ton of different bars for karaoke, an Irish tavern, and even a few nightclubs.

Ultimately, if you’re younger and want to have some more electrifying, high-energy fun, head to Lahaina. If you enjoy a good cocktail or glass of wine while enjoying the way the moonlight shines through the palm trees, then the more luxe Wailea or most areas in the south would be ideal for you.

Weather

West Maui offers some of the best weather all of Hawaii has to offer. As it’s known for being dry and sunny almost daily, it’s perfect for being on the water(like for sunset dinner cruises!), or simply exploring the hills and scenic beaches.

Let’s face it, if you’re in West Maui, there’s no way you’re going to want to stay inside anyway. With the beautifully lush, green mountains rising behind you, you won’t be able to resist taking some snapshots. Not to mention, there’s a supreme selection of beaches for you here.

The south also has incredible weather, and if you’re planning on arriving in the winter, you’ll experience less rain here than in the west. South Maui has the most white sand beaches that are as perfect as one can possibly be. Ultimately, the south is known for having the driest, sunniest weather on average.

Attractions

We’ve already talked about one of Hawaii’s biggest attractions: being on the water. Surfing is another excellent outdoor activity that we encourage you to try, even if it’s your first time. Maui has tons of experienced, talented surf teachers who will make it as easy as possible for you.

Tips

The best time of year to go would be during spring or fall. The summer months are very dry and hot, and the beaches are going to be packed on the West side and pretty crowded in the south. South Maui can even get a bit chilly with greater cloud covering. You’ll see more tropical showers and rainfall in the winter, too.

If you’re into beer (or even if you aren’t!), you have to experience Maui Brewing Co’s tours! As Hawaii’s largest craft brewery, we love their Ginger Beer, Pineapple Mana Wheat beer, and succulent wings.

Hawaii is very unique, in part, due to the fact that volcanoes helped create the islands themselves. The Haleakala Crater is an almost impossibly large crater which formed over thousands of years due to an entire volcanic mountain top eroding. It’s visible from just about any point on the island, and sits at 10,023 feet above sea level.

We recommend getting up early to drive to the Haleakala Visitor Center, where you can watch an unforgettable sunrise. You may even question whether or not you’re on planet earth. For a thrilling adventure, take a zipline tour through the rainforests!

Humpback whales, melon-headed, short-finned pilot, pygmy, and false killer whales all reside in the waters off of Maui. If you love these beautiful giants and want to catch a glimpse of them, there are tons of live whale and dolphin tours and sighting spots for you. For indoor marine life spectating, the Maui Ocean Center is also a great place to take the kids and learn about animal welfare.

It’s a smart idea to reserve ahead of time, if possible. Remember, Maui is a very tourist-heavy island and these things can book up weeks or even months ahead of time. No matter what you decide on, whether indoors or outdoors, there will always be something fun to do.