South Maui: Sunset Prime Rib or Island Fish Dinner Cruise

Imagine watching the sun set behind lush mountains and distant islands, all from the deck of a spacious triple-decker catamaran, while enjoying a delicious dinner and island melodies. That’s exactly what this sunset cruise from Ma’alaea Harbor aims to deliver—a mix of spectacular views, tasty food, and relaxing vibes.

What we love about this experience is how it offers a burst of authentic Maui beauty paired with comfort and fun. The large, multi-level boat allows for plenty of space to move around, so you won’t feel cramped even during peak times. The live music adds a carefree, island feel, and the chance to see humpback whales (in season) and Hawaiian sea turtles makes it even more memorable.

One possible consideration is the weather—since the trip goes out in the evening, rougher seas can sometimes impact the ride or the experience. However, the crew’s professionalism and flexibility seem to help keep the trip enjoyable even when conditions aren’t perfect.

This cruise suits travelers who want a laid-back, scenic evening with good food, friendly service, and excellent photo opportunities. It’s perfect for couples, families, or groups celebrating a special occasion.

Good To Know

Spectacular Maui sunsets over mountains and islands
Spacious, multi-level catamaran with plenty of room to relax
Delicious island-inspired dinner options, including prime rib and fish
Opportunity to see whales and sea turtles, especially in season
Live island music creates a relaxed, festive atmosphere
Includes two complimentary drinks, with the option to purchase more

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sunset Dinner Cruise

The Boat and the Setting

The cruise departs from Ma’alaea Harbor, with check-in typically aligned with sunset timings. The boat itself is a triple-decker catamaran, offering lots of room for guests to spread out. From the upper decks, you get unobstructed vistas of the ocean, the Kahalawai Mountains, and neighboring islands like Lanai and Molokini Crater.

Guests often comment on how the boat’s size and layout allow for a comfortable experience—Ryan notes, “The crew was amazing. They are so kind and worked really hard to make sure you were having a great time.” This space means you’re free to walk around, take photos, or simply sit back and enjoy the view.

The Experience Begins: Departure and Atmosphere

Once aboard, most guests are greeted with a complimentary drink—something simple like a cocktail or a soft drink—to set the relaxed tone. As the boat slips away from the harbor, island music fills the air, enhancing that tropical mood. The spacious decks mean you can find a quiet spot or gather with others, enjoying the gentle sway of the boat and the fresh ocean breeze.

The Scenic Ride and Wildlife Sightings

As you cruise, the main spectacle is the sunset itself. Reviewers highlight how stunning the views are, with the glow of the sun painting the sky and casting a warm light over the mountains and islands. Olive recalls, “The sunset was fabulous,” emphasizing how memorable this part of the voyage is.

In season (December through April), whale sightings are common, with Todd mentioning, “We found the whales, and it was one of the most moving evenings I’ve had,” which adds an extra layer of magic to the experience. Marine mammals like Hawaiian green sea turtles are also occasionally seen, especially during snorkeling stops, though this cruise primarily focuses on the scenic sail.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Gourmet Dinner

The highlight for many is the meal itself. Chef Keoni’s menu features a variety of island-inspired options, tailored to different tastes. Popular choices include the succulent Hawaiian prime rib, freshly sourced Mahi-Mahi, BBQ chicken, ribs, steamed vegetables, and rice with soy sauce. Vegetarians aren’t left out, with options like Penne Pasta with Thai Basil Marinara.

Guests consistently praise the quality of the food. Kim mentions, “Ribs were the best,” and many feel that the portions are generous for the price. The dinner is served while guests continue to enjoy the views, with the islands of Kahoolawe and Lanai visible in the distance and Molokini Crater staying nearby for potential snorkeling excursions.

Entertainment and Drinks

Throughout the cruise, island-style music creates an inviting atmosphere. Reviewers note that the musician or entertainer often performs for hours, keeping the vibe lively yet relaxed. Dawn appreciated the “fantastic sunset views” combined with “amazing crew, food, and singer,” making it a well-rounded event.

Two alcoholic drinks are included with the ticket, which is enough to toast the sunset or enjoy with your meal. Additional drinks can be purchased at the bar, which tends to be efficient, though some guests like Pam found the service slightly slow.

Snorkeling and Wildlife Encounters

While the primary focus is the sunset and dinner, the cruise offers opportunities to see whales (in season) and sea turtles, as noted by Richard. Sometimes, marine life like eagle rays appear close to the boat—something that surprises and delights guests.

On days with rough weather—as Deanna experienced—trip conditions can be bumpy, and the staff’s flexibility becomes important. If the forecast looks uncertain, it might be worth considering options to reschedule or prepare for a potentially choppier ride.

Practical Details: Duration, Cost, and Accessibility

This is a 2-hour cruise, making it a manageable evening activity that doesn’t take up your entire night. The price of $150 per person reflects a mid-range value—considering the scenic beauty, food, drinks, and entertainment, most travelers find it worth the expense.

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, with staff happy to assist on the first deck if needed. No hotel pickup is included, and parking fees are on your own—so plan accordingly.

Overall Value for Your Money

When you factor in the delicious dinner, spectacular sunset views, and live music, the experience offers good value. Many reviewers, including Ryan, mention they’d definitely return, especially because the crew and food consistently impress.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This sunset cruise caters best to those seeking a relaxing, scenic evening with a touch of island culture. It suits couples celebrating anniversaries, small groups, or families wanting a memorable night out. The opportunity to see whales and turtles adds special appeal for wildlife enthusiasts.

However, travelers prone to seasickness should consider the weather forecast, as conditions can vary. Since the experience is primarily about the scenery, those looking for an active adventure might want to supplement this with snorkeling or other excursions.

Final Thoughts

This South Maui sunset dinner cruise offers a delightful way to cap off a day in Maui. The combination of stunning vistas, tasty food, and live island music creates a laid-back yet memorable experience. The spacious boat and friendly crew ensure comfort and good service, making it a popular choice for many visitors.

While weather can sometimes be a factor, the overall feeling of watching the sun dip behind distant islands with a delicious meal in hand is truly special. It’s a lovely way to connect with Maui’s natural beauty and vibrant island life—perfect for those wanting a relaxed, scenic, and flavorful evening.

FAQ

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, typically in the evening, making it a perfect short activity after a day of exploring.

How much does it cost?
The ticket price is $150 per person, which includes dinner, two drinks, and live music.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
Meet at Ma’alaea Harbor, Slip #76, 101 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI. Check-in times are seasonal based on sunset, so verify your confirmation details.

Is the cruise suitable for kids?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and unaccompanied minors are not allowed. It’s best suited for families with older children or teenagers.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, dietary preferences such as vegetarian or kosher can be noted at booking. The menu includes options like prime rib, fish, chicken, and vegetarian pasta.

Can I see whales on this cruise?
Yes, especially December through April, when humpback whales are most active around Maui. Many reviews mention whale sightings.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, and staff can assist with seating on the first deck if needed.

Are drinks included?
Guests receive two complimentary alcoholic beverages. Additional drinks are available for purchase.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID, driver’s license, and dress comfortably for the evening. A light jacket or layers may be helpful if it gets breezy.

What’s the weather like?
Weather can vary; rough seas may occur, so check the forecast. The crew generally proceeds unless conditions are too dangerous.

In short, this sunset dinner cruise from Ma’alaea offers a memorable way to experience Maui’s natural beauty, delicious local flavors, and lively island atmosphere—all from the comfort of a spacious, multi-level catamaran. It’s an experience that combines picture-perfect scenery with a relaxed, friendly vibe, making it a worthwhile addition to any Maui itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: