Sunset Cocktail Sails

As the sun dips below the horizon, relax on board a sailing catamaran, and get ready to have the best evening in Hawaii. While you can see the sunset from the beach or the balcony of your hotel, there is no better way to enjoy the sunset on the Big Island than on a sunset cocktail cruise from Kona or Waikoloa. Watch as the sky turns into a stunning picture perfect painting of colors, and once the sun goes down, keep your eyes out for the elusive "green flash". Take your pick from a variety of different drinks, and some boats even offer delicious appetizers, and have the best Big Island sunset experience with a cocktail cruise.

• Although the Big Island of Hawaii is normally quite warm year round, it can get a bit chilly on sunset cruises once the sun has set. You will want to bring a light jacket or sweater with you in case you need it.
• Some boats are considered "barefoot" and your shoes will be collected at the time of boarding, and it is always recommended that if you do wear shoes on a boat, that you choose footwear that is flat or with low heels. You never know when the ocean will get a little bumpy!
• While there is no dress code, many guests use this opportunity to wear aloha attire and outfits with fun island prints on Big Island sails and cruises. Casual resort attire is also a great option to wear on a sunset cruise.
• There are plenty of restaurants around many of the cruise departure locations, and you can plan on having dinner before or after your Big Island cocktail cruise.
• Sunset cruises on sailing catamarans will usually have a lounging net where you can sit and relax during the cruise. This area is considered a "splash zone" so please be aware that you might get wet when seated on the net.
• Hold on tight! When you are cruising, keep on hand on the boat at all times to make sure you don’t slip and fall.
• It is customary to give the captain and crew a gratuity if you feel they did an excellent job, and cash tips are always appreciated.

Big Island cocktail cruises on depart from both Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa, and depending on where you are staying on the island, the check-in location could be anywhere from a brisk walk from your hotel to over an hour long drive.

Since the sunset cruises on the Big Island do not offer transportation, you will want to have a rental care available to drive, or choose an option that departs within walking distance or a reasonable ride share or taxi ride.



Q: How long is the sunset cruise on Big Island?
A: Most Hawaii sunset cocktail cruises range from one to two hours in duration.

Q: What kind of drinks are served on Kona and Waikoloa sunset cruises?
A: Although the exact drinks served will vary depending on the boat, each cruise will often serve a variety of drinks like mai tais, pina coladas, margaritas, beer, wine, and signature cocktails as well.

Q: Are Big Island sunset cruises family-friendly?
A: All of the cruises are family-friendly and welcome guests of all ages.

Q: Is food served on board a Big Island sunset cruise?
A: Some of the Big Island cruises will serve appetizers or snacks, and there are also a number of different restaurants available around the departure areas so you can always eat before or after the cruise

Q: How much should you tip on a sunset cruise on the Big Island?
A: It is customary to give 20% of your tour total to the captain and crew. If your total was $100, $20 to the crew is a good amount.

Q: What is the most affordable Big Island sunset cruise
A: All of the sunset cocktail sails from Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa are similar in price, and should fit into almost any Hawaiian holiday budget.

Q: What is the best cruise on the Big Island?
A: HawaiiActivities.com offers the best Big Island sunset cruises in Hawaii, and each one we offered has been hand selected by our staff of local experts.