7 Best Maui Sunset Cruises For a Great Night Out

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I’ve traveled all over the world and one of the things I always look forward to doing in every location is watching the sunset (and now that I have young kids I’m usually also watching the sunrise). 

While we’ve seen some great sunsets, none compare to Maui. The sunsets here are unbelievably spectacular. It isn’t just the colors; it’s how the sun dips below the neighboring islands of Lanai, Molokai, and Kaho’olawe. And while you can certainly see these sunsets from land, there’s something special about enjoying them from the water. 

If you’re looking for a Maui sunset cruise that really wows, we have a list of the best of the best, and what makes each one so special. Living on Maui for three years we were able to experience more than our fair share of these, so we’re happy to be able to share our advice with you!

Want to get right to it without reading all the details? Jump in and book these recommended tours:
1. This is the cruise to book if you want live music
2. Book this for a convenient Wailea departure
3. Luau or cruise? Get both with this sunset luau cruise
4. Enjoy a full dinner cruise with your sunset
5. Staying in Ka’anapali? Here are all the Ka’anapali Sunset Cruises, reviewed by us!
5. This is our favorite tour during whale season
Need more time on (and in) the water? Make sure you check out our top snorkeling tours on Maui.

1. Sunset Live Music Cruise (Ka’anapali)

Head out onto the water with a drink in hand while being serenaded by an on-board musician. This sunset live music cruise really knows how to have a good time. Offered every Tuesday and Thursday, you and approximately 47 other guests will board a 55’ catamaran for two hours of fun. 

Included is live music, an open bar (beer, wine, champagne, and mixed drinks), and pupus (light appetizers). 

They depart from Ka’anapali beach (how convenient!), and if you’re not staying in Ka’anapali, you’ll get a 4-hour Whalers Village parking validation. Note that because of the convenient location and not needing to drive to a harbor, they do beach loading. That means you’ll be wading into the water up to your knees in order to board. Long dresses and pants aren’t ideal here. 

If you’re not interested in live music, or you can’t go on Tuesday or Thursday, they offer a regular sunset cruise (sans live music) all other days of the week. Learn more about their standard Ka’anapali sunset cocktail cruise.

2. Sunset Luau Cruise (Ma’alaea Harbor)

Can’t decide between going to a luau or enjoying a sunset cruise for an evening activity? Do both with this sunset luau cruise! While this isn’t a true full luau, you’ll still get to experience traditional music and dance with Maui’s gorgeous sunset as a backdrop. 

You’ll board the maxi-powered catamaran, which leaves from Ma’alaea Harbor in central Maui (paid parking available). On board you’ll be treated to appetizers, a full dinner, and an open bar with beer, wine, and mixed drinks. During the cruise you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy Polynesian dance, which makes this experience part sunset cruise, part luau. 

The boat has a Coast Guard-approved occupancy of 149 people, but they intentionally limit it to 60% of capacity, so there’s extra space to stretch out. While this is the most expensive cruise on this list, you do get to see hula and a full dinner.

If you prefer to keep your luau and your sunset sail separate, we have a list of the best luaus on Maui.

3. Catamaran Sunset Sail: 10% Off

Spend 2 hours aboard Sail Maui’s prestigious ‘Alihilani catamaran. With 48-passengers on their 65’ catamaran, there is plenty of room to spread out. Excited for a little more adventure? Head up front to the trampolines (though you might get a bit wet). 

They leave from Ma’alaea Harbor in Central Maui. You will enjoy hot and cold pupus (appetizers) as well as an open bar with cocktails, wine, and beer. 

4. Adventure Sunset Sail

Staying in Wailea or Kihei? This is the sunset cruise you want to be on. This Adventure Sunset Sail departs from Maluaka Beach, a very convenient South Maui location. The adventure part of this sunset sail is that you get to enjoy a beach landing, which means you should expect to get wet! We happened to go out on an evening when the south swell was particularly large, so we were in for even more of an adventure! (You can see the video of our experience below). 

Once aboard the 65’ catamaran, you’ll enjoy two hours of sail time, 3 appetizer courses from The Market Maui (a great Wailea deli/restaurant), and an open bar featuring local brands like MauiWine and Ocean Vodka. 

If you haven’t rented a car or you don’t want to drive, they do offer shuttle service from Wailea hotels. But book early, as this option tends to fill up! 

We loved this sunset cruise, and we were able to go out for a great night in Wailea afterward. Here’s a list of our favorite Wailea restaurants.

5. Ka’anapali or Ma’alaea Sunset Luxury Sail

Another stellar option is this 2-hour sunset cruise, which departs from two different locations on the island: Ma’alaea Harbor or Ka’anapali (beach loading). 

A standout feature is that they offer private tables for two, making this a great option for a romantic evening on the sea. They serve plated appetizers and there is a premium open bar with beer, wine, and cocktails. 

This is a luxury sunset sail with food served; there is no buffet.

6. Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise

If you’re looking for something more than a cocktail and pupu cruise, consider a dinner cruise. Hop aboard this 65’ luxury catamaran for 2.5 hours, relax, and enjoy the spectacular scenery and service. 

You’ll depart from the beach in Ka’anapali — very convenient if you’re staying in Ka’anapali. But if you’re not, don’t worry! They give you a 4-hour parking validation for Whalers Village. Once aboard, you’ll have an open bar and a buffet dinner to enjoy. There’s something for nearly everyone when it comes to the food selection. 

Kids of all ages are welcome. But don’t wear long dresses or pants. This is a beach loading boat, which means you’ll get a bit wet while getting on and off. The convenience of this beach loading cruise can’t be beat. 

7. Luxury Sunset Sail from Lahaina Harbor and Ma’alaea Harbor (10% off!)

Keep it simple and luxurious with this 2-hour sunset sail. This is arguably one of the best sunset sails for spotting whales in the winter, as you’ll cruise through the ‘Au’Au channel. This is the area between Lana’i and West Maui, and its warm, shallow waters are a favorite of humpback whales and their calves!

An open bar and appetizers are included in the price. While this isn’t a small tour (it welcomes up to 48 passengers), it’s a great option for families with small children because kids under 3 sail for free! Plus, you’ll save 10% with our discount code!

Maui Sunset Cruise FAQs

Can you see whales on a Maui sunset cruise?

You sure can! While these aren’t whale watching tours, if they come across a whale during whale season, they will absolutely stop to watch them. Whale season runs December – April, and these sunset cruises all cruise in prime whale watching locations. So the odds of seeing whales during your cruise is pretty good! 

What is the best place to watch the sunset on Maui?

Head to West or South Maui for spectacular sunset views. You’ll get amazing views both from land or from sea. What we love about a sunset cruise is that you not only get to appreciate the sunset over the water, you get to see the island lit up in the glow of the setting sun. 

What do you wear on a Maui sunset cruise?

Pretty much anything you want! Bring a light jacket or sweater, especially during the winter if you tend to get cold in the evening. There is usually a light wind and after a day of fun in the sun, it can feel a little cool. 

If you’re doing one of the beach loading tours, don’t wear long dresses or pants. Expect that your knees and below will get wet. But that’s part of the adventure of beach loading!

How long is a sunset sail on Maui?

Most sunset sails on Maui are two hours, though you will find some that run a bit longer, at 2.5 hours. But they are quick tours that will usually get you back in time for any dinner plans you have that evening.

Find a great place to stay on Maui:
The 7 Best Vacation Rentals in Wailea and Makena
The 12 Best Maui Beach Hotels (+ 5 awesome beachfront condos)
Where to Stay in Hana Maui for One Night: 4 Great Options

There’s More to See Than Sunsets

Maui is a dream destination and there is so much to see and do. If you want to make your trip planning easy, our itineraries are here to help. With carefully thought-out excursion days, we take you around the island, seeing the best sights, stopping at the best beaches, and eating at the best restaurants. We’ve done the homework for you, now you get to download and enjoy!

My twin sister and I just returned from an amazing birthday in Maui.  I ordered your itinerary for Maui and we relied on it heavily. I just wanted you to know your itinerary was spot on and your recommendations were the best. Thank you so so much.

Kate R.