Does your trip to Hawaii include a breathtaking Maui sunset experience? If so, get ready to have a fabulous time on a dinner or cocktail cruise.
You can relax and enjoy the spectacular views, including the evening’s highlight, an absolutely stunning sunset. If a sunset cruise isn’t on your to-do list, you may want to consider squeezing it in. While you’ve probably experienced sunsets before, you’ve never seen one set over Maui’s waters.
Now that you’re all hyped up and ready to book a sunset cruise, it’s time to start thinking about planning one.
Tips On Planning a Maui Sunset Cruise
Planning a sunset cruise in Maui takes a little more effort than simply stating it’s something you want to do. There’s a little planning involved, but don’t worry, you can do most of it from the comfort of your beach chair.
Decide on a Cruise Date and Time
Okay, you know you want to catch the sunset so picking a time to head out on the water is pretty simple. You want the cruise to depart in the evening. See, planning a sunset Maui cruise isn’t too difficult. The next step is figuring out what date to go. The date can affect when you need to reserve your spot.
Weekends tend to be busier compared to weekdays. If you want to head out on a Monday evening, you may even have the boat to yourself. Along with figuring out which date works best for your schedule, it’s also a good idea to think about crowds.
If you’re hoping for some privacy, take your cruise during the week. Another option is to book a private sunset cruise; a private cruise is noticeably pricier, but you also have the entire boat to yourself, except for the crew.
This brings us to the type of sunset cruise. As previously mentioned, you can book a private cruise or go on a public one and possibly make some new friends. You can also choose between a dinner or cocktail cruise. If you only want to catch the sun setting over the water, you can also choose a cruise without any extra frills. This is a good option if you’re worried about your travel budget.
Watch the Weather Forecast
Hawaii has a tropical climate, which means shorts and tee shirts throughout the year. The weather is also usually perfect for water activities, including sunset cruises. However, storms can blow in, sometimes suddenly.
Your morning and afternoon may have perfect weather but the evening may be rainy and windy. There’s nothing more disappointing than getting to the dock only to discover your sunset cruise is canceled because of forecasted bad weather.
Checking the local forecasts helps you stay weather aware. This way if a storm is expected to blow in, you can make other plans. Postponing your sunset cruise is certainly disappointing, but it’s better than having your view obstructed by heavy cloud cover.
Another reason to watch the weather is so you know what to wear. Once the sun sets, the temperature can drop. You’re not going to need a heavy coat but you may want to bring a light jacket or sweater. Some sunset cruises also have a dress code.
Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean formal wear. However, it may prohibit you from wearing a tank top or super short shorts.
Bring Your Camera
The camera app on your cell phone will work just fine, and you can also bring along a camera. A better option may be spending a few bucks on a disposable, waterproof camera.
Pretty much every tourist and dive shop carries waterproof cameras. Remember, you’re going to be out on the water and you don’t want to accidentally drop your cell phone or expensive camera in the ocean. Even if it floats, chances are, the device is ruined.
You may not get contest-winning photos with a disposable camera but it’s more than enough to capture stunning shots of the sunset. The camera is inexpensive and even developing the film isn’t going to break your vacation budget.
You’ll also have some great shots of the sunset to help you remember your cruise. Some cruises also sell photos of the sunset. So, if you don’t always take the best pictures, you can still have a snapshot.
Pick a Location
Sunset cruises in Maui leave from the dock and the beach. Yep, you can wade out in the water and hop on the boat for a sunset cruise. Whichever method you choose, make sure the boat is heading for your preferred location.
Some of the best places to watch the sunset in Maui are off of Ka’anapali Beach, where you wade to the waiting boat out in the water. Don’t panic, the water only gets up to about your knees—you’re not actually swimming to board the boat.
Another great option is leaving from Maalaea Harbor. You head out into the open water for a stunning view of the sunset. Since you’re away from Maui, you don’t need to worry about lights from the island interfering with your view.
Best of all, there’s no wading to the ship—you can hop on board from the pier. These are only a couple of great places to embark on a sunset cruise in Maui.
Make Your Sunset Cruise Extra Special
As if watching the sunset over the water in Maui isn’t special enough, you can add something extra to make it a little more memorable. Consider booking a cruise for only your group. This way, you can enjoy having the boat to yourself. This can be a great way to end your Maui vacation.
Are you celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion? If so, let the crew know. Chances are, they have some ideas on how you can make the sunset cruise extra special. Maybe it’s surprising you and your group with a celebratory cake or offering special cocktails.
You may be surprised at what the crew can do to turn your cruise into a special occasion. Most importantly, always remember to have fun and take in every moment you’re out on the water.
