Hawaii Dinner Cruise Tour Review: Kealakekua Bay

Thinking about hopping on a dinner cruise to Kealakekua Bay in Hawaii? It’s something that sounds pretty amazing, a chance to blend scenic beauty, local eats, and a bit of history too, isn’t it? I figured I’d offer my experiences, alongside some insights, to assist you in figuring out if it aligns with what you are wanting, that is if you want to see if it’s the type of memory you hope to create while in Hawaii. So, come along, and let’s get into what you might actually expect.

Setting Sail: First Impressions

As you board, you are probably going to notice that you’re joining fellow travelers who have pretty similar excitement. Anyway, the anticipation really begins as the boat actually pulls away from the shore. Usually, the boats themselves vary a little bit, but you’ll typically find options that cater to many comfort needs. There are boats that come with pretty spacious decks that let you wander around and take in views, so it is something that adds to the relaxing feeling you would hope for. To be sure, some even provide open-air and covered seating, just in case the weather gets a little bit temperamental.

Once on the move, very much be sure to secure your spot for the views, especially if you care about getting fantastic pictures! Getting on earlier definitely does help in a way; usually, that’s the trick, so you are likely able to snag one of the better spots. Of course, depending on what’s actually promised for the trip, some cruises even include some sort of welcome drink to get things started in a lively way, right? Either way, the goal here is really soaking in those initial, stunning views of the coastline as the sun sets. It will come across like magic!

A Feast for the Senses: The Dinner

Now, as for the food—what could be better than enjoying local Hawaiian cuisine as the coastline slides by? A great many cruises feature some version of a buffet, so, to be honest, you get to sample all sorts of local eats. We’re talking about options that tend to be things like traditional kalua pig (which, for those that don’t know, is actually cooked in an underground oven), fresh poi, some lomi salmon, plus a whole bunch of other stuff. Is that something that perks your interest? Quite often, they will offer some mainland favorites, you know, to just make sure everyone finds something they’re likely to actually enjoy. If anyone in your group has restrictions in food, it’s probably worth confirming any possible available accommodations prior to making plans, very much just in case, just to be on the safe side.

Dining is probably one of the bigger highlights. The whole setting is so calm and, to be honest, enjoyable, and then you factor in eating well while getting the views? Hard to beat that, seriously! A lot of operators throw in drinks packages as well (alcoholic and non-alcoholic choices) and stuff too, which certainly helps add a dash of fun, in a way, to your meal and experience.

Kealakekua Bay: History and Scenery

The best part, arguably, comes as you reach Kealakekua Bay. This spot has quite a big place in Hawaiian history; so, yes, Captain Cook landed here way back in 1779. Some tours typically give a talk that brings the spot alive with some interesting historical stories, just like tales about cultural stuff around the bay. Even though I’m sure you understand this already, history aside, the scenery truly is beautiful. High cliffs look over the water, right, giving lots of perfect opportunities to grab that once-in-a-lifetime photograph, as you most certainly want that photograph!

Actually, plenty of cruises will time it so you actually get to the bay near sunset, which, truly, really amps up how picturesque the place already is. Usually, there will be quiet periods when everyone actually just gets quiet so they can really enjoy the moment and simply take in all of what Hawaii shows off.

Entertainment and Ambiance

So, usually, these cruises include some form of entertainment as you eat and head back. This might mean live Hawaiian tunes to listen to, complete with a person playing music that makes you consider learning how to play the ukulele. It goes without saying that the music ends up adding plenty to the already amazing ambiance; you might even see some hula, that is if you get lucky!

The feel often is pretty relaxed. Very many cruises aim to match the easy-going vibes that the Hawaiian Islands just offer without much thought. When night falls, it goes without saying that it’s pretty calming getting to gaze up at the stars out on open waters; to be honest, it is something of an incredible ending note after all that delicious eating and sightseeing.