Hosting a Private Event Aboard a Ship in Oahu, Hawaii? Here’s What You Need to Know

Raising a glass as the sun dips behind the horizon isn’t something most venues can offer. Out on the water, with the skyline behind you and the open ocean ahead, even a simple moment starts to feel a little more special. Aboard the Star of Honolulu, the setting does much of the work.

If you’re planning a birthday, a company dinner, or a gathering while in Hawaii, hosting it at sea brings a different kind of energy. The view shifts as we sail, the breeze softens the atmosphere, and the changing light creates a rhythm for the evening. It’s relaxed, open, and a little unexpected in the best way. Guests can step away from routine and really settle into what our ships have to offer.

Why Host Your Private Shipboard Party at Sea?

A lot of event spaces on land can be beautiful, but they tend to feel fixed. The view stays the same, the energy stays the same, and the setting fades into the background after a while. But on the water, the environment moves with you. One moment, you’re looking out toward the city; the next, the coastline curves away, and the horizon opens up around you.

Guests can sip cocktails, listen to music, and take in the scenery without feeling boxed in. The movement of the ocean, the sound of the waves, and the way the light shifts across the decks all add a quiet rhythm that’s hard to find anywhere else. The space feels open and easy. Nothing rushed.

Choose From All-Inclusive Sunset Dinner Packages in Oahu

We offer a variety of pre-set group packages designed to make planning effortless. These group options are based on the same high-quality experiences featured in our daily dinner cruises, which means your guests enjoy the same standards of service, entertainment, and cuisine.

Our packages fit a wide range of group sizes and event goals, anywhere from casual buffet gatherings to upscale table-service affairs. So, planning becomes a matter of simply selecting your style and then showing up ready to enjoy the event.

Each package includes a few thoughtfully bundled elements that would otherwise take time and effort to coordinate individually. With dinner, drinks, entertainment, and transportation already included, you can easily give your group a polished, professional experience.

What’s Included? It’s More Than You Might Expect

All group dinner packages feature a full-course meal prepared fresh in our commercial kitchen. We use a combination of premium local ingredients and high-quality imports from trusted global partners. For example, as one of Hawaii’s largest purchasers of lobster, we secure wild-caught Nova Scotia lobster during the best seasons, ensuring top quality every time.

The food is complemented by curated drink selections and lively onboard entertainment. Guests can enjoy tropical cocktails, wine service, and access to performances such as live jazz or authentic Polynesian shows. We also include round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels, creating a smooth and seamless evening from start to finish.

Looking for Something More Custom? You’ve Got Options

While most groups are fully satisfied with our package options, we also offer ways to personalize your event. Add-ons can include fresh flower leis for your guests, bottles of wine or champagne, hosted bar service, or even a souvenir photo experience.

These touches allow you to tailor the celebration to your group’s tone, preferences, and style. We also print dinner menus with your group’s name, logo, and event date, adding a thoughtful and professional detail to your evening.

Private Rooms with Your Own Entertainment

Each group package includes access to a private dining room. Your group enjoys a dedicated space for the full duration of the cruise, complete with its own service team, and entertainment. You’ll also have your own microphone for announcements or speeches and access to flat-screen TVs that can display your video content. When not in use, these TVs blend in as framed artwork on the wall.

All live performances also take place right in your private room, so guests never need to move to another deck to enjoy the show. Whether you choose a Polynesian performance or smooth jazz, the entertainment happens on your schedule and within your own space. This allows plenty of time for mingling and for running your own program.

A Dedicated Planner to Help You Every Step of the Way

Organizing a group event from far away might sound complicated, but you won’t have to go it alone. Each private event includes support from a Star of Honolulu Event Coordinator who will walk you through every step. From helping you select the appropriate package to coordinating transportation and final guest counts, your coordinator is a reliable partner. They bring local insight, logistical expertise, and a calm approach to make the process easier.

Consider Daytime Options Too

While evening cruises are the most popular, Star of Honolulu also offers unique daytime experiences that work well for many group types. Morning whale watch cruises are available during the winter months and offer a beautiful way to combine nature with celebration. These cruises come with educational commentary and are ideal for family-friendly groups or teams looking to relax in a more casual setting.

There is also a midday Hawaiian Cultural Lunch Cruise that brings traditional flavors and live performances into the spotlight. This option is perfect for school groups, retreat attendees, or guests who want to learn something meaningful while sharing a meal.

Book Early to Secure the Date You Want

Private shipboard parties are in high demand, especially during Hawaii’s busy seasons, like summer, holidays, and wedding months. Availability can become limited quickly, so it’s important to begin planning well in advance. Reserving your preferred date and room ensures that your event gets top-tier support and the ideal setting. With enough lead time, you also have the chance to include thoughtful customizations that make your party stand out.

Last-minute bookings can still work, but they leave less room for flexibility. A little advance planning goes a long way in ensuring everything aligns smoothly. The team can help confirm availability and secure your reservation quickly, giving you one less thing to worry about. Once you’re on the calendar, your coordinator will handle the rest.

Ready to Start Planning?

Hosting your event aboard the Star of Honolulu brings together everything you need in one place.  Stunning ocean views, freshly prepared food, live entertainment, and a team that handles the details so you can enjoy the moment. From milestone birthdays and company outings to family reunions and group celebrations, it’s a setting that makes any occasion feel special.

If you’re looking for something straightforward, our pre-set private dinner packages are a great place to start. They include dinner, drinks, entertainment, and even transportation. For those with a specific vision, we also offer the option to customize your event with add-ons like leis, hosted bars, bottles of wine or champagne and cakes.

You can explore package options and request a quote directly through our group private events page. Or, if you’d prefer to build something custom from the ground up, head to the free quote form and let us know what you envision or contact us. Either way, our team is here to help you create something worth remembering.