Best Sunset Cocktail Cruise From A-Bay in mid-January

Question

Aloha. My wife and I will be near A-Bay in mid-January and would like to do a quality sunset cocktail cruise hoping for a day with the least amount of people. I see Spirit of Aloha ($149 pp) runs a catamaran with up to 59 people and Ocean Sports off the Marriot. ($165 pp I think) but prices are not too important.

Just wondering if anybody has a recommendation and is it best to go mid-week like a Wednesday or are they always full?

Mahalo.

Answer

If you’re planning a sunset cocktail cruise near A-Bay (Anchorage Bay, Kailua-Kona) in mid-January, you’re in luck — the weather is usually pleasant, and January is part of the quieter season compared to December holidays or spring break. Choosing the right cruise depends on the balance you want between intimacy, amenities, and vessel size.

Here’s a detailed comparison and tips:

Spirit of Aloha: Catamaran cruise with up to 59 passengers. Offers cocktails, light snacks, and often includes live music or commentary. This is a solid mid-sized option — not too crowded, but can fill up faster during peak season or weekends. People generally enjoy the larger deck space and stability.
Ocean Sports (from the Marriott): Slightly smaller or comparable vessel, also offering cocktails and sunset views. Often praised for attentive crew and smooth sailing experience. The price is slightly higher, but many guests feel the service and personal attention justify it.

Tips to maximize experience and avoid crowds:

Book a mid-week cruise, ideally Tuesday–Thursday. These days are less busy than weekends, and mid-January is generally slower tourism-wise.
Reserve your spot well in advance, even for mid-week, as January still attracts visitors from the mainland US.
Consider a late afternoon departure to catch the sunset, which is typically around 5:45–6:15 pm in mid-January. Boarding times often start an hour before sunset.
If intimacy is a priority, ask the operator about smaller vessels or “limited capacity” trips. Some companies have smaller private or semi-private charters that can accommodate 10–20 guests.
Dress in layers — January evenings can be cool offshore, and wear non-slip shoes for safety on deck.

Other considerations:

Check cancellation policies. Weather can affect ocean conditions, though Kona typically has calm seas in January.
If you want a very quiet experience, ask the operator directly if there are any lightly booked cruises or off-peak departure times.
Many couples enjoy Spirit of Aloha for the lively, social atmosphere, while Ocean Sports is recommended for a more relaxed, attentive experience. Both are good choices — it really depends on whether you prefer a larger social environment or smaller, personalized service.

Overall, for a January mid-week sunset cocktail cruise in A-Bay, either option works well. Booking mid-week and early in advance will give you the best chance for a less crowded, enjoyable experience.