rehearsal event: sunset dinner cruise vs nice restaurant

h1jung

I can't seem to make up my mind on what's best for a rehearsal dinner event. We're planning on inviting everyone so expect around 50 people which includes children as well as the elderly. No one coming is infirm, though.

I really liked the idea of a sunset dinner cruise since it's really making the most of what Hawaii has to offer and is just really different. Also it seems more fun and private.
I am worried about guest getting seasick or the waters being very choppy, etc. When I looked at restaurants like Gannon's and 5 Palms they seem very beautiful as well. Expense-wise, these 2 options seem pretty similar, surprisingly enough.

If anyone also faced a similar dilemnia, it'll be great to hear what you ended up going with and why.

Thanks!

Hyuniee

jessj336

We thought about doing a sunset cruise but with it being the night before the wedding we opted to just do a welcome cocktail party with sushi & lots of appetizer and drinks because we didn't want to risk anyone getting seasick.

racholas

I like the idea of a cruise because you're providing an experience appropriate for the environment, not just a meal.  You're smart to plan ahead and be prepared with sea sickness meds.

You could also do something a bit less traditional than a rehearsal dinner cruise, such as a daytime snorkeling trip.  Those events are catered - some are supposedly very good - but you don't have the pressure of serving a delicious meal and wouldn't have to do flowers or seating, since the real focus is on the experience.  If it were a private charter (easy for 50 people) it would feel very private and special.

h1jung

thanks for everyone's feedback! it seems pretty tied still which accurately reflects how I feel about both options. I still have time, so will sit and think about it some more.