The 8 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Sarasota
Sarasota isn’t just a pretty place to stay; it’s a prime spot for cruises and boat tours that bring you eye-to-eye with dolphins, manatees, and stunning sunsets. Unlike many coastal destinations, Sarasota offers a variety of options—whether you’re seeking a private adventure, a family-friendly outing, or a scenic sunset cruise—that make the most of its calm Gulf waters and abundant wildlife. Many tours include stops at sandbars, historic sites, and natural preserves, giving you a real taste of the local environment. Plus, with knowledgeable captains and easy booking, Sarasota’s waters are more accessible than you might think.
If you’re wondering which boat tour suits your style, this guide breaks down the best options based on your interests, time, and budget. From private, tailored outings to group adventures exploring Anna Maria Island or the Sarasota coastline, you’ll find something perfect for your trip.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of private and group tours that highlight Sarasota’s natural beauty and marine life. Whether you want a private dolphin cruise with sandbar stops, a swift dolphin watching, or a relaxing sunset cruise, each offers a unique perspective. For those seeking a longer, luxurious day on the water, there’s also a half-day private tour and an eco-focused adventure in Siesta Key. Lastly, more active travelers might prefer Sarasota’s catamaran speedboat tour or a full day private boat experience. Read on for detailed insights into each.
1. Private Siesta Funship Adventure/Dolphin Cruise Sandbar Stops
This private boat cruise delivers a personalized experience, perfect for families or small groups wanting to see Sarasota’s famous dolphins and manatees up close. The tour departs from the North Siesta Key Bridge and takes you to where these animals are most active. The boat is equipped with coolers and ice, and it’s BYOB—so bring your own drinks for a relaxed day on the water. Along the way, you’ll stop at a sandy beach or sandbar for swimming and relax at a tiki bar or restaurant, adding a fun social element.
What sets this tour apart is its private nature. Captain Joe and Cosmo give personalized attention, sharing local insights that make the journey richer. With 40 reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, this cruise is highly recommended for those looking for a flexible, intimate outing. Reviewers mention the “big boat with toys for kids” and Captain Joe’s friendliness, making it a hit with families and couples alike.
Bottom line: For around $800 per group, this private trip offers a tailored, dolphin-focused adventure with swimming, drinks, and dedicated attention from your crew.
2. Dolphin Watching boat tour around Anna Maria Island
At number two, this dolphin watching trip is a great choice for those who want a quick, family-friendly outing. Led by an experienced captain, the 2-hour tour emphasizes unmatched viewing opportunities with spacious decks and limited passenger numbers. This means you’ll get plenty of chances to see dolphins and enjoy close-up encounters.
The boat has thoughtful features like a large bimini for sun protection and a dive ladder for easy water access, making it comfortable for all ages. Reviews highlight the crew’s attentiveness—one mentions “David was wonderful and went above and beyond,” and families enjoy hearing dolphins blowhole sounds during the ride. The tour’s affordability at $499 per group adds to its appeal, especially for travelers seeking quality without a hefty price tag.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a short, engaging dolphin tour with comfortable amenities and a focus on wildlife viewing.
3. Sunset Boat Tour Around Anna Maria Island
Few experiences compare to watching the sunset from the water, and this tour offers just that. Starting with a cruise through Sarasota waters, the tour takes you around Leffis Key Preserve and Jewfish Key, two spots teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. The highlight is the sunset itself, with brilliant colors illuminating the Gulf of Mexico—an ideal backdrop for photos and peaceful reflection.
The tour also includes commentary about the local environment, with Captain Dave sharing insights into the ecosystem and history of the islands. Reviewers describe it as “very relaxing” and “magical,” often mentioning how comfortable the boat is and how attentive the crew is. The 2-hour length makes it manageable for most schedules, and at $399, it’s a reasonably priced way to experience Sarasota’s scenic coastline at its best.
Bottom line: This sunset cruise suits travelers wanting a peaceful, scenic evening with the added bonus of wildlife viewing and educational commentary.
4. Private Half Day Boat Tour in Sarasota, Florida
For those wanting a more comprehensive experience, the half-day private tour offers a 3-hour journey exploring Sarasota, Siesta Key, and Lido Key. Starting from a central location, the tour includes stops at the Ringling Mansion, a historic highlight, and the chance to swim or relax at local beaches.
This tour provides flexibility, with the captain customizing the trip based on your interests—whether that’s wildlife, scenery, or water activities. With a $650 price tag for up to six people, it’s a good option for families or small groups wanting personalized service. Reviewers praise Captain Drew’s knowledge and the boat’s comfort, saying it “was all we wanted and more.” It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural info.
Bottom line: A flexible, private outing that’s ideal for those wanting a tailored experience with scenic stops and expert guidance.
5. Half Day Eco and Dolphin Boat Tour in Siesta Key
This eco-focused half-day tour combines wildlife encounters with environmental education. Led by US Coast Guard-certified captains, it offers dolphin and manatee sightings, shelling, snorkeling, and stops at sandbars and tiki bars—all customizable to your preferences.
It’s priced at $780 for up to eight people, making it a slightly higher-end but comprehensive option. The tour explores Sarasota Bay, Longboat Key, and Lido Beach, with stops at notable sites like the Ringling Mansion and the Tiki Bay Island. Reviewers note the “very relaxing” atmosphere and “amazing” wildlife encounters, highlighting the friendly crew and personalized experience.
Bottom line: Suitable for families or groups seeking a full, customizable eco-adventure with plenty of wildlife and water activities.
6. Sarasota: Island Adventures & Catamaran Speedboat Tour
For thrill-seekers and speed lovers, this catamaran speedboat tour is a short, 2-hour adrenaline rush. It’s the only compact power catamaran on the market, giving you a smooth yet high-performance ride through Sarasota’s scenic spots.
It covers Centennial Park, downtown Sarasota, Siesta Key, and Lido Key, with opportunities to see marine life and enjoy scenic views. The tour is lively, with a focus on fun and fast-paced sightseeing. Reviews mention the “fun and excitement” of the CraigCat, perfect for active travelers who want a fun twist on sightseeing.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a quick, energetic tour that combines sightseeing with high-speed thrills.
7. Half Day Luxury Boat Tour in Bradenton with Snorkeling
If you’re after a luxury experience, this half-day private tour offers top-class amenities like air conditioning, premium sound, and spacious lounging. The itinerary includes stops at Johns Pass Village & Boardwalk, Egmont Key State Park, and Tiki Bay Island—each packed with sights and activities.
At $700 per person, this tour is a splurge, but it is geared toward those seeking comfort and exclusivity. The experience includes snorkeling, exploring Civil War ruins, and enjoying beaches with fewer crowds. While it lacks reviews, the comprehensive itinerary and luxury setup make it appealing to travelers wanting a full, high-end day.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for those seeking luxury, privacy, and a mix of wildlife, history, and beach time.
8. Private Boat Day Tour In Sarasota
Finally, for the ultimate customizable day on the water, the private boat day tour offers six hours of tailored exploration. Starting from Sarasota, you can visit Siesta Key, Lido Beach, Snake Island, and Bradenton’s Coquina Beach and Jew Fish Key. The itinerary is flexible, with options for water sports, fishing, or simply relaxing on scenic sandbars.
At $900 per group, this tour is the priciest but provides maximum flexibility. Reviews are scarce, but the variety of stops and the ability to customize makes it ideal for groups who want to design their perfect day on Sarasota’s waters.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a fully personalized, all-day adventure with no fixed itinerary.
How to Choose the Right Sarasota Boat Tour
When selecting your boat tour, consider your budget, desired duration, and interest. For a private, intimate experience, the Private Siesta Funship offers personalized attention. If wildlife viewing is your priority, the Dolphin Watching or Eco and Dolphin Tour provide excellent opportunities. For those wanting a sunset or scenic cruise, the Sunset Tour is relaxing and picturesque.
Budget travelers might find the Catamaran Speedboat appealing for its high-energy, short trip. For a luxurious day, the Bradenton Snorkeling offers comfort and exclusivity.
Book early, especially during peak months, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Sarasota’s waters host a wide variety of experiences, from private dolphin cruises to sunset sails and eco-adventures. If you want privacy and personalized service, the Private Siesta Funship is hard to beat. For quick wildlife encounters, the Dolphin Watching tour hits the mark, while the Sunset Tour is perfect for a peaceful evening.
Those seeking luxury or full-day adventures can opt for the Half Day Luxury Tour, and active travelers will enjoy the high-speed Sarasota Catamaran. Whatever your style, Sarasota’s diverse boat tours promise memorable moments that highlight its natural beauty and calm Gulf waters. Book early to ensure your spot on the water—these tours fill up fast.