The 14 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in St Petersburg
St Petersburg, Florida, offers a surprising variety of ways to explore its stunning waterways. Whether you’re looking to chase dolphins, watch a fiery sunset over the Gulf, or enjoy a lively tropical party cruise, this city delivers on water-based adventures. You can captain your own speedboat to zoom past wildlife, join a scenic eco cruise around Madeira Beach, or hop aboard a luxury yacht for a sunset ride. For those who want a fun twist, floating tiki bars and the chance to indulge in drinks while cruising add a playful element to your trip.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 14 of the best boat and cruise experiences in St Petersburg. We cover everything from adrenaline-pumping speedboat rides to relaxing sunset sails, as well as private charters for custom adventures. Whether you’re on a tight schedule, traveling with family, or celebrating a special occasion, you’ll find detailed insights to help you pick the right water adventure.
1. St Petersburg Speed Boat Adventure
Starting with pure adrenaline, the Speed Boat Adventure stands out for its hands-on experience. For $99, you get about 1 hour 30 minutes of high-speed fun on Tampa Bay. The tour involves captaining an F-13 mini speedboat under the guidance of a trained guide, who follows in a separate vessel with two-way communication so you can ask questions or get tips. You’ll zoom past landmarks like Fort De Soto Park and wildlife refuges, with chances to see dolphins swimming below or leaping from the water.
What makes this experience special is the blend of thrill and scenery. You’re not just a passenger; you’re at the wheel, feeling the wind and spray firsthand. The reviews are glowing—“The captain was awesome,” one says—highlighting the personalized attention and wildlife sightings, even on rainy days when the guide creatively kept the fun going.
Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers who want a close-up experience with wildlife and the Florida coast, all in a compact, affordable package.
2. Dolphin Quest – Sightseeing/Eco Cruise, John’s Pass, Madeira Beach, FL
This dolphin-focused cruise offers an engaging, budget-friendly experience for $29 per person, lasting about 1 hour 30 minutes. It explores Boca Ciega Bay, where playful bottlenose dolphins are known to swim and jump close to the boat. The trip includes a stop at John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk, a historic fishing town packed with shops and waterfront restaurants.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat and enjoy views of Treasure Island’s lavish homes. The boat’s narration adds context, and many reviews praise the friendly staff and dolphin sightings. Drinks and snacks are available aboard, making it a relaxed and family-friendly way to experience Tampa Bay waters.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or those seeking a scenic, wildlife-centered cruise at a very reasonable price, with plenty of opportunities for photo ops.
3. Sunset Cruise over the Gulf of Mexico
For a romantic or peaceful end to your day, the Sunset Cruise offers a 2-hour journey for $67. Departing from Madeira Beach, it takes you out onto the Gulf of Mexico, where you’ll witness the sky turning fiery as the sun dips below the horizon. You’re encouraged to bring your own drinks, with a cooler and ice provided, to sip while enjoying the changing colors over the water.
This cruise includes narration about Treasure Island and the possibility of spotting wildlife like dolphins. Passengers appreciate the relaxed pace and intimate atmosphere—perfect for couples or anyone craving a tranquil moment with spectacular views. Some reviews mention catching a fireworks show if timed right.
Bottom Line: A beautifully simple way to enjoy a sunset over the Gulf, especially if you like a casual vibe with the added bonus of wildlife sightings.
4. Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John’s Pass
If shelling and wildlife are your priorities, this 3-hour trip costs $44.95 per person and offers a genuine nature experience. Starting at Hubbard’s Marina inside Johns Pass, the tour includes about an hour on Shell Key Island, a protected barrier island known for its shells and tranquility. The trip also features a scenic ride in Tampa Bay, often with dolphin sightings.
Guided by Captain Robin and first mate Brandi, this tour is praised for its relaxed pace and abundance of shells. It’s perfect for families or travelers who want a mix of beachcombing, wildlife watching, and a bit of adventure. The waters are calm, and the crew’s local knowledge makes the experience rich.
Bottom Line: Great for shell collectors, nature lovers, and those seeking a laid-back day on the water with wildlife sightings included.
5. Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining in St. Petersburg
For a touch of class, this evening yacht cruise offers a 2 hours 30 minutes journey for $32.06. Departing aboard the elegant ‘StarLite Sapphire,’ you can choose to sit on the open-air deck or inside the climate-controlled cabin. The cruise offers stunning views of the sunset (seasonal) and the chance to dance to live music or take a romantic stroll on the deck.
Diners can purchase dinner onboard, and drinks from the bar are available. It’s a relaxed yet sophisticated experience, ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a peaceful night on the water. Reviewers mention friendly crew and memorable views of Tampa Bay.
Bottom Line: Suited for those wanting a more refined experience with optional dining and a chance to dance or star-gaze.
6. Calypso Breeze Tropical Party Cruise
This tropical-themed cruise is a lively option at $56.62 for about 2 hours. Decorated with island themes, it features a buffet of tropical food, unlimited drinks, and a DJ spinning island tunes. It’s perfect for groups looking to dance, mingle, and enjoy the views of St. Pete Beach from the water.
The cruise provides a fun, social atmosphere with a full bar, soft drinks, beer, wine, and rum punch. It’s popular among party-goers and groups celebrating birthdays or just a night out. Reviewers love the relaxed vibe and good food.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a festive, social experience with good food and drinks on the water.
7. Tiki Boat – St. Pete Pier – The Only Authentic Floating Tiki Bar
This Tiki Boat experience combines fun, flexibility, and socializing, all for $59.95. The 1.5-hour cruise around the St. Pete Pier is led by a Coast Guard-licensed captain, and you’re encouraged to bring your own food and drinks. The boat functions as a floating bar, with Bluetooth speakers for your playlist.
Small groups (up to six) can enjoy views of Tampa’s skyline and the waterfront, with opportunities for photos and dolphin sightings. It’s a relaxed, customizable way to experience the city from the water, especially for those who like to chat and sip.
Bottom Line: Ideal for friends or couples seeking a private, casual party boat with a fun atmosphere.
8. Tiki Boat cruise to John’s Pass Sandbar, Madeira Beach
This Tiki Boat tour is a favorite at $62.10 for roughly 2 hours. It offers different modes—relaxing sightseeing, lively music, or hopping around the coast. You can bring your own drinks in the onboard cooler—perfect for a chill day or lively bar hop.
It’s especially popular for its flexibility. You might see dolphins swim near the boat or stop at the John’s Pass Sandbar for a quick swim or sunbathe. Captain Ron and Captain Joe receive rave reviews for their friendliness and local knowledge.
Bottom Line: Excellent for groups who want an adaptable, fun day on the water, with opportunities to explore the coastline or just enjoy the scenery.
9. St. Pete Booze Cruise 21+ (All You Can Drink Pass Available)
This 21+ booze cruise is all about fun, available for $30 and lasting 2 to 3 hours. Sailing on a catamaran with its own bar and music, you’ll pass waterfront mansions, secluded islands, and bird preserves. Dolphins and manatees are common sightings, adding wildlife excitement.
It’s ideal for groups looking for an energetic party atmosphere with unlimited drinks and lively music. Reviewers comment on the friendly crew and the great views of Tampa Bay’s opulent homes.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adults wanting a lively, social experience with drinks and wildlife in a single cruise.
10. 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach
This quick but memorable dolphin cruise is priced at $28, lasting about 1 hour. The specially designed Shark Boat creates wakes that encourage dolphins to leap and play right next to you. It’s a fast way to see dolphins and explore Boca Ciega Bay’s mansions.
The boat is comfortable, with a restroom on board, and the trip is well-loved by families for its high success rate in spotting dolphins. Captain Chris and Jeff receive praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a short, engaging dolphin encounter with a unique boat design.
11. Private Boat: Island Cruise and Dolphins
For those seeking exclusivity, the private boat trip offers up to 6 people for $590 over approximately 2 hours. It’s a personalized experience exploring Tampa Bay’s islands, with opportunities to see dolphins, waterfowl, and even snorkel or relax on beaches.
What makes this stand out is the flexibility—snorkeling, tubing, or just cruising while watching wildlife. The captain is praised for being knowledgeable and accommodating. It’s a premium, tailored option for families or small groups celebrating special occasions.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a private, customizable nature and wildlife tour with the option to extend or include water activities.
12. Yacht Charter Madeira Beach and Tampa Bay
This luxury yacht charter is a premium choice for celebrating sunsets, with up to 18 guests for $1,700. The 4-hour trip departs from Tampa Bay, passing beautiful coastal homes and offering narrated insights from your captain. Bring your own drinks, with a cooler and ice provided, and enjoy the small-group atmosphere.
With options for a sunset cruise, it’s perfect for romantic occasions or small gatherings. Many reviews highlight the personalized service, scenic views, and the chance to see dolphins and manatees in the wild.
Bottom Line: For a special celebration or romantic escape, this private yacht offers an upscale experience with personalized touches.
13. Boat tour with Watersports and snorkeling near st pete beach
This flexible 3-hour private boat charter for up to 6 people at $350 offers watersports such as wakeboarding, water skiing, snorkeling, or island-hopping. The captain tailors the trip to your interests, whether relaxing or adventurous, and all watersport gear is included.
Dolphins are frequently seen, and the trip is highly rated for families and adventure lovers alike. You can explore old fort turrets, find sand dollars, or just soak up the sun. Reviewers love the captain’s attentiveness and the versatility of the experience.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers wanting a mix of water sports, wildlife, and scenic exploration on a private boat.
14. Private boat offering dolphin watching, island excursions and nature tours
This personalized private tour for up to 6 costs $400 for about 3 hours of wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and exploring. Captain Bobby’s friendly approach and flexibility make it ideal for families, with opportunities to see dolphins, manatees, and seabirds.
You might swim, snorkel, or just enjoy the scenery. The tour is customizable and perfect for those who want a private, relaxed experience with wildlife and scenic views.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for wildlife lovers and those seeking a tailored, private adventure on the water.
How to Choose the Right Water Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend on the water. If you crave high-speed thrills, the speedboat adventure is unmatched. For wildlife lovers and families, dolphin cruises and eco tours hit the spot. Want a romantic or elegant evening? The sunset or yacht cruises are perfect. Groups seeking a casual party should look at the tiki or tropical party cruises.
Consider your physical activity level—watersports tours involve swimming or tubing, while private charters offer maximum flexibility. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular sunset or private tours. Check the weather forecast before booking, as many tours are weather-dependent.
Final Thoughts
St Petersburg offers a rich selection of boat experiences, from high-speed adventures to tranquil sunset sails. For adrenaline fans, the speedboat ride will be the highlight; for wildlife enthusiasts, dolphin cruises and eco tours are a hit. If you’re celebrating or want a special memory, private charters or yacht cruises top the list. No matter your style, booking ahead will ensure you secure your spot and make the most of your water-bound explorations.
Whether you’re a solo traveler eager for excitement or a couple seeking romance on the water, these tours promise an authentic taste of Tampa Bay’s stunning coastline and vibrant marine life. Dive right in and start planning your perfect boat day in St Petersburg.