The 14 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in West Palm Beach
West Palm Beach offers a surprisingly diverse array of waterborne adventures. Whether you’re seeking a romantic sunset cruise with dolphins leaping alongside, a private yacht to celebrate a special occasion, or a lively happy hour on the water, this city has it all. The Intracoastal Waterway, Peanut Island, and the luxurious mansions lining the shoreline make for stunning scenery, and the tours here do a good job of showcasing these highlights.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed reviews of the best cruises and boat tours in West Palm Beach. From the budget-friendly sunset catamaran to the upscale private yacht experience, each trip offers something different. We’ll help you understand what makes each one special—whether it’s wildlife sightings, historical commentary, or the chance to lounge in style—so you can choose the perfect water adventure for your trip.
1. Scenic Sunset Cruise in West Palm Beach
This $51.15 per person 2-hour cruise on a catamaran offers a relaxing way to enjoy West Palm Beach’s iconic sunset. Departing in the evening, this tour features stunning views of the Palm Beaches, Peanut Island, and the skyline. What sets it apart is the chance to see local wildlife like dolphins, manatees, and sea birds while sipping drinks from the onboard cash bar. The boat, Hakuna Matata, cruises past luxurious mansions and mega yachts, providing a picturesque backdrop. Many guests appreciate the laid-back vibe and friendly crew—“Great cruise. Cody and Hailey were amazing,” says one reviewer. This trip is perfect for couples or small groups wanting a mellow, scenic end to the day with a view.
Bottom Line: A solid, affordable way to witness a West Palm Beach sunset with wildlife sightings and a relaxed atmosphere. Great for a romantic or social outing.
2. Jupiter Island Sunset Cruise
For $51, this 2-hour narrated cruise offers a smooth ride along Jupiter Island’s coastline, accessible only by boat. The captain shares local history and points out landmarks like Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, Dubois Park, and Jonathan Dickerson State Park. It’s especially appealing for families, as children three and up are welcome. The highlight is the sunset itself—an ideal moment to enjoy the gentle breezes and scenic vistas. Reviewers love the friendly crew and spot wildlife; “The captain and crew were friendly, knowledgeable, and tended to our needs,” says one.
This tour is best for those wanting a relaxed, educational experience with a focus on history and wildlife. It’s a good choice if you’re curious about Jupiter’s exclusive coastal area without the hassle of renting a boat.
Bottom Line: An insightful, family-friendly cruise perfect for sunset viewing and learning about Jupiter Island’s rich history.
3. Palm Beach Island Sunset Cruise
At $83, this 2-hour cruise takes you south along Palm Beach, with the chance to see mega yachts, historic homes, and luxurious estates. The fully equipped catamaran has an open layout, allowing you to move freely while enjoying a stocked bar. The knowledgeable crew shares insights about the island’s history and the wealthy residents’ homes, making it more than just a scenic ride. Past guests rave: “This is the second time I’ve done this cruise, and I keep coming back,” says one. It’s ideal for lovers of history, architecture, and upscale scenery, with a focus on the famous homes of Palm Beach.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded sunset cruise blending scenery, history, and luxury, good for those interested in the opulence of Palm Beach.
4. West Palm Beach Private Boat Cruise and Tour with a Captain
Starting at $290 for up to 12 people, this private 2 to 4-hour trip offers customizable options, including sightseeing around Peanut Island and the Port of Palm Beach. The boat comes with a Bluetooth sound system and floating mats for lounging. You can tailor the experience to include swimming, relaxing, or sightseeing—perfect for groups celebrating special occasions or seeking a personalized adventure. Past travelers praise the attentive crew and clean vessel: “We had an incredible 2-hour boat ride with Jose, who was friendly and knowledgeable,” notes one review.
This tour suits those who want privacy and flexibility, whether for family outings, birthdays, or just a laid-back day on the water.
Bottom Line: A customizable private cruise, combining relaxation, water sports, and sightseeing, ideal for groups wanting exclusivity.
5. Yacht Charter in Palm Beach with Crew
For $1,950, this 4-hour private yacht (up to 13 people) offers a true taste of luxury. Your crew handles everything as you sail past the mansions of Palm Beach and Jupiter, with stops for swimming and lounging. The yacht is equipped with snacks, water, and the chance to spot dolphins and manatees. Many guests feel like royalty, with one reviewer saying, “We saw mansions, yachts, and even dolphins—such a memorable experience.”
This experience is perfect for celebrating special occasions, corporate outings, or anyone wanting a high-end, private escape on the water. It’s a significant investment but delivers exclusivity and personalized service.
Bottom Line: An upscale, private yacht experience for those wanting opulence, privacy, and the chance to enjoy the water in style.
6. Palm Beach: Sightseeing Catamaran Cruise
At $54, this 2-hour cruise aboard the ‘Hakuna Matata’ offers a cozy, partly-narrated tour around Palm Beach’s scenic waterways. It emphasizes comfort and fun, with commentary about local beaches, homes, and wildlife. The open layout allows guests to mingle and take in the sights easily. Past guests praise the captain’s friendliness and the beautiful weather: “Beautiful weather, great crew, and an overall perfect experience,” says one reviewer.
This tour appeals to travelers looking for a relaxed yet informative way to see Palm Beach from the water, especially those who enjoy casual social atmospheres.
Bottom Line: A laid-back, scenic cruise with friendly guides, ideal for small groups or families wanting a relaxed sightseeing experience.
7. Jupiter Private Yacht Cruise with Captain/Stewardess
Priceing at $1,950 for up to 13 people, this 4-hour private yacht allows you to explore Jupiter’s coastline with a captain at your service. You can swim, relax, or explore nearby sandbars, with an onboard stewardess providing snacks and drinks. The crew’s attentiveness earns high praise: “Josh and Mary took great care of us on this luxurious yacht,” reports one happy guest.
Ideal for special celebrations or just a luxurious day with friends, this tour combines privacy with the chance to experience the water in comfort and style.
Bottom Line: Private, flexible, and luxurious—perfect for celebrating milestones or enjoying an upscale day on the water.
8. Private Boat Tour in Palm Beach Waterways
At $400 for up to 6 people, this 2-hour private tour stands out for watersport options like tubing, wakeboarding, or just relaxing at Peanut Island. The licensed captain, water gear, and the option to anchor at favorite spots make it very flexible. Previous guests enjoy the personalized service: “Every trip includes a captain, water, and equipment for watersports,” highlights one reviewer.
Great for active travelers or families wanting to combine sightseeing with fun water activities, this tour delivers versatility.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one water adventure with options for relaxation or action, suitable for small groups wanting customization.
9. Flamingle Happy Hour Cruise
For just $40.45 per person, the 1 hour 30 minutes happy hour cruise offers tropical tunes, drinks, and scenic views along Palm Beach. The well-stocked bar and onboard commentary make it lively and informative. Many appreciate the fun atmosphere: “Beautiful day, drinks, and treats—what more could you ask?” says a happy guest.
It’s perfect for those wanting a quick, lively experience to kick off or wind down their day without committing to a longer cruise.
Bottom Line: A fun, short outing centered on drinks and scenery, ideal for pre-dinner drinks or a lively afternoon.
10. Sunset Cruise/Narrated Tour – Private 2 hour
Priced at $575 for up to 6 people, this private 2-hour sunset cruise features a narrated tour of the Intracoastal Waterway. It includes a cooler with drinks and takes you past lit-up mega yachts and downtown West Palm Beach. Past guests love the experience: “Captain Matt was fantastic, and the views were breathtaking,” one review states.
Ideal for couples or small groups celebrating a special event, this cruise combines scenic beauty with informative commentary.
Bottom Line: A cozy, private sunset cruise with expert narration—perfect for a memorable romantic outing.
11. West Palm Beach: Private Peanut Island Boat & Snorkel Tour
At $850 for up to 6 people, this 3-hour private tour offers swimming, snorkeling, and exploring around Peanut Island. The crew guides you to the best snorkel spots, and you can walk along the coastline or relax on the boat. Past guests rave: “Peanut Island feels like a Caribbean paradise—crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.” It’s suitable for families or groups wanting an active, personalized day.
Bring your own drinks and snacks, and connect your playlist for a full day of fun.
Bottom Line: A tailored snorkeling adventure in a beautiful setting—ideal for aquatic explorers and families wanting a private day at the beach.
12. 3 Hour Cruise & Swimming Excursion off Peanut Island Park
For $76.83, this 3-hour group cruise combines sightseeing with plenty of swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and relaxing. The crew takes care of logistics while you focus on fun in the sun. Guests mention that the boat went to a different location due to crowding but still enjoyed the experience. “Peanut Island was crowded, but the crew found a great spot,” one reviewer notes.
Best for active travelers or those looking to combine water sports with sightseeing, it’s a flexible, social experience.
Bottom Line: A lively, activity-packed cruise perfect for groups that want to stay active and social on the water.
13. Cruise the Palm Beach Intracoastal on a 90 minute Tour
At $65, this 1 hour 30 minutes tour delivers a breezy overview of Palm Beach, West Palm, and Peanut Island. The guide shares interesting facts about the area’s rich and famous residents while enjoying the picturesque scenery. The small, relaxed groups make for an intimate experience. One guest comments, “Very relaxing and informative, highly recommended,” which sums up its appeal.
This tour is suited for those wanting a quick, informative, and scenic water trip, without sacrificing comfort.
Bottom Line: A concise, scenic cruise with engaging commentary—good for getting a quick taste of Palm Beach’s waterway luxury.
14. Luxury Yacht 65′ Sunseeker 4 hours from Palm Beach
Priced at $2,422 for up to 12 people, this 4-hour private luxury yacht experience is the pinnacle of high-end boating. You’ll sail past Palm Beach mansions, stop for a swim at Peanut Island, and enjoy a charcuterie board with cocktails. The spacious Sunseeker yacht offers unobstructed views and plenty of deck space. Past guests rave: “The crew was attentive, and the yacht was gorgeous,” says one reviewer. It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or indulging in a luxurious day on the water.
Bottom Line: For those seeking exclusivity, style, and privacy, this yacht offers an unforgettable, upscale experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
Choosing among these options depends on your priorities. If budget is your main concern, the sunset and happy hour cruises offer great scenery at a lower price point. For families or active travelers, the private boat with watersports or Peanut Island snorkel tours deliver adventure and customization. Those celebrating a special event or craving luxury should consider private yacht charters, which provide privacy, pampering, and exclusivity.
Book early—especially for private charters and popular sunset cruises—since West Palm Beach’s water tours fill up quickly, especially in peak season (winter months). Think about your preferred pace: do you want a quick scenic overview or a full afternoon of water activities? And consider your group size—some tours cater to small parties, while others are ideal for large celebrations.
Final Thoughts
West Palm Beach’s boat tours range from laid-back sunset cruises to high-end private yachts—each offering a unique way to enjoy the water and scenery. For breathtaking sunsets and wildlife sightings, the Scenic Sunset Cruise and Palm Beach Island Sunset Cruise are top picks. Want a private, customizable experience? The private yacht and boat tours provide luxury and flexibility. Families and active types will find plenty of fun with the snorkel and water sports tours, while those interested in local history will enjoy the narrated options.
No matter your taste or budget, booking early is wise. These tours deliver memorable experiences on the water, making the most of West Palm Beach’s stunning coastline. So set your sights on the water and prepare for a day (or evening) of fun and relaxation—West Palm Beach’s boat tours are a true highlight of any Florida visit.