Adventure Boat Tours – Nights of Lights by Water in St. Augustine FL

This experience made our article of The Top 14 Cruises And Boat Tours In St Augustine.

Introduction: A Unique Way to See the Lights

If you’re exploring St. Augustine during the holidays, a boat tour to see the Nights of Lights is a must-do. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the city’s famous holiday glow from a different perspective—on the water. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and details suggest it’s a charming and memorable experience that many travelers cherish.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning views of the illuminated city from the river give a magical feel that land-based viewing can’t match. Second, the opportunities to see dolphins and other wildlife add an extra layer of enjoyment. Lastly, the knowledgeable guides and the cozy, intimate boat options seem to make the experience both fun and informative.

One consideration is the weather—since it’s an outdoor activity, a chilly or foggy night might affect the visibility and overall enjoyment. So, bringing warm layers is a smart move. This tour is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and family-friendly way to celebrate the holidays in St. Augustine. It’s best suited for those who love beautiful views, some light history, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Key Points

• Stunning Water Views: See the city’s lights from the river, offering a perspective you can’t get elsewhere.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a public group or a private small boat for a more intimate experience.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Jimmy, Bill, Greg, and Tammy are praised for their fun, informative delivery.
• Wildlife Spotting: Expect to see dolphins and possibly the SpaceX launch, adding a surprise element.
• Great Value: At $40, it offers a memorable holiday experience with good reviews on the overall value.
• Weather Considerations: Be prepared for cold or foggy nights—warm clothing is recommended.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour is about relaxing, scenic cruising along the Matanzas River, with stops that highlight some of St. Augustine’s most iconic sights lit up for the holidays. It lasts approximately one hour, making it a perfect short activity that fits easily into your day or evening plans.

Stop 1: Under the Bridge of Lions

The journey begins with a cruise beneath the historic Bridge of Lions, home to the famous lion statues from 1920. This landmark is a perfect first stop, allowing you to admire the intricate details and capture some photos. According to reviews, guides like Jimmy and Bill are great at sharing tidbits about the bridge’s history, which adds to the experience.

Stop 2: View of Downtown Lights

Next, you’ll glide past the main street where the Nights of Lights display shines most brightly. The city’s streets are decorated with millions of tiny white lights, creating a glow that’s hard to match. Many guests mention how breathtaking the views are, especially with the water reflecting all that sparkle.

Stop 3: The Fort and the Cross

The Old Fort is beautifully lit up, providing a picturesque scene against the night sky. The highlight for several reviewers is the Cross, which is illuminated up close. On foggy or cloudy evenings, the shadows cast by the cross’s lights can be quite surreal, as one guest noted—an experience that’s hard to forget.

Bonus: Fireworks and Dolphins

Some nights, the tour coincides with Vilano Beach fireworks, adding an extra wow factor. Sightings of playful dolphins are common, and one reviewer even mentioned seeing a SpaceX rocket launch from the water—a rather unexpected bonus that adds excitement. The guides are praised for their keen eye in spotting marine life, making the trip lively and dynamic.

What’s Included and Not

The tour includes the restroom onboard and can offer Spanish interpretation, which is helpful for Spanish-speaking guests. Children under 18 pay $19, making it a fairly affordable family activity.

You’re welcome to bring your own beverages—no alcohol sales are available, but having a drink or two adds to the festive feel. Just remember to dress warmly, especially if the night is cold or foggy, as comfort is key for enjoying the ride.

The meeting point at 260 Vilano Rd is convenient, and the tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward. The small group size—up to six for private bookings or 32 for the public tour—ensures a cozy, friendly atmosphere where guides can personalize the experience.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness. Captains Jimmy, Bill, Tammy, and Greg are highlighted for making the tour fun and engaging, often sharing amusing anecdotes and helpful historical insights.

Multiple guests mention how much they enjoy the visual spectacle—the lights, reflections, and the sight of historic landmarks glowing beautifully at night. The dolphin sightings are a bonus many mention, with one guest stating, “We even saw dolphins feeding and a full moon rise—absolutely amazing!”

Some travelers found the tour to be worth every penny, especially when combined with the chance to see fireworks and wildlife. Others felt it was less spectacular if weather was foggy or if decorations weren’t as elaborate in some residential areas. But overall, the consensus is that it’s a great way to experience St. Augustine’s festive spirit from a relaxed vantage point.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book early—most travelers recommend reserving about three weeks in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
• Dress warmly—layers, a hat, and a blanket can make all the difference in colder weather.
• Arrive early—seats are popular, especially on busy nights, and arriving early guarantees a good spot.
• Bring your drinks—enjoy a cup of cheer while soaking in the sights.
• Check the weather—if rain or fog is forecasted, the tour might be canceled or less visually spectacular.
• Prepare for wildlife sightings—dolphins are common, and a SpaceX launch might even happen if you’re lucky.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat ride is ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a relaxed, scenic outing. It’s especially perfect during the holiday season when the Nights of Lights make the city look extra magical. Those who appreciate history, wildlife, and beautiful cityscapes will find plenty to love.

The private boat option makes it a good choice for romantic evenings or intimate gatherings, while the public tour suits travelers who enjoy meeting new people. It’s also excellent for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive, picturesque introduction to St. Augustine.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $40, the Nights of Lights by Water offers a charming, memorable way to see St. Augustine’s holiday glow. The combination of stunning views, lively guides, and wildlife sightings makes it a well-rounded experience, especially if you’re after something more special than just walking around and looking at the lights.

You’ll love the way the water reflects the city’s illuminations, creating a fairy-tale scene that’s hard to replicate from land. The guides’ friendly and knowledgeable nature adds a personal touch, making the tour both fun and educational.

However, keep in mind that weather can impact your enjoyment. If the night is foggy or cold, you might want to bundle up or consider rescheduling if possible. But overall, this tour tends to deliver what it promises—a delightful water-based view of St. Augustine’s beloved holiday tradition.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, scenic outing during the holiday season. It’s especially suited for families with children, couples on a romantic escape, or groups wanting a fun, social activity. If you love beautiful cityscapes, wildlife, and a touch of local history—all from the comfort of a boat—this is a great pick.

If you’re short on time or prefer land-based activities, it still pairs well with other sightseeing options in St. Augustine. And for anyone wanting an authentic, festive experience that captures the spirit of the season, this boat tour is a charming way to celebrate.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 18 and younger are welcome and pay a reduced rate of $19. It’s family-friendly and a fun way for kids to see the city lights from a different perspective.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Absolutely. The tour doesn’t sell alcohol, but you can bring your own beverages to enjoy during the ride.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly—layers, jackets, and blankets are recommended, especially if the weather is chilly or foggy.

How long does the tour last?
The water cruise lasts about one hour, making it an easy addition to your evening plans.

Is there a private tour option?
Yes, you can book a private boat for up to six people, perfect for a more intimate experience or special occasion.

Are there any accessibility accommodations?
While specific accessibility details aren’t provided, the crew is described as courteous and helpful, and service animals are allowed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s wise to check the forecast before your scheduled trip.

To sum it up, the Adventure Boat Tours – Nights of Lights by Water provides a charming, scenic, and fun way to enjoy St. Augustine’s holiday displays. It’s a cozy, informative experience that offers great value, especially if you adore water views, wildlife, and city lights. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or a loved one, this tour promises a memorable night that captures the spirit of the season from an entirely different angle—on the water.