The 3 Best Dining Experiences in St Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Florida, offers more than just beaches and sunshine—it’s a city that embraces the water and the vibrant social scene. One of the best ways to enjoy this seaside city is from the deck of a yacht, combining great views with good company and, often, fantastic food. Whether you’re after a romantic evening, a daytime sightseeing adventure, or an energetic dance party on the water, St. Petersburg’s yacht cruises deliver memorable experiences that stand out from typical dining options. These cruises are especially appealing because they blend scenic vistas with the chance to unwind with live music, dolphin sightings, and sometimes even a sit-down meal.
While many cruise options focus solely on sightseeing, these top three choices incorporate dining and entertainment, making them perfect for celebrating special occasions or just treating yourself to a unique experience. We’ve rated these tours based on reviews, value, and the variety of activities included, helping you pick the right adventure for your visit.
Quick Overview
Our list features three top-rated yacht cruises in St. Petersburg, each offering a mix of scenic waterway travel and dining options. The Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining provides a romantic sunset experience with the chance to enjoy dinner on board. The Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise combines sightseeing with a light meal, perfect for those who want both education and relaxation. Lastly, the Daytime Yacht Dance Cruise offers a lively, music-filled cruise where you can dance and enjoy the scenery simultaneously. Each offers a distinct flavor of waterborne fun, tailored to different tastes and interests.
1. Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining in St. Petersburg
This cruise is a fantastic way to add a touch of romance or elegance to your evening in St. Petersburg. Setting sail on the StarLite Sapphire, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking sunset (season permitting), live music, and the chance to dance or simply relax under the stars. The cruise lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes and features the option to purchase a full dinner once aboard—making it a flexible experience for those who want a meal included or just a scenic evening out. Drinks are available from the bar if you prefer to sip something while gazing at the Gulf.
What makes this cruise stand out is the atmosphere of sophistication combined with casual fun. Many reviews highlight the relaxing vibe, friendly staff, and the quality of the live music. One guest remarked, “I had a beautiful experience as a first-timer,” noting the attentive service and the ability to stroll the deck at sunset. The cruise also offers star-gazing opportunities, adding a special touch to the evening.
Bottom Line: For a romantic or elegant night, this cruise combines scenic views, live entertainment, and optional dining, all at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a memorable night out.
2. Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining
If you’re more interested in seeing Tampa Bay’s sights during the day, this cruise offers a pleasant mix of sightseeing and relaxation. Starting in St. Petersburg, the StarLite Sapphire takes you along Tampa Bay, past harbor sites, and into the waterway of Pass-a-Grille Beach. The cruise lasts about 2 hours and features live commentary from the captain, who shares insights into the local area and points of interest.
This tour also offers an optional upgrade to include a delicious lunch. The menu includes six different options, so you can enjoy a sit-down meal while soaking in the views. Many guests praise the food’s quality, with one reviewer calling it “delicious” and “surprisingly good.” The outdoor decks are perfect for dolphin spotting, and the indoor lounge provides a comfortable space if the weather turns.
During reviews, guests often mention the crew’s friendliness and the relaxing pace of the cruise. One remarked, “It was a very relaxing boat ride,” and appreciated the opportunity to make new friends onboard. The combination of educational commentary and scenic beauty makes this a well-rounded choice for families or those wanting a leisurely day on the water.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers a blend of scenic sightseeing, dolphin watching, and tasty food, making it a versatile choice for those who want to explore Tampa Bay at a relaxed pace.
3. Daytime Yacht Dance Cruise with Optional Dining
For those looking to combine entertainment with scenery, the Daytime Yacht Dance Cruise delivers lively fun aboard the elegant StarLite Sapphire. This cruise is about 2 hours and 30 minutes of high-energy music, dancing, and sightseeing. The boat features Victorian touches and a spacious observation deck ideal for taking in Tampa Bay’s views. The captain shares engaging commentary on the area’s history and points of interest, making it both fun and educational.
What sets this cruise apart is the upbeat atmosphere. Guests rave about the entertainment, especially the live singing of Ms. Stephanie, who has an “amazing voice,” according to reviews. The cruise also includes the option to purchase a meal, though many travelers opt to dance and socialize without it. It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or just enjoying a lively daytime party on the water.
Reviewers love the combination of fun and scenery, with one noting, “We had a great time—fun, informative, and the food was good too.” The cruise’s energetic vibe makes it a good pick for younger travelers or groups seeking a lively daytime activity.
Bottom Line: If you want to combine dance, scenery, and a friendly atmosphere, this cruise provides an energetic outing on Tampa Bay, with optional dining for those who want a meal during the party.
How to Choose Your Perfect Water Dining Experience
When deciding between these cruises, consider your priorities. If a romantic sunset with the option to dine sounds ideal, the Evening Yacht Cruise is a perfect fit. For a relaxed daytime exploration of Tampa Bay, the Sightseeing Cruise offers scenic views and dolphin sightings along with a meal upgrade. If lively music, dancing, and daytime fun are more your style, the Dance Cruise is the way to go.
Think about your budget, desired experience, and whether you prefer relaxing scenery, educational commentary, or energetic entertainment. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and seating.
Final Thoughts
St. Petersburg’s water-based dining options provide a range of choices for different tastes. For romantic sunsets and serene evenings, the Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining delivers a memorable experience. Those interested in daytime sightseeing combined with good food will find the Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise a perfect pick. And if you’re after fun, music, and a lively atmosphere, the Daytime Yacht Dance Cruise offers just that.
No matter which you choose, these cruises showcase Tampa Bay’s stunning waters and lively social scene. Booking early is wise, especially during prime months, so you don’t miss out on these memorable dining adventures on the water.