South Pasadena: Island Sunset Cruise and Skyway Light Show

South Pasadena’s Island Sunset Cruise and Skyway Light Show promises an unforgettable experience. Guests can explore the breathtaking Gulf of Mexico, visit the Shell Key Preserve, and witness the dazzling $15 million light display on the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge. This 3-hour adventure aboard a custom catamaran offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and man-made marvels, creating lasting memories. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a lover of awe-inspiring sights, this cruise has something special in store.

Key Points

• Enjoy a 3-hour sunset cruise along South Pasadena’s waters, departing from the MarineMax marina and offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
• Explore the Shell Key Preserve, a 1,800-acre barrier island with diverse flora and fauna, and stop for 20 minutes to enjoy the pristine beaches and shell hunting.
• Marvel at the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge and its $15 million light show, with a 20-minute photo stop to capture the impressive architectural beauty against the sunset backdrop.
• Spot dolphins and seabirds, including terns, herons, and pelicans, during the cruise and at the Shell Key Preserve.
• Onboard amenities include a restroom and a bar, with a small cooler permitted for light snacks, while service animals are allowed and alcohol consumption is prohibited.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Embark on the Sunset Cruise

As the sun dips below the horizon, guests will embark on a 3-hour sunset cruise along the pristine waters surrounding South Pasadena.

The excursion departs from the MarineMax marina behind the Walmart Plaza, where guests will board a custom 50-foot catamaran.

Guests will board a custom 50-foot catamaran at the MarineMax marina behind the Walmart Plaza to embark on the sunset cruise.

During the cruise, they’ll enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, with opportunities to spot dolphins and collect seashells on Outback Key.

The highlight is a 20-minute photo stop at the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge, where the $15 million light show dazzles against the fading daylight.

Sights Along the Intracoastal Waterway

During the cruise, guests will gaze upon the serene Intracoastal Waterway, a tranquil network of interconnected canals and rivers that winds through the heart of South Pasadena. As the catamaran glides along the water, passengers will witness the natural beauty of the region, including the lush mangrove forests and the vibrant wildlife that call this ecosystem home.

| Key Sights | Description |

| — | — |

| Shell Key Preserve | A 1,800-acre barrier island teeming with diverse flora and fauna |

| Sunshine Skyway Bridge | A iconic landmark with a $15 million light show illuminating the night sky |

| Intracoastal Waterway | A serene network of interconnected canals and rivers |

Exploring Shell Key Preserve

The catamaran will make a stop at the Shell Key Preserve, a 1,800-acre barrier island that teems with diverse flora and fauna.

Guests can explore the island’s pristine beaches, hunt for shells, and spot seabirds like terns, herons, and pelicans. The preserve is also home to nesting sea turtles, making it an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts.

Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the island has no facilities.

The 20-minute stop offers a chance to stretch one’s legs and immerse in the preserve’s natural beauty before returning to the cruise.

Capturing the Skyway Bridge Light Show

The highlight of the evening cruise is the 20-minute stop at the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

This $15 million light show dazzles with vibrant hues that dance across the bridge’s cables and pillars. Guests have ample time to capture the mesmerizing display from various angles, ensuring they get that perfect shot.

The bridge’s impressive scale and architectural beauty make it a photogenic subject, especially against the backdrop of the sunset-painted sky.

Shutterbugs can make the most of this brief photo stop to immortalize the stunning Skyway light show and create lasting memories of their South Pasadena adventure.

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Onboard Amenities and Highlights

Guests aboard the 50ft custom catamaran can expect a top-notch experience, with a range of onboard amenities to enhance their sunset cruise. The vessel features a restroom for convenience, and a bar for drinks to enjoy the stunning views. A small cooler is allowed for light snacks, while the crew and music provide an incredible ambiance. Safety is paramount, with top-notch equipment ensuring a secure journey.

| Onboard Amenities | Cruise Highlights |

|——————-|——————-|

| Restroom | Stunning Sunsets |

| Bar for Drinks | Dolphin Spotting |

| Small Cooler | Shell Hunting |

Restrictions and Meeting Point

Participants will meet at the MarineMax location behind the Walmart Plaza to board the cruise.

No large bags or luggage are allowed on the boat. Drones are prohibited, and only service animals are permitted. Guests can’t bring their own alcohol or consume it in the vehicle.

The cruise team enforces these restrictions to ensure a smooth and safe experience for everyone. Arriving on time is crucial, as the boat won’t wait for late arrivals.

Following these simple guidelines will help make the sunset cruise and Skyway light show an unforgettable evening.

Activity Overview and Pricing

This evening catamaran cruise in South Pasadena offers a 3-hour experience, priced from $84.75 per person. It’s likely to sell out, so booking early is recommended. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also a reserve now and pay later option available.

| Activity Overview | | |

| — | — | — |

| Duration | 3 hours | |

| Price | From $84.75 per person | |

| Cancellation Policy | Free up to 24 hours in advance | |

| Booking Option | Reserve now, pay later | |

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Customers can book the South Pasadena Sunset Cruise and Skyway Light Show online, with the option to reserve their spot now and pay later.

The cruise is priced at $84.75 per person and is likely to sell out, so it’s best to book early. Customers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

The cruise departs from the MarineMax behind the Walmart Plaza, and guests should be aware of restrictions, such as no luggage, drones, or pets (except assistance dogs).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages on the Cruise?

No, you cannot bring your own alcoholic beverages on the cruise. The onboard amenities include a bar, but you’re not allowed to bring outside alcohol as per the event restrictions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cruise?

The cruise has no age restrictions, but children under 3 may ride for free. All guests must abide by the onboard rules, including no alcohol or drugs. Reservations are recommended as this popular cruise often sells out.

Can I Purchase Additional Food or Drinks on Board?

Yes, guests can purchase additional food and drinks on the cruise. The vessel has a bar on board that offers a selection of beverages, and small coolers with light snacks are allowed.

Is There a Dress Code for the Cruise?

There’s no strict dress code for the cruise, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Avoid anything too formal or restrictive, as you’ll be aboard a boat. The focus is on enjoying the experience in a relaxed setting.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Cruise?

While it’s not possible to extend the standard 3-hour duration of the cruise, guests can book additional tours or activities to extend their overall experience. The company offers flexible options to create a personalized itinerary.

The Sum Up

The Island Sunset Cruise and Skyway Light Show in South Pasadena offers a unique blend of natural beauty and man-made marvels. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, explore Shell Key Preserve, and witness the breathtaking Sunshine Skyway Bridge light show. With onboard amenities and a convenient meeting point, this 3-hour adventure is a must-do for those seeking an unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: