The 6 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in St Augustine Florida
St. Augustine, Florida, with its centuries-old history and scenic coastline, offers some of the most engaging boat experiences on the East Coast. Whether you’re interested in feeling the ocean breeze on a pirate ship adventure, watching the sunset while sipping drinks on a catamaran, or exploring historic landmarks from the water, this city has it all. The combination of lively live shows, serene sunset cruises, and sightseeing excursions makes St. Augustine a standout destination for boat-based excursions.
In this guide, we’ll explore six of the best cruises and boat tours available in St. Augustine. We cover everything from family-friendly pirate adventures, like the Treasure Hunt Cruise with Onboard Show, to romantic sunset sails paired with live music, such as the Nights of Lights Sunset Sail. We’ll help you understand what makes each experience special, whether you’re traveling with kids, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking to see the city from a new perspective. Practical details, including pricing, duration, and who each tour suits best, are all included to help you pick the right trip.
1. St. Augustine: Treasure Hunt Cruise with Onboard Show
Starting at $45 per person, the Treasure Hunt Cruise onboard a pirate ship makes for a lively family outing. This 1.5-hour adventure is perfect for kids and adults alike who want to experience the thrill of sailing a pirate vessel while participating in interactive sword fights, treasure hunts, and live cannon fire. The tour departs from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on fun and engagement. Kids can chase pirates and search for hidden treasure, while adults will appreciate the humor and lively atmosphere. The onboard show features pirates joking, sword fighting, and engaging with the audience, making it more than just a boat ride—it’s a theatrical experience. Dolphins are often seen during feeding time, adding an extra touch of magic.
Reviews highlight how much fun families have: one notes, “It was so worth the money! This was the most fun I’ve had in a long time.” At $45, this is a good value for an hour-and-a-half of interactive entertainment. The tour is best suited for families with children or anyone looking for a quirky, energetic experience.
Bottom Line: A lively, family-friendly cruise packed with pirate antics and treasure hunting, perfect for kids and those young at heart.
2. St. Augustine: Sunset Cruise with Live Music and Drinks
At $69 per person, the Sunset Cruise on a spacious catamaran offers a serene way to unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of St. Augustine’s coastline. This 2-hour voyage departs from 250 Vilano Rd and is ideal for those seeking a relaxing, scenic experience with a touch of live entertainment.
What makes this cruise stand out is the combination of breathtaking sunset views, live music, and complimentary drinks. You’re encouraged to kick back with beer, wine, margaritas, champagne, or soda, all included in the price. The boat’s spacious design allows for plenty of room to relax, take photos, or just enjoy the gentle sway of the vessel.
Guests rave about the crew and atmosphere; one reviewer mentions, “The live music was entertaining and kept the crowd going.” The calm waters and the chance to see dolphins playing make this a top choice for date nights or peaceful escapes.
Bottom Line: A laid-back, scenic cruise that blends stunning sunset views with live tunes and drinks, ideal for couples or anyone wanting a peaceful night out.
3. St. Augustine: Nights of Lights Sunset Sail with Drinks
At $75 per person, the Nights of Lights Sunset Sail takes the magic of St. Augustine’s holiday lights and presents it from the water. This 2-hour cruise departs from 250 Vilano Rd, just as the sun begins to dip, offering a unique perspective of the city’s famous luminous display.
What makes this tour special is its timing during the Nights of Lights season—when the city is adorned with over a million tiny bulbs. As the boat glides through the harbor, you can enjoy complimentary margaritas, champagne, beer, wine, soda, and light snacks. The panoramic deck provides unobstructed views of the glowing cityscape, making it a visual feast.
Guests praise the crew’s friendliness and the opportunity to see the city glow without fighting street traffic. One comments, “Beautiful opportunity to see Nights of Lights from the water—truly mesmerizing.” It’s perfect for those celebrating special occasions or wanting a romantic way to experience the holiday season.
Bottom Line: A festive and scenic way to enjoy the iconic Nights of Lights display, combining drinks, light snacks, and stunning views.
4. St. Augustine: Boat Cruise and Electric Golf Cart Tour
At $85 per person, this combined boat and golf cart tour offers a comprehensive way to see the city’s highlights. Starting from Saint George Street & Cathedral Place, the 2.5-hour experience begins with a boat cruise through Matanzas Harbor, followed by a land tour via electric golf cart.
The boat segment provides tranquil views of the harbor, with opportunities to spot dolphins and learn about maritime history. The golf cart tour is where this experience shines, as it passes by key landmarks, including the Castillo de San Marcos and the Alcazar Hotel. The compact, electric carts make for a smooth ride through narrow streets and shaded parks.
What makes this a top pick is its balance of sea and land, giving a well-rounded overview of the city’s historic center without the fatigue of walking. Guests often praise the knowledgeable guides like Sandy Beach, who make history lively and personal.
It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed overview of St. Augustine’s history and scenery in one outing. The price reflects the combination of experiences, making it good value.
Bottom Line: An efficient, engaging way to explore both the waterfront and the city’s historic streets without breaking a sweat.
5. St. Augustine: Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise
For just $34 per person, the Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise offers a relaxed, Caribbean-inspired atmosphere on the Matanzas River. This 2-hour sail is perfect for those wanting a casual, fun evening with dolphins, music, and tropical vibes.
The fully stocked bar is a highlight, with drinks like tropical cocktails and beers. The boat itself is a classic pirate-style vessel, adding a playful element to the experience. As the sun sets, you’ll enjoy stunning river views and the chance to spot dolphins during feeding time.
Reviewers mention, “Such a fun night on the boat! Good music, good entertainment, and beautiful scenery.” The crew’s friendly nature and the lively, beachy atmosphere make this cruise appealing for singles, couples, and groups seeking a laid-back evening.
It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on the fun or scenery. Note that this cruise is more about atmosphere than in-depth sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A lively, tropical-themed sunset cruise ideal for relaxed fun and dolphin spotting without a hefty price tag.
6. St. Augustine: Guided City Highlights Tour & Scenic Cruise
At $194 per person, this 4-hour guided tour combines a scenic boat cruise with a comprehensive city tour on land. Starting with pickup and drop-off, it’s perfect for travelers who want an in-depth look at St. Augustine’s history and scenery in one package.
The boat cruise provides a refreshing perspective on the city’s coastline and waterfront landmarks. Afterward, the tour continues on land, where you’ll explore Eddie Vickers Park, the Castillo de San Marcos, and other iconic sights. The guide’s insights make the experience more meaningful, especially for history buffs.
The tour is especially appealing for those who want a full-package experience—combining the beauty of a boat ride with a narrated city tour. The price reflects the comprehensive nature and professional guiding, making it a worthwhile investment for dedicated explorers.
It’s suited for visitors who prefer a structured, educational experience with a focus on history and scenic views.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one tour for those interested in deep historical knowledge and scenic water views, best suited for serious sightseers.
How to Choose the Best Cruise or Boat Tour in St. Augustine
Picking the right boat experience depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re traveling with kids or enjoy lively, interactive shows, the Treasure Hunt Cruise is a winner. For romantic evenings or sunset lovers, the Sunset Cruise or Nights of Lights sail offer beautiful scenery with relaxing vibes. Budget travelers might prefer the Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise for fun without breaking the bank, while history buffs will appreciate the combined boat and land tour for a thorough overview.
Consider the duration—from 1.5 hours to 4 hours—and whether you want a focused experience or a rundown. Booking early is advisable during peak seasons, especially for the Nights of Lights cruises. Also, check if the tours offer additional amenities like drinks, snacks, or live music, which can enhance your experience.
In general, match your choice to your mood and company—family adventures, romantic escapes, or educational excursions. Prices vary, but each provides excellent value for the unique moments you’ll capture.
Final Thoughts
St. Augustine offers a rich lineup of boat experiences that highlight its historic charm and natural beauty. For lively family fun, the Pirate Treasure Hunt delivers hands-on adventure. Couples seeking romance will love the Sunset Cruises with live music or the Nights of Lights spectacle, which transforms the city into a sea of glittering lights. History enthusiasts will find the combined boat and land tours a great way to learn and explore.
No matter what floats your boat, there’s an option here to match your style and budget. Booking early, especially for seasonal events like Nights of Lights, guarantees a spot in these popular experiences. Dive into the water-based side of St. Augustine—you’ll come away with stories worth telling.