St. Augustine, Florida, is a city that practically begs to be explored from the water. Its scenic waterways, historic landmarks, and lively atmosphere make cruising an ideal way to see the city in a different light. Whether you’re after a family-friendly pirate adventure, a sunset sail with live music, or a comprehensive land and sea tour, there’s a boat tour that fits your style. The city’s calm, protected waters are perfect for sailing, and many tours offer the chance to see dolphins, enjoy spectacular sunsets, or learn about the area’s history— all while relaxing on deck. With so many options, it’s worth knowing what makes each stand out to find the best fit for your trip.
This guide takes you through the six best cruises and boat tours in St. Augustine, balancing fun, scenery, and value. From interactive pirate hunts to romantic twilight sails, I’ll help you decide which experience will make your visit memorable.
Quick overview of top cruises and boat tours in St. Augustine
Our list includes a variety of tours: family-friendly pirate cruises, romantic sunset sails with live music, special seasonal Nights of Lights cruises, and combined land and sea explorations. Each offers something unique, whether it’s the interactive fun of a treasure hunt or the serene beauty of a moonlit night on the water. Now, let’s explore each in detail.
1. St. Augustine: Treasure Hunt Cruise with Onboard Show
At number 1, the St. Augustine: Treasure Hunt Cruise with Onboard Show offers a lively, family-oriented pirate adventure. For just $45 per person, you’ll set sail for 1.5 hours aboard a colorful pirate ship. The cruise features an interactive live show where pirates joke, sword fight, and fire cannons, making it clear why this tour scores a solid 4.4 out of 5 with nearly 250 reviews.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of entertainment and active participation. Kids are encouraged to hunt for treasure, and everyone leaves with a souvenir piece of the loot—always a hit with little pirates. The tour departs from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, and during the cruise, you’ll likely see dolphins feeding nearby, adding to the fun. The safety briefing is brief but thorough, ensuring everyone feels comfortable on board.
Reviewers frequently mention how much kids enjoy the jokes and sword fights, while adults appreciate the humor and the chance to relax on a boat that’s not too long or tiring. It’s especially good for families with young children who want a lively, interactive experience that blends storytelling with a scenic cruise.
Bottom Line: A perfect pick for families seeking an affordable, fun-filled adventure with plenty of pirate antics and a good splash of the local wildlife.
2. St. Augustine: Sunset Cruise with Live Music and Drinks
Next on our list is the Sunset Cruise with Live Music and Drinks, which offers a more relaxed, romantic way to enjoy the city’s scenic beauty. For $69 per person, you can cruise for around 2 hours aboard a spacious catamaran departing from 250 Vilano Rd. The vessel is modern and provides plenty of room to unwind.
This tour emphasizes the experience of watching the sunset over St. Augustine while enjoying live music performed by local musicians. You can sip complimentary beer, wine, margaritas, or champagne, and nibble on light snacks as the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges and pinks. The calm waters and gentle breeze make it a soothing escape, ideal for couples or groups seeking a memorable evening.
Guests rave about the crew’s friendliness and the quality of the live music, which adds to the overall enjoyment. The views of the city skyline, coupled with the chance to see dolphins playing nearby, make this cruise both scenic and entertaining. Some reviewers note the cruise can get chilly, so dressing in layers is advised.
Bottom Line: A top choice for couples and friends looking for a tasteful, scenic, and musical way to unwind at sunset.
3. St. Augustine: Nights of Lights Sunset Sail with Drinks
The Nights of Lights Sunset Sail is a seasonal favorite, especially in late November through January when the city’s holiday lighting display is in full glow. Priced at $75 per person, this 2-hour cruise departs from Vilano Rd and promises dazzling views of the illuminated cityscape.
This tour’s main highlight is witnessing St. Augustine glow with thousands of dazzling lights reflected in the water. The spacious catamaran offers a smooth ride, and you can enjoy complimentary margaritas, champagne, beer, and wine. Light snacks are included, enhancing the festive atmosphere. The live music onboard adds to the celebratory mood, making it perfect for romantic evenings or special occasions.
Many travelers comment on how close the boat gets to the lights, offering a view unlike any from land. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, with some noting that the cruise can be a bit cold, so dress warmly. What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to see the city’s holiday magic from the water, with many mentioning the photos they captured were spectacular.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice if you want to experience the iconic Lights of Nights of Lights from a comfortable, scenic vantage point.
4. St. Augustine: Boat Cruise and Electric Golf Cart Tour
For those wanting a comprehensive look at St. Augustine, the Boat Cruise and Electric Golf Cart Tour combines the best of land and sea. For $85, you enjoy a 2.5-hour journey that begins with a harbor cruise through Matanzas Bay, giving you stunning views of the city’s skyline and historic landmarks, including the Castillo de San Marcos.
Afterward, a guided electric golf cart tour takes you past key sights like the Alcazar Hotel and the region’s notable architecture. This combo is perfect for those who want a deeper understanding of the city without the fatigue of walking long distances. The tour is well-rated (4.8/5), with reviewers praising the knowledgeable guide, Sandy Beach, and the scenic boat ride.
This tour is particularly suited for travelers who want both scenic views and contextual history, all in one package. The only drawback noted by some was the lack of bathroom facilities onboard the boat, but overall, it offers excellent value considering the variety of experiences packed into 2.5 hours.
Bottom Line: A balanced option for history lovers and those who prefer a mix of cruising and cultural exploration.
5. St. Augustine: Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise
The Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise offers an affordable, lively experience at just $34 per person. This 2-hour sail on the Black Raven pirate ship provides a tropical vibe inspired by the Caribbean, complete with music, drinks, and a fun atmosphere.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on relaxation and entertainment. Along with scenic views of the Matanzas River, you’ll often spot dolphins feeding, and the fully stocked bar means you can enjoy a cocktail or beer as the sun sets. Many reviewers note the friendly crew, the fun environment, and the good value for an evening out.
While it’s a more casual and less formal cruise, the lively music and festive spirit make it an excellent choice for groups and families wanting a laid-back, fun evening on the water. The sunset views are beautiful, and the tropical theme adds a unique twist.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a budget-friendly, energetic sunset cruise with a tropical flair.
6. St. Augustine: Guided City Highlights Tour & Scenic Cruise
Our final pick is the Guided City Highlights & Scenic Cruise, which offers a 4-hour immersive experience for $194 per person. It combines a boat cruise with a guided land tour of key sites like Castillo de San Marcos, Eddie Vickers Park, and the lighthouse.
This tour is highly rated (4.6/5) for its comprehensive approach to exploring St. Augustine. The boat cruise portion allows you to enjoy the city’s skyline and waterways, while the land tour provides detailed historical insights, making it ideal for those who want a well-rounded perspective of the city.
Guests praise the professional guides and the smooth logistics of pickup and drop-off. The tour is best suited for travelers with a bit more time who want to combine sightseeing with learning about the city’s history and architecture. It is a pricier option but offers a deep dive into the city’s highlights.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for history and architecture enthusiasts wanting an all-in-one experience.
How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour in St. Augustine
When selecting the best cruise or boat tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. Families with young children might prefer the Treasure Hunt Cruise, which is lively and interactive, while couples seeking romance may opt for the Sunset Cruise with Live Music. If you want a festive holiday experience, the Nights of Lights offers stunning city views with a celebratory vibe.
For a full day of exploration, the Boat Cruise and Electric Golf Cart Tour combines scenic cruising with cultural insights. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise, which provides a fun, lively evening at an affordable price.
Booking early is always wise, especially during peak seasons like Nights of Lights, when tours fill quickly. Check availability to match your schedule and interests, and prepare for a memorable water-based adventure that reveals a different side of St. Augustine.
Final thoughts
The variety of cruises and boat tours in St. Augustine ensures you can find an option to match your style. For family fun, the pirate adventure is unbeatable. For romance, sunset sails with music create magical moments. History lovers will appreciate the comprehensive land and sea combo, while budget travelers can enjoy the lively, tropical-themed sunset cruise. No matter which you pick, experiencing St. Augustine from the water promises a fresh perspective on this charming city. Remember to book early during busy seasons and enjoy your trip on the water.