Original Cruisin’ Tikis Sunset Cruise

Discover the Charm of the Original Cruisin’ Tikis Sunset Cruise in Destin

The Original Cruisin’ Tikis Sunset Cruise in Destin offers a lively yet laid-back experience, perfect for those seeking a scenic, social outing on the water. Priced at $65 per person and lasting approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, this tour combines beautiful sunset views with a fun tiki bar atmosphere. You’ll sail on a vintage-inspired tiki boat with all coolers, ice, and cups provided—you just need to bring your favorite drinks.

This cruise stands out for its BYOB policy, allowing you to enjoy beer, wine, or liquor during the trip. The small-sized vessels accommodate up to 18 guests, providing a cozy, intimate vibe that makes for a memorable experience. While the tour does not include alcoholic beverages—since you BYOB—it’s an excellent choice for friends, families, or couples wanting a relaxed evening on Destin’s calm waters.

The Meeting Point and How to Get There

The departure point for this cruise is 302 Harbor Blvd in Destin, directly in front of The Harbor Tavern. With parking being limited in Destin, it’s recommended to arrive early or consider using rideshare services for a hassle-free start. The easy-to-find location makes meeting up straightforward, and the vessel departs promptly to maximize your time on the water.

The tour ends at the same meeting point, making logistics simple for everyone. Since the boat is a small vessel, it offers a personalized experience with a maximum of 18 passengers onboard, ensuring plenty of space for everyone to relax and enjoy.

The Unique Experience of a Tiki Sunset Cruise

What makes this cruise particularly special is the vintage tiki boat, which exudes a fun, island-inspired vibe. As you sail into the bay, the calm waters set the perfect scene for watching the sunset. The boat’s design and ambiance enhance the laid-back atmosphere, making it more than just a cruise—it’s an experience.

The crew plays a key role, with knowledgeable captains like Captain Mike and Captain Kirk earning praise for their friendly demeanor and local insights. They are known for being respectful, personable, and great conversationalists, adding a personal touch to the trip.

Prime Views and Dolphin Sightings

One of the main draws of this tour is the chance to catch the sunset over Destin’s skyline, a view celebrated by many visitors. The calm bay waters provide a tranquil setting to admire this daily spectacle.

Along With sunsets, dolphin sightings are a common highlight. Experienced captains often steer closer to pods of dolphins, allowing guests to observe these playful creatures up close. Even on days when the sunset is clouded, the dolphin encounters still make for a wonderful, lively experience.

The Food and Drinks You Need to Bring

Since the cruise is BYOB, you are encouraged to bring your favorite alcoholic beverages. Ice, coolers, and cups are supplied, simplifying your packing list. The boat does not serve food or drinks, so planning ahead to bring snacks or drinks is recommended if desired.

Glass bottles are permitted, which adds a touch of elegance or nostalgia for those wanting to enjoy a bottle of wine or a cocktail. The cooler with ice ensures your drinks stay cold while you relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

The Crew and Captain Experience

Guests consistently praise the captains for their friendly, knowledgeable service. Captain Bailey, in particular, is noted for being personal, informative, and helpful—she makes guests feel comfortable and engaged during the cruise.

Captains are also praised for their local expertise, sharing interesting tidbits about Destin’s waterways and wildlife. They are attentive to safety, ensuring everyone has a safe and enjoyable time. Some reviews mention how captains like Justin and Sam go above and beyond, making personal connections and offering excellent recommendations for dinner afterward.

The Intimate, Relaxing Atmosphere

This tour’s small size creates an intimate setting, perfect for family outings, romantic dates, or small groups of friends. Guests often comment on the cozy, laid-back vibe and appreciate the less crowded environment compared to larger cruises.

Though the boat can only hold up to six guests per vessel, the provider offers tandem cruises for larger groups, ensuring everyone shares in the fun while maintaining the personalized service.

Flexibility and Weather Considerations

The tour requires good weather, and cancellations due to inclement weather are fully refundable or rebookable. In cases of poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered, ensuring guests do not pay for an experience that cannot happen.

Arriving overly intoxicated may prevent boarding for safety reasons, and the tour is not recommended for travelers with limited mobility. Service animals are welcomed, but other pets or animals such as weapons or drugs are prohibited onboard.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This sunset tiki cruise appeals to those wanting a casual, social outing. It’s particularly suited for families with kids, couples looking for a romantic yet relaxed evening, or groups of friends celebrating special occasions like birthdays. The small vessel size and informative captains make for a personal, unhurried experience.

Since the price is reasonable and the views are stunning, it offers great value for money. The 16+ reviews with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 underscore its popularity and consistent quality.

Final Thoughts on the Destin Tiki Sunset Cruise

The Original Cruisin’ Tikis Sunset Cruise combines scenic beauty, relaxation, and fun into a compact and affordable package. With the BYOB policy, dolphin sightings, and friendly guides, it provides a personalized way to experience Destin’s waters.

While it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or guests arriving intoxicated, it offers a memorable, laid-back evening for most travelers. Whether celebrating a special day or simply enjoying a calming sunset, this cruise delivers a delightful taste of Destin’s charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the cruise depart from?
The tour departs from 302 Harbor Blvd in Destin, directly in front of The Harbor Tavern.

Is parking available nearby?
Parking can be limited, so arriving early or using rideshare is recommended for a smooth start.

How many people can fit on each boat?
Each vessel holds up to 6 guests due to Coast Guard laws. Larger groups can be split into tandem cruises using multiple Tikis.

Can I bring alcohol onboard?
Yes, liquor, beer, and wine are allowed, and you may bring glass bottles. Coolers and ice are provided.

What is included in the price?
You get ice, coolers, and cups. The price of $65 covers the 1.5-hour cruise, but alcoholic beverages are BYOB.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is fine. Consider bringing a light jacket if it’s cooler in the evening.

Are children welcome?
Yes, children are welcome on this tour, making it suitable for family outings.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If canceled due to weather, a full refund or reschedule is offered.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
No, the tour is not recommended for those with limited mobility.

Can I see dolphins during the cruise?
Yes, dolphin sightings are common, especially when captains steer the boat closer to pods of dolphins.

The Cruisin’ Tikis Sunset Cruise in Destin offers an enjoyable, intimate way to experience the region’s natural beauty, making it a highly recommended activity for your visit.