Back Porch on the water Fall/Winter Harbor Sightseeing Cruise

The Back Porch on the water Fall/Winter Harbor Sightseeing Cruise offers a charming and relaxed way to see Destin from the water for $59 per person. With a duration of approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, this tour features a comfortable, patio-like pontoon that navigates the Destin Harbor and canals. It’s a cozy experience, especially in cooler months, with hot chocolate and warm blankets included. The tour explores the harbor’s fancy homes, large boats, and the lively Harbor Walk Village, providing a behind-the-scenes perspective on Destin’s waterway scene.

While the tour is intimate, with a maximum of 6 travelers, it remains accessible and family-friendly, as long as children under 6 wear a properly fitting life jacket. The guide shares local recommendations about restaurants, shops, and attractions, making it both an entertaining and practical outing. Notably, there’s a chance to see sea life and dolphins, adding a touch of wildlife excitement. The tour’s simplicity and focus on scenic views make it a great choice for those seeking a laid-back, scenic water experience.

Key Points

• Price: $59 per person, with free cancellation available
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
• Includes: Hot chocolate, cozy blankets, and an in-person guide
• Activity: Cruise through Destin Harbor and canals, with potential wildlife sightings
• Group Size: Small tour with a maximum of 6 travelers for a personalized experience
• Best for: Visitors wanting a relaxed, scenic ride with local insights and comfort in cooler months

Scenic Destin Harbor and Canal Tour on a Cozy Pontoon

The Back Porch on the water cruise provides an easygoing way to explore Destin’s waterways. Departing from 302 Harbor Blvd, the tour takes about 90 minutes, allowing plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. The patio-like pontoon is perfect for enjoying the fresh air in comfort, with soft blankets provided to keep warm. This makes it especially appealing during the fall and winter months.

The boat glides through the Destin Harbor and canals, giving passengers a unique perspective of the area’s luxurious waterfront homes and large boats docked along the water. The guide shares insights about the Harbor Walk Village, highlighting the best restaurants, shops, and attractions you might want to explore after the cruise.

The flexibility of the tour allows for weather-dependent trips, with the possibility of seeing sea life, including dolphins, during the ride. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own snacks or drinks if they wish, in addition to the hot chocolate provided. The small group size ensures a personal experience, with attentive guidance and opportunities for questions.

Exploring Destin’s Waterfront Homes and Boats from the Water

One of the highlights of this cruise is the chance to view the upscale homes along the harbor from a water level, offering a different perspective than land-based tours. The large boats, yachts, and vessels docked in the harbor contribute to the lively, luxurious atmosphere.

The guide offers recommendations on local attractions and shares background on the area’s notable landmarks. This insight helps visitors plan their day or evening in Destin, making the cruise both scenic and informative. The behind-the-scenes view of the harbor’s vibrant nautical scene makes this tour stand out from standard sightseeing options.

In good weather, the cruise also ventures into the bay, enhancing the scenic experience and increasing the likelihood of spotting sea life and dolphins. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, perfect for families, couples, or small groups wanting a taste of Destin’s waterway charm.

Viewing Harbor Walk Village from the Water

From the boat, travelers get an unusual vantage point of the famed Harbor Walk Village. This lively spot, full of restaurants, shops, and entertainment, looks especially charming from the water, with the lights and activity visible from afar.

Passengers can ask the guide about top dining spots and shopping options, making the tour a practical way to discover Destin’s best local hangouts. The water perspective gives a new appreciation for the area’s vibrant waterfront scene, perfect for those wanting a relaxing introduction to Destin’s social hub.

The tour’s timing, in the cooler months, provides a different ambiance — fewer crowds and a peaceful view of the water activity. It’s a great way to see the Harbor Walk Village without the typical land-based hustle.

Special Features: Hot Chocolate, Blankets, and Personal Service

What sets this cruise apart is the attention to passenger comfort and experience. The hot chocolate keeps everyone warm, especially in fall or winter, while the blankets add a cozy touch.

The in-person guide not only navigates the boat but also shares local knowledge and recommendations, making the outing both enjoyable and informative. The tour’s small group size enhances personal attention and flexibility, ensuring a relaxed journey.

Because the tour is intimate, the atmosphere feels personal and friendly, giving passengers space to ask questions and enjoy the scenery at their own pace.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Booking

The meeting point is at 302 Harbor Blvd, Destin, a central location close to public transportation options. The tour is designed to accommodate up to 6 travelers, emphasizing an intimate experience rather than a crowded boat.

Booking generally occurs 11 days in advance, with tickets costing $59 per person. The tour’s flexible cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours beforehand, making it a risk-free option.

This specific cruise is geared toward those seeking a relaxed, scenic water tour with personal guidance and comfort features, ideal for small groups or families wanting a laid-back outing.

Who Will Enjoy the Back Porch on the Water Tour?

This cruise is well-suited for visitors looking for a casual, scenic tour of Destin’s harbor and canals, particularly in the cooler months when cozy blankets and hot chocolate enhance the experience. Families with young children are welcome, provided life jackets are brought for kids under 6.

People who appreciate personalized attention and small group sizes will find this tour refreshing. The opportunity to see dolphins and sea life adds a nature element that can delight all ages.

It’s also perfect for those interested in local dining and shopping tips, as the guide shares insights about the best spots around the harbor area.

Final Thoughts on the Destin Harbor Sightseeing Cruise

The Back Porch on the water cruise offers a relaxed, scenic view of Destin’s waterfront in a cozy setting. At just $59 per person, the small-group experience provides personalized attention, scenic views, and the comfort of hot chocolate and blankets.

While the tour’s focus on the harbor and canals means it doesn’t venture far from land, the chance to see luxury homes, boats, and possibly dolphins makes it a worthwhile, laid-back outing. It particularly shines in cooler months, offering a warm, comfortable cruise that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

Ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking an intimate, scenic escape on the water, this tour delivers a memorable glimpse of Destin’s harbor life without the crowds or complexity of larger cruises.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes hot chocolate, cozy blankets, and an in-person guide.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but children under 6 must wear a properly fitting life jacket.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from 302 Harbor Blvd, Destin.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.

What should I bring?
Bring your own snacks or drinks if desired, and appropriate life jackets for children under 6.

Is there a chance to see sea life?
Yes, dolphins and sea life sightings are possible during the cruise, weather permitting.

What makes this tour special?
The cozy ambiance, personalized guidance, and views of luxury homes and boats make this a unique Destin experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While specific accessibility info isn’t provided, the tour features a patio-like pontoon and is suitable for most travelers.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 11 days in advance, indicating good availability a couple of weeks ahead.