Cocoa Beach: Sunset Cruise

Enjoy a Romantic Sunset Cruise on the Banana River in Cocoa Beach

The Cocoa Beach Sunset Cruise offers a peaceful, scenic way to experience Florida’s waterways for $48 per person. Lasting 1.5 hours, this tour departs from the Sunset Waterfront Bar and Grill and takes visitors through the beautiful Thousand Islands on the Banana River. It’s an ideal outing for couples, families, or anyone seeking a relaxing way to watch the sunset and enjoy some local wildlife.

This cruise stands out with its abundance of wildlife sightings, including dolphins and manatees, and its lively, fun atmosphere enhanced by music and stunning water views. While alcohol and soft drinks are available for purchase on board, no coolers are allowed, keeping the environment tidy and enjoyable for all guests. The tour is accessible for wheelchairs and features captain-led commentary, making the experience both informative and entertaining.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration: 1.5 hours, available in the afternoon and evening
• Price: $48 per person, with options for flexible booking and free cancellation
• Location: Depart from Sunset Waterfront Bar & Grill, Cocoa Beach, FL
• Wildlife: Opportunities to see dolphins, manatees, and birds
• Includes: Boat ride, captain and skipper, life jackets
• Restrictions: No coolers, weapons, smoking, or diving allowed

Departing from Cocoa Beach’s Sunset Waterfront Bar and Grill

This cruise begins at the Sunset Waterfront Bar and Grill, conveniently located on the Banana River in Cocoa Beach. Once you arrive at the parking area at 420 W. Cocoa Beach Cswy, just a short 200-foot walk to the boats, you’ll be ready to embark on this memorable water adventure.

The parking lot offers a discounted rate of $2 per hour, with the promo code “DOLPHIN”. After parking, visitors can visit the office and gift shop on-site before or after the cruise, making it easy to pick up souvenirs or essentials like sunscreen. The meeting point is straightforward, and the boats are always close by, making logistics simple and convenient.

Navigating the Thousand Islands and Banana River

Once aboard, the captain leads guests through the Thousand Islands, a scenic chain of small, lush islands known for their picturesque views. The cruise then enters the Banana River, where the sunset creates a glowing backdrop for photos and quiet moments.

Throughout this stretch, the music played by the crew adds a lively touch, encouraging relaxation and enjoyment. As the boat gently sways, passengers can admire the changing colors of the sky, with the sky often painted in warm hues as the sun sets over the water.

Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins and Manatees

A major highlight of this tour is the chance to spot dolphins and manatees. The guided narration by the crew enhances wildlife viewing, with Rusty, Patrick, Diane, and Brian noted for their friendly and informative approach in reviews.

While wildlife sightings depend on weather and timing, guests often see dolphins swimming alongside the boat and herds of manatees lounging near the water’s surface. Other bird species are also frequently visible, adding to the natural spectacle.

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Music, Atmosphere, and Relaxation Aboard the Boat

The fun music set by the captain and crew creates a relaxed, cheerful atmosphere. The gentle sway of the boat combined with the sound of water and casual commentary makes this cruise feel like a peaceful escape.

Guests are encouraged to bring their camera to capture spectacular sunsets and wildlife moments, with plenty of photo opportunities. Comfortable clothing and sunscreen are recommended, especially if the weather turns sunny.

Drinks and Refreshments on Board

While food and drinks are available for purchase at the Sunset Waterfront Bar & Grill, coolers are not permitted on the boat itself. Passengers can purchase alcohol and soft drinks during the cruise, making it easy to enjoy a cold beverage while watching the sunset.

This arrangement ensures that the boat environment remains tidy, and the crew can focus on delivering a relaxed and enjoyable experience. It’s advisable to plan ahead if you want a specific drink or snack during the cruise.

Physical Accessibility and Safety Measures

The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that more visitors can enjoy the scenic ride without concern. The crew provides life jackets for all guests, reinforcing safety during the water excursion.

Guests should adhere to rules not to bring weapons, smoking, alcohol consumption outside of purchased drinks, or engaging in activities like jumping or snorkeling. These restrictions help maintain a safe, family-friendly environment.

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Reservations are available with “Reserve now & pay later” options, allowing flexible planning without immediate payment. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it an accessible choice for spontaneous plans or uncertain schedules.

The tour operates primarily in the afternoon and evening, aligning well with sunset timings and ensuring optimal lighting for photos.

Comparing Similar Tours in Cocoa Beach

This sunset cruise is among several wildlife and water tours offered around Cocoa Beach. Similar experiences include dolphin and wildlife tours, kayak trips to see bioluminescent algae, and longer boat tours with more stops for wildlife viewing.

All these options provide opportunities to see dolphins, manatees, and scenic water environments, but this cruise’s shorter duration and relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for a quick, enjoyable outing that doesn’t require a full day of commitment.

Who Will Appreciate This Cruise Most?

This tour suits families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful, scenic experience with wildlife sightings and sunset views. It’s especially appealing to those wanting a relaxed boat ride without the need for diving or snorkeling.

The moderate price point and easy logistics make it a popular choice for visitors of all ages, especially those seeking a family-friendly activity or a romantic evening on the water.

Final Thoughts on the Cocoa Beach Sunset Cruise

The Cocoa Beach Sunset Cruise provides a simple yet beautiful way to enjoy Florida’s waterways. Its scenic route, wildlife sightings, and fun atmosphere are complemented by the convenient departure point and flexible booking options.

While not a long expedition, the 1.5-hour ride offers enough time to appreciate nature, watch the sunset, and relax with music. The availability of drinks and the friendly crew enhance the experience, making it a recommended outing for visitors wanting a peaceful, scenic water adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the Cocoa Beach Sunset Cruise?
The cruise lasts 1.5 hours, making it a short, manageable outing suitable for most schedules.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $48 per person, with options to reserve and pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from the Sunset Waterfront Bar and Grill, with the meeting point at 420 W. Cocoa Beach Cswy.

Can I see wildlife like dolphins and manatees?
Yes, wildlife sightings such as dolphins and manatees are common, depending on weather and time.

Are drinks available on the boat?
Yes, alcohol and soft drinks are sold on board, but coolers are not allowed.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes for the ride.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, it is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, as long as safety guidelines are followed.

What makes this cruise different from other water tours?
Its relaxed pace, sunset views, and frequent wildlife sightings, combined with the informative yet fun crew, set it apart.

Is there anything I should be aware of before booking?
Remember that no coolers or snorkeling are allowed, and the tour is primarily focused on scenic views and wildlife spotting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby