St. Augustine: B.Y.O.B. Sunset Cruise (Adults only)

Experience a Scenic Sunset Cruise in St. Augustine with BYOB Convenience

The St. Augustine: B.Y.O.B. Sunset Cruise offers a relaxed, adults-only experience that combines stunning waterway views with engaging historical commentary. Departing from Vilano Beach Fishing Pier, this 1.5-hour tour is perfect for those seeking an evening on the water in a comfortable, laid-back atmosphere. The guide shares entertaining facts about America’s oldest city, while passengers bring their own beverages, creating a casual, convivial vibe. With free parking and wheelchair accessibility, this cruise caters to a variety of visitors looking to unwind and take in the sights as the sun sets behind St. Augustine.

While the tour is limited to adults, it offers a unique chance to see the lighthouse, the fort, and the iconic Bridge of Lions from the water, providing a perspective you won’t get from land. The scenic route along the Intracoastal Waterway passes some of the city’s top-rated waterfront restaurants, making it ideal for a romantic or friends-only evening. This cruise balances informative commentary with beautiful scenery, making it an appealing choice for those wanting a peaceful, scenic experience with a personal touch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration: 1.5 hours, offering a relaxed yet comprehensive water tour
• Location: Starts at Vilano Beach Fishing Pier with free parking options
• BYOB Policy: Bring your own beverages to enjoy during the cruise
• Landmarks: Pass near lighthouse, the fort, and Bridge of Lions for close-up views
• Scenic Highlights: Stunning sunset views over the Intracoastal Waterway
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with complimentary bottled water

Departure from Vilano Beach Fishing Pier at Vilano Road

The tour departs from the Vilano Beach Fishing Pier Floating Dock, located at 260 Vilano Road. Travelers are advised to park either in the small lot at the pier or along Vilano Road, both of which are free. To find the pickup point, walk past the big bluebird statue and the flying dolphins sculpture, then look for a ramp on the left side of the pier leading to the floating dock. The boat will be waiting there for boarding, with check-in done directly on the vessel.

Arriving early helps secure the best seats on the Pellicano, and the dock is only used for embarkation and disembarkation. If the boat isn’t immediately visible upon arrival, it will be arriving shortly. The coordinates for the meeting point are approximately 29.9167, -81.2979.

The Pellicano: Spacious and Comfortable for Relaxed Viewing

The Pellicano is designed with comfort in mind, featuring ample seating and a spacious layout to ensure everyone has a good vantage point for the scenery. Its open design allows unobstructed views of the waterway and landmarks, making the sunset truly special. Because the cruise is adults-only, the environment remains mellow, ideal for conversations or quiet reflection while enjoying beverages of choice.

The tour includes complimentary bottled water, and the guided commentary enhances the experience by sharing fun historical facts about St. Augustine. The live guide speaks English and ensures the pace remains relaxed, with plenty of time to take photos or simply soak in the scenery.

Scenic Waterway: View the Old City from the Water

Cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway provides a fresh perspective on St. Augustine’s historic sites. Passengers see waterfront restaurants, which are prominent along the route and worth exploring later. The waterway is dotted with landmarks like the lighthouse, the fort, and the Bridge of Lions, all close enough to appreciate from the water.

The sunset adds a warm glow to the city skyline, casting a peaceful ambiance over the tour. This scenic backdrop makes for memorable photos and a calming experience, especially as the day winds down.

More Great Tours Nearby

Historical Insights Shared by the Guide

The guide offers entertaining facts about St. Augustine’s history, providing context about the landmarks and the city’s significance. These historical nuggets make the cruise both enjoyable and educational, perfect for those interested in local stories without feeling overwhelmed. The commentary is lighthearted and engaging, adding to the relaxed vibe of the trip.

Up Close to Iconic Landmarks from the Water

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to get close to the lighthouse, the fort, and the Bridge of Lions—all viewed from the water. These landmarks are crucial parts of St. Augustine’s skyline and are more striking when seen from the water’s perspective. The close proximity allows for detailed photos and a better understanding of their scale and architecture.

Because the tour passes near some of the city’s top-rated waterfront restaurants, passengers can later explore these dining spots or return for a meal, making the cruise a versatile part of an evening out.

Practicalities: Accessibility, Parking, and Booking

The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience. The meeting point at the Vilano Beach Fishing Pier features free parking, with clear instructions provided for easy access. The check-in process takes place on the boat, and early boarding is recommended to secure preferred seating.

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour, offering peace of mind for travelers with uncertain plans.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Sunset Cruises

The adults-only policy makes this cruise ideal for couples or friends seeking a peaceful, mature environment. The BYOB aspect adds a personal touch, allowing guests to customize their experience with their preferred drinks. The scenic route along the Intracoastal Waterway and the proximity to key landmarks provide a unique vantage point that isn’t available from land-based tours.

The 4.8 rating from Red Boat Tours reflects consistent high satisfaction, especially regarding the scenic views and friendly guide. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful sunset views make it a top choice for a memorable evening in St. Augustine.

The Best Time to Experience the Sunset Cruise

The timing of the cruise depends on the sunset schedule, which varies seasonally. Passengers should check availability for specific starting times. The cruise offers a perfect end to a day exploring St. Augustine, especially during golden hour when the sun casts a warm glow over the city and water.

Summary: A Relaxing and Scenic Evening on the Water

This adults-only sunset cruise provides a peaceful, scenic, and informative way to enjoy St. Augustine from its waterways. The spacious vessel, close-up views of landmarks, and entertaining historical commentary make it a well-rounded experience. Its BYOB policy and free parking add convenient touches that enhance the overall value.

Ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers seeking a quiet, scenic evening with stunning sunset views, this tour delivers a memorable experience without unnecessary hype. The high rating and positive features suggest this cruise is a reliable choice for those wanting a peaceful slice of St. Augustine from the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cruise suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Guests are encouraged to bring their own beverages as it is a BYOB experience. Complimentary bottled water is included.

Where does the tour depart from?
The Vilano Beach Fishing Pier Floating Dock at 260 Vilano Road is the departure point. Parking is free in the vicinity.

How long does the cruise last?
The tour runs for 1.5 hours, providing ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What landmarks will I see?
Passengers pass close to the lighthouse, the fort, and the Bridge of Lions, with scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Can I reserve my spot in advance?
Yes, reservations can be made with a pay later option, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure.

What is the rating of this tour provider?
Red Boat Tours has a 4.8 out of 5 rating, reflecting strong guest satisfaction.

When is the best time to take this cruise?
The best time is during the sunset hours, with specific starting times available based on the season.

Are beverages allowed onboard?
Yes, guests are encouraged to bring their own beverages to enjoy during the cruise.

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