St. Augustine: Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise

Experience the Unique Charm of the Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise

The Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise offers a vibrant, Caribbean-inspired adventure right in St. Augustine, Florida. Priced at just $32 per person and lasting 2 hours, this tour is perfect for those seeking a laid-back yet lively way to end the day. Departing from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, the cruise takes you on a scenic ride along the Matanzas River, showcasing the historic sights and natural beauty of this charming coastal city.

This cruise stands out thanks to its pirate ship theme, complete with pirates, music, and dolphin sightings. It’s an experience accessible to all ages, making it a family-friendly option that combines relaxation, fun, and stunning views. Keep in mind that parking at the marina requires some planning, as there is no dedicated lot. Still, the overall atmosphere and value make it an appealing choice for visitors wanting to enjoy an affordable, memorable evening on the water.

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Key Points

• Price: Only $32 per person, excellent value for a 2-hour cruise
• Duration: 2 hours of scenic sailing along the Matanzas River
• Theme: Caribbean-inspired tropical sunset with pirate ship atmosphere
• Activities: Dolphin sightings, music by beach artists, opportunity for song requests
• Bar: Fully stocked bar with snacks and drinks for purchase
• Highlights: Views of the Bridge of Lions, Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine Lighthouse, and Vilano Beach

The Black Raven Pirate Ship Sets Sail from the Marina

This sunset cruise departs from the Black Raven Ship Store inside the St. Augustine Municipal Marina. The location is just south of King Street and the Bridge of Lions, across from OC White’s Restaurant. Guests are advised to allocate 45 minutes to 1 hour for parking, as no parking lot is available at the marina. Paid parking options include metered spots, public parking garages, or street parking across the Bridge of Lions.

Upon check-in, guests board the pirate-themed ship, where the atmosphere quickly becomes lively with music and friendly pirates. The crew is known for being friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, often engaging guests with stories and taking photos. The tour usually offers a live guide who shares interesting facts about the sights and dolphins spotted during the cruise.

Scenic Route Past Historic Landmarks

The route takes the Black Raven northward along the Matanzas River, passing iconic sights such as Salt Run, where dolphins are often visible during feeding times. You’ll glide past the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S., and enjoy views of Vilano Bridge and Pier.

The cruise offers a different perspective of St. Augustine’s historic coastline, providing great photo opportunities of the Bridge of Lions and the St. Augustine Inlet. As the vessel sails, the music, featuring artists like Jimmy Buffet and Bob Marley, creates a cheerful, island-inspired vibe. Guests are encouraged to request songs from the fully stocked bar, which offers a variety of drinks and snacks available for purchase.

Dolphin Sightings and Wildlife Encounters

One of the best features of this cruise is the chance to see dolphins during feeding time in Salt Run. The pod of dolphins often comes close to the boat, providing exciting wildlife viewing moments. Guests should also keep an eye on the treeline for bald eagles, which are sometimes spotted during the cruise.

The dolphin sightings add an extra layer of magic to the experience, especially during the sunset, when the water reflects warm hues and the animals are most active. This natural spectacle complements the Caribbean-inspired scenery and helps create a truly relaxing atmosphere.

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Music, Drinks, and Pirate-Themed Fun

Throughout the cruise, music by beach artists like Jimmy Buffet and Bob Marley plays, enhancing the laid-back island vibe**. The crew often takes song requests, making the experience interactive and fun. The pirate crew adds a playful touch, with some guides even dressed as pirates, engaging guests in the themed atmosphere.

The full bar, although not included in the ticket price, offers snacks and drinks for sale, including cocktails like the popular Bahama Mama. Guests often enjoy sipping their drinks while watching the sunset or chatting with fellow travelers in a friendly, relaxed setting.

The Unique Pirate Ship Atmosphere

What makes this tour stand out is its pirate ship design, which adds an element of adventure and fantasy. The Black Raven is decorated to evoke the feel of a real pirate vessel, complete with pirate actors and lively entertainment. The crew’s friendly, humorous approach helps create a welcoming environment for families, couples, and groups of friends alike.

Guests often mention the pirate crew’s enthusiasm, as well as the interactive elements like the “cannon” that they shoot at passing boats, adding a playful dimension to the journey. This themed experience makes the cruise not just a scenic ride but also an engaging storybook adventure.

Sunset Views Over St. Augustine and Vilano Beach

As the sun dips below the horizon, the vessel offers breathtaking views of the sunset. The colors cast a warm glow across the historic cityscape and the water, creating perfect photo moments. The stunning scenery combined with dolphin sightings and live music makes for a truly picturesque experience.

The sunset is often praised for its beauty and the tranquil ambiance that settles over the river. This is a prime time to relax, take in the sights, and have a drink from the bar, all while soaking up the Caribbean-inspired atmosphere.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

Guests should arrive early to check in and allow time for parking. Metered parking and public garages are the best options, as there is no dedicated lot at the marina. Consider arriving 45 minutes to an hour before the scheduled departure, especially during busy weekends.

The cruise is suitable for all ages and requires no special physical effort. However, guests with mobility issues may want to be dropped off at the marina for check-in, as parking can be challenging. The crew is happy to assist with photos and questions during the trip.

How the Cruise Compares to Other St. Augustine Water Tours

Compared to other sunset or dolphin-watching tours in the area, the Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise offers a distinctive pirate ship theme and a Caribbean-inspired vibe at a very affordable price. While some tours may include more elaborate meals or expert guides, this cruise emphasizes fun, affordability, and scenic beauty.

The 2-hour duration provides a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, enjoy music, and take photos. The interactive pirate element and dolphin sightings make this cruise particularly fun and memorable for families and young travelers.

Final Thoughts on the Black Raven Sunset Cruise

This sunset cruise in St. Augustine combines scenic views, wildlife encounters, lively music, and a playful pirate theme to create a unique water adventure. The $32 ticket price offers excellent value, especially considering the scenic route past historic landmarks and the possibility of dolphin sightings.

While parking can be a bit of a hassle, the overall experience is relaxed and engaging, suited for families, couples, and groups looking for an enjoyable evening on the water. The friendly crew, stunning sunset views, and Caribbean-inspired atmosphere make this cruise a popular choice for a memorable night in St. Augustine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise?
The tour costs $32 per person, offering a 2-hour scenic ride with dolphin sightings and music.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from the Black Raven Ship Store inside the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, located at 111 Avenida Menendez.

Is parking available at the marina?
No, there is no parking lot at the marina. Guests are advised to use metered parking, public parking garages, or street parking across the Bridge of Lions.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket includes the 2-hour cruise, music, and the scenic route. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase at the fully stocked bar.

Can I request specific songs during the cruise?
Yes, guests can place song requests with the pirate crew, enhancing the interactive, fun atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is fun for all ages, making it a great option for families with children.

How long before departure should I arrive?
Guests should plan to arrive at least 45 minutes to 1 hour early to check in and find parking.

Are there any restrictions or warnings?
Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed on the vessel. Those with mobility issues may want to arrive early for check-in with assistance.

What makes this cruise different from other water tours in St. Augustine?
Its pirate ship theme, Caribbean-inspired atmosphere, and affordable price set it apart, offering a relaxed yet lively experience with opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Is the cruise weather-dependent?
Yes, the cruise operates mostly in the afternoon and evening, and cancelations are possible in bad weather. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How would you describe the overall value of the tour?
At $32 for 2 hours, with dolphin sightings, live music, and a themed pirate experience, this tour offers great value for a memorable evening out in St. Augustine.

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