Experience St. Augustine’s Magical Nights of Lights on a Spectacular Sunset Cruise

Read the full experience

As the sun begins its slow descent over St. Augustine, Florida’s oldest city, an extraordinary spectacle unfolds along its historic waterfront. The "World Famous Nights of Lights - Spectacular Sun Down/Lights Up Cruise" offers an unmatched evening adventure, blending natural beauty and dazzling holiday tradition. This 90-minute cruise invites adventurers and casual visitors alike to glide across the tranquil waters as the sky turns shades of amber and violet, setting the stage for one of the nation’s most captivating light displays. Departing from St. Augustine’s vibrant downtown, the boat gently cruises towards the iconic Bridge of Lions. By the time the vessel navigates beneath this architectural landmark, darkness cloaks the scene and transforms the shoreline into a glimmering wonderland. More than 3 million sparkling lights illuminate the waterfront, draping historic buildings, ancient oaks, and palm trees in a radiant holiday glow. The scene is both festive and intimate, creating a magical atmosphere unique to this southeastern city. What sets this experience apart is not just the lights but the seamless combination of comfort, ambiance, and local storytelling. Guests enjoy padded seats, complimentary hot chocolate, holiday cookies, and candy, all while snug under provided blankets that fend off the crisp night air. A professional photographer onboard captures memorable moments, and live commentary shares intriguing tidbits about St. Augustine’s rich heritage — a city founded in 1565 known for its Spanish colonial architecture and coastal charm. Accessibility is a priority here, making this cruise stroller and wheelchair accessible, so everyone can enjoy the stunning views and warm hospitality. Whether it’s a romantic outing, a family celebration, or a solo escape, the charm of the Nights of Lights Cruise offers a fresh perspective of St. Augustine’s enchanting streets and historic landmarks illuminated by festive brilliance. Staying in nearby St. Augustine means easy access to restaurants, historic sites, and charming inns, complementing your evening on the water. This cruise is particularly popular during the holiday season but offers a distinctive perspective on the city’s charm during sunset and illuminating twilight. For travelers seeking a vivid, comfortable, and culturally rich way to experience St. Augustine after dark, the Nights of Lights Cruise promises an unforgettable blend of nature, history, and festive celebration on the water. This is one of the hallmark nighttime adventures in the St. Augustine area, offering an unparalleled way to soak in both the natural sunset and the manmade glow, making it a standout choice for visitors exploring Northeast Florida’s coastal allure.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1.5 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity involves sitting and light walking only

Frequently asked questions

Are food and drinks included on the cruise?

Complimentary hot chocolate, holiday cookies, candy, and bottled water are provided; however, adult beverages are not included and can be brought on board by guests.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the cruise is stroller and wheelchair accessible to accommodate all guests.

What is the duration of the cruise?

The nighttime Lights Cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Where does the cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from downtown St. Augustine, near the Bridge of Lions area.

Are reservations required?

Booking in advance is highly recommended as the Nights of Lights cruises are popular and can sell out quickly.

Can I bring my own food or beverages?

Guests may bring their own adult beverages, but outside food is not mentioned as allowed or prohibited; check with the operator for specifics.

Local insights

Wildlife

Bottlenose dolphins occasionally seen near the water’s edge
Wading birds like herons and egrets that inhabit the local wetlands

History

St. Augustine was established in 1565 and is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States, with rich Spanish and British influences still evident today.

Conservation

Operators encourage sustainable practices by minimizing waste on board and educating visitors about preserving the fragile coastal environment.

About Red Boat Water Tours

Red Boat Water Tours is a St. Augustine, Florida boat tour operator specializing in scenic BYOB cruises, dolphin-watching excursions, seasonal Nights of Lights cruises, and scheduled water shuttle service between downtown St. Augustine and Vilano Beach. Operating out of historic Matanzas Bay, the company runs a fleet that includes the White Pelican and Pellicano for public and event-focused trips. Red Boat Water Tours offers a variety of excursions tailored to different interests and occasions. Options include family-friendly dolphin tours with a reported 96% dolphin-sighting success rate on the Dolphin Odyssey; relaxed 90-minute BYOB sunset cruises aboard the White Pelican; specialty Nights of Lights cruises that navigate under the Bridge of Lions to view the city’s holiday illumination; and event-specific outings such as a Regatta of Lights cruise and a Fourth of July fireworks cruise on Matanzas Bay. Scheduled water shuttles connect downtown St. Augustine and Vilano Beach for passengers who prefer a scenic transit option instead of driving. The company emphasizes customer convenience and memorable waterfront experiences. Trip summaries clearly state durations, onboard amenities like BYOB policies and complimentary snacks on select event cruises, and seasonal highlights. Red Boat Water Tours is a dedicated provider of sightseeing and seasonal-event cruises in St. Augustine, delivering straightforward options for visitors seeking coastal views, wildlife encounters, and holiday light displays from the water.

Base locationSt. Augustine, Florida

Tours offered11+

Specialtyboat-charters

Adventure tips

Arrive Early to Secure SeatingPopular cruises fill up quickly—arrive at least 15 minutes before departure for the best seats with prime views of the lights.

Dress Warmly for Evening ChillEven Florida nights can get chilly on the water; bring layers or use provided blankets to stay comfortable during the cruise.

Bring a Camera with Low-light CapabilityCapture the dazzling lights and sunset glow; a camera with good low-light performance will preserve the magic better than a phone.

Accessibility FriendlyThis cruise is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for all members of your group to enjoy the experience.

Recommended gear

Warm Jacket or Layers: To stay warm during the cool Florida evening sky on the open water.
Camera or Smartphone with Good Low-light Settings: Essential for capturing the glowing lights and sunset scenery.
Comfortable Footwear: For boarding and walking around the dock area before and after the cruise.
Reusable Water Bottle: Though bottled water is provided, having your own helps stay hydrated and eco-conscious.