Discover St. Augustine like never before on the Nights of Lights Sunset Cruise, where millions of twinkling lights meet breathtaking coastal views. Enjoy a cozy, festive evening on the water with hot chocolate, cookies, and expert local storytelling.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity involves sitting and light walking only
Wildlife
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.
Red Boat Water Tours
Discover St. Augustine like never before on the Nights of Lights Sunset Cruise, where millions of twinkling lights meet breathtaking coastal views. Enjoy a cozy, festive evening on the water with hot chocolate, cookies, and expert local storytelling.
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.
Location
St. Augustine, FL
Historic waterfront departures
Tours Offered
10+
Sunset, dolphin, shuttle, event cruises
Dolphin Sightings
96% success
Advertised Dolphin Odyssey rate
Seasonal Events
Nights of Lights
Holiday light and regatta cruises
Reserve a BYOB sunset cruise, dolphin tour, Nights of Lights trip, or water shuttle and secure waterfront views in historic St. Augustine.
Arrive Early to Secure Seating
Popular 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 Chill
Even 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 Capability
Capture the dazzling lights and sunset glow; a camera with good low-light performance will preserve the magic better than a phone.
Accessibility Friendly
This cruise is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for all members of your group to enjoy the experience.
Warm Jacket or Layers
To stay warm during the cool Florida evening sky on the open water.
winter
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.