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Discover the magic of St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights festival from the deck of a sailboat. Glide past historic landmarks beautifully illuminated in this seasonal sailing adventure that's perfect for anyone looking to celebrate the holidays on the water.
Discover the magic of St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights festival from the deck of a sailboat. Glide past historic landmarks beautifully illuminated in this seasonal sailing adventure that's perfect for anyone looking to celebrate the holidays on the water.
Book with St Augustine Sailing
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
780 ratings
Operated by St Augustine Sailing · St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine, Florida, renowned as the oldest city in the United States, comes alive each winter with the enchanting Nights of Lights festival. This spectacle transforms the city’s historic streets, waterfront, and landmarks into a luminous wonderland, drawing visitors from near and far. The "Nights of Lights - Sparkle Package" offers a singular way to immerse yourself in this glowing celebration: aboard a sailboat, gently gliding through the city’s scenic waterways under a canopy of festive illumination.
Departing from the heart of St. Augustine, this experience lets guests witness the magic of Nights of Lights from a unique vantage point on the water. The sailboat cruises past iconic sights such as the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fort glowing brilliantly in holiday lights, and the Bridge of Lions, framed by twinkling displays that stretch as far as the eye can see. These reflections on the water enhance the ethereal beauty of the surroundings.
This sailing package is perfectly tailored for those wanting a peaceful yet festive evening. The gentle sea breeze, combined with the silent hum of the sailing vessel’s glide, contrasts with the sparkling energy of the shoreline, creating a balanced sensory experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this journey offers a fresh perspective on a well-loved holiday tradition, away from the crowded streets.
The operator is deeply rooted in St. Augustine’s outdoor recreation and tourism landscape, maintaining a strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship. Their expertise ensures a smooth, relaxing outing, with knowledgeable crew pointing out historical and natural highlights along the route. This adventure not only supports small local business but also connects travelers intimately to the region’s rich cultural heritage and stunning coastal ecosystem.
Ideal for couples, families, or small groups, the Sparkle Package offers flexible booking options and a comfortable atmosphere suitable for all ages. It stands out as a festive must-do during the winter months, blending outdoor activity with holiday celebration in a way uniquely suited to St. Augustine’s charm and maritime history.
For anyone exploring Florida’s northeast coast during the holidays, the Nights of Lights sail is a luminous invitation to see a city’s past and present in a new light. It pairs scenic beauty, seasonal cheer, and the tranquil appeal of sailing into one unforgettable evening.
easy.
1–2 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; relaxed sailing experience without strenuous activity.
The package includes a guided sailing tour along the St. Augustine waterfront during the Nights of Lights festival, providing unobstructed views of the illuminated landmarks.
Yes, the sailing experience is family-friendly and appropriate for children of all ages.
Refreshments are typically not included, so guests are advised to eat beforehand or bring their own non-alcoholic drinks if allowed.
Tours may be rescheduled or canceled due to unsafe weather conditions; guests will be notified in advance.
While the boat has steps and a small boarding ramp, guests with mobility issues should contact the operator directly to discuss accommodations.
No prior sailing experience is needed; the crew handles all aspects of sailing to ensure a safe, relaxed trip.
St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights began as a community project in the 1990s and has grown into an internationally recognized holiday tradition.
The sailing operator follows eco-friendly practices, minimizing fuel use and promoting clean waterways to preserve this historic coastal environment.
St Augustine Sailing operates premium sailing experiences and certified sailing courses in historic St. Augustine, Florida. The company offers a diverse lineup of public and private excursions — from shared brunch sails and sunset tasting cruises to intimate private dinner charters and wedding packages aboard luxury yachts. Educational offerings include ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising, Basic Keelboat prep classes, and hands-on day sails on 21–22-foot boats and larger Jeanneau models. Each experience blends local maritime history, coastal wildlife viewing, and elevated hospitality. Professional skippers and trained crew lead all trips, delivering safety briefings, navigation expertise, and attentive service. On private dinner and tasting cruises, guests enjoy chef-prepared courses, sommelier-curated flights, and tailored menus served onboard. Photography-focused sails provide short portrait sessions against landmarks like the Lighthouse and Historic Bayfront. St Augustine Sailing prioritizes safety and instruction for learners and recreational sailors. Courses emphasize seamanship, heavy-weather operation, docking skills, and practical boat handling on 30–45-foot auxiliary-powered catamarans. Short introductory sessions give beginners the confidence to handle sails and basic lines. For weddings and private events, the company offers packaged options including on-yacht ceremonies, dockside Marriage Knot services, bouquets, photography, wedding cake, and charcuterie boards for small to mid-size groups. Vessel maintenance, certified instruction, and transparent booking policies support reliability and repeat business. Located in downtown St. Augustine’s marina district, the operator leverages local knowledge of tides, wildlife patterns, and historic routes to create memorable, trustworthy coastal adventures for couples, families, learners, and food-and-wine enthusiasts. Bookings are available year-round with flexible cancellation policies online.
Book with St Augustine Sailing