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Explore the magic of St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights festival from the water with the exclusive Glitter Package. This unique boat tour offers the best views of over three million twinkling bulbs that light up the city’s historic waterfront.
Explore the magic of St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights festival from the water with the exclusive Glitter Package. This unique boat tour offers the best views of over three million twinkling bulbs that light up the city’s historic waterfront.
Book with St Augustine Sailing
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by St Augustine Sailing · St. Augustine, Florida
Every winter, the historic city of St. Augustine, Florida, transforms into a luminous wonderland with its renowned Nights of Lights festival. The Glitter Package offers an exclusive, immersive way to experience this stunning seasonal event from the water, making it a standout adventure for travelers eager to explore the city's charm lights-on. Situated on Florida’s northeast coast, St. Augustine is the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement, lending this light-filled experience a rich cultural layer alongside the visual spectacle.
The Nights of Lights illuminate more than three million white bulbs strung across the city’s downtown streets, bridges, historic buildings, and waterfront. By choosing the Glitter Package, guests cruise along Matanzas Bay aboard a comfortable, sleek boat, enjoying unparalleled views of this dazzling display while basking in crisp sea breezes. The silhouette of the iconic Castillo de San Marcos fort, with sparkling lights mirrored on the bay’s rippling surface, creates a unique juxtaposition of history and festivity.
This experience highlights St. Augustine’s architectural gems—from Spanish colonial facades to modern plazas—each outlined in brilliant light. Unlike walking tours or land-based viewing, the boat perspective gives adventurers a peaceful yet magical vantage point away from the bustling streets. The gentle rocking of the boat combined with the glow of lights makes for an atmosphere that’s both relaxing and awe-inspiring.
Beyond the show, this tour accommodates all ages and interests, offering a cozy, intimate setting ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers alike. With knowledgeable crew members on board ready to share tidbits about the city’s history and the origins of the Nights of Lights festival, participants gain meaningful context that enriches the experience.
St. Augustine itself brims with other outdoor activities—from nearby beaches and kayak tours to bike trails and historic walking routes—making it a versatile destination to combine with this radiant nighttime adventure. The Glitter Package exemplifies how the city’s rich past and festive present coalesce to create seasonal magic. Visitors leave with lasting memories of sparkling reflections and the quiet hum of a city dressed in light.
easy.
1–2 hours.
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages
The festival runs annually from mid-November through January, weather permitting.
The tour lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, offering a leisurely cruise through the illuminated waterfront.
Yes, this family-friendly experience is enjoyable and safe for children of all ages.
Normally, limited refreshments may be available; check with the operator ahead of time for specifics.
Due to high demand during the festival, it's advisable to book in advance to guarantee a spot.
Dress warmly during winter months and bring layers as it can be cooler on the water at night.
St. Augustine was founded in 1565 and boasts the oldest masonry fort in the continental US, Castillo de San Marcos, whose walls glow subtly during the Nights of Lights festival.
Efforts to minimize light pollution and use energy-efficient LED bulbs protect local wildlife and reduce environmental impact during the festival.
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