Adventure Brief
Discover Gulfport’s Island Sunset & Christmas Boat Parade cruise—an unforgettable evening of stunning sunsets, festive boat lights, and rich local culture on the Gulf of Mexico.
2–3 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
2025 Dates just Announced! Hurry & Book!
Discover Gulfport’s Island Sunset & Christmas Boat Parade cruise—an unforgettable evening of stunning sunsets, festive boat lights, and rich local culture on the Gulf of Mexico.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity is seated and guided.
Wildlife
History
Gulfport’s boat parade tradition dates back decades, highlighting the city’s maritime culture and tight-knit community spirit.
Conservation
The operators emphasize eco-friendly practices, promoting clean waterways and respectful wildlife observation during cruises.
Coastal Cruises
2025 Dates just Announced! Hurry & Book!
Coastal Cruises operates from Gulfport, Florida, offering a range of day and evening boat experiences across Tampa Bay and the surrounding waterways. The company runs multiple scheduled departures that include party-focused options such as the Booze Cruise and Sandbar Party, family-friendly outings like the Egmont Key Ultimate Island Adventure, and scenic evening trips for sunsets and the Skyway Bridge Light Show.
Vessels used by Coastal Cruises include 45ft and 50ft custom catamarans equipped for passenger comfort and safety. Select boats feature amenities noted in trip descriptions, such as open bars, beer and wine service, satellite TV, and restroom facilities. Trips range from short 1.5-hour intercoastal cruises to half-day 4-hour island excursions. Popular itinerary highlights include shelling at Outback Key and Shell Key Island, guided tours of historic Fort Dade on Egmont Key, and views of waterfront homes and marine life during dolphin-watching cruises.
Coastal Cruises lists safety and navigation as part of its operations; several experiences note advanced navigation technology and a trained crew. The company is featured on The Adventure Collective and runs departures from Gulfport Marina and other local marinas. Guests should review individual trip details for exact departure location, duration, on-board amenities, and age or accessibility guidance before booking.
Home Base
Gulfport, FL
Departure point for all cruises
Tours Offered
11 Trips
Varied cruises and island adventures
Typical Duration
1.5–4 hrs
Short to half-day excursions
Signature Trip
Skyway Light Show
Sunset cruises with light show
Select a departure, choose a trip — from booze cruises to Egmont Key island adventures — and secure seats for a Gulfport boating experience.
Arrive Early for Best Dockside Views
Arriving at least 30 minutes before departure ensures you get a prime seat for both sunset and parade watching.
Bring a Light Jacket
Evenings on the water can get cool, so layering is advised for comfort after sunset.
Charge Your Camera Batteries
This event offers great photo opportunities; make sure your devices are ready to capture every moment.
Respect the Marine Environment
Avoid throwing anything overboard and keep noise levels down to protect local wildlife.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the colorful parade lights and sunset over the water.
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Light Windbreaker
Provides warmth against evening gulf breezes during the cruise.
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Binoculars
Enhances views of distant boats and wildlife along the coast.
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated during the trip is important even on cooler evenings.