St Augustine Boat Cruises & Romance with Going Coastal
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; no strenuous activity required
Overview
Discover St. Augustine’s waterfront with Going Coastal Boat Tours. From romance packages to wildlife-rich sunrise cruises, each trip reveals a unique side of this historic city’s coastal charm.
Details
St. Augustine, Florida, America’s oldest city, combines centuries-old charm with coastal splendor—a perfect stage for Going Coastal Boat Tours to deliver intimate and memorable maritime experiences. Operating in this historic harbor city, Going Coastal offers a slate of boat tours that go beyond the average sightseeing drift. Their Romance Package, sunset and twilight cruises, and seasonal specialty trips, like the Nights of Lights and July 4th Fireworks Cruise, captivate visitors with a front-row seat to the area's stunning coastal scenery and vibrant local culture.
Tours glide past St. Augustine’s iconic waterfront landmarks, mixing historical tidbits with marine wildlife sightings—dolphins, bald eagles, and birds unique to the region. Many travelers have praised the guides, especially Captains Shawn and Pia, for their deep local knowledge and warm, personable style that transforms each outing into a shared story. The Romance Package stands out as a favorite for couples seeking a serene, private journey with custom touches like flowers, chocolates, and personal music playlists.
Morning sunrise cruises chart tranquil waters with dazzling early light, often accompanied by pink hornbills and playful dolphins. Evening cruises capture St. Augustine’s harbor transforming under firework bursts or holiday light displays, providing extraordinary photo opportunities. Seasonal special events and holiday boat parades bring festive energy alongside the natural beauty.
Going Coastal Boat Tours is not just about rides—it’s an immersive connection with St. Augustine’s coastal ecosystem and historic waterfront. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, proposing, or simply savoring the evening breeze, these curated small-group tours deliver a unique viewpoint on the city’s landscape and wildlife that roadbound visitors might miss. For those looking to add nautical magic to their St. Augustine visit, Going Coastal offers a boat tour experience anchored in authenticity and care.
Adventure Tips
Book Early for Special Events
Popular cruises like the Nights of Lights and July 4th Fireworks fill quickly; reserve your spot weeks ahead.
Bring Layers for Evening Cruises
Even coastal Florida evenings can get chilly out on the water, especially around sunset and at night.
Arrive 15 Minutes Early
Guests should plan to arrive ahead of departure time to ensure smooth boarding and a timely start.
Pack Binoculars for Wildlife Viewing
A pair of binoculars can enhance spotting local birds and dolphins during tours.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- The less-visited riverside view near the Castillo de San Marcos
- Quiet inlet spots where manatees sometimes appear in cooler months
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphins
- Bald eagles
History
St. Augustine was founded in 1565 and features America’s oldest masonry fort, Castillo de San Marcos, visible from the water.
Conservation
Going Coastal prioritizes eco-friendly practices by minimizing fuel use and educating guests on the importance of preserving the marine environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- From the stern during sunset cruises
- Near the light-up ceremony docks
- Approaching historic waterfront buildings
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Protects against wind chill during cooler evening cruises.
winter specific
Sunscreen
Important for daytime trips to prevent sunburn on open water.
summer specific
Binoculars
Enhances viewing of birds, dolphins, and distant landmarks.
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated enhances comfort on all cruises.