THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Set sail from St. Petersburg on a custom catamaran to catch dolphins, a stunning Gulf sunset, and the mesmerizing Skyway Bridge Light Show. This evening cruise offers a unique blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and next-level safety tech.
Set sail from St. Petersburg on a custom catamaran to catch dolphins, a stunning Gulf sunset, and the mesmerizing Skyway Bridge Light Show. This evening cruise offers a unique blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and next-level safety tech.
Book with Coastal Cruises
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Coastal Cruises · St. Petersburg, Florida
Situated along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Coastal Cruises offers a distinctly memorable way to experience the St. Petersburg waterfront with their Island Sunset & Skyway Light Show adventure. Departing from the Sunshine Skyway area, this three-hour cruise aboard a custom 50-foot catamaran melds natural beauty with cutting-edge technology for a safe, seamless evening on the water.
The journey begins with a scenic passage through the Intracoastal waterways toward Shell Key Preserve, a protected barrier island known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. As the sun inches toward the horizon, passengers often spot pods of dolphins riding the bow waves, adding a spontaneous thrill to the relaxed atmosphere. Arriving at Outback Key, guests can disembark briefly to stroll the sands, search for perfect shells, or simply savor an island cocktail while the fading sunlight casts a warm glow over the Gulf of Mexico.
As twilight deepens, the cruise returns past the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge, where a spectacular $15 million light show illuminates the night sky. This dazzling display is uniquely experienced from the water, framed by the bridge’s massive spans and reflected in the calm bay beneath.
Coastal Cruises distinguishes itself by integrating state-of-the-art safety features like thermal and night vision cameras alongside precise GPS navigation, ensuring this dazzling night tour is as secure as it is stunning. This combination of natural wonders and high-tech assurance makes the trip a standout offering in the region’s outdoor recreation scene.
Whether you’re a local seeking a fresh perspective or a visitor wanting an authentic taste of Florida’s Gulf Coast evenings, this catamaran cruise delivers an engaging blend of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and cultural spectacle—all under the watchful eye of expert guides. It’s more than a boat ride; it’s a voyage into the heart of southwest Florida’s coastal charm.
easy.
3 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated with brief shore excursions
Yes, there is a scheduled stop at Outback Key where guests can step ashore to enjoy the beach and collect shells.
Guests may bring drinks ashore at Outback Key, but alcohol consumption is managed responsibly according to Coastal Cruises’ policies.
The catamaran is equipped with thermal and night vision cameras plus GPS navigation to ensure safe travel during dusk and nighttime segments.
Absolutely, the trip is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
Dolphins are frequently spotted along the route, along with a variety of seabirds native to the Gulf Coast.
Coastal Cruises offers a full refund or rescheduling option if the trip is canceled due to unsafe weather conditions.
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge was originally completed in 1954 and rebuilt after a tragic ship collision in 1980, now featuring a dazzling modern light show.
Efforts to protect Shell Key Preserve help maintain critical habitats for shorebirds and marine species, supported by eco-conscious boating practices from local operators like Coastal Cruises.
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.
Book with Coastal Cruises