Set sail on the Jimmy Buffett Sunset Tribute Cruise in Palmetto, FL, where live music meets stunning river sunsets. Join Riverside Tours aboard the River Skipper II for a unique two-hour voyage filled with coastal tunes and tropical views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; guests remain on a stable boat throughout the cruise.
Wildlife
History
Palmetto's riverfront was historically a hub for fishing and shipping, preserving rich maritime traditions.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on protecting the Manatee River’s mangroves and aquatic habitats to sustain wildlife and water quality.
Riverside Tours
Set sail on the Jimmy Buffett Sunset Tribute Cruise in Palmetto, FL, where live music meets stunning river sunsets. Join Riverside Tours aboard the River Skipper II for a unique two-hour voyage filled with coastal tunes and tropical views.
Riverside Tours is a Palmetto, Florida-based boat tour operator offering a lineup of two-hour cruises on the Manatee River and along the Bradenton Riverfront. The company runs a mix of narrated educational tours, family-friendly morning outings, evening sunset cruises and seasonal special-event sails. Each trip is guided or accompanied by knowledgeable crew members who provide local history, ecological context and commentary on native wildlife sightings.
Trips highlighted in Riverside Tours’ regular schedule include a Cooler Morning Cruise for families and early risers, a Sunset Trip for evening views and city lights, and a Down River Day Trip that focuses on the river’s ecology and history with light-hearted narration. Seasonal offerings include a Jimmy Buffett Sunset Tribute featuring live music and a Christmas Boat Parade cruise that places passengers close to festive decorated boats for prime photo opportunities. All advertised cruises are two hours in duration, making them accessible options for residents and visitors seeking a concise on-water experience.
Riverside Tours operates from Palmetto with departures that serve passengers interested in wildlife observation, waterfront sightseeing and community events on the river. The combination of consistent two-hour formats, narrated educational content, specialty music events and curated holiday cruises contributes to the operator’s appeal for both families and guests seeking memorable, photo-friendly outings on the Manatee River.
Location
Palmetto, FL
Launch point on the Manatee River
Trip Length
2 hours
Consistent duration across all tours
Tours Offered
5 tours
Varied options on the Manatee River
Special Events
Holiday & tribute cruises
Seasonal cruises and themed sails
Secure seats for Cooler Morning Cruise, Sunset Trip, narrated Down River Day Trip or seasonal boat events — book now for prime riverfront views.
Arrive Early for Best Seating
Boarding early ensures you get a seat with the best sunset and river views on the River Skipper II.
Dress for Warm Evenings
Light, layered clothing and a hat are recommended as Florida evenings can be warm but breezy on the water.
Bring Sunscreen and Bug Spray
Sun protection and insect repellent help keep you comfortable during the earlier parts of the cruise.
Limit Alcohol Intake
As an adult 21+ event, drink responsibly to ensure a safe and enjoyable cruise experience.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Evenings on the water can get breezy, especially in cooler months.
fall
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from UV rays during the daylight portion of the cruise.
summer
Bug Repellent
Helps keep pesky mosquitoes away during river cruises near mangroves.
spring
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the vibrant sunset and live musical moments on board.