THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Explore St. Augustine like never before—aboard a nighttime cruise on Matanzas Bay where stargazing meets ghost stories. Discover why this hauntingly beautiful boat tour is a must-do after dark.
Explore St. Augustine like never before—aboard a nighttime cruise on Matanzas Bay where stargazing meets ghost stories. Discover why this hauntingly beautiful boat tour is a must-do after dark.
Book with Florida Water Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Florida Water Tours · St. Augustine, Florida
Set in the historic coastal city of St. Augustine, Florida, the Moonlit Mysteries boat tour offers an unforgettable evening on Matanzas Bay, blending the wonder of the night sky with captivating haunted lore. As the sun dips below the horizon, this guided cruise sets off on tranquil waters, providing a unique vantage point of the city’s Spanish colonial architecture illuminated in the moonlight. With the gentle sway of the boat beneath you, the crew invites guests to gaze upward — binoculars and star charts in hand — as the constellations unfold across the clear night. The quiet dark sky here, away from urban glare, creates a rare stargazing opportunity along Florida’s Atlantic coast. But the magic doesn’t end with the stars. The guide, well-versed in regional folklore and history, weaves tales of St. Augustine’s haunted past, from ghostly sightings to centuries-old mysteries that have lingered in the city’s shadows since its founding in 1565. Passengers sip on a complimentary beverage as spooky legends meet celestial wonder, crafting an experience that is both chilling and awe-inspiring. This tour stands out amid the diverse outdoor activities in Northeast Florida because it fuses history, nature, and storytelling in a way that’s immersive yet accessible for both adults and teens. Unlike typical daytime tours, Moonlit Mysteries offers a serene nighttime atmosphere, inviting visitors to connect with St. Augustine’s layered past and natural beauty under the stars. Alongside historic landmarks onshore, this excursion showcases the marine environment and nocturnal sounds of Matanzas Bay, enriching your appreciation of the area’s ecosystem and heritage. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a distinctive way to explore this charming city, this boat tour adds a magical dimension to the St. Augustine itinerary. The combination of cool ocean breezes, shadowy tales, and celestial spectacle makes it a standout after-dark adventure that visitors won’t soon forget.
easy.
1.5–2 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; mainly seated with minimal walking involved.
Yes, a complimentary beverage is provided to each guest during the cruise.
The tour is recommended for adults and teens; younger children may find the content too spooky.
Tours may be rescheduled or refunded due to inclement weather for safety reasons.
There is a restroom on board for guest use during the tour.
Outside food and drinks are not permitted; refreshments are provided on board.
The boat travels away from bright city lights, offering dark skies ideal for viewing stars and constellations.
St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental U.S., founded in 1565.
Operators emphasize low-impact boating to protect the fragile coastal ecosystem and limit light pollution for wildlife and star viewing.
Florida Water Tours operates public and private boat cruises from St. Augustine, Florida, delivering wildlife-viewing, history, and culinary experiences on two main vessels: the Island Breeze and the Osprey. The company schedules short and extended adventures including 90-minute **Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure** guided by marine naturalists, Sunset and Sunset Nights of Lights cruises, the adults-only Sunset / Nights of Lights on the Osprey, Moonlit Mysteries haunted history tours, Brunch & Bottlenose morning cruises with a curated Brunch Box and complimentary mimosa, hands-on Marine Field Experience science tours for families, and private charters on the spacious 45' Osprey for events up to 38 guests. Guests can enhance any cruise with pre-ordered **Graze Boxes** from Floating Food Co., featuring charcuterie, brunch, and dessert options made with fresh, local ingredients. Expert guides and marine naturalists lead educational commentary, wildlife spotting, and conservation-focused activities, making tours suitable for families, couples, and groups. Safety protocols, well-maintained vessels, and experienced captains support reliable operations. The business partners with local educators and conservation programs to deliver meaningful marine science experiences and give back to the community. With convenient booking, transparent pricing, and a variety of themed departures — from festive light displays to hands-on science — Florida Water Tours balances memorable entertainment with education and responsible wildlife viewing for visitors seeking authentic coastal experiences. Customers praise friendly staff, punctual departures, and exceptional views that create lasting memories for visitors of all ages and families.
Book with Florida Water Tours