Where do I check in and park?

Check-in begins at 6:45 PM at the security gate at Southbank Dock, 1501 Riverplace Blvd. Paid parking is available directly in front of the yacht opposite the Chart House.

Is there an age limit or are children allowed?

Children are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

What is the refund or cancellation policy?

All sales are final; however, if the Captain determines conditions are unsafe they will cancel and a full refund or reschedule will be offered.

What happens if it rains?

Royal Princess is climate controlled and can cruise rain or shine; the Captain monitors weather and will cancel if unsafe.

Are food and drinks included?

Each ticket includes one complimentary beer, wine, or soda; additional beverages and chef-prepared dinner items are available for purchase onboard.

Is the yacht accessible for people with limited mobility?

The vessel has stairs and moving decks; notify the operator in advance to discuss accommodations and best boarding options.

Motown & Martinis: Sunset Yacht Cruise on Jacksonville's St. Johns River | Sailing | Boat Tour

Board the Royal Princess at Southbank Dock, 1501 Riverplace Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207, and let the St. Johns River reset your evening rhythm. Motown & Martinis is a 2.5-hour summer cruise offered by Jax Yacht Charter that pairs classic Motown grooves with cocktails, sunset views, and the glittering sweep of Downtown Jacksonville. Check-in begins at 6:45 PM for a brief security screening; boarding opens at 7:00 PM and the yacht departs for a 90-minute evening cruise from 7:30-9:00 PM. Stepping onto the Royal Princess, the city recedes and the river takes center stage. The St. Johns River is a tidal, north-flowing waterway whose slow current and broad banks make for calm evening crossings and long, reflective sunsets. Your route follows the downtown skyline and several landmark bridges—watch the Main Street Bridge and Acosta Bridge frame changing light as the DJ spins Motown hits and couples find the deck for dancing. One complimentary beer, wine, or soda comes with each $75 ticket; additional drinks and chef-prepared dinner items are available for purchase. What makes this experience special is the collision of small-boat intimacy with big-city scenery. The Royal Princess is climate controlled, set up for social flow and clear sightlines, so even if weather threatens the Captain will often proceed or reschedule with notice. For visitors who want to extend the night, Riverside/Avondale restaurants and the Southbank Riverwalk are steps from the dock, offering late-night bites and riverfront views after disembarkation. Practical details matter: the dock has paid parking directly in front of the yacht opposite the Chart House; bring your ticket confirmation and arrive early to clear security wands. Dress is tropic-chic or fiesta casual—think light layers and non-marking shoes for moving on deck. The cruise is family-friendly but children must be accompanied by adults. Photographers will find the bow and upper deck perfect for skyline silhouettes and bridge reflections; aim for golden hour through blue hour as city lights begin to pop. Wildlife sightings commonly include osprey and river birds skimming the water, and on lucky evenings you may spot dolphins riding tidal flows near the river mouths. Historically, the St. Johns River has been central to Jacksonville's growth and maritime commerce; tonight it offers a quieter stage. Sustainability-minded guests should minimize single-use plastics and follow crew instructions to protect the river's edge habitat. Whether you come for the music, the martini, or the moment when the skyline ignites against a painted sunset, Motown & Martinis on the Royal Princess is an easy, polished way to experience Jacksonville from the water. Tickets are nonrefundable, so plan accordingly, and follow crew guidance for safety; refunds or reschedules are offered only if the Captain cancels the cruise for unsafe conditions today.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2–3 hours.

Fitness level

Light activity; guests should be able to stand, walk short distances on deck, and board via gangway

Wildlife

Bottlenose dolphins
Osprey

History

The St. Johns River has long been central to Jacksonville's maritime commerce and urban growth, shaping the riverfront and downtown development.

Conservation

Reduce single-use plastics on board and follow crew guidance to protect riverbanks and bird habitat; keep noise and light minimal during wildlife encounters.

Jax Yacht Charter is a Jacksonville, Florida-based operator offering curated sightseeing and event cruises on the St. Johns River. The company presents seasonal public departures highlighted by signature experiences such as the annual Jacksonville Light Boat Parade and themed brunch cruises aboard the Royal Princess. Jax Yacht Charter publishes specific event itineraries and dates, allowing guests to reserve seats for scheduled departures like the FAMOUS POST-THANKSGIVING BOAT PARADE (11-29-2025) and the BRIDGERTON Brunch Cruise (11-9-2025). Operations focus on hosted, ticketed cruises rather than open dock sightseeing; trips run from established embarkation points in Jacksonville with on-board amenities aligned to each event’s description. For example, the brunch cruise includes a buffet with breakfast tacos and a waffle bar, a complimentary drink, and live music, while the boat parade experience emphasizes riverfront viewing and a fireworks finale. Jax Yacht Charter publishes clear trip summaries, dates, and departure information for transparency. Safety and local compliance are important for maritime events on the St. Johns River; Jax Yacht Charter coordinates with harbor authorities and follows standard local regulations for public river cruises. Travelers seeking seasonal river experiences in Jacksonville can rely on published itineraries and listed amenities when planning. Jax Yacht Charter’s event-focused schedule and Jacksonville location make it a specific choice for visitors and residents who want ticketed access to the city’s light boat parade and curated brunch cruises. Tickets are sold per event and availability varies; dates, menus, and entertainment are published for each trip to set expectations. Check listings before booking.

Base locationJacksonville, Florida

Tours offered2+

Specialtyboat-charters

StewardshipLeave No Trace