Private Boat Tours & Training in Jacksonville by Adventure In Paradise - Jacksonville

Private Boat Tours & Training in Jacksonville by Adventure In Paradise

Jacksonvilleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–6 hours depending on trip

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required during tours

Overview

Discover Jacksonville’s coastal waterways like never before with private boat tours and hands-on boat training from Adventure In Paradise Inc. Tailored trips highlight historic St. Augustine, local islands, and luminous night tours.

Details

Situated along Florida’s northeastern coastline, Jacksonville provides a striking gateway to coastal waterways and barrier islands that blend natural beauty with rich history. Adventure In Paradise Inc. delivers an exceptional way to witness these waters firsthand through private boat tours and hands-on boating training. This local outfitter specializes in personalized trips that cover key spots including the historic St. Augustine waterfront, the intricate islands near Jacksonville, and the quieter stretches along Fernandina and Cumberland, offering a glimpse into a less saturated maritime landscape.

Each tour is tailored to offer a distinct perspective: from the radiant glow of the Sunset & Nights of Lights St. Augustine Private Boat Tour that illuminates the city’s famed holiday lights reflecting on calm waters, to the full-day excursions around Jacksonville’s island network where coastal paddling and shoreline vege­tation introduce visitors to regional habitats. The Saint Augustine Island Private Trip stands out by blending coastal ecosystem views with cultural notes on one of Florida’s oldest cities.

What elevates Adventure In Paradise is its combination of expert-led, intimate boat experiences paired with instructional boat training — both basic and intermediate — allowing novices and aspiring captains to build skill and confidence while enjoying the scenery. The vessels accommodate a range of group sizes, maintaining an intimate feel that encourages connection with the environment rather than mass tourism crowds.

The diverse coastal flora, including mangroves and sea grasses, play habitat to wildlife like dolphins and ospreys, making the trips engaging beyond navigation alone. The region’s maritime heritage, including centuries-old ports and trade routes, adds a historic dimension to the tours.

Operating primarily out of Jacksonville, this business is a perfect fit for outdoor enthusiasts seeking customization and depth—whether carving through sun-dappled estuaries or navigating waters illuminated by city lights. Adventure In Paradise Inc. offers a rare combination of leisure and learning that anchors it firmly in the fabric of Florida’s coastal adventure scene.

Adventure Tips

Book Private Tours Early

Private boat tours fill quickly during peak seasons—reserve your spot several weeks in advance to secure preferred dates and times.

Dress for Variable Weather

Coastal conditions can shift rapidly; bring layers and waterproof gear especially for evenings on the water during Nights of Lights tours.

Bring a Marine-Approved Sunscreen

Protect your skin without harming local aquatic ecosystems by choosing reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen products.

Arrive Early for Instructional Sessions

If you’re taking boat training classes, arrive at least 15 minutes early to familiarize yourself with equipment and safety briefings.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet mangrove channels near Cumberland Island less traveled by tourists
  • Secluded coves along the Jacksonville Island side ideal for bird watching

Wildlife

  • Atlantic bottlenose dolphins
  • Ospreys soaring above coastal waters

History

St. Augustine, founded in 1565, is the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental U.S., offering maritime tours a rich cultural backdrop.

Conservation

The operators emphasize the use of eco-friendly products and responsible boating practices to minimize disturbance to fragile coastal habitats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Sunset
Night during light displays

Best Viewpoints

  • From the aft deck facing St. Augustine waterfront
  • Near mangrove-lined shorelines on island trips
  • Open water vistas facing the setting sun

What to Photograph

Illuminated cityscape reflections
Dolphins breaking water surface
Dramatic skies with coastal silhouettes

Recommended Gear

Layered Clothing

Essential

Versatile clothing adapts to coastal temperature changes from morning chill to afternoon warmth.

all specific

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Essential

Protects your skin and preserves the local marine environment.

spring|summer|fall specific

Waterproof Jacket

Useful for sudden coastal showers and cooler temperatures on the water.

spring|fall|winter specific

Polarized Sunglasses

Essential

Reduces glare on the water for improved visibility and eye protection.

all specific