Hop by boat between waterfront restaurants and tiki bars along Sarasota’s Intracoastal. This private, 4–6 hour cruise pairs scenic coastal views with a customizable food-and-drink crawl timed for golden-hour sunsets.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The bow slips away from the dock and the city widens: seawalls, mangrove edges, and low islands slide past as the boat threads the Intracoastal. Conversation eases into the rhythm of the water; the next stop might be a tiki bar with string lights, a waterfront gastropub, or a small beach shack reached only from the water. As the sun drops, windows and palm fronds pick up the light and the route itself becomes part of the meal.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most adults; requires basic mobility for short step-on/step-off at docks.
Wildlife
History
Sarasota’s coastal identity grew from commercial fishing and a mid-century tourism boom; many waterfront restaurants have roots in local seafood traditions.
Conservation
Operators should avoid anchoring on seagrass beds and follow no-wake zones; bring reusable containers to limit single-use plastic pollution.
Reserve your spot on the Dock Hop Cruise in Sarasota today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Book a private slot for your group
This tour is private and tailored; confirm stops and timing when booking so the captain can plan docking and reservations.
Expect parking fees at the launch
Most launch points near Siesta Drive have paid parking and limited spaces—arrive early to secure a spot.
Bring sun protection and motion remedies
Wide-open sun and reflective water increase UV exposure; bring sunscreen, a hat, and anti-nausea meds if you get boat-sick.
Tip your dock hosts and crew
Tipping is customary for good service on food stops and for the boat crew—carry small bills or make arrangements in advance.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen
Protects against strong reflected UV on the water during daylight and sunset cruises.
summer
Non-slip deck shoes
Stable footwear makes boarding and moving between docks safer on wet surfaces.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is important in Florida heat—bring a refillable bottle to reduce waste.
Light wind/rain jacket
A thin shell helps on breezy evenings or unexpected showers without taking much space.
winter