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Experience the spooky side of Panama City on the Haunted Sunset Cruise this Halloween. Enjoy ghost stories, drinks, and green caramel popcorn while sailing along the Gulf Coast’s stunning coastline at sunset.
Experience the spooky side of Panama City on the Haunted Sunset Cruise this Halloween. Enjoy ghost stories, drinks, and green caramel popcorn while sailing along the Gulf Coast’s stunning coastline at sunset.
Book with St. Andrews Adventures
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by St. Andrews Adventures · Panama City, Florida
Every autumn, as daylight fades into eerie twilight, Panama City’s waters take on a mysterious glow perfect for an unforgettable Halloween escape. The Haunted Sunset Cruise offers a one-of-a-kind experience combining local lore, scenic coastal views, and a dash of spooky fun on the sparkling shores of Panama City, Florida. Operating out of St. Andrews State Park, a well-known gateway to the Gulf Coast’s pristine beaches and natural beauty, this 60 to 90-minute cruise invites adults and their families to immerse themselves in ghostly tales that reveal the city’s haunted past while sailing into the sunset.
St. Andrews State Park itself is a jewel in the Florida panhandle, featuring long stretches of white sand beaches, coastal marshes, and maritime forests that shelter an array of native wildlife. As the ferry glides past these landscapes, you’ll hear stories of specters said to linger near the shoreline, setting a thrilling scene that is equal parts history and Halloween spirit. The combination of gently rocking waves, the amber glow of the lowering sun, and spine-tingling tales creates an atmosphere uniquely fitting for late October evenings.
What sets this cruise apart is its perfect blend of lighthearted scares and comfort. Guests aged 21 and over can enjoy included wine or beer, while younger adventurers are treated to refreshing sodas. And no haunting would be complete without a thematic treat: green caramel popcorn adds a tasty, playful touch to the eerie ambiance. Costumes are encouraged, inviting everyone to enhance the evening’s enchantment with their own spooky flair.
Practical details make the trip smooth: check-in takes place at the Pier Store inside St. Andrews State Park, with a tram shuttle to the ferry dock. The open-air vessel offers plenty of fresh air and panoramic views but comes with a gentle reminder to prepare for coastal weather—wind, sun, or light rain can all be part of the experience. This cruise also provides a rare vantage point of the Gulf waters, where dolphins occasionally breach, sparkling in the sunset.
For adventure seekers and ghost story lovers alike, this Haunted Sunset Cruise provides a memorable way to celebrate Halloween in Panama City. It’s a local favorite that bridges the region’s rich coastal heritage with seasonal fun, creating an event that captivates visitors year after year. If your travels bring you to Florida’s Gulf Coast during the Halloween season, don’t miss this spirited blend of nautical adventure and eerie storytelling at St. Andrews State Park.
easy.
1–1.5 hours.
No special fitness required; suitable for most adults and children.
Yes, children are welcome, but adult beverages are reserved for guests 21 and over; non-alcoholic drinks and treats are provided for younger passengers.
Your ticket includes two alcoholic beverages for adults, green caramel popcorn for all guests, and access to the 60-90 minute cruise with ghost stories.
All guests park at the Pier Store inside St. Andrews State Park, where you check in and board a tram to the ferry dock.
No pets are allowed, except for legal service animals as per ADA standards.
The cruise operates rain or shine except in severe weather; most of the lower deck is covered but be prepared for wind and damp conditions.
Dolphins are frequently spotted in the Gulf waters during the cruise, though sightings cannot be guaranteed as the wildlife is wild and unpredictable.
St. Andrews State Park was established in 1967 and has become one of Florida’s premier coastal nature preserves, rich in both natural beauty and local folklore.
The park actively promotes environmental stewardship, encouraging visitors to respect wildlife habitats and minimize plastic waste to protect its fragile ecosystems.
St. Andrews Adventures is a Panama City, Florida-based tour operator offering a range of coastal experiences centered on St. Andrews State Park and Shell Island. The company runs small-group wildlife excursions, boat cruises, watercraft rentals, and vehicle rentals tailored for campers and beachgoers. The Dolphin Snorkel Tour pairs snorkeling with dolphin watching on a 2.5-hour small-group outing led by expert guides, limited to six participants for personalized attention. The Sunset Dolphin Cruise sails on a double-deck motor catamaran to watch wild dolphins against Panama City Beach sunsets; drinks are available for purchase aboard. For independent exploration, St. Andrews Jetty Beach offers kayak and paddle board rentals from the Jetty Store, with life jackets and paddles provided for all guests. The Shell Island Ferry departs hourly and includes a scenic tram ride to the island, making it easy to enjoy shelling, sunbathing, and undeveloped beaches; reservations are recommended. Boat options include full-day and half-day pontoon rentals for cruising to Shell Island, swimming, fishing, snorkeling, and dolphin watching at one’s own pace. Electric golf cart rentals are available in multiple durations—one, four, five, and seven days—providing convenient transport between the Jetty Store, Pier Store, Marina, and campgrounds for camping guests. St. Andrews Adventures emphasizes memorable, family-friendly outdoor activities that let visitors explore Panama City’s shoreline and marine life with flexible options to match different schedules and group sizes. Booking is straightforward with hourly ferry departures, guided tours, and rental durations to suit day trips, multi-day stays, and camping itineraries for families too.
Book with St. Andrews Adventures