Boat Tours & Wildlife in St. Augustine with St. Augustine Boat Tours - Jacksonville

Boat Tours & Wildlife in St. Augustine with St. Augustine Boat Tours

Jacksonvilleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity involves sitting with occasional standing on the boat.

Overview

Discover St. Augustine’s waterways with boat tours that blend wildlife viewing, history, and stunning sunsets. These guided trips reveal a fresh perspective on Florida’s oldest city.

Details

St. Augustine, Florida, holds a distinct place in American history as the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. Beyond its cobblestone streets and centuries-old fortresses, the city’s waterways offer a compelling stage for adventure. St. Augustine Boat Tours specializes in guiding visitors through these aquatic pathways with a blend of nature, history, and light-based experiences. Their curated collection of trips, ranging from Sunset Tours to Wildlife and History Tours, delivers a comprehensive look at the area’s ecology and heritage.

Setting out from the city’s historic waterfront, guests find themselves on calm waters framed by mangroves, estuaries, and the Atlantic’s edge. The Wildlife and History Tours are a highlight, delivering insight into native creatures—like coastal birds and dolphins—as well as recounting stories of Spanish explorers, pirates, and the founders who shaped Florida’s first city. This combination connects natural observation with a sense of place, making every stop along the route more meaningful.

At sunset, the boat transitions into a peaceful refuge where low, golden light spills across the water’s surface. The Sunset Tours invite travelers to witness the shoreline in a new mood, where flamingoes may appear and the gentle lull of waves softens the day’s bustle. Particularly striking are the Nights of Lights tours, which transform the cityscape into a vibrant display of illumination reflected in still waters, drawing visitors into a festive yet intimate atmosphere.

St. Augustine Boat Tours occupies a unique niche in the local adventure scene. By combining small-group focus, knowledgeable guides, and a diverse offering of trip types, they provide both educational content and accessible, low-impact outdoor activity. Whether you’re chasing wildlife sightings or drawn to the glow of historic holiday lights, their tours offer a tailored approach to enjoying Florida’s oldest city from a refreshing vantage point—its waterways.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to secure the best seating and complete any check-in procedures.

Bring a Lightweight Jacket

Evenings on the water can get cool, particularly during winter or sunset tours, so layering is recommended.

Use Eco-Friendly Sunscreen

Protect your skin while safeguarding the delicate marine environment by choosing reef-safe sunscreen products.

Respect Wildlife Viewing Distance

Keep a respectful distance from animals such as dolphins and shorebirds to avoid disturbing their natural behaviors.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet Mangrove Tunnels
  • St. Augustine Lighthouse views from the water

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose Dolphins
  • Roseate Spoonbills

History

St. Augustine was founded in 1565, with its waterways integral to commerce and defense during colonial times.

Conservation

The company practices low-impact boating to protect fragile coastal ecosystems and promote responsible wildlife observation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour (sunset)
Twilight during Nights of Lights
Early morning light

Best Viewpoints

  • Near Castillo de San Marcos
  • Along the Bridge of Lions
  • By the St. Augustine Lighthouse

What to Photograph

Coastal birds in flight
Reflections in calm water
Historic city lights after dark

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin from UV exposure while on open water.

summer specific

Binoculars

Enhance bird and wildlife viewing during tours.

spring specific

Light Jacket

Essential

Stay warm on cooler evening and night tours.

winter specific

Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated throughout the trip, especially during warmer months.