See St. Augustine from the water on a 75-minute narrated cruise that glides past the Bridge of Lions, Castillo de San Marcos, and Menendez landing site. Calm, informative, and easy for all fitness levels—perfect for photographers and history buffs alike.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The boat slips away from the municipal docks and the city reshapes itself into a story told from water. Stone fortifications, Spanish-style rooftops and the slow arch of the Bridge of Lions slide by as the captain’s voice fills the air—direct, conversational, threaded with local lore. Salted air tugs at your jacket; marsh grasses on the riverbanks lean forward like an audience eager for the next line.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour 15 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires only boarding and brief periods of standing or walking on the boat
Wildlife
History
St. Augustine was founded in 1565 and is the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental U.S.; the waterfront reflects centuries of maritime trade and military strategy.
Conservation
The Matanzas River estuary is ecologically sensitive—avoid tossing trash overboard and support local conservation groups that monitor seagrass and shorebird habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Take a Scenic Boat Ride in St. Augustine today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early for parking and ticket redemption
Redeem tickets at the St. Augustine Municipal Marina ticket office at least 30 minutes before departure; street parking is metered and scarce.
Protect yourself from sun and spray
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a light wind layer—the river can be cooler and wetter than onshore streets.
Reserve a center-seat if prone to seasickness
Choose a mid-ship seat near the centerline to reduce motion; bring motion-sickness medication if needed.
Bring a camera with a polarizer
Glare from the water is strong—polarizing filters improve color and reduce reflections for better photos.
Sunscreen
Protects from prolonged sun exposure on open water.
summer
Light wind jacket
Blocks spray and the river breeze in cooler mornings or evenings.
spring
Compact camera or smartphone with polarizing filter
Reduces glare and captures better waterfront color and detail.
Binoculars
Helps spot birds on pilings and architectural details on distant shorelines.
fall