st-augustine-sunset-boat-tour-evening-cruise-and-dolphin-watching
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires basic mobility to step on/off the dock
Overview
Cruise St. Augustine’s historic inlet at sunset—spot dolphins, pass the Lighthouse and Castillo de San Marcos, and hear local maritime stories on a one-hour evening tour. Perfect for families and photographers looking to capture the city from the water.
st-augustine-sunset-boat-tour-evening-cruise-and-dolphin-watching
Select participants and date
The boat slips away from Conch House Marina as the harbor tilts gold. Salt air presses against your face, the city’s red-tile roofs and the white shaft of the St. Augustine Lighthouse sliding past like a living postcard. Guides point out the Bridge of Lions and the stone silhouette of Castillo de San Marcos as pelicans wheel and, if you’re lucky, dolphins thread the wake—bright, deliberate arcs that insist you pay attention.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive early to board
Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes before departure to find parking and get settled on the dock; boats board promptly.
Dress in layers
Evenings on the water cool quickly—bring a light windbreaker or fleece even in summer.
Bring motion-sickness prevention
If you're prone to seasickness, take medication or use acupressure bands before boarding; the inlet’s chop can be bumpy.
Keep camera gear ready
Golden hour is brief—set cameras and phones up before the best light and keep a mid-range zoom handy for wildlife.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphins
- Brown pelicans (and occasional ospreys)
History
St. Augustine was founded in 1565; its harbor and coquina stone fortified structures helped shape the city’s maritime and colonial history.
Conservation
Dolphins and shorebirds are protected—avoid feeding or approaching wildlife, and follow the operator’s guidance to minimize disturbance and marine debris.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in St. Augustine
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light windbreaker
Blocks evening breeze and spray on the water.
Camera with 70–200mm or equivalent zoom
Captures dolphins and distant historic structures in low light.
Binoculars
Enhances views of wildlife and distant shore details.
Non-slip shoes
Good traction on wet docks and boat decks.