St. Augustine Two-Hour Shared Sail: Tolomato River to Historic Bay Front
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—suitable for families, older adults, and beginners; you should be able to step on and off the dock and stand for short periods.
Overview
Step aboard at Camachee Cove and let a USCG-licensed captain guide you along the Tolomato and Matanzas Rivers to St. Augustine’s historic bay front. In two hours you’ll see coastal marsh, playful dolphins, and waterfront views of the Castillo de San Marcos.
St. Augustine Two-Hour Shared Sail: Tolomato River to Historic Bay Front
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The mast hums, canvas breathes, and the city’s pale Spanish brick slips into a new frame as you ease out of Camachee Cove Yacht Harbor. In the first few minutes the shoreline rearranges itself: marinas give way to reeds, then low saltmarsh, and finally the broad channel of the Matanzas River, where porpoises frequently rise to investigate the wake. On a clear afternoon a two-hour sail along this historic bay front reads like a condensed primer on St. Augustine—seafaring, fortifications, and tidal ecology all played out from the deck of a luxury yacht.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
A light windbreaker and sun shirt are useful—temperatures can shift quickly out on open water.
Sun protection is a must
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a brimmed hat; the reflected light off the river intensifies UV exposure.
Bring a small camera with zoom
A 70–200mm equivalent helps capture dolphins and distant historic structures from the deck.
Arrive early to park and check in
Check-in is at 3076 Harbor Drive inside Camachee Cove; parking is free but spaces fill before departure.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphins
- Osprey
History
St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental U.S.; the bay front and Matanzas River have been strategic waterways since the 16th century.
Conservation
The Matanzas River estuary is a fragile tidal ecosystem—avoid tossing trash and choose reef-safe sunscreen to protect seagrass and marine life.
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Adventure Hotspots in St. Augustine
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sun hat and sunglasses
Protects your face and eyes from harsh reflected sunlight on the water.
summer specific
Light wind layer
Keeps you comfortable when the river breeze picks up.
spring specific
Waterproof phone case or small camera
Protects electronics and lets you shoot from the rail without worrying about spray.
Binoculars (compact)
Makes it easier to spot dolphins, birds, and architectural details along the shore.