Clearwater Boat Cruises with StarLite Cruises
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and abilities
Overview
Step aboard StarLite Cruises in Clearwater, Florida, where dining yachts and casual vessels offer unique day and evening cruises on Tampa Bay’s waters. From live music dining to festive holiday cruises, discover how this fleet creates memorable moments afloat.
Details
Clearwater, Florida, offers more than sun-soaked beaches and crystal-clear waters—it’s home to StarLite Cruises, a local leader in immersive waterfront adventures. Specializing in scenic and celebratory boat cruises, StarLite Cruises transforms the calm waters of Tampa Bay into a stage for unforgettable moments, from laid-back daytime cruises to elegant evening dining experiences.
StarLite Cruises operates a fleet of dining yachts and casual cruise vessels, including the StarLite Majesty, StarLite Sapphire, Calypso Queen, and Calypso Breeze. Each boat crafts a unique narrative on the water. The StarLite Majesty Dining Yacht, featuring options with live music or themed celebrations like the 4th of July evening cruises, blends refined dining with stunning views of the horizon. Dinner cruises aboard the StarLite Sapphire are known for fresh, thoughtfully prepared meals by onboard chefs, paired with smooth sailing past Tampa Bay’s famous landmarks and a high chance of spotting dolphins.
Casual cruising options aboard the Calypso Queen and Calypso Breeze cater to those who want a relaxed outing on the water with drink service and DJ-hosted entertainment, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a touch of local flavor. The Gasparilla Day Invasion cruise offers an active cultural connection, placing passengers in the heart of Clearwater’s festive pirate-themed events.
StarLite Cruises has earned a reputation for seamless event coordination, attentive service, and a family-friendly atmosphere that welcomes groups large and small. Whether hosting intimate weddings or lively group celebrations, their professional captains and crew prioritize safety and fun. Each cruise invites guests to absorb the beauty of the coastal skies, vibrant sunsets, and the gentle rhythm of the sea, making it a top choice for visitors seeking a memorable nautical experience in Clearwater.
Combining the natural allure of Florida’s Gulf Coast with attentive hospitality, StarLite Cruises stands out as a premier way to experience Clearwater’s waters beyond the shoreline.
Adventure Tips
Book Early for Special Events
Popular cruises like the 4th of July and Gasparilla Invasion fill up quickly, so reserve your spot well in advance.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Arriving 15-20 minutes before departure helps ensure a smooth boarding process and time to settle in.
Dress for the Weather
Bring a light jacket or layers for cooler evening cruises and sunscreen or hats for daytime trips.
Motion Sickness Precautions
If you’re prone to seasickness, consider medication or choosing daytime cruises when waters are calmer.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Quiet coves beyond Clearwater Beach perfect for dolphin sightings
- Secluded beachfront spots near Sand Key Park ideal for sunset reflections
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphins frequently swim alongside the boats
- Ospreys and pelicans soar above the waterways
History
Clearwater has long been a hub for maritime and pirate-themed festivals, notably the Gasparilla Invasion that celebrates Tampa Bay’s nautical heritage.
Conservation
StarLite Cruises promotes responsible boating practices to protect Tampa Bay’s marine life and maintains strict no-litter policies to preserve water quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Foredeck of the StarLite Majesty
- Upper deck seating on the Calypso Queen
- Near Clearwater Harbor entrance
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Layered Clothing
To stay comfortable with changing temperatures throughout the cruise.
spring specific
Sunscreen
A must-have to protect skin during daytime trips under strong Florida sun.
summer specific
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
For cooler evenings and breezier conditions on the water.
fall specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture spectacular sunsets, wildlife, and special moments aboard.