Join the Southern Star for a private Sunset Dolphin Cruise in Destin, FL. Spot playful dolphins, enjoy island tunes, and witness breathtaking sunsets along the Emerald Coast.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the cruise involves minimal physical activity and offers plenty of seating.
Wildlife
History
Destin was originally a small fishing village and remains a prime location for maritime activities and seafood culture.
Conservation
Southern Star and Buccaneer Cruises actively participate in local marine conservation efforts, promoting responsible wildlife viewing and habitat protection.
Southern Star and Buccaneer Cruises
Join the Southern Star for a private Sunset Dolphin Cruise in Destin, FL. Spot playful dolphins, enjoy island tunes, and witness breathtaking sunsets along the Emerald Coast.
Southern Star and Buccaneer Cruises is a Destin, Florida-based operator offering a range of family-friendly harbor experiences and specialty cruises. The company operates the Buccaneer and the Southern Star, presenting themed adventures including pirate cruises, fireworks cruises, sunset dolphin tours, and seasonal special-event sailings.
Guests can choose the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise for live entertainment, sword fighting, treasure hunts and water battles, or relax on the Sunset Pirate Cruise for cannon fire and coastal scenery. Fireworks cruises aboard the Buccaneer and aboard the Southern Star provide up-close views of HarborWalk Village fireworks over the East Pass, creating memorable evenings for families and groups. The Sunset Dolphin Cruise on the Southern Star delivers narrated eco-tours, dolphin and seabird viewing, island music and a dramatic Emerald Coast sunset.
Special event programming includes a Valentine's Day cruise and a December Christmas Boat Parade with festive lights and occasional fireworks. In addition to shipboard experiences, the operator offers access to harbor attractions described as Free Fall, Zip Line Round Trip, Rock Wall and Aqua Spheres — high-adrenaline activities set against the Destin Harbor backdrop for guests seeking thrill-based options. Bookings accommodate families and visitors of all ages, with crew-led storytelling and entertainment on themed departures. Safety and memorable guest experiences are emphasized across public cruises and private-charter options. Southern Star and Buccaneer Cruises markets itself as a convenient way to experience Destin's coastal scenery, dolphin wildlife viewing, holiday festivities and interactive family entertainment on the Emerald Coast. This overview reflects the experiences and cruises offered.
Location
Destin, FL
Operates in Destin Harbor
Vessels
2
Southern Star and Buccaneer
Tours Offered
10
Fireworks, pirate, dolphin, special events
Family Friendly
All Ages
Entertainment for kids and adults
Secure seats for pirate adventures, sunset dolphin tours, and holiday fireworks aboard the Buccaneer or Southern Star — family-friendly departures for all ages.
Bring Sunscreen
Protect your skin from strong Florida sun, especially during afternoon departures.
Use Binoculars
A pair of binoculars enhances dolphin and seabird spotting from a distance.
Arrive Early
Arrive 15 minutes before departure to secure the best viewing spot on deck.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Flat, non-slip shoes ensure safety moving around the vessel smoothly.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from strong sun rays during daytime outings on the water.
summer
Binoculars
Enhances your ability to spot dolphins and seabirds at a distance.
Light Jacket
Keeps you warm during cooler evenings and breezy conditions on deck.
fall
Hat
Provides shade and sun protection throughout the cruise.
spring