Board a lively party boat from Vilano Beach and watch the sun dip behind St. Augustine’s landmarks. This 90-minute BYOB cruise pairs landmark views — Castillo de San Marcos, Bridge of Lions, the lighthouse — with music and a social atmosphere.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The boat slips away from the wooden walkway at Vilano Beach as late-afternoon light gilds the edges of the Matanzas River. Music sets a brisk tempo; laughter and the clink of cups fill the air while the shoreline of the nation’s oldest continuously occupied city slides past — moss-draped oaks, the pale stony outline of Castillo de San Marcos, and the Bridge of Lions arching toward the historic downtown.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to climb a short gangway and stand for portions of the trip
Wildlife
History
St. Augustine was founded in 1565; many coastal views trace back to Spanish colonial and maritime history, with Castillo de San Marcos visible from the river.
Conservation
Keep glass off the boat, pack out all trash, and avoid feeding wildlife; the Matanzas River estuary is an active nursery and benefits from low-impact recreation.
Reserve your spot on the Sunset Cruise - #1 Party Boat in St. Augustine, FL today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring valid ID (18+ only)
This cruise enforces an 18+ age policy — bring government-issued ID to board.
Pack a small cooler and ice
The boat allows BYOB and provides coolers/ice; soft-sided coolers are easiest to manage on deck.
Arrive early for parking and boarding
Parking at Beaches at Vilano can fill; plan to arrive 20–30 minutes before departure to walk the wooden access path to the boat.
Prepare for wind and motion
Even on calm evenings, the river can be breezy and the deck can sway — bring a light jacket and consider motion-sickness remedies if prone to seasickness.
Government-issued photo ID
Required for age verification (18+).
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Open-deck exposure on the river makes sun protection essential during daytime and early-evening sails.
summer
Non-slip shoes
Flat, closed shoes help with stability on a moving deck.
Small soft-sided cooler or insulated bag
Keeps drinks and snacks cool and easier to carry on and off the boat.