Celebrate the holidays aboard a boat at Fort Myers Beach with dazzling Christmas lights and stunning Gulf sunsets. Experience this festive parade from the water for unforgettable views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages comfortable sitting or standing for a couple hours.
Wildlife
History
The Christmas Lights Boat Parade in Fort Myers Beach has been a local tradition since the early 1990s, blending community spirit with maritime heritage.
Conservation
Boaters and attendees are encouraged to minimize light pollution and keep waterways free of debris to protect local marine ecosystems.
Adventures in Paradise Fort Myers Beach
Celebrate the holidays aboard a boat at Fort Myers Beach with dazzling Christmas lights and stunning Gulf sunsets. Experience this festive parade from the water for unforgettable views.
Adventures in Paradise Fort Myers Beach operates guided boat excursions from Fort Myers Beach offering dolphin, wildlife, and island experiences across San Carlos Bay and the waters around Sanibel and North Captiva. The company provides a range of trip types, including morning, afternoon, and sunset dolphin and wildlife cruises, an Outer Island shelling and dolphin cruise to North Captiva, hands-on Sea Life Encounter excursions, and seasonal holiday cruises such as Santa's Dolphin Cruise, the Christmas Lights Boat Parade cruise, Christmas Eve Sunset Cruise, and a New Year’s Eve Sunset Dolphin Cruise.
Captains and crew provide on-board narration about local ecosystems, marine life, and the area's maritime history. Several cruises include complimentary bottled water and light seasonal treats on holiday sailings. The Sea Life Encounter excursion offers interactive, educational activities where guests can net crabs and seahorses and explore uninhabited islands. The Outer Island Shelling & Dolphin Cruise includes beach time for shelling and encourages guests to bring picnic lunches. Adventures in Paradise Fort Myers Beach emphasizes wildlife viewing—dolphins, manatees, seabirds—and scenic landmarks such as the Sanibel Island Lighthouse. All trip descriptions, departure points, and seasonal offerings are presented for travelers seeking nature-focused boat tours and family-friendly marine experiences departing from Fort Myers Beach.
Location
Fort Myers Beach, FL
Gateway to San Carlos Bay
Tours Offered
10 Tours
Dolphin, shelling, holiday cruises
Destinations
Sanibel & North Captiva
Scenic island and bay cruises
Family-Friendly
All Ages Welcome
Hands-on sea life activities
Secure seats for morning, afternoon, sunset, island shelling, or holiday cruises — specialty events fill quickly.
Bring a warm layer
Evenings on the water can get chilly, so pack a light jacket to stay comfortable while enjoying the parade.
Arrive early for best spots
Board early to secure a good viewing area on the boat; seating spots can fill quickly during peak season.
Watch the tide and weather
Check tide schedules and weather forecasts to anticipate smoother sailing and comfortable conditions.
Use a camera with stabilization
Boat movement can cause blurry photos; bring a camera or phone with image stabilization for crisp images of the lights.
Light jacket
Keeps you warm during cool evening breezes on the water.
winter
Camera or smartphone with stabilization
Captures sharp photos despite the boat’s movement.
winter
Binoculars
Enhances views of distant decorated boats in the parade.
Small backpack or tote
Convenient for carrying personal items aboard.