St. Augustine Boat Tours, Dolphin Cruises & Family-Friendly Adventures
Looking for the best way to explore St. Augustine’s scenic waterways? Whether you’re chasing dolphins, sipping wine at sunset, or planning a family day on the water, this guide highlights the top-rated boat tours in the nation’s oldest city. From eco-excursions to romantic cruises, there’s a perfect water adventure for every traveler.
🚤 Florida Water Tours
Popular Tours:
- Dolphin & Wildlife Adventure
- Sunset Cruises (family-friendly and adults-only)
- Wine Tasting Cruise
Best For: Couples, families, wine lovers, friend groups
Why It’s Great: This is hands-down my personal favorite! We’ve taken the grandkids on dolphin cruises and never miss their Night of Lights tour during the holidays. Their wine tasting cruise is a must for a relaxing, romantic evening. With a variety of experiences, Florida Water Tours delivers every time.
🌿 St. Augustine Eco Tours
Popular Tours:
- Dolphin, Birding & Nature Eco Boat Excursion
- Salt Marsh Kayak Adventure
- Authentic Sailing Experience
Best For: Nature lovers, families, couples, wildlife photographers
Why It’s Great: Led by expert naturalists, these small-group tours are both educational and awe-inspiring. Seeing dolphins up close while learning about the local ecosystem makes this a standout experience.
🐊 Sea Serpent Tours
Popular Tours:
- Airboat Adventure Tours
- Pontoon Boat Rentals
Best For: Thrill-seekers, adventurous families, small groups
Why It’s Great: If you’re craving speed and excitement, Sea Serpent’s airboat rides deliver. It’s a high-energy way to explore the waterways and spot wildlife—perfect for making unforgettable memories.
🛥️ Doodle Cruises
Popular Tours:
- Sunset Cruises
- Daytime Historical Cruises
- Family Sandbar Fun Days
Best For: Families, couples, sightseeing travelers
Why It’s Great: With entertaining guides and great photo ops, Doodle Cruises offers a fun, relaxed way to take in St. Augustine’s charm from the water.
⛵ St. Augustine Boat Tours
Popular Tours:
- Scenic History & Nature Cruises along the Intracoastal
Best For: History buffs, families, first-time visitors
Why It’s Great: Affordable, informative, and friendly—this tour is a fantastic way to learn about the city’s history while enjoying the breeze and views.
🎉 1st City Family Voyages
Popular Tours:
- Tubing, Sandbar Parties, Romantic Proposals, Light Fishing
Best For: Large families, couples, party groups
Why It’s Great: Looking for something custom? 1st City offers flexible itineraries, from laid-back sandbar hangouts to special occasion cruises. They’re all about making your day on the water exactly what you want it to be.
📸 Native Sun Tours
Popular Tours:
- Private Eco Tours (wildlife viewing, bird-watching, and more)
Best For: Small groups, photographers, wildlife watchers
Why It’s Great: These curated, private tours are ideal if you want a more personalized experience. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and the pace is perfect for capturing that perfect shot.
🧭 Which St. Augustine Boat Tour Is Right for You?
- Families with Kids: Florida Water Tours or Doodle Cruises
- Couples: Wine Tasting or Sunset Cruises
- Nature Lovers: St. Augustine Eco Tours or Native Sun Tours
- Adventurers: Sea Serpent Tours’ airboat rides
- Custom Experiences: 1st City Family Voyages
Pro Tip: Book early—especially during holidays or peak season!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About St. Augustine Boat Tours
What’s the best time of year to take a boat tour in St. Augustine?
Spring and fall offer the best weather—mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and great wildlife sightings. That said, dolphin tours and sunset cruises run year-round.
Do St. Augustine boat tours guarantee dolphin sightings?
No tour can guarantee dolphins, but many—especially Florida Water Tours and St. Augustine Eco Tours—have high success rates thanks to experienced guides and local knowledge.
Are boat tours in St. Augustine family-friendly?
Absolutely. Many tours are designed with kids in mind, including dolphin adventures, sandbar play days, and even pirate-themed cruises. Always check age recommendations when booking.
Can I bring food or drinks on board?
Most operators allow snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. Some, like Florida Water Tours, even offer wine tasting cruises or have onboard bars. Check the tour’s policy before you go.
How long do boat tours typically last?
Tours range from 60 to 90 minutes for standard cruises, while private charters or specialty tours may run 2–3 hours.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes—especially during weekends, holidays, or the Night of Lights season. Booking ahead ensures your spot and often gets you the best rates.
Our Newsletter