Original Cruisin Tikis Christmas Lights Cruise

If you’re seeking a fun and visually stunning way to celebrate the holiday season in Destin, the Original Cruisin Tikis Christmas Lights Cruise might just be what you’re looking for. This 90-minute journey on a brightly lit, tropical-themed tiki boat combines holiday cheer with coastal charm, giving you a different perspective of Destin’s sparkling harbor. Whether you’re a local wanting to see the lights from a new vantage point or a visitor eager to enjoy a festive activity, this cruise offers an experience worth considering.

What we love about this cruise is how it blends holiday magic with a relaxed, island vibe. The boat is decked out with twinkling Christmas lights and tropical decorations, creating a cheerful atmosphere that’s perfect for families, friends, or even a cozy date night. Another highlight is the friendly, knowledgeable captain—who can make the cruise memorable with stories and local tips. One thing to keep in mind: the cruise is only about 1 hour 30 minutes, so if you’re craving a long, immersive experience, this might feel a bit brief. Still, for a fun, lighthearted evening during the holiday season, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who love holiday lights, waterfront views, and a laid-back party vibe.

Key Points

• Festive Atmosphere: Brightly decorated with Christmas lights and tropical décor.
• Flexible Experience: Bring your own snacks and drinks, with a cooler and bottled water provided.
• Short & Sweet: 1 hour 30 minutes of holiday fun, perfect for a quick evening outing.
• Inclusive & Private: Only your group participates, and service animals are welcome.
• Great for Photos: Unique photo ops with the harbor lights and festive backdrop.
• Excellent Value: At $79 per person, it provides a lively holiday experience without a hefty price tag.

The Setting and Meeting Point

The cruise departs from 288 Harbor Blvd in Destin, a convenient location near public transportation and easily accessible for most travelers. The meeting time is at 5:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the evening light display as the sun begins to set. The boat itself is considered the most photographed vessel in the harbor, which hints at how picturesque and Instagram-worthy this experience can be.

The Vessel and Decor

The Tiki Bar Boats are famous for their colorful, tropical vibe, but during the Christmas season, they get a holiday makeover. Expect twinkling lights, garland, and tropical holiday cheer that make the boat stand out in the harbor. It’s a cheerful combination that appeals to both the young and young-at-heart. The boat’s open-air design allows you to enjoy unobstructed views of Destin’s water and lights, and the festive decorations add a layer of holiday spirit that’s hard to match elsewhere.

What to Expect During the Cruise

Once aboard, you’ll find a cooler filled with ice, bottled water, cups, shot glasses, and bottle openers—a thoughtful touch that makes self-service drinks easy and fun. While the cruise supplies water, you’re welcome to bring your own beverages and snacks; just be aware they do have pumps for floats if you want to bring your favorite pool floats along for extra fun on the water.

The cruise is designed as a merry, relaxed activity. As the boat glides through the harbor, you’ll enjoy views of Destin’s sparkling lights reflecting on the water, along with the colorful tropical decorations. If you opt for food and beverage add-ons, you can tailor your experience to include holiday treats or your favorite drinks, making it more personalized.

The Captain and Crew

Reviewers highlight the friendly and knowledgeable captain as a key part of the experience. For instance, one reviewer praised Captain Bailey for her area expertise and engaging conversation, which added to the overall enjoyment. The captain’s local insights and cheerful demeanor help create a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, making the cruise feel more like a holiday gathering than a simple boat ride.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

A Tripadvisor reviewer summed up their experience as “Great evening checking out the lights.” They appreciated the festive ambiance and added that they, as locals, had been wanting to try the Tikis for a while and were not disappointed. The same reviewer noted that a significant part of their enjoyment came from the captain’s friendliness and knowledge, which shows how much personality and good service enhance this cruise.

The Duration and Pacing

At just about 90 minutes, this cruise is a perfect length for a quick but memorable holiday activity. It’s long enough to soak in the sights and take photos but short enough to fit into an evening without feeling rushed. For most travelers, this is an ideal “treat” — not a full night out, but a special highlight of your Destin holiday experience.

Cost and Value

Priced at $79 per person, the cruise offers a fun and scenic holiday activity that’s relatively affordable compared to other harbor tours or holiday events. When considering the personalized experience, festive décor, and unique photo opportunities, many will find it provides good value for a memorable evening on the water.

Who It’s Best For

This cruise is a great pick for families, friends, couples, or small groups celebrating the holidays. It’s suitable for most travelers—service animals are allowed, and the boat’s private setting ensures your group can enjoy the festivities without strangers. If you love holiday lights, coastal scenery, and a casual, cheerful vibe, you’ll likely find this cruise to be a highlight.

For travelers visiting Destin during the holiday season, this cruise offers a delightful mix of tropical fun and Christmas cheer. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy short, lively outings with a focus on festive décor and scenic views. The fact that it’s a private activity means your group can celebrate comfortably, and the relaxed pace makes it accessible for all ages.

If you’re after a unique photo opportunity, a fun social activity, or simply want to enjoy Destin’s harbor in a festive setting, this cruise is a solid choice. Its friendly crew, beautiful decorations, and harbor views make it a charming way to add some holiday sparkle to your trip.

However, if you’re seeking a longer, more immersive experience or want a formal dinner or entertainment onboard, this cruise might feel a bit simple. Still, for what it offers—a cheerful, scenic, and easy-going holiday cruise—it hits the right notes.

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly activity. Kids will enjoy the lights and boat ride, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for guests with pets.

Can I bring my own drinks and snacks?
Absolutely. The cruise provides a cooler, ice, and cups, but you’re welcome to bring your own beverages and snacks to customize your experience.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a perfect short activity for an evening outing.

What is included in the price?
The ticket price includes the festive cruise itself, the cooler with ice, bottled water, cups, and bottle openers. Food and beverage add-ons are available if you call ahead.

Is it a private tour?
Yes, this is a private activity, meaning only your group participates, which makes it more personalized and relaxed.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, keeping in mind it’s an outdoor boat in the evening. It can get chilly, so consider bringing a light jacket or sweater, especially during winter months.

Whether you’re looking for a lively holiday activity or a relaxed way to see Destin’s harbor lights, this cruise offers a cheerful and scenic experience that’s well worth considering.