Clearwater Beach: Calypso Queen Cruise with Buffet

Travelers looking for a lively way to enjoy Clearwater Beach’s stunning waters and scenic vistas should consider the Calypso Queen Cruise. This 1.5 to 2-hour voyage offers a blend of sightseeing, delicious food, and entertainment—perfect for families, couples, or groups seeking a relaxed yet fun experience on the water. Whether you’re after a daytime cruise with insightful narration or a lively evening party with music and dancing, this tour packs a punch.

What makes this cruise stand out? For starters, the island-style buffet features tempting dishes like mango-glazed chicken and beef teriyaki, with an extra bonus of chilled steamed shrimp during the evening cruise. The complimentary drinks—including beer, wine, and rum punch—are an unexpected treat for the price. Plus, the chance to spot local birds such as pelicans, herons, and egrets in a protected sanctuary adds an authentic touch of nature.

However, a consideration worth noting is the limited duration—about two hours—which might feel short for those wanting a more extensive exploration or a quieter, more relaxed vibe. Still, for a quick, energetic outing, it offers great value. This cruise is best suited for travelers eager to combine scenic views with casual dining and lively entertainment.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning waterfront vistas of Clearwater Beach from the comfort of a lively boat.
• Wildlife Spotting: See local birds like pelicans, herons, and egrets in a protected sanctuary.
• All-Inclusive Dining: Savor a flavorful island-style buffet packaged with your ticket.
• Complimentary Drinks: Beer, wine, rum punch, and soft drinks are included—cheers to that.
• Flexible Experience: Options for daytime sightseeing narration or evening DJ party.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Themed cruise with music, dancing, and lively entertainment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Calypso Queen Cruise Experience

Setting Sail from Clearwater Beach Marina

The adventure begins at the Clearwater Beach Marina, a convenient starting point located at 25 Causeway Blvd., Slip #56. The departure times vary, so it’s wise to check availability beforehand. The boat, the vibrant Calypso Queen, is hard to miss with its lively colors and festive theme, hinting at the fun that awaits.

Knowing the exact location and timing helps ensure a smooth start, especially in busy seasons or weekends. The marina itself is a lively hub, with plenty of nearby eateries and shops if you want to arrive early or extend your day on land.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Daytime Cruises: These feature a narrated sightseeing tour, guided by your captain who shares stories about Clearwater’s landmarks and wildlife. We loved the way the captain pointed out pelicans and herons nesting nearby—the natural beauty and local birds are a highlight for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. The calm waters of Clearwater Harbor make for a smooth ride, perfect for relaxing and taking in the scenery.

Evening Cruises: As the sun dips, the cruise shifts into a lively party mode. The music kicks in with a DJ spinning contemporary tunes, and passengers are encouraged to dance and mingle. The atmosphere is upbeat, making it ideal for groups or couples looking for a fun night out. During this cruise, you’ll enjoy the same delicious buffet, but with the added treat of chilled steamed shrimp—something seafood lovers will appreciate.

The Buffet: Tasting the Islands

The onboard buffet is a major draw. It features mango-glazed chicken and beef teriyaki, both flavorful and tender. The dishes are prepared with a focus on freshness, though buffet menus may change based on availability. During the evening cruise, the addition of chilled steamed shrimp elevates the offering, giving seafood enthusiasts an extra reason to smile.

Passengers consistently praise the quality and variety of the food, describing it as “delicious” and a good value for the price. The buffet is served in a relaxed, buffet-style setting, allowing you to go back for seconds if you wish. It’s a casual, no-fuss meal that complements the laid-back cruise vibe.

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Drinks and Refreshments

Complimentary drinks are included, covering beer, wine, rum punch, and soft drinks. This generous offering is especially appreciated given the cruise’s affordability. It helps create a carefree, lively atmosphere, especially during the evening party cruise when socializing and dancing are the main focus.

Wildlife and Scenic Views

Watching the birds in their protected sanctuary is a real treat. Many reviews mention how enjoyable it was to see pelicans and herons up close, adding an authentic touch of nature to the experience. The views of Clearwater Beach are beautiful, especially during sunset or in the bright daylight, with the shimmering water and bustling shoreline providing perfect photo opportunities.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

Daytime cruises focus on sightseeing and education, with informative narration that adds context to the sights you see. This makes it ideal for those wanting a relaxed, educational experience.

Evening cruises turn up the energy with a DJ, dance floor, and vibrant party atmosphere. Many reviews note that “the music was fantastic,” and “everyone was dancing,” creating a true celebration on the water.

Group Size and Comfort

The Calypso Queen typically hosts a sizable crowd, making it lively but not overcrowded. The boat provides ample space for mingling, dancing, or simply relaxing with a drink in hand. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring everyone feels welcome and comfortable.

Value for Money

Considering the inclusive buffet, free drinks, and scenic views, the tour offers good value—especially for travelers who want a fun, all-in-one experience. The price covers not only the cruise but also a hearty meal and drinks, which would cost extra if purchased separately elsewhere.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This cruise is perfect for those wanting a quick, lively escape on the water. Families with kids might enjoy the scenic wildlife and the casual dining experience, while couples and groups will appreciate the party atmosphere and beautiful views. It’s also a great choice for travelers looking for a relaxed yet entertaining way to experience Clearwater Beach’s waterfront beyond the usual land-based activities.

The Sum Up

The Clearwater Beach Calypso Queen Cruise with Buffet offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife viewing, and lively entertainment, all at an accessible price point. The delicious island-inspired buffet and complimentary drinks add to its appeal, making it a good deal for travelers seeking value and fun. Whether you prefer a daytime tour with educational narration or a lively evening dance party, this cruise delivers an authentic taste of Florida’s coastal charm.

The experience truly shines when it comes to capturing beautiful water views and enjoying the casual, friendly vibe. It’s an ideal option for anyone wanting to combine sightseeing, dining, and entertainment without fuss or formality. Just remember, if you’re after a long, tranquil cruise, this might feel a bit brief. But for a quick, energetic outing, it’s hard to beat.

FAQs

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, making it perfect for a quick outing or an introduction to Clearwater’s waters.

Are drinks included?
Yes, complimentary beer, wine, rum punch, and soft drinks are provided on all cruises, adding value and a relaxed atmosphere.

Can I choose between a daytime or evening cruise?
Absolutely. Daytime cruises feature narration and sightseeing, while evening cruises focus on dancing and lively entertainment.

Is there a meal included?
Yes, a delicious island-style buffet is included. During the evening cruise, you also get chilled steamed shrimp, which many reviews praise.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book ahead, especially during peak seasons. You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, especially with the wildlife viewing and casual dining. However, the lively evening party may be more appealing to adults.

Where is the meeting point?
The cruise departs from Clearwater Beach Marina at 25 Causeway Blvd., Slip #56. Exact coordinates are 27.976789474487305, -82.82635498046875.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and casually—think shorts, t-shirts, or light summer dresses. No formal attire is required.

This lively yet relaxed cruise experience offers a wonderful way to see Clearwater Beach’s waters, enjoy great food and drinks, and have fun with good company. Whether you’re after a scenic day or a party night, the Calypso Queen is a voyage worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby