St. Augustine Night of Lights Cruise with Live Music and Drinks

If you’re seeking a festive, memorable way to enjoy the holiday magic in St. Augustine, the Night of Lights Cruise aboard Fury’s modern 65-foot sailing catamaran might just be your ideal choice. This 1.5-hour experience blends the charm of twinkling cityscapes with the soothing sounds of live music, all while you sip complimentary drinks on a spacious deck with panoramic views. From the moment the sun sets, you’ll find yourself immersed in a celebration that turns the historic city into a glowing winter wonderland—without the snow.

What we particularly loved about this cruise is the chance to enjoy spectacular views of St. Augustine’s landmarks from the water. The cruise offers a relaxed, classy atmosphere, enhanced by friendly staff and excellent live performances. One potential consideration is that the experience is weather-dependent, so if rain or storms roll in, your plans might need to shift. This cruise suits those who want a leisurely, scenic, and festive outing—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a unique way to celebrate the holiday season.

Key Points

• Stunning Water Views: See historic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and the St. Augustine Lighthouse reflected in the water’s calm surface.
• Festive Atmosphere: Enjoy live music performed by local musicians, along with holiday cookies and drinks.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Complimentary beer, wine, margaritas, champagne, and soft drinks make for a relaxed, social vibe.
• Ideal Timing: The cruise departs at 8:00pm, right at sunset, allowing you to witness day turn into night over the water.
• Limited Group Size: With up to 110 travelers, the experience feels intimate enough to relax but still lively.
• Weather-Sensitive: Be prepared for possible rescheduling or cancellations if weather doesn’t cooperate.

An In-Depth Look at the Night of Lights Cruise Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure begins at 250 Vilano Rd, a convenient location on the outskirts of historic St. Augustine. The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a perfect evening activity that won’t overcommit your schedule. The timing at 8:00pm ensures you catch the sunset and the city’s lights coming alive, creating a magical backdrop.

The Itinerary: From Sunset to Twinkle

The cruise kicks off with guests boarding Fury’s state-of-the-art catamaran, where you can settle onto the expansive deck, eagerly awaiting the sunset views. We loved the way the crew handled the boarding process: friendly, organized, and ready to set the mood. As the boat departs, you’re treated to a spectacular sunset, with many passengers indulging in the complimentary drinks—beer, wine, margaritas, and champagne—and light appetizers like holiday cookies.

Music adds to the ambiance, with performances by local musicians that elevate the experience from a simple boat ride to a lively, festive celebration. The quality of live music was praised in reviews, with visitors describing it as “great” and “very fun,” adding a cheerful, memorable layer to the evening.

Glimpses of the City’s Landmarks

The real highlight comes as the boat gently cruises past the illuminated historic district. The twinkling lights reflecting off the water create an enchanting scene, especially around the Castillo de San Marcos, with its centuries-old silhouette offering a striking contrast against the glowing cityscape. Travelers often mention how mesmerizing this view is, noting that the lights seem to dance across the water, making it a perfect moment to capture photos or simply soak in the beauty.

Iconic Landmarks

One of the main stops features the St. Augustine Lighthouse, which stands tall and commanding against the night sky. Its bold black-and-white spiral stripes are instantly recognizable, and seeing it illuminated from the water offers a perspective you won’t get walking around town. It’s a favorite among guests who appreciate the combination of scenic beauty and historic significance.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You’ll find that drinks and snacks are included, making this a no-stress outing. The selection of complimentary beer, wine, margaritas, and champagne means you can toast the season or simply relax with a soft drink. Holiday cookies add a sweet touch, complementing the drinks perfectly. Plus, a professional English-speaking guide is onboard to ensure you don’t miss any noteworthy sights or details.

Photos are not included, so if capturing memories is important, consider bringing your own camera or phone. Restrooms are available onboard, providing convenience during your trip.

What Our Reviewers Loved

A Tripadvisor reviewer highlighted that the experience was “Very fun” and different from typical sunset cruises, emphasizing the friendly crew and great shoreline views. The captain and deckhands were described as approachable and professional, creating an inviting environment that felt both relaxing and engaging.

Another noted that, despite initial concerns about weather, they managed to get a bit of sun and enjoyed the lively atmosphere with live music. This indicates that, even if the weather is unpredictable, the cruise offers a positive experience with friendly staff and beautiful scenery.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early to ensure smooth boarding, especially during peak holiday times.
• Dress comfortably, but consider bringing a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evening temperatures.
• Bring your camera or phone to capture the illuminated cityscape and landmarks.
• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during the busy holiday season.
• Check the weather forecast before your trip; the experience is weather-dependent, with options for rescheduling if necessary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise makes a wonderful choice for couples seeking romance, families wanting a relaxed holiday activity, or friends looking for a festive night out. Its mix of scenic water views, live music, and drinks appeals to those who appreciate a laid-back yet lively atmosphere. If you’re interested in seeing St. Augustine’s iconic landmarks from the water while enjoying a drink and some holiday cheer, this tour hits the sweet spot.

However, if you prefer a more active or historically detailed tour, this might not be the best fit—it’s more about the atmosphere and views than in-depth history.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $69.17 per person, this cruise offers excellent value. The combination of spectacular views, live music, and complimentary drinks creates a memorable, holiday-themed experience that’s about more than just sightseeing. It’s a relaxing way to celebrate the season, enjoying St. Augustine’s lights from a unique vantage point. The friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and festive ambiance make it a standout activity during the winter months.

If you enjoy scenic boat rides, appreciation for local music, and a cozy, celebratory vibe, this cruise is a superb choice that promises both fun and breathtaking views.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The cruise is generally family-friendly, especially since it’s a relaxed, scenic outing with light refreshments. However, parents should consider the late evening start time and alcohol consumption when planning.

How long does the cruise last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules or young children.

Are drinks included?
Yes, complimentary beer, wine, margaritas, and champagne are provided, along with soft drinks and light snacks like holiday cookies.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather, with the option to bring a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evening air.

Can I take photos?
Yes, but photos are not included in the package. Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the illuminated cityscape.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the boat can accommodate up to 110 travelers, ensuring a lively but not overcrowded experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak holiday times, to secure your spot on this popular cruise.

To sum it up, the St. Augustine Night of Lights Cruise with Live Music and Drinks offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, festive cheer, and relaxed luxury. Perfect for those wanting to enjoy a special holiday evening in a stunning setting, it’s an experience that combines the magic of the season with the charm of one of Florida’s most historic cities.