Nights of Lights Private Boat Tour St. Augustine, max 6 passenger

There’s something undeniably magical about seeing the Nights of Lights in St. Augustine from the water. This private boat tour offers a cozy, personalized way to take in the city’s festive glow, with just your group and an expert guide. For around $46 per person, you get a relaxing 2-hour adventure packed with stunning views, holiday cheer, and local insights—perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a romantic evening.

What really stands out about this tour is its intimate setting; with a maximum of 6 passengers, you won’t be lost in a crowd. Plus, the inclusion of holiday music, hot chocolate, and blankets makes the experience feel warm and inviting—even if it’s chilly outside. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour starts at 3:30 pm, so it’s ideal for early evening, especially if you want to catch the sunset and the stunning lights before nightfall.

This tour naturally suits couples, families, or small groups seeking a unique perspective on St. Augustine’s holiday displays, but it’s also a flexible experience that works well for engagements, anniversaries, or special celebrations. If you’re someone who loves scenic views, personalized guides, and a touch of holiday magic from the water, this tour might just become a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Private tour with a maximum of 6 passengers ensures personalized attention.
• Stunning Views: See the Nights of Lights, Lighthouse, Castillo de San Marcos, and Bridge of Lions from the water.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes holiday music, hot chocolate, blankets, snacks, and sodas.
• Flexible & Customizable: The guide is attentive, with reviews noting personal touches like angling the boat for photos and stories.
• Value for Price: At $46, it offers a memorable, scenic experience with a focus on quality and comfort.
• Great for Special Occasions: Perfect for romantic dates, engagements, anniversaries, or family outings.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point & Timing

The tour begins at 101 Vilano Causeway around 3:30 pm, a time that’s well-chosen to catch the late afternoon light and the beginning of the Nights of Lights. The duration is about 2 hours, which balances enough time for multiple scenic stops and a leisurely cruise without overstaying. Being a private tour, it naturally caters to your group’s pace and interests.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Nights of Lights in St. Augustine
Your adventure kicks off with the award-winning holiday display. From the water, the shimmering lights take on a new dimension, reflecting beautifully on the water’s surface. Reviewers mention the host’s extra effort—like angling the boat for the best photo opportunities—making the experience feel truly personalized. The addition of holiday music and hot chocolate enhances the cozy, festive vibe, creating a warm atmosphere even in cooler weather.

Stop 2: St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Next, you’ll get a water-level view of the iconic Lighthouse, marveling at its splendor and height. This is a fantastic photo op, and our reviews praise the way the guide makes these moments special. With the guide sharing interesting tidbits, this stop feels both scenic and educational.

Stop 3: Nature & Wildlife
The cruise then glides through areas rich with natural beauty and wildlife, where you might spot dolphins, birds, and other local creatures. One reviewer noted the peacefulness of the marshy surroundings and appreciated seeing the local fauna in their habitat, adding an authentic nature experience to your sightseeing.

Stop 4 & 5: Castillo de San Marcos & Bridge of Lions
While these stops are short (around 10 minutes each), they provide vital views of St. Augustine’s historic fort and the famous Bridge of Lions. Although the tour does not include admission to these sites, seeing them from the water gives a fresh perspective that photos alone can’t capture.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour’s price includes snacks, sodas, hot chocolate, and blankets, elevating the comfort level, especially during cooler evenings. Passengers are welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages, a nice touch for those celebrating or relaxing with a drink. It’s worth noting that, despite the cozy offerings, the tour is quite straightforward without additional amenities like food or extended stops.

Guide & Experience Quality

Based on reviews, Captain Dan is highly praised for his knowledge and engaging style. Guests mention how he goes above and beyond—adjusting the boat for the perfect photos, sharing stories, and ensuring everyone feels safe and comfortable. One reviewer called him an “incredible host and guide,” highlighting his dedication and friendly demeanor.

Value & Overall Impression

For $46, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized service and intimate setting. It’s a relaxing way to see St. Augustine’s holiday lights and sights without the crowds or long waits typical of larger tours. The reviews consistently mention the experience’s memorable nature and the guide’s attentiveness, making it clear that this is more than just a boat ride—it’s a well-curated, personal adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, small families, or friends wanting a private, festive outing. It’s particularly suited for special occasions like engagements or anniversaries, given its romantic setting and customizable approach. If you enjoy scenic views, wildlife spotting, and a relaxed pace, you’ll find this tour quite rewarding.

The Sum Up

The Nights of Lights Private Boat Tour in St. Augustine combines the beauty of holiday lights, scenic water views, and a personal touch from a knowledgeable guide. It offers a cozy, memorable way to enjoy the city’s festive glow with a small group, making it perfect for those seeking an intimate, authentic experience. The inclusion of hot chocolate, blankets, and personalized photo opportunities makes it stand out from larger, more generic tours.

While it’s best suited for early evening enjoyment and small groups, the tour’s balance of scenic beauty, comfort, and local insight makes it a worthwhile addition to any St. Augustine visit—especially during the holiday season. If you’re looking for a relaxed, stunning, and personable way to see St. Augustine lit up at night, this is a tour you’ll remember.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it is exclusively for your group, with a maximum of 6 passengers, ensuring a personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes snacks, sodas, hot chocolate, and blankets. You can also bring your own alcoholic beverages if desired.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, from start to finish, starting at 3:30 pm.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; service animals are allowed. No specific age restrictions are mentioned, but the experience is suitable for most ages.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at 101 Vilano Causeway, St. Augustine, FL.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, passengers are welcome to bring their own beverages, including alcohol.

This private boat tour is a wonderful way to see St. Augustine’s holiday lights from a relaxed, scenic vantage point—perfect for creating lasting memories with your loved ones.