Santa Cruise on the Sound

If you’re looking for a charming holiday activity in Destin, the Santa Cruise on the Sound offers a cozy, cheerful experience perfect for families or anyone wanting a touch of Christmas magic on the water. For just $25 per person, you get about an hour of sailing with Santa himself, complete with holiday tunes and stunning views of the waterfront. The cruise is operated by the Soundside Cruiser and promises a relaxed, family-friendly environment with plenty of opportunities for kids to share their wish lists.

One of the things we truly appreciate about this tour is how accessible it is—it’s near public transportation, easy to find at 189 Brooks St SE, and involves a friendly English-speaking guide. But keep in mind that, with a maximum of 49 travelers, it remains intimate enough to feel personal. Whether you’re in town for a quick holiday outing or looking to add a special memory to your Christmas season, this cruise offers both charm and value.

A possible consideration is the short duration; if you’re expecting a long, in-depth experience, this might feel a bit quick. However, for many families, the brief but joyful sail is just enough to get into the festive spirit without overdoing it. And since cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, it’s easy to plan confidently around your holiday schedule. This experience suits those seeking lighthearted, scenic fun with a holiday twist—ideal for families, couples, or groups celebrating the season.

Key Points

• Affordable Festive Fun: At $25, it offers great value for a cheerful, holiday-themed boat ride.
• Stunning Waterfront Views: You’ll enjoy beautiful vistas of Destin’s shoreline, enhanced by holiday decorations and music.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Kids can meet Santa, share wish lists, and indulge in surprise treats.
• Convenient Location: Easily accessible meeting point with nearby public transportation.
• Short & Sweet: An approximately 1-hour cruise perfect for a quick seasonal outing.
• Free Cancellation: Flexible booking options allow peace of mind.

What to Expect from the Santa Cruise on the Sound

This one-hour cruise aboard the Soundside Cruiser is designed to be relaxed and festive. As you board at 189 Brooks St SE, you’ll find a friendly, organized crew ready to make this a memorable holiday outing. The boat itself is comfortable enough for families, with plenty of space to move around and enjoy the views. The atmosphere is lively but not overdone, with holiday music setting the cheerful tone.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise begins at the designated meeting point, where you’ll be greeted by your guide—a local, English-speaking professional who ensures everyone feels welcome. The boat departs and slowly makes its way through the scenic waters of the Soundside, offering a unique vantage point of the Destin shoreline decorated for the season. Expect to see holiday-themed music playing, creating a joyful backdrop as you coast along.

The highlight of the cruise is the visit with Santa. Kids will have the chance to chat with him directly, share their wish lists, and perhaps even get some holiday cheer from the man in red himself. Several reviews mention the warmth of this moment, describing it as “authentic” and “heartwarming,” with children feeling genuinely excited to meet Santa face-to-face.

Surprises and Treats

A surprise treat is included in the price—though details aren’t specified, reviews suggest it’s a nice touch that adds to the festive spirit. It’s the kind of small gesture that makes a brief cruise feel special and memorable. Parents have noted that the treats seemed thoughtful, possibly something sweet or holiday-themed.

Views and Atmosphere

The views are a major plus. As you sail through the wintery waterfront, you’ll get a good perspective of Destin’s shoreline, possibly with holiday lights or decorations visible from the water. The calm waters and beautiful scenery, combined with holiday melodies, create an atmosphere that’s both relaxing and festive.

Why This Tour Works Well

• For Families: Kids love the chance to meet Santa, and parents appreciate the easy, short outing.
• For Holiday Enthusiasts: It captures the holiday spirit perfectly, with cheerful music and scenic views.
• For Quick Getaways: Its one-hour length makes it suitable for fitting into a busy schedule or combining with other activities.
• For Budget-Conscious Travelers: At $25, it provides a memorable seasonal experience without breaking the bank.

What Might Be Less Ideal

While the cruise is undeniably charming, some might find the duration a bit brief if seeking a more in-depth or elaborate holiday experience. Also, the weather can influence the experience—on windy or colder days, the open-air deck might be less comfortable. But generally, the tour is well-reviewed for its friendly crew and picturesque setting.

Final Thoughts

The Santa Cruise on the Sound in Destin offers a delightful way to celebrate the holidays on the water. It combines stunning waterfront views, a chance for kids to meet Santa, and festive music—all at an accessible price point. The experience is intimate enough to feel special yet casual enough not to be overwhelming, making it a great outing for families or holiday lovers.

If you’re after a cheerful, scenic, and budget-friendly Christmas activity, this cruise ticks all those boxes. It’s perfect for creating simple, joyful holiday memories with little ones or even enjoying the season with a loved one.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for families with young children seeking a fun holiday tradition. It also suits couples or groups looking for a short, scenic Christmas activity. Travelers who appreciate scenic waterfront views and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere will find it particularly appealing. Those wanting a deeper, more elaborate holiday event might prefer larger festivals or longer cruises, but for a quick dose of Christmas cheer, this cruise hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the Santa Cruise on the Sound?
Approximately one hour, making it a quick but festive outing.

Where does the cruise start?
At 189 Brooks St SE in Fort Walton Beach. It’s near public transportation, which makes getting there easier.

What’s included in the price?
You get a visit with Santa, a surprise treat, and an English-speaking driver guide.

Is the tour suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
While not explicitly stated, consider dressing warmly if it’s colder since the cruise is on open water.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Absolutely—it’s designed with kids in mind, especially the chance to meet Santa and share wish lists.

In essence, the Santa Cruise on the Sound makes for a simple, joyful, and scenic holiday outing that captures the spirit of Christmas on the water. Its affordability, friendly atmosphere, and stunning views make it a worthwhile choice for those visiting Destin during the festive season.