St Augustine: Champagne Sunset Cruise w Nights of Lights opt

Imagine watching a spectacular sunset over the historic streets of St. Augustine while floating on a sleek, modern catamaran. That’s precisely what this Champagne Sunset Cruise, offered by Fury Water Adventures, promises to deliver. If you’re seeking a relaxing, scenic escape after a day of exploring this charming old city, this cruise might just be the perfect way to wind down.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it marries beautiful coastal views with a touch of luxury—complimentary drinks and comfortable seating on a state-of-the-art vessel. Plus, the chance to see famous landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and the Bridge of Lions from the water adds a memorable dimension. But, before you book, it’s worth noting that the cruise lasts only 1.5 hours, which might feel a bit brisk if you’re hoping for a lengthy voyage. This is ideal for travelers looking for a quick, scenic outing, perfect for those who love romantic moments or want a taste of St. Augustine’s waterfront charm.

Key Points

• Beautiful views of the sunset and iconic landmarks from the water.
• Complimentary drinks including beer, wine, champagne, sodas, and water.
• Covered seating and nautical bathroom for comfort during the cruise.
• Seasonal Nights of Lights viewing from November 15 to January 11.
• Expert captain and crew ensuring a smooth, enjoyable experience.
• Accessible for most travelers, but no strollers or glass objects allowed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Cruise Experience

Setting Sail on a Luxurious Catamaran

The departure point is at the Vilano Beach Public Fishing Pier, where you’ll find the Fury vessel waiting—marked by a cheerful giant bluebird and dolphin arch. The boat itself, a Fury Corinthian Catamaran, is a modern, well-equipped vessel with covered seating and a nautical bathroom, making it suitable for all weather conditions.

The group size tends to be small and manageable, which creates a more intimate atmosphere—perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking serenity. As the boat sets off, you’ll immediately notice the gentle ocean breeze and the calming rhythm of the water beneath you.

The Scenic Journey and Iconic Landmarks

In the 1.5 hours, we loved the way the captain and crew focus on providing a relaxed yet informative environment. They might point out the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S., with its impressive walls and history. You’ll also have a good chance to see the St. Augustine Lighthouse, and the elegant Bridge of Lions, which connects the historic downtown with Anastasia Island.

The genuine highlight is the sunset itself. As the sky changes from golden to fiery orange and pink, you can toast with a complimentary glass of champagne, wine, or beer while soaking in the views. The experience is enhanced by the calm water and the panoramic, unobstructed vistas. The reviews echo this sentiment: Vivian described it as “awesome and beautiful!!” with the music adding to the island vibe.

Nights of Lights: Special Seasonal Bonus

From November 15 through January 11, the cruise features a Nights of Lights viewing, where the city is adorned with millions of sparkling lights. Seeing this spectacle from the water adds a magical, fairy-tale quality to the experience. The lights reflect beautifully on the water, creating a shimmering backdrop for your evening. This seasonal addition is highly praised, although it’s only available during the specified months.

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Drinks and Comfort on Board

The complimentary drinks make the experience feel more festive. You can sip on a cold beer or sparkling wine as you relax, all without worrying about extra costs. The covered seating provides relief from the sun or light rain, and the nautical bathroom ensures comfort without the need to disembark.

Value for the Price

At just $59 per person, this cruise offers a notable value. It’s a short, yet beautifully curated experience that combines scenic beauty, light narration, and a touch of luxury. The price includes everything but gratuity, which is customary but not included in the fare.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for romantic couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a relaxing way to see St. Augustine’s coast. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate beautiful sunsets and enjoy sipping drinks in a comfortable setting. If you’re visiting during the Nights of Lights season, you’ll find this a particularly enchanting way to experience the city’s festive glow from the water.

However, if you’re seeking a longer or more active adventure, or want to include dolphin spotting or onboard entertainment, you might want to explore other options. Also, keep in mind that strollers and glass objects are not permitted, so this isn’t ideal for very young children or those carrying glassware.

The Itinerary in Detail

The departure from Vilano Beach Pier is straightforward—look for the bluebird and dolphin arch, and you’ll find the only floating dock toward the end of the pier. The timing is usually in the evening, perfect for catching the sunset.

Once aboard, the captain will steer toward the coast, giving a brief commentary on landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and the nearby lighthouse. The cruise itself is designed to maximize views—so seating arrangements are oriented toward the water.

The highlight is definitely the sunset, a natural spectacle that turns the sky into a painting of warm hues. During the seasonally included Nights of Lights, the cityscape transforms into a twinkling wonderland, visible while you float peacefully on the water.

Authenticity and Authentic Experience

Guests have praised the knowledgeable guides and the stunning ambiance. For example, one reviewer highlighted the crew’s expertise, saying, “Captain and crew were great,” which adds to the authenticity and comfort of the trip. The experience isn’t overly commercialized, giving you a genuine taste of St. Augustine’s coastal charm.

Practical Tips

• Bring your ID or passport for check-in.
• Arrive early to find the dock easily.
• No coolers or glass objects allowed—plan accordingly.
• Dress comfortably—the boat is covered, but it can still be breezy.
• Check the weather forecast—bad weather can sometimes lead to cancellations or adjustments.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers seeking a short, scenic escape, especially those with an appreciation for beautiful sunsets and iconic landmarks, this cruise delivers excellent value. The complimentary drinks and comfortable vessel elevate the experience, making it more than just a boat ride—it’s a moment of relaxation and awe in the midst of your trip.

It’s particularly well-suited for romantic evenings, small group outings, or first-time visitors wanting a quick snapshot of St. Augustine’s coastal beauty. The seasonal Nights of Lights viewing offers an extra dose of magic, making it a memorable highlight of any holiday visit.

While it’s not a lengthy journey and doesn’t include dolphins or onboard entertainment, the quality of the views and the knowledgeable crew make this a standout experience in St. Augustine’s waterfront offerings.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Guests under 15 need an adult chaperone, and children under 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 or older with ID. No strollers are allowed, so it’s better suited for older kids and teenagers.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport for check-in. Dressing comfortably is recommended, and a light jacket might be helpful. Avoid glass objects and coolers, per the restrictions.

Can I see the Nights of Lights?
Yes, if you visit between November 15 and January 11, the cruise includes a special viewing of the Nights of Lights spectacle from the water.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, which is enough time to relax, enjoy the sunset, and see key landmarks without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy complimentary beer, wine, champagne, sodas, and water during the cruise. Gratuity is not included but appreciated.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise is weather-dependent. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so it’s wise to check the forecast before your scheduled trip.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
Check in at the Fury vessel docked at the Vilano Beach Public Fishing Pier. Look for the bluebird and dolphin arch—the floating dock is at the end of the pier on the left.

Final Words

This Champagne Sunset Cruise in St. Augustine offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, comfort, and a touch of elegance. With its affordable price, knowledgeable crew, and stunning views, it’s a great choice for anyone wanting to add a peaceful, memorable moment to their visit. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply soaking in the charm of the oldest city in the U.S., this cruise promises an experience worth savoring.

It’s best suited for those who value authentic coastal scenery, enjoy relaxing with a drink in hand, and want a beautiful snapshot of St. Augustine’s waterfront—especially during the magical Nights of Lights season. If you’re looking for a peaceful, picturesque way to end your day, this cruise might just become a highlight of your trip.

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