The Gulf of Mexico to the west of Clearwater and the estuary of Tampa Bay make for some of the most idyllic cruising areas to be found off the coast of Florida – and one of the most popular ways to explore these pristine waters is on an organised cruise.
(Photo: Starlite Cruises / Courtesy Viator)
Taking to the water after dark adds a frisson of excitement to your ocean-going adventure – and add a mouth-watering on-board dinner into the mix and you have the makings of a truly memorable experience. There are a wide number of local companies offering dinner and sunset cruises in the area, so we’ve done some research and picked out three of the best, which you’ll find below.
Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining
This 3-hour cruise of Tampa Bay invites guests to witness one of the region’s finest sunsets while enjoying live music and – for an extra charge – a mouth-watering gourmet meal. After boarding your 35-metre yacht, you’ll head off across the water, cruising along Tampa Bay and soaking up the views either from the vessel’s cosy interior or on the large outdoor deck. If you wish, you can then sit down to a lavish meal served in the yacht’s inner dining area, featuring ample seating and large windows so you can continue enjoying the magical vistas. After dinner, there’ll be live music performances and a bar serving drinks late into the night. From $32 per person.
Calypso Queen Tropical Party Buffet Cruise
(Photo: Starlite Cruises / Courtesy Viator)
Embark on a memorable sail along the coastline of downtown St. Petersburg aboard a 6-passenger sailing yacht. During the trip, you’ll cruise along Tampa Bay to Snell Isle, passing by the Historic Old Northeast as you head toward the elegant Sunshine Skyway Bridge. As the sea breeze fills the sails of your vessel, you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of the spectacular Florida sunset and – if you’re lucky – wild dolphins leaping alongside, as well as an array of seabirds. A range of drinks and bottled water are included in the price, and guests are welcome to bring their own picnic basket, snacks, or alcohol along for the ride. From $46 per person.
Tampa: Private Sunset Boating Trip
(Photo: Perez Sales and Charters, LLC / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
For a more intimate and exclusive experience, this 2-hour private boat trip in Tampa Bay invites you and a select group of up to 5 additional family members or friends to enjoy a memorable adventure aboard a motorized custom-built 25-foot boat. During the trip, you’ll get to see unique and rare marine wildlife before viewing the eye-catching lights of the city set against a beautiful sunset. The tour is helmed by an experienced boat captain who will regale you with facts and stories along the way. Longer tours (half-day or full-day charters) are also available. From $347 per group (max 4 people).