Tampa is fast becoming Florida’s favourite city – and one of the best ways to explore it is by taking to the water on a reputable boat tour.
Speeding along Tampa Bay (Photo: GetYourGuide.com)
Set in the heart of Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa Bay is teeming with tourist-friendly activities, from an award-winning aquarium and Busch Gardens Theme Park to sugar-soft beaches and undulating green spaces. But boating is, by far, one of its most popular attractions. Whether you’re looking for a scenic river cruise or a pulse-raising speed boat trip along the bay, you’ll find it in Tampa. With so many to choose from, we’ve scoured the internet for five of the best tampa boat tours, based on value for money, customer reviews and itinerary.
Tampa Bay 2-Hour Speedboat Adventure
Adrenalin junkies won’t want to miss out on this two-hour speedboat adventure across the Gulf of Mexico. Starting at the Tierra Verde Resort Marina, participants get to pilot their own speedboat across Tampa Bay, under the guidance of a local knowledgeable guide. There’s plenty to see beyond the waves too, with stops at the National Wildlife Refuges and Fort de Soto Park, home to dolphins, manatees, gopher tortoises and endemic bird species. From £75.03 per person
Book at GetYourGuide.com
Tampa Bay: Private Sunset Cruise with Champagne or Wine
A romantic sunset cruise (Photo: GetYourGuide.com)
Those in the market for a more sophisticated boat trip around Tampa will be hard-pressed to find better than this two-hour tour. Designed with couples in mind, this romantic two-person cruise takes place at sunset and offers sparkling views of the city skyline (and plenty of Instagram-worthy content). Tour prices including a crisp glass of champagne or local wine too. From £247.49 per person.
Book at GetYourGuide.com
Tampa History Cruise
This 90-minute cruise offers a fascinating introduction to Tampa’s rich and storied history. Departing from the Amalie Arena, boats sail across one of Florida’s most picturesque harbours, unpicking the history behind it along the way. Live on-board commentary dives into 4,000 years of history, covering its evolution from a Spanish outpost to the fastest-growing city in Florida. There’s even a stop at a pirate ship. From £25.75.
Book at Viator.com
90-minute Tiki Boat Cruise in Tampa
A Hawaiian-inspired Tiki bar boat (Photo: Viator)
For something a little different, try this 90-minute cruise aboard a Tiki-inspired boat. Boats can seat up to six guests and sail along the Hillsborough River past Downtown’s soaring skyscrapers. It’s BYOB, so guests are invited to sip on their favourite tipples and snacks to the sounds of Hawaii blaring through the Bluetooth Kicker speaker system. All tours are suitable for children too, though they’ll need to wear a lifejacket if they’re 10 years old or under. From £50.17.
Book at Viator.com
Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour
Unsurprisingly, Tampa is a popular spot with local celebrities – and this boat tour explores the homes of some of the best of them. Led by local guides, cruise boats wind around the xx, stopping at the homes of local legends like Deric Jetters, Tom Brady, Vinny LaCaviea, Tino Martinez, Brad Culpeper, and more. Along with celeb-spotting, guides share fascinating insights into local history, pointing out iconic sights and hidden gems along the way. From £25.75
Book at Viator.com