3 Hour Cruise & Swimming Excursion off Peanut Island Park

Exploring the 3 Hour Cruise & Swimming Excursion off Peanut Island Park

If you’re considering a laid-back day on the water in West Palm Beach, this 3-hour cruise and swimming tour could be just what you need. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve gathered enough details to help you decide if it’s worth your time—and your dollar. The tour promises a relaxing mix of water sports and chill-out time with views that are truly top-notch.

What really appeals to us about this experience are its focus on water-based fun and the chance to explore Peanut Island in a casual group setting. The fact that all sports gear—kayaks, paddleboards, snorkel equipment—is included means you can try everything without worrying about extra costs or logistics. Still, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention conditions that may impact the experience, like crowded spots or unexpected water conditions.

This tour is likely best suited for those looking for a straightforward, fun day on the water—families, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a relaxed aquatic adventure. If you’re after a quiet, secluded island visit, you might find this tour a little more social and lively than you’re imagining.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Water Sports: Kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear are provided, making it easy to jump into the water.
• Flexible Group Experience: You’ll be with a group, making it friendly and informal—perfect if you enjoy social outings.
• Beautiful Views: The cruise offers scenic cruising along Palm Beach Island and past the Port of Palm Beach, with chances to anchor near Peanut Island.
• Weather & Water Conditions Matter: Some reviews mention rough water or jellyfish issues, which can affect your enjoyment.
• Food & Drinks: Snacks and drinks are available for purchase, with options to pre-order meals for extra convenience.
• Duration & Price: At around $77 per person for 3 hours, it’s a reasonable way to enjoy a mix of relaxing and active water time.

What to Expect from the Experience

This isn’t your typical sightseeing cruise. It’s designed to be a fun, interactive day where you can soak in the crystal-clear waters of West Palm Beach and enjoy various water activities. The trip kicks off from downtown West Palm Beach, with the boat cruising past Palm Beach Island, which is often packed with sights and luxury waterfront homes, setting a scenic backdrop right from the start.

Once you head toward Peanut Island, the plan is to drop anchor and let the fun begin. Depending on conditions, the captain might choose a different spot if Peanut Island is too crowded or if water conditions aren’t ideal. For example, one guest mentioned it being too crowded to anchor there, so the crew shifted to another location, which still provided a great experience.

You’ll have the chance to try out kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear. These activities are great for both beginners and seasoned water lovers, and the crew is on hand to help if needed. Beyond the water sports, there’s also the inflatable Bull, which adds a bit of silly, balance-challenging fun to the mix.

For those who prefer to relax, the boat offers plenty of spots to lounge and soak up the sun, with tropical cocktails and refreshments available for purchase. A few reviews mention that the crew was super accommodating—one even helped retrieve an Apple Watch that fell off while jumping in the water, which shows how attentive they are.

The Realities of the Waters

Despite the many positives, some reviews highlight that water conditions can sometimes be less than ideal. A few guests mentioned encountering jellyfish or unfavorable weather that kept the boat far from Peanut Island. For instance, one reviewer noted, “there were so many jellyfish around the boat, and everyone got stung.” These are natural variables, and the crew does their best to adapt, but they can still impact your experience.

Plus, there was some disappointment expressed about the expectation of visiting Peanut Island’s shore, which wasn’t met in certain conditions. One reviewer felt misled because the boat didn’t dock or land on the island, instead staying offshore. It’s important to understand that the tour’s core focus is on the water activities and cruising rather than a full island visit.

The cost of around $77 for three hours is fairly reasonable considering the included gear and the scenic cruising, but keep in mind that snacks and drinks are extra, unless you pre-order meals. This means it’s a good idea to budget some additional cash for refreshments.

What Will Your Day Look Like?

The itinerary is straightforward but flexible. After meeting at the downtown West Palm Beach location, you’ll board the boat and cruise along the coast, enjoying views of luxurious estates and the busy port area. The captain then takes you toward Peanut Island, a popular spot, but if it’s crowded or the water isn’t suitable, the crew may choose an alternative anchoring point.

Once anchored, the fun kicks off with multiple water sports options. You can kayak or paddleboard around the boat, or snorkel in the clear water, depending on weather conditions. The inflatable bull is a highlight for some—balancing on an inflatable while floating in the water offers a good laugh and some adrenaline.

Guests often spend time relaxing on the boat, soaking up the sun, or chatting with fellow travelers. There’s ample opportunity to sip tropical drinks—a handful of reviews mention how relaxing and enjoyable it was to lounge with a cold beverage in hand.

Snacks and drinks for purchase are available, with the option to pre-order lunch if you want something more substantial. This is convenient for those wanting to avoid the hassle of buying onboard, especially on busy days when the bar might be crowded.

Honesty from the Reviews

The reviews paint a mostly positive picture, with many travelers loving the scenic cruising, water sports, and crew. Heather called it a “great trip” and appreciated the crew’s effort, even when they couldn’t anchor in Peanut Island due to crowds. Danielle shared that the crew was “kind, knowledgeable, and accommodating,” highlighting their excellent customer service.

However, not all experiences were perfect. Some guests expressed disappointment that they didn’t actually go onto Peanut Island, as advertised. “We did not go close to the island at all,” one reviewer noted, emphasizing that the boat stayed offshore. In addition, there were mentions of jellyfish stings and water conditions affecting the trip, which is an aspect worth keeping in mind.

The combination of scenic views, water activities, and friendly crew makes this a solid choice for those wanting a relaxed day on the water—especially if you’re okay with some variability depending on weather and water conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for water lovers who enjoy a mix of relaxing and active pursuits. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with friends or family who want to try different water sports without the hassle of renting equipment separately. The group setting fosters a friendly vibe, making it a good choice for social travelers or couples looking to meet new people.

If your primary goal is to visit Peanut Island’s shore and explore its beaches or trails, this tour might fall short, as it mainly focuses on cruising and water-based fun. It’s better suited for those who want to stay on the boat, enjoy the scenery, and take part in water activities.

People who don’t mind some unpredictability—like variable water conditions or crowded anchor spots—will find this tour to be a good value for the scenic cruising and fun water sports it offers. It’s also a smart pick if you’re seeking a casual, social experience rather than a formal or secluded island visit.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this 3-hour cruise and swimming excursion offers a solid way to enjoy West Palm Beach’s waters, especially if you’re into trying your hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling. The views along the coast are stunning, and the crew’s friendly, attentive attitude helps make the day memorable—despite some natural challenges like jellyfish or crowding.

For travelers who want a relaxing, fun-filled water day without breaking the bank or overcomplicating plans, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember that the experience can vary depending on weather and water conditions, and it’s more about the journey and the water activities than a trip to Peanut Island’s shore.

If you’re after a lively, social outing with plenty of opportunities to cool off and soak up sunshine, this could be a perfect pick. But if a true island visit is your priority, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the water activities and relaxed pace make it suitable for families with children, especially those who enjoy being on the water. However, always check weather conditions and children’s comfort levels.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkel gear is included, and you’ll have the chance to use it if weather and water conditions are favorable.

What happens if the water conditions are rough?
If the water is too rough, the crew might choose a different location to anchor, or some activities might be limited. For example, one review mentions the boat being far in the water and jellyfish presence, which can impact the experience.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard. There is also an option to pre-order meals like sandwiches, wraps, and salads to be ready when you arrive.

How long before I need to book?
On average, this tour is booked about 13 days in advance, so it’s wise to plan ahead if you’re interested.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this cruise offers a comfortable, scenic, and activity-rich way to enjoy West Palm Beach’s water. It’s best for those who love the idea of a social, flexible day on the water with plenty of chances to swim, paddle, and relax, keeping in mind that natural conditions can shift the experience.