A Relaxed Day on the Water: The Sip N Dip Island Sandbar Cruise Review
If you’re looking for a fun, laid-back way to enjoy Florida’s coastal vibe, the Sip N Dip Island Sandbar Cruise might just be a perfect fit. We haven’t done this trip ourselves, but based on what’s shared, it promises a lively cruise with plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun, sip your favorite drinks, and enjoy some good old-fashioned beach fun.
Two things that really stand out are the flexible BYOB policy—which means you can bring your own beverages and snacks—and the social, family-friendly atmosphere that caters to groups of friends, families, or anyone looking for a casual yet memorable day on the water. On the flip side, a key consideration is that it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or anyone sensitive to motion, since it’s a boat trip. This experience is ideal for visitors who want a straightforward, fun day in the sun without fuss—perfect if you’re okay with a bit of a party vibe and don’t need high-end amenities.
Key Points
- Relaxed, family-friendly vibe with music, drinks, and sunshine
- BYOB policy allows bringing your favorite beverages and snacks
- Includes 1.5 hours at the sandbar to swim, float, and enjoy island-style fun
- Comfortable boat for up to 38 guests, with onboard bathroom and Bluetooth sound system
- 3-hour total experience, mainly in the morning, with a scenic cruise aboard a floating tiki lounge
- Not suitable for people with mobility issues or motion sickness
What is the Sip N Dip Island Sandbar Cruise?
This is a 3-hour adventure designed to showcase the beauty of Florida’s waterways and the relaxed island lifestyle. The trip takes place on a 40ft floating tiki lounge, called the Kanaloa, which comfortably seats up to 38 guests. It’s a casual, social experience—think music, sunshine, and good company—perfect for those who like their excursions to be fun and laid-back.
The cruise begins at the River Deck Marina in New Smyrna Beach, with the boat located on the dock just north of the bait shop. Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a scenic cruise that covers the local waterways, heading toward a sandy island where you can jump into the water, float on rafts, or just lounge on beach mats.
Planning more time in New Smyrna Beach? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Sandbar Experience
The highlight of this trip is the 1.5 hours spent at the sandbar. It’s a chance to take a break from the boat, dip into the water, and enjoy a mini tropical island experience right in Florida’s coast. Expect to see plenty of floats, beach toys, and a relaxed atmosphere. You can swim, float, or simply relax on the sand with your drinks and snacks.
Reviewers have praised how lively and fun the sandbar time is, with one noting it’s perfect for “dancing, dipping, and sipping the day away.” It’s a simple but effective way to enjoy the outdoors and make some lighthearted memories.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The price sits at $70 per person, which offers solid value considering what’s included. You get a 3-hour cruise on a well-equipped boat, with an onboard bathroom, a Bluetooth sound system to play your favorite tunes, and a cooler filled with ice and bottled water. Light snacks like chips and pretzels are provided, but the real treat is bringing your own drinks—whether that’s beer, wine, or soda.
Some reviews mention the onboard amenities like the large cooler and the Bluetooth system, which make the experience more personalized and fun. The boat also supplies beach mats, toys, rafts, and floats, making it easy to relax or play at the sandbar.
Keep in mind that personal coolers are welcome, so you can bring additional snacks or drinks if you want. But, the tour explicitly states no fishing poles, smoking, vaping, pets, or weapons onboard, which helps maintain a family-friendly, safe environment.
What to Bring and What to Expect
For a smooth trip, travelers should pack swimwear, towels, sunscreen, snacks, and drinks. Don’t forget your ID if you plan to enjoy adult beverages, and make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen—Florida sun can be intense. Since there’s no mention of food service, bringing your own snacks is a good idea, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
The boat has an onboard bathroom—a relief for those long sunny hours—and a Bluetooth system to keep the vibe lively. The group size is capped at 38, so it’s a relatively intimate experience without feeling crowded.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Would Enjoy This?
This cruise suits those who want a laid-back, social water day. It’s family-friendly but probably not ideal for guests with mobility impairments or motion sickness issues, given the boat ride. It’s also great for groups of friends, couples, or families hoping to mix some swimming with music and sunshine.
If you’re into having control over your drinks and snacks, the BYOB policy is a big plus. And if you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides (noted in reviews), you’ll likely enjoy the casual commentary and the relaxed pace of the trip.
The Value of the Experience
At $70, this experience offers good value for a 3-hour outing with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and enjoy the scenery. Considering the boat’s amenities, on-board facilities, and the inclusion of floats and toys, it’s a straightforward but enjoyable way to spend part of your day in New Smyrna Beach or Daytona.
While it’s not a luxury cruise, the focus on fun, sunshine, and good company makes it a memorable, budget-friendly choice for those who want to avoid overly structured tours and prefer a more casual vibe.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a simple, enjoyable day on the water with friends or family—complete with swimming, dancing, and the freedom to bring your own drinks—the Sip N Dip Island Sandbar Cruise is worth considering. It’s not fancy, but it’s genuine, and it captures that easy Florida style of soaking up the sun with good tunes and good company.
However, if you or your travel companions have mobility issues or get seasick easily, it’s worth knowing this might not be the best fit. And if you’re expecting a gourmet experience, this cruise leans more toward casual fun than luxury.
All in all, this trip appears to be a friendly, fun way to spend a few hours in the sunshine, especially if you enjoy the simplicity of floating, swimming, and socializing on the water.
New Smyrna Beach/Daytona: Sip N Dip Island Sandbar Cruise
FAQ
Is the cruise suitable for families?
Yes, it is described as family-friendly, making it a good option for a group outing with kids, as long as they’re comfortable with boat rides and swimming.
Can I bring my own beverages?
Absolutely. The tour explicitly allows you to bring your own drinks and snacks in personal coolers, giving you flexibility to enjoy your favorites.
How long is the sandbar stop?
You get about 1.5 hours to swim, float, and relax at the sandbar during the cruise.
What amenities are on the boat?
The boat has an onboard bathroom, Bluetooth sound system, large cooler with ice, bottled water, and light snacks.
Is there a limit to the group size?
Yes, the boat seats up to 38 guests comfortably, making it a fairly intimate outing.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted onboard.
What should I wear?
Swimwear is recommended, along with a towel and sunscreen. Bring whatever floats or toys you want to enjoy at the sandbar.
Is this experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
To sum it up, the Sip N Dip Island Sandbar Cruise offers a straightforward, fun day on the water, perfect if you’re looking to unwind, swim, and dance in a relaxed setting. It’s best suited for folks who enjoy casual social outings, don’t mind bringing their own drinks, and want to experience Florida’s scenic waterways without fuss. Just remember, it’s more about fun and sunshine than luxury or high-end amenities, but that’s part of what makes it appealing to many travelers seeking genuine, memorable moments on the coast.
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