Nights of Lights Private Boat Tour St. Augustine, max 6 passenger

If you’re visiting St. Augustine during the festive season or simply want a different perspective on this charming city, a private boat tour to see the Nights of Lights is a solid choice. We haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, but after digging into the details and reviews, it looks like a cozy, intimate way to enjoy the city’s famous holiday display.

What really appeals to us is the personalized experience, with only up to six passengers—you won’t be crammed in with strangers. Plus, the views from the water of the historic sites and the lit-up cityscape sound truly enchanting. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that, since it’s a water-based experience, it depends a lot on good weather, and you might want to plan accordingly.

If you’re someone who loves a mix of scenic beauty, a dash of history, and a relaxed, private vibe, this tour seems like a wonderful option—especially for couples celebrating special moments or small families wanting a memorable night out.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: The small group size (max 6 people) makes it perfect for a relaxed, personalized outing.
• Beautiful Night Views: The tour offers stunning views of the Nights of Lights, lighthouse, Castillo de San Marcos, and Bridge of Lions.
• Relaxing Extras: Hot chocolate, snacks, blankets, and music add a cozy touch.
• Flexible & Private: Your own group means no rushing or crowded spaces.
• Good Value: At $46 for about two hours, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a special evening in St. Augustine.
• Weather Dependent: The experience relies on good weather; if canceled, you’ll get a full refund or a different date.

First Impressions: What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour kicks off from 101 Vilano Causeway at 3:30 pm, and since it lasts approximately two hours, you’ll be back around 5:30 pm—ideal for catching the sunset or just enjoying the city lights. The package includes snacks and soda—a nice touch for staying refreshed—and blankets to keep warm if it’s a chilly evening. You’re welcome to bring your own alcohol if you prefer, which makes it flexible for celebrating or just unwinding.

The tour is entirely private, so only your group joins, making it perfect for a romantic date, family outing, or a special celebration like an engagement or anniversary. The guide, Captain Dan, receives consistent praise for his friendly, knowledgeable attitude, which really enhances the experience.

The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Highlights

Stop 1: St. Augustine & Nights of Lights

The experience begins with a serene cruise through the city to see the Nights of Lights, a dazzling display of over three million tiny lights decorating the historic streets and buildings. The tour provides holiday music, hot chocolate, and blankets to keep things festive and cozy. The water view offers a unique angle—you’re essentially floating through a twinkling, animated holiday scene. Several reviews mention how the lights look even more spectacular from the water, a different perspective from walking or driving.

Stop 2: St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

Next, the boat approaches the St. Augustine Lighthouse, which looks stunning illuminated from the water. You get a chance to admire the tower’s splendor against the evening sky, a photo-worthy moment that guests rave about. Although admission to the lighthouse itself isn’t included, the views from the boat are impressive enough to feel like a special peek.

Stop 3: Nature & Marine Life

The tour spends about an hour cruising along the water, where you might spot dolphins, birds, and other local wildlife. Reviewers highlight how soothing and engaging this part of the trip is, and many appreciate the chance to see nature in a relaxed setting. It adds a peaceful, almost meditative quality to the evening.

Stop 4: Castillo de San Marcos & Stop 5: Bridge of Lions

The boat pauses to give a quick look at Castillo de San Marcos, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, from the water. Though the tour doesn’t include entry, seeing it lit up from the water offers a fresh perspective. The Bridge of Lions is also visible, framing the scene with its historic charm. These views are brief but vivid, giving you a sense of the city’s rich history.

The Experience: What Makes It Special?

From the reviews, it’s clear that Captain Dan plays a significant role in making this tour memorable. Guests mention how he “bent over backwards” to ensure everyone had a good time, stopping for photos, sharing stories, and making the experience feel customized. Many rave about how “entertaining” and “knowledgeable” he is, which can turn a simple boat ride into a thoroughly enjoyable outing.

The warm blankets, holiday music, and hot chocolate add a layer of comfort that makes the chilly evening more pleasant. These touches are thoughtful, especially if you’re visiting during cooler months, and help create that cozy, holiday spirit.

The Practical Side: Price, Duration & Group Size

At $46 per person, this tour offers a good bang for your buck considering the personalized nature and the scenic views. The two-hour duration is just right—enough time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The small group size, with a maximum of six, guarantees a more intimate experience, which we think is often worth the extra expense over larger, less personalized tours.

Most travelers find the price reasonable for the quality of the trip, especially given the reviews praising the host and the scenery. It’s an experience that feels special without breaking the bank.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Since the tour is weather-dependent, it’s wise to keep an eye on the forecast. If poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Canceling at least 24 hours in advance ensures a full refund—so plan with flexibility if you’re on a tight schedule. It’s worth noting that most travelers say they’d love to rebook when the weather is clearer, especially to catch the sunset or do more island activities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private boat tour is ideally suited for couples wanting a romantic evening, small families celebrating something special, or small groups of friends who want a relaxed outing. If you’re looking for a quiet, personalized experience with great views and thoughtful touches, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

However, if you’re traveling during unpredictable weather or prefer larger group tours, you might want to explore other options. But generally, if you’d love a calm, scenic cruise with a knowledgeable guide, this tour should be on your list.

Final Thoughts

The Nights of Lights Private Boat Tour in St. Augustine offers a warm, intimate alternative to crowded sightseeing. With beautiful water views, friendly guidance from Captain Dan, and thoughtful extras like hot chocolate and blankets, it feels like a cozy holiday retreat on the water.

The value is solid, especially if you’re after a personalized experience that combines scenic beauty with a touch of history and nature. The main consideration is the weather—be prepared to reschedule if necessary—but if the stars align, you’ll leave with some stunning photos, peaceful memories, and a fresh appreciation for this historic city.

For romantic dates, special celebrations, or just a relaxed evening with a view, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s a great way to see the city’s lights in a way that feels both magical and personal.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour is private and small, it can be suitable for families with children, but keep in mind the boat’s size and the weather. Always check if your kids are comfortable on water and dress appropriately.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes snacks, soda, blankets, and holiday music. You are welcome to bring your own beverages, including alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 3:30 pm, which allows for a relaxed experience and possibly catching the sunset or enjoying the city lights.

What are the main sights I will see?
You’ll see Nights of Lights, the St. Augustine Lighthouse, Castillo de San Marcos, and the Bridge of Lions from the water, along with potential wildlife like dolphins and birds.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Your booking can be canceled with a full refund if the weather is poor. You’ll be notified in advance or on the day of the tour.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, Captain Dan is known for making stops for photos and sharing stories, making it a fairly flexible experience within the scheduled itinerary.

How much does it cost?
The price is $46 per person, which many find fair for the quality and intimacy of the tour.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and personalized way to enjoy St. Augustine’s holiday lights and historic sights from the water, this private boat tour might just be the perfect choice. It combines great scenery, friendly guidance, and thoughtful touches that make for a memorable night out—an experience that’s worth considering if you want to see the city in a whole new light.