If you’re eyeing a fun, laid-back way to enjoy a Florida sunset, the Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise in St. Augustine could be a delightful choice. It’s a two-hour ride on a pirate-themed ship that promises Caribbean-inspired vibes, dolphin sightings, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or a partner, this cruise offers a casual, enjoyable way to take in the sights and sounds of this historic coastal town.
What makes this experience stand out are the stunning waterfront views and the lively, beachy soundtrack that really sets the tone. We also love that it’s an affordable option — at just $32 per person, it offers a memorable outing without breaking the bank. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that parking at the marina isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan a bit ahead for that. This cruise is well-suited for anyone wanting a relaxed, fun perspective on St. Augustine, especially if you enjoy a good sunset with some drinks and a bit of pirate flair.
Key Points
- Affordable price for a 2-hour scenic cruise with lively music.
- Dolphin sightings are common, adding a wildlife touch to the experience.
- Caribbean-inspired vibes with music, drinks, and a pirate ship setting.
- Great for all ages, with a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
- Beautiful views of the historic city and surrounding waterway.
- Parking is not included, so plan for some extra time or alternative transport.
What to Expect on the Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise
The Black Raven cruise offers a relaxed cruise experience, perfect if you’re after a casual, scenic ride with a touch of fun. The boat itself is styled like a pirate ship, which adds a playful element that appeals to many travelers and makes it feel slightly different from your typical boat tour.
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The Itinerary and Sights
Once you check in at the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, you’ll step aboard the Black Raven and set sail north on the Matanzas River. The route takes you past some of the most picturesque spots in the area: the historic Bridge of Lions, the imposing Castillo de San Marcos, the iconic St. Augustine Lighthouse, and the Vilano Bridge and Pier. You’ll also cruise through Salt Run, where dolphins are often seen during feeding time, adding a wildlife spectacle to the trip.
The tour lasts for about two hours, making it a just-right length for most visitors. It generally occurs in the late afternoon or evening, coinciding with the sunset, which is one of the main highlights. The views of the city bathed in sunset light are truly beautiful, especially with the historic structures providing a picturesque backdrop.
The Atmosphere and What You’ll Enjoy
The vibe onboard is very much beach-party meets pirate adventure. Expect upbeat beachy tunes by artists like Jimmy Buffet and Bob Marley, creating a relaxed, tropical feel. You’re encouraged to make song requests—pirates are happy to accommodate you, making the experience feel personalized.
Guests often mention how friendly and helpful the crew is, with reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. One reviewer noted, “The guides were a female pirate from Scotland and a Pirate Captain with dreadlocks,” which adds a fun, authentic touch to the storytelling.
Drinks, Snacks, and the Bar
The fully stocked bar offers a range of drinks, from tropical cocktails like Bahama Mamas to beer and soft drinks. Keep in mind that drinks and snacks are available for purchase, but not included in the price. One visitor said, “The drinks were flowing, the music was great, and the scenery is amazing,” which really captures the laid-back, social atmosphere.
More Great Tours NearbyWildlife and Scenic Highlights
Dolphins are a common sight, especially during feeding time in Salt Run, and many guests have shared their excitement about spotting these playful creatures. Some reviewers also mentioned spotting bald eagles along the way, adding to the natural charm of the cruise.
Practical Details and Considerations
Parking at the marina is not included, and since there’s no dedicated lot, you should allow at least 45 minutes to find metered parking or a nearby paid lot. For those with mobility issues or large groups, it might be easiest to be dropped off at the marina while someone else parks.
The tour is suitable for a wide age range, making it a good option for families or groups of friends. However, smoking, drugs, and outside alcohol are not permitted on the boat, maintaining a family-friendly environment.
Tickets are flexible—if your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve your spot without paying upfront, which offers some peace of mind.
Authentic Traveler Experiences
Reviewers consistently praise the friendly crew and the stunning sunsets. One guest shared, “The sunset was beautiful, and the crew was fantastic and funny,” emphasizing the overall enjoyable atmosphere. Another noted, “We saw dolphins close to the ship,” highlighting the wildlife highlight. Several reviews mention how much fun they had with the pirates, especially the captain, making it feel like a mini-adventure rather than just a boat ride.
While most reviews are glowing, a couple of guests noted that the cruise is a slow cruise out and back, with nothing overly exceptional beyond the scenery and atmosphere. Also, a recent review mentioned a canceled cruise, which highlights the importance of checking availability in advance.
Who Would Love This Tour?
If you enjoy a relaxed, social environment with scenic views, this cruise is a solid pick. It’s particularly good for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a little entertainment, music, and wildlife spotting. It’s also a great idea for a casual date night or a fun outing with friends. Families with older children who enjoy pirate themes and dolphins will find it a charming outing, though it’s not specifically marketed as family-focused.
Final Thoughts
The Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise offers a surprisingly good value for its price—around $32 for two hours of scenic, dolphin-filled cruising with lively music in a pirate ship setting. It’s a relaxed experience that balances scenic beauty with entertainment, making it suitable for a wide audience.
The highlights—stunning sunset views, friendly guides, and dolphin sightings—make this a memorable highlight of any trip to St. Augustine. While parking can be a bit tricky, the overall experience is worth the little extra planning. The cruise’s easygoing atmosphere means you can just sit back, sip a drink, and enjoy the view while feeling like you’ve stepped into a Caribbean beach party for a couple of hours.
If you appreciate a mix of scenic beauty, wildlife, and easygoing fun, this cruise is a charming way to spend part of your day in St. Augustine. Just plan ahead for parking, and you’ll be in for a relaxing, picturesque ride that many visitors find well worth the price.
St. Augustine: Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise
FAQ
Is parking available at the marina?
Parking is not included and there’s no dedicated lot. You’ll need to find metered parking or a paid parking lot nearby, so plan to arrive at least 45 minutes early.
Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.
Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks and snacks are available for purchase onboard. The bar is fully stocked, so you can enjoy cocktails, beer, or soft drinks during the cruise.
Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for all ages due to the fun, relaxed atmosphere, but keep in mind the pirate ship theme and the fact that outside alcohol and smoking are not allowed.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short outing that fits well into a sightseeing day.
What sights will I see during the cruise?
Expect views of the Bridge of Lions, Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine Lighthouse, Vilano Bridge and Pier, St. Augustine Inlet, and Salt Run, where dolphins are often seen.
What is the general vibe onboard?
The atmosphere is fun and beachy, with upbeat music, friendly guides, and a playful pirate theme that adds a sense of adventure.
This cruise is a great way to unwind and enjoy the beauty of St. Augustine from the water. It combines scenic views, wildlife, and a cheerful vibe at an accessible price, perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed yet memorable outing. Just remember to plan ahead for parking, and you’ll be all set to enjoy this unique Caribbean-inspired adventure.
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