St Augustine: Champagne Sunset Cruise w Nights of Lights opt

If you’re considering a night out on the water in St. Augustine, the Champagne Sunset Cruise by Fury Water Adventures offers a pretty compelling way to unwind and enjoy some of the city’s best sights. We’re not claiming to have personally taken this cruise, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it looks like a solid pick for anyone wanting to combine scenic beauty with a relaxed vibe.

What stands out about this experience are two features: the opportunity to enjoy a sunset over historic landmarks with drinks in hand and the option to see the enchanting Nights of Lights from the water during the holiday season. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a 1.5-hour cruise, so if you’re craving a longer or more in-depth tour, you might find this a bit brief. Still, for a laid-back evening or a romantic outing, it hits a lot of the right notes.

This cruise suits travelers who enjoy scenic vistas, appreciate good drinks, and want a taste of St. Augustine’s beauty without too much fuss. It’s especially great if you’re visiting during the Nights of Lights season, but even outside that period, the sunset views alone are worth it.

Key Points

• Relaxing 1.5-hour cruise along the coast with covered seating for comfort.
• Complimentary drinks include beer, wine, champagne, sodas, and water—no extra charge.
• Beautiful landmark views like Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine Lighthouse, and Bridge of Lions.
• Ideal for sunset lovers and those wanting a mellow, scenic experience.
• Seasonal Nights of Lights viewing available from Nov 15 – Jan 11.
• Professional crew and captain ensure a smooth, enjoyable ride.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

Imagine boarding a sleek Fury Corinthian Catamaran, feeling the gentle ocean breeze as your boat glides out from Vilano Beach. The vessel, boasting a nautical bathroom and covered seating, is designed for comfort, so you won’t be battling the sun or rain if the weather shifts unexpectedly. You’ll find yourself with a drink in hand—whether that’s beer, wine, or champagne—while the crew sets the tone for a relaxed, scenic evening.

As the boat moves along, you’ll get close-up views of some of St. Augustine’s most recognizable landmarks. The Castillo de San Marcos looms nearby, its ancient walls standing testament to the city’s long history. The St. Augustine Lighthouse offers a striking silhouette against the colorful sky, and the Bridge of Lions provides a picturesque backdrop. Watching the sunset from the water enhances the experience—watching the sky change from blue to shades of orange, pink, and purple, all while floating along a historic coast.

What Makes This Cruise Special

The real appeal here is in the combination of comfort and scenic beauty. The boat’s covered seating keeps you cozy if it gets a little breezy or if you want to avoid direct sunlight, and the drinks keep the mood light. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the crew are, adding a personal touch to what could otherwise be a simple boat ride.

Plus, if you’re visiting during the Nights of Lights season (Nov 15 – Jan 11), you get an extra magical dimension: viewing the spectacular holiday lights from the water. It’s a different perspective that makes the city’s festive display even more breathtaking. As one reviewer put it, they found the experience “awesome and beautiful,” and appreciated the “nice island vibes” set by the crew’s music.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, usually scheduled in the evening, making it a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. You’ll leave from the Vilano Beach Public Fishing Pier, with clear instructions—look for the big bluebird and dolphin arch, and find the floating dock on the left at the end of the pier.

Once onboard, the crew will set sail, and you can settle in comfortably. Expect to see iconic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine Lighthouse, and the Bridge of Lions—these are often visible from the water, and the vantage point lends a fresh perspective. During sunset, the sky often turns into a canvas of vibrant colors, a truly memorable sight.

If you’re lucky, you might spot some wildlife or catch sight of dolphins—though these are not guaranteed, the water is always lively. The drinks are a highlight, with complimentary options available throughout the cruise, making it easy to toast to a beautiful evening.

What Reviewers Say

While the experience is generally well-received, some reviewers mention the crew’s friendliness and the overall calming atmosphere as major pluses. One reviewer, Vivian, said, “It was awesome and beautiful!! Captain was great so were James and Olivia!!” The mention of good music adding to the island vibes shows how the cruise creates a laid-back, enjoyable environment.

The reviews also emphasize the stunning views—many say the sunset alone makes the trip worthwhile—and the fact that the crew is knowledgeable, enhancing the experience with commentary about landmarks.

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Value for Money

At $59 per person, this cruise offers a relaxed, scenic experience without breaking the bank. Considering the included drinks, the comfortable boat, and the chance to see the city’s landmarks from the water, it feels like a good value for a special evening. It’s not a long tour, but it’s well-paced and offers enough time to enjoy the views and soak in the atmosphere.

Practical Details

The cruise does not include gratuities, which are customary, so keep that in mind when budgeting. The check-in point is straightforward: look for the big bluebird and dolphin arch at Vilano Beach Public Fishing Pier. Remember to bring your ID or passport, as it’s required for check-in, and note that strollers, glass, and coolers are not allowed on board.

The tour is conducted in English, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—making this a flexible option if your plans shift.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for couples, friends, or anyone looking for a relaxed, scenic evening. It’s perfect if you love sunsets, want to see St. Augustine from a different angle, and appreciate good drinks in a comfortable setting. If you’re visiting during the holidays, the Nights of Lights viewing adds a Christmas charm that’s hard to beat.

It’s less suited for those seeking a longer, more comprehensive tour, or travelers with very young children who might have trouble staying seated or quiet for 1.5 hours. However, if you enjoy gentle outings and scenic views, this cruise fits the bill.

Final Thoughts

The Champagne Sunset Cruise offers a peaceful, visually stunning way to end your day in St. Augustine. With knowledgeable crew members, beautiful landmarks, and the chance to enjoy drinks and music, it’s a relaxing treat that balances comfort and scenic beauty. The seasonal Nights of Lights viewing makes it especially magical during the holiday season, transforming the city’s glow into a waterborne spectacle.

If you’re after a mellow experience with a touch of elegance and awe-inspiring views, this cruise delivers on those fronts. It’s a good pick for anyone wanting a memorable, laid-back evening—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone simply looking to unwind while soaking in the charm of one of America’s oldest cities.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, but children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult with ID. It’s a relaxed cruise, but keep in mind it’s about 1.5 hours long.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport. It’s best to wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather. Avoid bringing glass objects, coolers, or strollers, as these aren’t allowed onboard.

Can I see the Nights of Lights during the cruise?
Yes, if you go between November 15 and January 11, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the city’s holiday lights from the water.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is not included and is customary, so plan to tip the crew if you’re pleased with the service.

How do I find the meeting point?
Check in at the Vilano Beach Public Fishing Pier, look for the big bluebird and dolphin arch, and find the floating dock on the left at the end of the pier.

What’s the duration of the cruise?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, usually scheduled in the evening.

Are drinks included?
Yes, they offer complimentary beer, wine, champagne, sodas, and water during the cruise.

Is this a private or group experience?
It’s a group cruise operated with a captain and crew, so you’ll join other guests onboard.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic way to enjoy St. Augustine’s beauty and maybe toast a sunset or holiday lights, this cruise might just be your perfect evening.

You can check availability for your dates here: