St. Augustine: Nights of Lights Cruise with Music and Drinks

Imagine cruising through one of Florida’s most historic cities as it sparkles in thousands of holiday lights. That’s what this Nights of Lights cruise offers—an evening filled with warmth, cheer, and stunning views. This tour on Fury Water Adventures’ 65-foot catamaran isn’t just about seeing the lights; it’s about experiencing them from a unique vantage point, with live music and holiday treats making it a memorable night for many.

What we really like about this experience is how it blends the beauty of St. Augustine’s illuminated streets with the relaxing feel of being on the water. Plus, the inclusion of complimentary drinks and live music adds a festive touch that elevates the night from a simple sightseeing cruise to a true holiday celebration. However, it’s worth mentioning that it’s a 1.5-hour boat ride, so if you’re after a longer or more in-depth tour, you might find this somewhat brief.

This cruise is ideal for those looking for a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy the holiday season—whether you’re visiting for the first time or a local celebrating tradition. It’s especially suited for couples, friends, or small groups who want to soak in the lights without the crowds or traffic. Keep in mind, there is no hotel pickup included, so you’ll need to plan your own transport to the dock.

Key Points

• Beautiful views from the water offer a new perspective on St. Augustine’s iconic lights.
• Live music and holiday treats create a cheerful, festive atmosphere.
• Complimentary drinks and cookies make the experience feel cozy and indulgent.
• Comfortable, spacious catamaran ensures a smooth ride with plenty of deck space.
• Ideal for a relaxed evening that blends history, scenery, and holiday spirit.
• No hotel pickup means planning your own transportation is necessary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Nights of Lights Cruise

We love how this cruise captures the essence of St. Augustine during the holidays. The city’s historic charm comes alive at night, with streets and landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos glowing in the background. From the boat, you’ll get a panoramic view—no pushing through crowds or fighting traffic—just you, your loved ones, and the shimmering coastline.

What the Experience Looks Like

The check-in process takes place on the dock behind Beaches Restaurant, where you’ll complete a quick electronic waiver before boarding. The boat itself is modern and spacious, capable of comfortably accommodating guests while providing a stable, smooth ride across Matanzas Bay. From the upper deck, you’ll admire the city’s lights and the decorated boats that sit peacefully in the bay, adding a sense of holiday magic.

As the cruise begins, the real highlight is the twinkling lights stretching along the historic streets, beautifully reflected on the water. The cruise passes by notable landmarks such as Castillo de San Marcos, which looks especially stunning lit up against the night sky, and the towering Great Cross, both glowing with seasonal illumination.

Live Music and Refreshments

One of the standout features is the live music, which sets a lively yet relaxed tone for the evening. The tunes are appreciated by guests, who often mention how the music enhances the festive feel. The complimentary drinks—including beer, wine, water, and soda—are thoughtfully included, making it easy to toast the season, while the holiday cookies are a sweet touch that adds to the cozy, celebratory atmosphere.

Duration and Group Size

The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, which is enough time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for an early evening activity, especially if you want to continue exploring St. Augustine afterward. Although the group size isn’t explicitly mentioned, the spacious deck of a state-of-the-art catamaran suggests a comfortable, not overcrowded experience.

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What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently praise the stunning views and friendly staff. One traveler from the US shared, “A tour on the Fury was a fantastic way to see the lights of the Historic Bayfront of St Augustine. The view was absolutely stunning from the boat no matter what side you were on plus getting up close and personal views of some of the boats also decorated and parked out in the Bay was a bonus.” The smooth ride and live music were also highlighted as major pluses.

Another guest described it as, “The best tour you can choose. The music was exceptional and the view of the lights from the boat is incredible.” That high praise underscores how many find this cruise a memorable way to celebrate the holidays.

People also appreciate how it offers a traffic-free, crowd-free way to enjoy the city’s lights. One review mentioned, “This was a lot of fun and a great way to see the Christmas lights without the traffic and mobs of people.” It seems to strike a good balance between scenic beauty and comfort.

Points to Consider

A few reviewers mention that parking is not included, so you’ll need to arrive prepared. Dress warmly, especially since evenings near the water can be breezy, and bring your camera to capture the dazzling scenes. Some noted that the cruise is relatively short, so if you’re looking for an extensive tour or more in-depth commentary on the city, this might not fully satisfy that desire.

Value for Money

At $69 per person, this cruise offers a well-rounded experience that combines spectacular sights, entertainment, and refreshments in one package. Considering the cost of a comparable evening out in town—especially with drinks and live music included—it’s a reasonable price for a truly special night.

Much of the value comes from the unique perspective on the city’s lights, which you won’t get from land-based tours. The inclusion of holiday cookies and drinks makes it feel like a cozy holiday gathering rather than just a sightseeing trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is particularly suited to couples, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting a relaxed, joyful way to enjoy St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights. It’s a great choice if you prefer a seated experience with entertainment and drinks over walking or crowded events. It’s also perfect for those who love scenic views from the water, are interested in holiday celebrations, or simply want a peaceful evening cruise with beautiful scenery.

If you’re traveling with children, note that the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, but children are welcome with a chaperone. Just remember to dress warmly and plan your transportation, as the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Nights of Lights Cruise with Music and Drinks on Fury Water Adventures offers a charming way to experience one of Florida’s most beautiful holiday displays. The combination of scenic views, lively music, and festive treats makes it a memorable outing that’s both relaxing and visually stunning. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a cozy, intimate way to celebrate the season without the hassle of crowds or traffic.

While it’s a shorter, more relaxed tour, the quality of the views and atmosphere more than make up for it. If you’re looking for a holiday experience that blends history, scenery, and celebration, this cruise is worth considering. Just be sure to dress warmly, arrive prepared for parking, and enjoy the gentle, sparkling magic of St. Augustine by night.

FAQ

Is parking available at the dock?
Fury does not own any parking, so you’ll need to allow extra time to find parking nearby before check-in.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a camera, sunscreen (if you’re sensitive to UV even at night), comfortable clothes, and a valid ID or passport. Remember, coolers and glass objects aren’t allowed.

Are children allowed on this cruise?
Yes, minors are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult with a valid ID. Children 14 and under need a chaperone throughout the tour, and a ticket is required for all guests.

Is the tour suitable for people who get seasick?
The ride is described as smooth, but if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s wise to take precautions. The cruise duration is only 1.5 hours, which helps keep discomfort manageable.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get holiday cookies, complimentary beer, wine, water, soda, and live music. The scenic cruise itself is approximately 1.5 hours.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserving now and paying later also offers flexibility.

Whether you want to enjoy a romantic evening, celebrate with friends, or just see the city in a new light, this cruise offers a cozy, scenic, and festive way to do it.

You can check availability for your dates here: