St. Augustine Private Boat Tour
Private Trip
Cruise
2-hour private boat tour explores historic St. Augustine waterwaysSmall group experience accommodates up to 6 guests maximumWildlife viewing combined with scenic coastal navigation and history
Looking for a relaxed way to see Historic St. Augustine from the water? This 2-hour private boat tour gives you the best of both worlds – stunning coastal scenery and fascinating local history, all from the comfort of your own charter. With space for up to 6 guests, you'll cruise through some of Florida's most beautiful waterways while your captain shares stories about the nation's oldest city that you won't find in any guidebook. It's the perfect blend of sightseeing and education, without the crowds or rigid schedules of larger tour boats.
Your private charter departs from St. Augustine's marina, where you'll meet your local captain who knows these waters like the back of their hand. The boat is designed for comfort and sightseeing, with plenty of seating and great visibility from every angle. As you cruise through the Matanzas Bay and surrounding coastal waterways, you'll get unique perspectives of the Castillo de San Marcos, the historic lighthouse, and centuries-old architecture that lines the shore. The pace is leisurely – think of it as a floating history lesson rather than a high-speed adventure. Your captain will point out dolphins when they appear, share local legends, and take you to spots that showcase both the natural beauty and rich maritime heritage of this area. The intimate group size means you can ask questions, request specific photo stops, and truly customize the experience to what interests you most.
The boat used for these tours is specifically chosen for stability and comfort in the protected waters around St. Augustine. You'll be cruising through calm intracoastal waterways rather than heading into open ocean, which means a smooth ride for guests of all ages. The captain handles all the navigation while providing live commentary about the historical significance of landmarks you're passing. These aren't just scenic boat rides – your guide brings decades of local knowledge about everything from Spanish colonial history to modern conservation efforts. The route typically includes passes by Fort Matanzas, views of Anastasia State Park from the water, and close-ups of historic buildings that are impossible to appreciate from land. Binoculars are usually available on board for wildlife spotting, and the boat moves at speeds that allow for great photography without wind interference.
While this isn't primarily a wildlife tour, the waters around St. Augustine are home to several species that regularly make appearances during these cruises. Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are the stars of the show here – these intelligent marine mammals are year-round residents and often approach boats out of curiosity. They're most active in the morning and late afternoon, frequently surfacing near the vessel in small pods of 3-6 individuals. Guests love watching their playful behavior and synchronized swimming patterns. The shallow coastal waters also support healthy populations of West Indian manatees, especially during cooler months from November through March when they seek warmer waters near natural springs. These gentle giants can reach 10-12 feet in length and move slowly through the water, making them easy to spot and photograph. Brown pelicans are constant companions on these tours, often following the boat or diving for fish nearby. Their prehistoric appearance and impressive 6-foot wingspan make them fascinating subjects for photos, and they're particularly active during incoming tides when baitfish are more abundant.
This St. Augustine private boat tour delivers exactly what it promises – a comfortable, educational, and scenic way to experience Florida's historic coast from a unique perspective. The 2-hour timeframe is perfect for families with kids, couples wanting a romantic afternoon, or anyone who wants to see the sights without committing to a full day on the water. With only 6 guests maximum, you're getting personalized attention and flexibility that simply isn't possible on larger tour boats. The combination of historical insights, potential wildlife encounters, and stunning waterfront views makes this a top-rated choice for both first-time visitors and locals who want to see their city from a new angle. Contact Adventure In Paradise to reserve your preferred date and time – these intimate cruises book up quickly, especially during peak season and weekends.
Cruise through St. Augustine's historic waterways aboard our brand-new 2023 Key West 239 DFS, a sleek runabout designed for comfort and exploration. This premium vessel accommodates up to six guests and features a powerful 250 HP Yamaha engine that glides smoothly at cruising speeds perfect for sightseeing. Your floating home base comes equipped with onboard restroom, multimedia system for your favorite playlist, GPS navigation, and VHF radio for safety. The spacious layout includes comfortable seating, kitchen facilities, and even a refreshing shower for those warm Florida days. Built specifically for both inshore adventures and family-friendly touring, this motorboat offers the perfect blend of performance and relaxation. Rod holders and fishfinder are ready if you want to drop a line, while the stable design ensures everyone stays comfortable as you discover St. Augustine's coastal beauty, spot local wildlife, and learn about the area's rich maritime history from your experienced captain.
St. Augustine, FL