Looking for great sailing in St. Petersburg, Florida? Two standout options cut through the tourist noise. The sunset sail with Suncoast Sailings packs big value into a 1-hour trip – you’ll likely spot dolphins while enjoying the gorgeous Gulf views. For something more substantial, their 2.5-hour daytime excursion lets you really soak in the coastal scenery.
I especially love the sunset sail for its intimate atmosphere and excellent price-to-experience ratio. The larger dining yacht offers a fun alternative, with its 3-hour evening cruise featuring live music and dinner service, though it’s less personal than the smaller sailboat options.
Let’s explore St. Petersburg’s best sailing tours…
Key Points
- Suncoast Sailings offers a 1-hour scenic sunset sail with a 96% recommendation rate and amenities like bottled water, soda, and blankets.
- Day Sailing Adventures provide a 2 1/2-hour excursion with a maximum group size of 28, engaging crew, and onboard amenities like a cooler and restroom.
- Evening Yacht Cruises feature a 3-hour cruise on a 113-foot dining yacht with live entertainment, DJ, and optional fine dining, ideal for couples and special occasions.
- Daytime Yacht Dance Cruises on the StarLite Sapphire offer live narration, onboard bar service, and lunch options, with opportunities for dolphin sightings.
- Private and Charter Yacht Experiences, such as Sand Dollar Dolphin Island Tours and Yacht Charters, provide a hassle-free experience with complimentary refreshments and informative narration.
Suncoast Sailings Sunset Sailing Experience!
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Treasure Island, Suncoast Sailings offers a captivating Sunset Sailing Experience that promises to enchant visitors.
With a 96% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this top-rated activity provides a scenic one-hour sail as the sun dips below the horizon.
Accommodating up to 28 passengers ages 12 and up, the experience features amenities like bottled water, soda, and blankets. Passengers can also bring their own beverages to enjoy while admiring the stunning views of the sunset and starry night sky.
Praised for its friendly crew, relaxing ambiance, and memorable moments like dolphin sightings, the Suncoast Sailings Sunset Sailing Experience is an ideal way to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of St. Petersburg.
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Suncoast Sailings Day Sailing Experience!
Suncoast Sailings’ Day Sailing Experience offers visitors a captivating 2 1/2-hour excursion on the waters of the Gulf of Mexico or Boca Ciega Bay, depending on weather conditions.
With a maximum group size of 28 travelers, the small-group setting provides a personalized and cozy atmosphere. The engaging, informative, and professional crew ensures guests have ample opportunities to spot dolphins, relax, and learn about sailing.
Amenities include a cooler for personal drinks, complimentary soda and bottled water, and a restroom on board.
Reviewers praise the wonderful sailing experience and highly recommend this activity, though some note a lack of detailed explanations during the sail.
Read our full review: Suncoast Sailings Day Sailing Experience! Review
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Evening Yacht Cruise With Optional Dining in St. Petersburg
The Evening Yacht Cruise With Optional Dining in St. Petersburg offers a scenic and relaxing 3-hour experience on the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay waterfront.
Guests can enjoy panoramic views aboard a modern 113-foot dining yacht, with live entertainment, DJ, and optional fine-dining meal service.
The cruise can accommodate up to 150 travelers and features wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as allowing service animals.
With an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 451 reviews, the cruise is praised for its atmosphere, food, and exceptional service from the staff.
It’s an ideal choice for couples, families, and those celebrating special occasions.
Read our full review: Evening Yacht Cruise With Optional Dining in St. Petersburg Review
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Daytime Yacht Dance Cruise With Optional Dining
On the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, the Daytime Yacht Dance Cruise With Optional Dining in St. Petersburg, USA, is a popular afternoon experience.
This 113-foot (34-meter) yacht, the StarLite Sapphire, accommodates up to 150 passengers and offers live narration, entertainment, and an onboard bar.
Lunch options, including seafood, vegetarian, and chicken dishes, are available for purchase, though not included in the Cruise Only option.
The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.
With a 90% traveler recommendation based on 10 reviews, this 4.5-star experience provides beautiful sights, an enjoyable atmosphere, and the opportunity to spot dolphins during the cruise.
Read our full review: Daytime Yacht Dance Cruise With Optional Dining Review
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Yacht Charter Madeira Beach and Tampa Bay
For a scenic small-group boat adventure, the Yacht Charter Madeira Beach and Tampa Bay experience offers travelers a chance to cruise along the coastal waters.
This 18-passenger catamaran trip includes stunning views of the area’s coastal homes, with the captain providing informative narration throughout. Guests can bring their own drinks, with a cooler and ice provided onboard.
The experience includes private transportation, as well as amenities like WiFi, air conditioning, and access to a restroom.
While the tour is non-refundable, reviewers rave about the excellent service, safety, and memorable sunset views, including sightings of dolphins.
Read our full review: Yacht Charter Madeira Beach and Tampa Bay Review
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Private Yacht Cruise Sand Dollar Dolphin Island Tours
Why not explore the stunning coastal waters of St. Petersburg, Florida, on a private yacht cruise?
The Sand Dollar Dolphin Island Tours offer a unique opportunity to witness dolphins and other marine life in their natural habitat. Priced at $530 for up to 6 people, this tour provides a hassle-free experience, with complimentary bottled water and refreshments.
The tour departs from the dock behind The Hotel Zamora, and while parking is limited, guests can opt for Uber, the FreeBee beach shuttle, or street parking.
With an overall 5-star rating and positive reviews praising the exceptional service and relaxing atmosphere, this tour is a must-try for those seeking a memorable sailing adventure in St. Petersburg.
Read our full review: Private Yacht Cruise Sand Dollar Dolphin Island Tours Review
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Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise With Optional Dining
Eager to explore St. Petersburg’s waterways? Consider the Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining.
This 2-hour cruise aboard the 113-foot StarLite Sapphire yacht offers a relaxing and educational experience on Tampa Bay. Operated by Starlite Cruises, the USCG-certified vessel features outdoor decks, an indoor lounge, and an onboard bar.
Passengers can choose from six lunch options, including seafood, vegetarian, and poultry dishes. While the food quality receives mixed reviews, the cruise’s highlights include live narration, opportunities to spot dolphins, and stunning views of the harbor.
With a 4.5-star rating from 65 reviews, this cruise is a popular choice for those seeking a leisurely day on the water in St. Petersburg.
Read our full review: Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise With Optional Dining Review
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2-Hour 15-Minute Sunset Sail in a Luxury Yacht
The 2-hour 15-minute Sunset Sail in a Luxury Yacht provides a serene and picturesque way to experience St. Petersburg, USA.
Operated by Bay to Gulf Sailing, this tour departs from the meeting point at 4908 Sunrise Dr S and returns to the same location.
Travelers will enjoy a restroom on board and bottled water during the sail. The tour is accessible to most travelers, but infants must sit on laps, and a maximum of 6 participants are allowed.
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tour starts at 6:00 PM, allowing guests to witness the stunning sunset over the water.
Read our full review: 2-Hour 15-Minute Sunset Sail in a Luxury Yacht Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Yacht?
Most yacht rental companies allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks onboard. However, it’s best to check with the specific operator regarding their policies and any restrictions before the sailing trip.
Do I Need to Know How to Sail to Participate?
You don’t need to know how to sail to participate in a yacht tour. Most operators provide experienced crews who’ll handle the sailing, allowing you to simply enjoy the experience and take in the scenic views.
What Is the Dress Code for the Sailing Experiences?
The dress code for sailing experiences is typically casual and comfortable. Participants should wear lightweight, breathable clothing and closed-toe shoes to ensure their safety and ease of movement on the boat.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Yacht Cruises?
There are typically no age restrictions for yacht cruises in St. Petersburg, though operators may have guidelines for young children’s safety and participation. Families can often enjoy these sailing experiences together, subject to any specific policies set by the cruise provider.
Can I Request a Specific Route or Itinerary for the Sailing?
Yes, you can typically request a specific route or itinerary for the sailing. Many yacht cruise companies in the area offer customizable experiences, allowing you to tailor the journey to your preferences.
Recap
St. Petersburg, Florida, offers an array of unforgettable sailing experiences. From sunset cruises and daytime sails to yacht dances and private charters, there’s something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening or a fun-filled day on the water, these sailing adventures provide an excellent way to explore the picturesque coastline and enjoy the region’s natural beauty.