Clearwater isn’t just famous for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters—it also offers some fantastic dinner experiences that make your stay memorable. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, a lively afternoon, or a scenic cruise with good food, Clearwater’s waterside adventures deliver. We’re especially fond of the Clearwater Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining, which combines stunning sunset views with live music and the chance to dance or relax with a drink in hand. It’s a perfect date night or special occasion outing. The flexibility of choosing to dine onboard or enjoy the scenery makes it stand out among the options.
If daytime is more your style, the Clearwater Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining offers a relaxed way to explore inland waters, catch glimpses of dolphins, and learn local history from an engaging captain. Or, for those who prefer a lively, upbeat atmosphere, the Clearwater Daytime Yacht Music Cruise with Optional Dining combines scenic cruising with a band playing your favorite tunes and an optional gourmet lunch. Each of these tours provides a unique angle on Clearwater’s waters, giving you a chance to enjoy the water while savoring good food and fun.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top dinner experiences, helping you decide which one fits your mood, budget, and schedule.
1. Clearwater Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining
Starting with the sunset cruise that’s perfect for lovers of romance and live music, this tour is rated 4.5 out of 5 based on 444 reviews. For about $32 per person, you’ll enjoy approximately 3 hours of Tampa Bay’s shimmering waters aboard the elegant StarLite Majesty yacht. The cruise departs from Clearwater and offers a spectacular view of the water and sky as the sun dips below the horizon, depending on the time of year.
What makes this cruise stand out is the optional gourmet dinner service, which you can purchase once onboard. The menu includes 11 different entrees, alongside salads, desserts, and hot coffee or tea. You’ll be seated comfortably either inside the climate-controlled dining cabin or outside on the open-air decks, which provide the best vantage point for the sunset. The onboard entertainment includes live music, with a DJ occasionally encouraging everyone to dance or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
This cruise is especially well-suited to couples looking for a romantic evening or anyone celebrating a special occasion. Reviewers praise the “great food,” “beautiful scenery,” and “relaxing environment,” making it a popular choice for a memorable night on the water. The value offered by the flexible dining options and the scenic views makes it a top pick for around $32.
Bottom Line: An elegant, romantic evening cruise with optional dining and lively entertainment—ideal for couples and celebrating milestones.
2. Clearwater Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining
Rated 4.5 out of 5 with 86 reviews, this 2-hour cruise offers an immersive look at Clearwater’s inland waters. For around $27, you get a narrated cruise aboard the StarLite Majesty, where the captain shares insights into local landmarks and history. You can choose the open-air deck for unobstructed views or stay inside the climate-controlled cabin if the sun is too intense.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to add on a freshly prepared lunch, making it a great option for a midday outing. The menu features a variety of options, including appetizers and light meals, available for purchase once onboard. During the cruise, keep an eye out for dolphins and other wildlife—many guests enjoy spotting playful dolphins or pelicans while learning about the area’s ecological and cultural significance.
This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, informative experience combined with the chance to refuel with good food. One reviewer noted, “The vessel was nice, the food was very tasty with good-sized portions,” highlighting its value. The combination of sightseeing, wildlife, and food makes this a balanced option for a couple of hours on the water.
Bottom Line: A scenic, educational cruise perfect for wildlife lovers and history buffs, with an optional lunch to make the most of your daylight hours.
3. Clearwater Daytime Yacht Music Cruise with Optional Dining
Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 57 reviews, this lively cruise brings a party atmosphere to Clearwater Bay. For about $32, you get 2.5 hours of dancing, live music, and fantastic coastal views aboard the StarLite Majesty. The cruise starts in Clearwater Beach and features a vibrant band playing songs that keep everyone on their feet.
What makes this experience distinctive is the option to include a 3-course sit-down lunch, prepared fresh onboard by an executive chef. Guests can select from six different entrees, accompanied by salads or light appetizers. A fully stocked bar offers cocktails, though drinks are extra. The atmosphere is perfect for celebrating birthdays, bachelorette parties, or simply enjoying a fun afternoon with friends.
Reviewers highlight the “great food,” “fabulous staff,” and “fabulous music,” noting that even on cloudy days, the energy on board keeps spirits high. This cruise is best suited for those who want a lively, upbeat experience with the added bonus of a delicious meal and dancing on the water.
Bottom Line: An energetic daytime cruise with live music and optional gourmet lunch—ideal for festive groups or those looking to dance and dine in style.
How to Choose
When deciding between these Clearwater dinner options, consider your priorities. For a romantic sunset with a touch of elegance, the Clearwater Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining offers a memorable experience. If your priority is sightseeing and wildlife, the Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise provides a relaxed, informative day. For a lively, dance-filled afternoon, the Daytime Yacht Music Cruise combines fun, food, and music.
Budget-wise, all three tours offer reasonable prices, but the value depends on whether you want to add dining or entertainment. The sunset cruise tends to emphasize romance and scenic beauty, while the daytime cruises focus on wildlife and lively atmosphere.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and seating. Also, check if dining options are included or available for purchase once onboard, as this can influence your overall experience.
Clearwater offers a variety of waterside dining experiences suited to different tastes and occasions. Whether you want a quiet sunset cruise, an educational wildlife tour, or a lively dance party on the water, there’s something for all. For a romantic, scenic evening, the Clearwater Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining is hard to beat. For daytime adventures, the sightseeing and music cruise deliver a lively, scenic, and fun experience. Planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable Clearwater waterside outings.