St. Augustine Island Tour, up to 6 passengers

St. Augustine Island Tour, Up to 6 Passengers: A Waterway Adventure with a Personal Touch

If you’re looking to see St. Augustine from a different perspective, this private boat tour offers an engaging mix of natural beauty and local history—all from the water. For $425 per group, up to six of you can enjoy approximately 3.5 hours of scenic cruising, wildlife spotting, and landmark views. Led by Captain Dan, this trip includes stops at the St. Augustine Lighthouse, Fort Matanzas, and a view of the Bridge of Lions, with options to add a waterfront meal or explore Fort Matanzas in more depth for an extra fee.

What makes this experience stand out are two things we truly appreciate: first, the personalized attention you get on the boat, and second, the chance to observe dolphins, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Also, the photo opportunities—like viewing the lighthouse and bridge from the water—are pretty special.

A possible consideration is that this tour is quite flexible in timing but can be affected if you choose to extend it with additional stops or activities like visiting Fort Matanzas, which does incur an extra fee of $50. It’s best suited for travelers who want an intimate, relaxed outing away from busy crowds, especially those interested in scenic views and local lore.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a personalized, laid-back pace with a focus on natural and historic sights. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a memorable, private outing will find it especially appealing. If you appreciate wildlife and stunning water views, this trip ticks those boxes—and with only your group on board, it promises a more relaxed experience.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, ensuring a relaxed, flexible experience.
• Historic and Scenic Stops: Views of the lighthouse, Fort Matanzas, and the Bridge of Lions are highlights.
• Wildlife Watching: Dolphin sightings and birdwatching are common and add an exciting element.
• Flexible Itinerary: The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with options to include additional stops or activities for extra fees.
• Great Photo Ops: Water-based views of iconic landmarks are perfect for memorable pictures.
• Value for Money: For up to six people, the cost includes a personalized tour with knowledgeable narration by Captain Dan.

In-Depth Look at the St. Augustine Island Tour

What’s Included and What’s Not?

This private boat trip is priced at $425 for your group, which makes it quite competitive considering the personalized nature of the experience. Snacks and bottled water are provided, so you can relax without worrying about bringing your own refreshments. The tour also uses a mobile ticket, making booking straightforward.

However, it’s important to note that visiting Fort Matanzas involves an additional fee of $50. If you’re eager to explore the fort’s grounds or its history more thoroughly, budgeting for this extra cost is wise. The tour begins at 101 Vilano Causeway at 11:00 am, and since it’s a private experience, only your group will participate, making for a more intimate outing.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Experience

Water View of St. Augustine Lighthouse
The trip kicks off with a water-based view of the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Captain Dan will share its history and significance, adding context to your photo opportunities of this iconic structure. We loved the way the lighthouse appears from the water—its commanding presence against the coastline makes for striking pictures.

Fort Matanzas
Next, you’ll get a scenic view of Fort Matanzas from the water. If you opt for the extra fee, you can stop at the fort itself, which is a National Monument. Captain Dan’s brief history of the fort enriches the experience, turning a simple photo stop into an educational moment.

Bridge of Lions
A favorite for many visitors, the Bridge of Lions provides a beautiful water view, and Captain Dan’s commentary adds historical flavor. Seeing this landmark from the water offers a fresh perspective and plenty of opportunities for great photos.

Holiday Sunset Tour (Seasonal)
From November 18 to January 31, the tour can be combined with the Nights of Lights, a magical holiday lighting display. During this season, the tour adds holiday music and hot cocoa, transforming your boat ride into a cozy, festive experience. This seasonal option enhances the appeal if you’re visiting during the winter months.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

Based on reviews, one standout is the personalized nature of the tour. A Tripadvisor reviewer remarked, “Cap’n Dan makes it YOUR trip!” highlighting how the guide tailors the experience and keeps it engaging. Another review called it “almost flawless,” praising the comfort of the boat and Captain Dan’s navigation skills.

Many travelers value the good value for money, especially given the private setting. It’s not just a sightseeing cruise; it’s an educational and memorable outing. The dolphin sightings are a big bonus—many visitors report seeing them leap and play, adding to the magic of the trip.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing: The tour starts at 11:00 am, so plan to arrive a little early to settle in.
• Group Size: Limited to 6 passengers, making it intimate and ideal for families or small groups.
• Duration: At roughly 3.5 hours, it’s a manageable daytime activity that can be combined with other explorations.
• Booking: It’s best to book well in advance—about 34 days ahead on average—to secure your preferred date.

What to Consider

If you’re hoping to explore Fort Matanzas in depth, remember there’s an extra fee. If your main interest is wildlife viewing and scenic water views, this tour provides plenty of entertainment without additional costs. Be aware that weather can influence the experience—note that the tour is weather-dependent for safety, especially if high winds or storms are forecasted.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, private, and informative way to see St. Augustine’s waterways and landmarks. It’s especially suited for small groups or families wanting a personalized adventure with a knowledgeable captain. Nature lovers will appreciate the dolphin and birdwatching opportunities, while history buffs will enjoy the commentary on local sites.

The Sum Up

The St. Augustine Island Tour offers a memorable, personalized way to experience this historic city from the water. With its intimate setting, scenic stops, and knowledgeable guide, it stands out as a valuable option for travelers wanting a relaxed, authentic boat outing. The chance to see dolphins, snap scenic photos of the lighthouse and bridge, and learn about local landmarks makes it a well-rounded experience.

While the extra fee for Fort Matanzas might be a consideration, many will find the core 3.5-hour trip more than enough for a fun and educational day. The tour’s great value lies in its private setting, flexible itinerary, and the chance to enjoy St. Augustine’s waterways away from the crowds. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or couples looking for a special, personalized adventure on the water.

If you love wildlife, water views, and historical stories, this boat tour offers a relaxed yet informative way to spend part of your visit to Florida’s oldest city.

FAQ

How many people can participate in this tour?
Up to 6 passengers, making it a cozy, private experience perfect for families or small groups.

What is the cost of the tour?
$425 for your entire group, which includes the boat ride, snacks, and water. Additional fees apply if you visit Fort Matanzas.

What landmarks will I see?
You will view the St. Augustine Lighthouse, Fort Matanzas (from the water), and the Bridge of Lions. These are great photo opportunities and come with brief historical insights from Captain Dan.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3.5 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy the sights and wildlife without feeling rushed.

Can I extend the tour or add activities?
Yes, you can visit Fort Matanzas for an extra $50, which might require some extra time. The seasonal Nights of Lights tour runs from November to January, adding holiday ambiance.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, check with the provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sunglasses, and perhaps a light jacket, especially if you’re sensitive to wind. Snacks and water are provided.

How do I book this tour?
Via the Viator website or directly through Adventure in Paradise, with bookings typically made well in advance to secure your preferred date.

This private boat tour in St. Augustine delivers a charming mix of wildlife, scenic views, and historic insight—sure to be a highlight of your visit to this charming coastal city.