Imagine sailing along the historic waters of St. Augustine with the breeze in your hair, a drink in hand, and the sun dipping into the horizon. This 2-hour sunset cruise aboard the Black Raven pirate ship offers a relaxed, fun-filled way to experience the city’s scenic beauty from a different angle. For just $32 per person, you can enjoy a lively atmosphere inspired by the Caribbean, complete with music, dolphin sightings, and a touch of pirate adventure.
What we love about this experience is how it manages to balance affordable pricing with authentic, memorable moments. The guides and crew members are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the trip feel personal rather than commercial. Plus, the chance to spot dolphins feeding and enjoy iconic sights like the Castillo de San Marcos from the water is hard to beat.
One thing to consider is that parking at the marina isn’t included, so you’ll want to set aside some extra time for parking nearby. The cruise is suitable for all ages, especially those who enjoy casual, scenic outings with a playful twist. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or groups looking to unwind with a drink, some good music, and a splash of pirate fun amid stunning sunset vistas.
Key Points
- Affordable Price: At $32, it offers good value for a scenic, entertainment-filled cruise.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Laid-back Caribbean vibes, beachy music, and friendly guides create a fun, relaxed experience.
- Wildlife Sightings: Dolphins are often seen during feeding time, adding a magical touch to the trip.
- Beautiful Scenery: Passes beneath the Bridge of Lions, by the Castillo de San Marcos, and past historic landmarks.
- Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes planning easy.
- Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with lively guides and a fun pirate ship setting.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
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Setting the Scene: Departure and Check-In
The adventure begins at the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, located inside the Black Raven Ship Store at 111 Avenida Menendez. The check-in process is straightforward, but be warned—parking isn’t onsite. As the reviews highlight, it’s wise to allocate at least 45 minutes to find parking in the nearby metered lots or public garage, especially during busy times. If mobility is an issue, dropping off at the marina can be a smart move to skip the parking hunt.
Once aboard, you’ll find yourself stepping into a vessel that feels more like a pirate adventure than a typical boat tour. Decked out as a pirate ship, the Black Raven sets a playful tone that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The crew is known for their friendliness and enthusiasm, creating a welcoming vibe that sets the stage for a memorable trip.
The Itinerary: A Scenic Cruise with a Tropical Twist
The cruise typically lasts about 2 hours, usually scheduled in the late afternoon or evening to catch the sunset. The boat sails northward on the Matanzas River, providing a different perspective on the city. As you glide past the Bridge of Lions, you’ll enjoy views of the Castillo de San Marcos, a fortress that’s stood for centuries, and the Great Cross, a well-known local landmark.
Further along, the boat passes the Vilano Bridge and Pier, offering picturesque sights of the coast, and the St. Augustine Inlet, where the Atlantic begins. The cruise then continues through Salt Run, where pods of dolphins are often visible during feeding time. Several reviews mention how special it is to watch dolphins up close and in their natural habitat, adding an unexpected thrill to the trip.
The Caribbean-Inspired Atmosphere
What sets this cruise apart is its Caribbean-inspired theme. The crew plays beachy tunes—think Jimmy Buffett, Bob Marley—and encourages guests to request their favorite songs. The onboard bar is fully stocked, serving drinks like Bahama Mamas and other tropical cocktails, along with snacks for sale. While drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, many reviewers raved about the good value and friendly service at the bar.
The music and laid-back environment create a perfect setting to relax and enjoy the sunset. Several guests mentioned how the crew’s enthusiasm and humor, especially the guides dressed as pirates, added to the overall fun. One reviewer appreciated the guitar singing and camaraderie, which made the experience feel more personal and less touristy.
More Great Tours NearbyWildlife and Landmarks: What You’ll See
Dolphin sightings are a highlight, with many reporting close encounters during feeding times. One guest described it as an “absolutely amazing night,” emphasizing how dolphins added a magical element to the cruise. Bald eagles are also mentioned as a possibility, especially as you approach the treeline.
From the water, you’ll get a fresh view of historic landmarks that are often hard to appreciate from land, like the Castillo de San Marcos and the Salt Run area. The Sunset provides a stunning backdrop, turning the sky into shades of orange and pink, perfect for photos or just soaking it all in.
Reviews and What They Reveal
Many guests, including those who gave perfect ratings, mention the friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and good music as key highlights. One person said, “The guides were great! Loved the music and the information. It’s really just a slow crawl out to the ocean and back, but we had a lot of fun.” This suggests that the cruise is more about the atmosphere and scenery than a fast-paced adventure.
Another review noted, “The sunset was beautiful. The crew was fantastic and funny. They did a great job.” Such feedback underscores how much the crew’s personality contributes to the trip’s enjoyment.
A recurring theme was value for money—many guests felt the $32 price was justified by the quality of the experience, especially given the scenic vistas, wildlife sightings, and lively entertainment.
Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go
- Parking: Not available at the marina, so plan ahead. Street parking, metered lots, or a nearby parking garage are your best bets.
- Duration: Roughly 2 hours, often in the late afternoon or evening to catch the sunset.
- Inclusions: The tour includes a full bar, music, and scenic views. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.
- Accessibility: Those with mobility issues might prefer to be dropped off at the marina; check with the crew if needed.
- Booking: Free cancellation allowed up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility to your plans.
- Age Suitability: Fun for all ages, with a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, scenic experience with a splash of fun. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups looking to unwind with good music and drinks while enjoying the stunning views and wildlife. The Caribbean theme and pirate ship setting make it especially appealing for those wanting a playful, memorable outing. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast eager to spot dolphins, or simply want a different perspective on historic St. Augustine, this cruise offers a little bit of everything.
The Sum Up
The Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise in St. Augustine offers a lively yet laid-back way to enjoy the city’s scenic waterfront. For just $32, you get a well-paced 2-hour trip with beautiful sunset views, dolphins during feeding time, and a Caribbean-inspired atmosphere that’s perfect for all ages. The friendly crew and good value make it a compelling option for travelers seeking an authentic, fun experience that’s both scenic and social.
While parking can be a minor hassle, the overall experience—stunning vistas, wildlife encounters, lively music—far outweighs this inconvenience. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a casual, entertaining cruise that combines natural beauty with a touch of pirate fun. Just remember to arrive early enough to find parking, bring your camera, and get ready for a relaxing evening on the water that captures the spirit of St. Augustine’s historic charm and coastal beauty.
FAQ
Is parking available at the marina?
No, parking is not available at the marina. It’s best to allow time to find metered parking, a public garage, or street parking nearby.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, usually scheduled in the late afternoon or evening to catch the sunset.
What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket includes the 2-hour scenic cruise, live music, and a fully stocked bar where drinks and snacks are available for purchase.
Can I bring my own drinks?
No, outside alcohol and drugs are not allowed onboard. You can purchase drinks at the fully stocked bar during the cruise.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s fun for all ages, with a playful pirate theme and scenic views that appeal to families, couples, and groups.
What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see the Bridge of Lions, Castillo de San Marcos, Vilano Beach, the St. Augustine Inlet, and the St. Augustine Lighthouse from the water.
Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?
While dolphins are often seen during feeding times, sightings can’t be guaranteed but are common according to guest reviews.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and casually. Bring layers if necessary, as it can get breezy on the water during sunset.
Can I request specific music?
Yes, guests are encouraged to request songs from genres like Jimmy Buffett or Bob Marley to enhance the Caribbean vibe.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the cruise, offering flexibility if your plans change.
This cruise in St. Augustine promises a fun, scenic escape into coastal and historic views, wrapped in a friendly, lively atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to relax and soak in the sunset, it’s worth considering for a well-spent couple of hours on the water.
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