St. Petersburg, FL: 3 Hour Private Tiki Cruise
Imagine floating along Tampa Bay in your own private tiki bar, with the warm Florida sun overhead and a cooler full of your favorite drinks. For just $595 per group, this 3-hour private cruise offers a laid-back way to enjoy the stunning waterways surrounding St. Petersburg. Led by a coast guard-licensed captain, you’ll glide around the St. Pete Pier, taking in incredible views and maybe even spotting some marine life.
What really makes this experience stand out is the sense of freedom — bring your own drinks, kick back on a floating bar, and soak in the scenery at your own pace. Two particular highlights catch our eye: the unique floating tiki bar itself, which is a fun twist on traditional boat tours, and the chance to see marine creatures along the way, making it a memorable adventure for nature lovers.
One thing to consider is that alcohol isn’t included — you bring your own, which is a nice way to keep costs down but requires a little planning. This cruise suits groups of friends, couples, or even family gatherings looking for a relaxed, personalized experience. If you’re into scenic water views and the laid-back Florida lifestyle, this tour could be just right for you.
Key Points
- Private and personalized experience for up to 1 group
- Bring your own beverages to enjoy on the floating tiki bar
- Cruise around the St. Pete Pier with scenic water views
- Includes cooler and Bluetooth speaker for your convenience
- Captain is coast guard certified, ensuring a safe trip
- Flexible scheduling in the morning, afternoon, or evening
An Authentic Florida Water Adventure
When we think of Florida, it’s often the beaches that come to mind. But some of the most memorable moments happen on the water, away from crowded shores — and that’s exactly what this private tiki cruise offers. It’s a chance to see St. Petersburg from a fresh angle, gliding past the iconic St. Pete Pier and along Tampa Bay’s shimmering waters.
The experience begins at Demens Landing Park, a scenic spot where the boat is docked at the back left of the park, near the Marina Office & Store. Once aboard, your coast guard-licensed captain takes the helm, giving you full control of your 3-hour cruise. You’ll be able to bring your own drinks into the cooler and enjoy them while relaxing on the floating tiki bar — a rare find that makes the journey feel more like an island party than a formal tour.
The boat itself is a floating tiki bar, which adds a playful, tropical vibe. Instead of paying high prices at land-based bars, you can stock up before the trip and savor your beverages as you drift past beautiful water views. The Bluetooth speaker ensures your playlist keeps the party lively, whether you want chill tunes or energetic beats.
What to Expect on Your Tiki Cruise
The itinerary is straightforward but packed with visual delights and relaxing moments. After meeting your captain, you’ll set out from Demens Landing, cruising past the St. Pete Pier, which is a focal point of the city’s waterfront. The views of the city skyline are stunning, especially during sunset or evening cruises, when the city lights reflect off the water.
As your boat glides along, you’ll have the opportunity to look out for marine life — dolphins, pelicans, and perhaps even manatees are common sights. The calm waters in Tampa Bay make for a smooth ride, and the three-hour duration strikes a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation.
People who’ve taken this tour mention that the stunning water vistas and friendly captain made the experience memorable. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the boat gave us a fresh perspective of the city, with views that are hard to get from land.” Another said, “Bringing our own drinks made it feel like a private beach party on the water.”
Because it’s a private group experience, there’s plenty of flexibility. You can choose to cruise during the day, watch the sunset, or enjoy an evening trip under the stars. The cozy, personalized setting makes it ideal for celebrating special occasions or just enjoying a relaxing day on the water with friends.
The Practical Details
The tour costs $595 per group, which can seem steep if you’re solo or a couple, but for a private experience, it’s quite reasonable. Remember, the price includes the tiki bar, coolers with ice, Bluetooth speaker, and the captain’s expertise — so the main additional cost is your own beverages.
The meeting point at Demens Landing Park is easy to find, right near the Marina Office & Store. The tour usually runs in the morning, afternoon, or evening, giving you flexibility depending on your plans. You can reserve now and pay later, which is perfect for travel planning.
The group size is limited to your private booking, making it a more exclusive and intimate experience. It’s perfect for couples wanting a romantic escape, friends looking for fun, or families wanting a laid-back adventure.
Authentic Experiences and Value
This tour’s value is rooted in its personalized nature. Compared to larger, less flexible water tours, a private tiki cruise offers the chance to customize your trip — whether that’s focusing on scenic photos, spotting marine life, or just relaxing with your favorite drinks.
The stunning water views are a constant highlight. Watching the city skyline change as the sun sets, or catching dolphins playing in the bow wave, adds a magical element that photos can’t fully capture. Reviewers repeatedly mention how beautiful and peaceful the cruise feels; it’s a wonderful break from the hustle and bustle.
It’s worth noting that the absence of included alcohol allows you to control your drinks and reduce costs. Plus, bringing your own beverages means you can tailor your drinks to your taste — craft beers, cocktails, or virgin options — making it a more personalized outing.
On the practical side, the coolers with ice keep your drinks cold throughout, and the Bluetooth speaker lets you set your playlist. The coast guard certification of the captain ensures a safe and professional experience, even if you’re unfamiliar with boat excursions.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise is ideal for small groups seeking a relaxed, private experience. If you value scenic water views and want to avoid crowded tour boats, you’ll appreciate the intimacy of this trip. It’s particularly suited for celebrations, like birthdays or anniversaries, or for anyone wanting a unique way to see St. Petersburg’s waterfront.
Those who prefer flexibility and customization will find this a perfect fit. If you’re a couple, it makes for a romantic escape; for friends, a fun and casual outing; for families, a safe and engaging adventure.
However, if you’re after a more structured or guided tour with included drinks and snacks, this might not be the best choice. The focus here is on personalized fun, freedom to bring your own drinks, and the laid-back Florida vibe.
The Sum Up
This private Tiki cruise in St. Petersburg offers a genuinely enjoyable escape on Tampa Bay’s waters. With stunning views of the city, a chance to spot marine life, and the freedom to bring your own drinks, it’s a flexible, fun, and relaxing way to experience Florida’s water culture. The fact that it’s a private experience makes it particularly appealing for small groups wanting an intimate outing.
While it might not include drinks or food, the ability to customize your beverage list and enjoy a personalized journey adds a lot of value. The 3-hour duration strikes a good balance between a laid-back trip and a substantial adventure.
If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and relaxed water experience that’s a little different from the typical boat tour, this cruise is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who want a personalized, flexible outing that captures the essence of the Florida lifestyle — sun, water, and good company.
FAQ
Is alcohol included in the tour?
No, alcohol is not included. You are encouraged to bring your own beverages to enjoy during the cruise.
Where do I meet the boat?
The meeting point is at the very back left of Demens Landing Park, near the St. Pete Municipal Marina Office & Store.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, providing plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this tour private?
Yes, it is a private group experience, perfect for your own party or family.
What should I bring?
Bring your favorite drinks to fill the cooler, and consider bringing a playlist for the Bluetooth speaker.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the tiki bar, coolers with ice, Bluetooth speaker, and the captain.
Can I reserve now and pay later?
Absolutely, you can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility for your travel plans.
Who is the tour provider?
The tour is offered by Fins Up Clearwater, with a high rating of 4.7 for quality and service.
This private Tiki cruise is a simple, fun way to celebrate or just unwind while taking in some of the best views Tampa Bay has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a romantic outing or a laid-back day with friends, it delivers a taste of the Florida water lifestyle with a personal touch.
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