Destin, Florida, is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches and emerald waters, but it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy memorable dining experiences that combine great food, scenic views, and a touch of entertainment. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to soak up the sunset on the water, Destin offers a variety of options. We particularly love the Sunset Dinner Cruise aboard the Solaris yacht—it combines fresh Gulf seafood with live music and panoramic views from the open-air sky deck, making it a perfect way to spend an evening. If you’re after something a little more unusual, the Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise adds a fun, interactive twist to your night out.
While all these tours are highly rated and offer unique takes on waterfront dining, they vary in style, price, and length. Below, we’ll walk you through each one in detail so you can pick the best fit for your trip.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of cruise-based dining experiences in Destin, including sunset dinner cruises, which offer scenic views and live music, and a murder mystery show that combines dinner with entertainment. Each tour provides a different way to enjoy the Gulf Coast, from relaxing sails to lively performances.
- Destin: Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Music
- 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach
- Destin: Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise with Sunset Views
- 3 Hour Destin Dinner Cruise: Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach
Now, let’s dive into each experience to see what makes them special.
1. Destin: Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Music
This sunset dinner cruise aboard the Solaris yacht is a classic for those wanting a relaxed night of good food and beautiful views. The cruise lasts about three hours, giving you plenty of time to unwind while sailing through Destin’s waters. The meal is a three-course menu prepared by an award-winning chef, with options including fresh seafood and prime beef—the Gulf flavors truly shine here.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of live music and the open-air sky deck, which offers unobstructed views of the sunset. During the cruise, you’ll have the chance to dance or simply enjoy the scenery. The boat’s elegant atmosphere makes it ideal for celebrating special occasions or just enjoying a romantic evening. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 63 reviews, many highlight the quality of the food and the lively ambiance.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded evening with good food, live music, and breathtaking sunset views, this cruise delivers. It’s perfect for couples and small groups looking for a memorable night on the water.
2. 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach
This 3-hour sunset dinner cruise is very similar to the previous experience but emphasizes ease and a personable vibe. Meeting at Miramar Beach, you’ll meet your captain, then settle into your private table. The multi-course dinner includes several options for mains, and you can purchase drinks from the bar, including alcohol, making the experience more customizable.
Guests consistently praise the friendly service and the stunning nighttime views. One guest remarked, “Great trip. Great service and company made for a fun night,” highlighting the social aspect of the tour. The boat’s capacity and layout allow for a comfortable experience, perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends celebrating a special event.
A key feature is the chance to spot dolphins while cruising, adding a playful element to the trip. With a 4.0 rating from 80 reviews, it represents good value for those seeking a lively, scenic dinner on the water.
Bottom Line: This cruise suits those who want a personable experience with excellent food, dolphin sightings, and a relaxed vibe. It’s a strong choice for casual yet special outings.
3. Destin: Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise with Sunset Views
For something more theatrical, the Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise offers a one-of-a-kind blend of dining and entertainment. This 2.5-hour cruise takes you through Destin Harbor, East Pass, and Choctawhatchee Bay while you enjoy a chef-prepared meal. The highlight is the interactive murder mystery show, which keeps everyone engaged and guessing.
The cruise also offers chances to spot dolphins and witness a spectacular Gulf Coast sunset—a bonus for nature lovers. With a perfect 5-star rating from just one review, it clearly made a strong impression on that guest, who called it “hilarious and immersive.” The combination of a fun storyline, good food, and scenic cruising makes this a standout for those seeking entertainment with their dinner.
Since the cruise is shorter—around 2.5 hours—it’s ideal for travelers who want a lively, interactive evening without a lengthy commitment. The price is $125, making it comparable to other options, but with the added entertainment value.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for groups wanting a lively, theatrical experience that combines mystery, comedy, and Gulf sunset views. It’s especially good for those who want to add some fun and drama to their dining outing.
$125 per person
4. 3 Hour Destin Dinner Cruise: Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach
Rounding out the list is the 3-hour dinner cruise aboard the Solaris yacht, a spacious 125′ vessel offering indoor and outdoor decks including panoramic windows and an open-air skydeck. This cruise departs from the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, and it’s the only dining and entertainment yacht operating year-round in Northwest Florida.
What makes this experience unique is its luxurious setting and the diversity of spaces—perfect for a romantic dinner or a group celebration. The boat’s crew is praised for efficient service, and guests love the live music and the energetic atmosphere after dinner. One review highlights, “Food was excellent, and the live music made the night,” emphasizing the lively ambiance. The price point is $65, making it an attractive value considering the size of the yacht and the quality of the experience.
This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate luxury and panoramic views without the high price tag. The mix of indoor comfort and outdoor vistas provides flexibility in weather conditions and preferences.
Bottom Line: For a more upscale and lively evening, this cruise offers excellent value, especially for those who appreciate a big boat, live music, and sweeping views.
How to Choose the Right Dining Experience in Destin
When selecting your perfect water-based dining experience, consider your budget, how much entertainment you want, and how long you want to be on the water. If you’re after a romantic sunset with live music, the Sunset Dinner Cruise aboard Solaris is a great pick. For a more casual, dolphin-spotting dinner, the 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise might fit better. If you want a playful twist with dinner and a murder mystery, then the Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise is ideal.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, as these experiences are popular. Also, check whether you prefer indoor comfort or open-air decks, and whether you’re willing to pay a bit more for live music and a larger yacht.
Final Thoughts
Destin offers a range of dining cruises that combine excellent food with stunning scenery and fun entertainment. The Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Music is a top choice for a classic, relaxed night, while the Murder Mystery Cruise adds a playful, engaging element. For those seeking luxury and panoramic views, the Solaris Yacht cruise delivers a refined, lively experience at a good value.
No matter your preference, booking early and choosing a tour that matches your style will ensure a memorable meal on the water. Now’s the time to plan that special evening and enjoy all that Destin’s waterside dining has to offer.