Wine Tasting Cruise in St. Augustine

A Relaxing Water and Wine Tour in St. Augustine

Imagine cruising along the picturesque coastline of St. Augustine aboard a comfortable pontoon boat, sipping on six different wines, and soaking up views of historic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and the Bridge of Lions. This Wine Tasting Cruise offers a laid-back way to explore the city’s waterfront, all for just $49 per person. With a duration of about an hour and a half, it’s a perfect midday escape or a relaxing evening activity.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the quality of the guides and crew—noted for their friendly, knowledgeable attitude—and the opportunity to see wildlife such as dolphins and spoonbills while enjoying your wine. Second, the unique perspective of viewing St. Augustine’s skyline, bridges, and historic fort from the water adds a novel dimension to your visit.

A potential consideration is the limited availability—most travelers book about 24 days in advance—so planning ahead is wise if you want to secure a spot. Also, since the boat is not fully accessible for those with mobility issues, it’s worth checking if you can easily board.

This tour suits anyone with a curiosity for local wines, a love of scenic water views, and an interest in wildlife sightings. It’s particularly popular among couples, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a relaxed, engaging way to experience the city beyond the usual walking tours.

Key Points

• Scenic beauty: Offers a fresh perspective of St. Augustine’s iconic landmarks from the water.
• Wine sampling: Includes six different wines, with explanations about what makes each one special.
• Wildlife spotting: Dolphins and spoonbills are common sights, adding a lively touch to the cruise.
• Expert guides: Guides provide engaging commentary on local sites and wine details.
• Value: At $49, it combines sightseeing, education, and leisure in one affordable package.
• Booking early: Most travelers plan this about three weeks ahead for best availability.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Arrival

The cruise departs from 107 Yacht Club Drive in St. Augustine, a location with nearby free parking and easy access via public transit. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to allow for check-in and safety briefing, ensuring a smooth start. The boat itself is a fully enclosed, shaded pontoon called the Osprey, with comfortable seating for up to 38 guests plus crew.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The cruise begins with a safety briefing and introductions from the crew, including personable guides like Captain Mike, Sarah, and Julia—who are praised for their friendliness and wealth of local knowledge. From there, the boat glides along the bay, offering the chance to see the historic bayfront, including the famous fort—a view that’s often more striking from the water than from land.

One of the highlights is the view of the Great Cross, visible from the water, which offers a poignant reminder of the city’s spiritual heritage. As the boat cruises past the Bridge of Lions, you’ll get a different appreciation for its craftsmanship, observing its design from below rather than the usual pedestrian view.

Wine Tasting and Commentary

The core of the tour is the sampling of six rotating wines. Guides provide explanations about what makes each wine unique, and many reviews highlight the quality of the selection. Some wines are from local wineries such as San Sebastian, adding a regional flavor to the tasting.

What sets this apart is the informative commentary—guides are praised for their knowledge about both the wines and the local sights. Several reviews mention that the guides are funny and engaging, making the experience enjoyable whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking to relax.

Wildlife and Scenic Views

One of the most delightful aspects, according to many travelers, is the chance to spot dolphins feeding or swimming alongside the boat. Other wildlife like osprey and eagles may also appear, providing a lively backdrop to your wine tasting. As one reviewer put it: “We saw dolphins multiple times! The wine was good and the whole thing was a great time!”

The Atmosphere and Group Size

With a maximum of 25 travelers, the cruise retains an intimate and friendly vibe. Many guests appreciate the small group size, which fosters conversation and a relaxed atmosphere. The onboard bar offers additional beverages like beer, champagne, and canned cocktails, and water and snacks for purchase—perfect for those who want to extend their indulgence.

Practical Considerations

While the boat is not fully handicap accessible, it can accommodate some wheelchair users if they can manage the steps to board. Restrooms are available onboard, a plus for longer or warm days. The tour operates rain or shine, but cancellations due to bad weather or lightning are handled promptly, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Pricing and Value

At $49 per person, this cruise offers a great value for combining scenic views, wildlife sightings, and a wine tasting experience. Many reviews emphasize that it’s worth the price, especially given the knowledgeable guides, lively commentary, and the chance to see dolphins up close. It’s a laid-back, fun way to enjoy a slice of St. Augustine’s waterfront.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples seeking a romantic outing, groups of friends looking for a fun, casual activity, or anyone interested in local wines and scenic water views. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy wildlife, as dolphins are often spotted during the cruise. Given its relaxed pace and small-group atmosphere, it’s suited for travelers who prefer quality over quantity and want an authentic, memorable experience without the fuss.

The Sum Up

The Wine Tasting Cruise in St. Augustine presents a refreshing way to explore the city’s waterfront. It combines good wine, engaging guides, and beautiful scenery—delivering a well-rounded, relaxing experience that’s very much about quality and authenticity. The opportunity to see dolphins while enjoying local wines makes it stand out from typical land-based tours, offering a memorable taste of coastal Florida in a laid-back setting.

For travelers who appreciate friendly guides, scenic views, and a chance to try local wines in a relaxed atmosphere, this cruise hits the mark. It’s also a smart choice for those who want to combine sightseeing and leisure without the rush of larger tours or heavy schedules.

In essence, if you’re after a fun, intimate, and scenic experience that blends gorgeous water views with a good glass of wine, this cruise is worth planning for during your visit to St. Augustine.

FAQ

Are there restrooms on board the Wine Tasting Cruise in St. Augustine?
Yes, the boat is equipped with restroom facilities, making it convenient for guests during the 1.5-hour cruise.

Is there parking near the departure point?
Yes, there is free parking available at the meeting location, which makes arriving easy and stress-free.

How early should I arrive?
Guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to check in and attend the safety briefing.

What kind of boat is used?
A 45-foot pontoon boat called the Osprey, fully enclosed and shaded, with comfortable seating and a restroom onboard.

Can I bring my own snacks or drinks?
You can bring snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. Outside alcohol is not permitted, but the onboard bar offers a good range of wines, beers, and cocktails.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled due to poor weather, like lightning or small craft advisories, but you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund.

This well-rounded cruise combines the pleasure of local wines, the thrill of wildlife sightings, and the beauty of St. Augustine’s waterways—making it a delightful addition to any vacation itinerary.