St. Petersburg’s top sailing options range from intimate boats to larger vessels, each offering distinct experiences on Florida’s gorgeous waters.
The best small-group choice is Suncoast Sailings’ cozy sunset cruise (28 passengers), perfect for those seeking a more personal experience. For a grander evening, the StarLite Sapphire’s dinner cruise impresses with its combination of fine dining and entertainment.
I especially love the small 6-person yacht tours through St. Pete Beach canals – you’ll get up-close views of dolphins and quiet waterways without the crowds.
For families and larger groups, the StarLite Sapphire’s daytime cruise hits the sweet spot with good food and live music.
These are my tested picks for St. Petersburg’s standout sailing experiences.
Key Points
- Suncoast Sailings Sunset Sailing Experience offers an intimate 2-hour cruise with a 96% recommendation rate, friendly crew, and scenic views.
- Evening Yacht Cruise With Optional Dining provides a 3-hour cruise on the 113-foot StarLite Sapphire with panoramic views, live entertainment, and fine dining.
- Private Yacht Cruise St. Pete Beach Canals Dolphins Beach Anchor offers a personalized 6-person cruise with the opportunity to see dolphins and stingrays.
- Daytime Yacht Dance Cruise With Optional Dining is a lunchtime cruise with live music, bar, and wheelchair-accessible dining options.
- 2-Hour 15-Minute Sunset Sail in a Luxury Yacht delivers a personalized sunset sailing experience for up to 6 travelers.
Suncoast Sailings Sunset Sailing Experience!
For those seeking a serene and picturesque sailing experience in St. Petersburg, the Suncoast Sailings Sunset Sailing tour is a must-try. Departing from The BoatDega, this 2-hour cruise offers stunning sunset views and the chance to spot dolphins.
With a maximum capacity of 28 passengers, the intimate setting creates a relaxed and non-party atmosphere. The friendly and knowledgeable crew ensures a memorable experience, providing bottled water, soda, and blankets for comfort. Guests are welcome to bring their own drinks, making it a truly personalized outing.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.
With an impressive 96% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, the Suncoast Sailings Sunset Sailing has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. However, due to weather conditions or low reservations, cruises may occasionally be canceled, though rescheduling is offered.
Read our full review: Suncoast Sailings Sunset Sailing Experience! Review
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Evening Yacht Cruise With Optional Dining in St. Petersburg
Embarking on an evening yacht cruise along the Gulf of Mexico from St. Petersburg, Florida, passengers can experience a 3-hour journey aboard the modern, 113-foot (34-meter) StarLite Sapphire.
This dining yacht features two decks for panoramic views, live entertainment, and a romantic ambiance with Tampa Bay waterfront lights.
Capable of accommodating up to 150 travelers, the cruise offers optional fine-dining meal service and beverages available for purchase. Guests can enjoy the excellent service and friendly staff, along with the enjoyable food and drinks.
The live music and beautiful scenery create an intimate and classy setting, making it an ideal choice for romantic evenings, anniversaries, and special celebrations.
With an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 447 reviews, the cruise is recommended for couples seeking a unique dining experience.
Guests appreciate the sunset views and overall ambiance, though it’s important to note that this isn’t a party boat, focusing instead on an intimate atmosphere.
Read our full review: Evening Yacht Cruise With Optional Dining in St. Petersburg Review
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Private Yacht Cruise St. Pete Beach Canals Dolphins Beach Anchor
Guests seeking a more intimate and personalized sailing experience in St. Pete Beach can consider the Private Yacht Cruise Sand Dollar Dolphin Island Tours. Priced at $530 for up to 6 people, this private yacht cruise offers a unique perspective of the area from the water.
Guests will depart from the dock behind The Hotel Zamora, with limited parking available nearby.
The tour includes complimentary refreshments, though guests aren’t allowed to bring glass containers or spray sunscreen. While the activity isn’t recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 7 reviews, the tour has received positive feedback, particularly for the knowledgeable and entertaining Captain Al.
Guests can expect to see dolphins and stingrays during the relaxing and informative cruise, making it a well-recommended option for those looking to explore the area from a unique vantage point.
Read our full review: Private Yacht Cruise St. Pete Beach Canals Dolphins Beach Anchor Review
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Daytime Yacht Dance Cruise With Optional Dining
The Daytime Yacht Dance Cruise with Optional Dining offers a leisurely lunchtime experience along Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg’s inland waters. Operated by Starlite Cruises, the 113-foot StarLite Sapphire yacht can accommodate up to 150 passengers.
The cruise features an inner seating area, outdoor observation decks, live music, and an onboard bar. Diners can choose from six entrees, including seafood, vegetarian, and meat-based options. All lunches are served with a salad and bread. Meal service is available for purchase, but the Cruise Only option excludes lunch.
With a 4.5-star rating from 10 reviews, the cruise is recommended by 90% of travelers. Positive comments highlight the overall experience, food quality, and entertainment. Some feedback mentions cleanliness concerns and unexpected costs.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and most travelers can participate, with a maximum of 15 per tour.
Read our full review: Daytime Yacht Dance Cruise With Optional Dining Review
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2-Hour 15-Minute Sunset Sail in a Luxury Yacht
Departing from the downtown St. Petersburg marina, this 2-hour 15-minute sunset sail aboard a luxury yacht offers a tranquil and picturesque experience.
Led by the experienced crew of Bay to Gulf Sailing, the tour accommodates up to 6 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized journey.
As the yacht sets sail, guests can relax and take in the stunning views of the city skyline and the beautiful Gulf of Mexico.
The onboard restroom and bottled water provide convenient amenities throughout the tour.
The sailing adventure begins at 6:00 PM, allowing travelers to witness the breathtaking sunset over the water.
With confirmation received at the time of booking, this tour is suitable for most travelers, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast or simply looking for a unique way to experience St. Petersburg’s natural beauty, this sunset sail is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Read our full review: 2-Hour 15-Minute Sunset Sail in a Luxury Yacht Review
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The Sum Up
St. Petersburg offers a variety of sailing experiences, from leisurely sunset cruises to lively yacht dances. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening, a chance to spot dolphins, or a chance to dance, there’s an option to suit your interests. With multiple providers and durations, visitors can find the perfect sailing adventure to create lasting memories in this coastal Florida city.