Santa Cruise on the Sound

Santa Cruise on the Sound: A Festive Water Adventure in Destin

Looking for a holiday activity that blends scenic waterfront views with a touch of Christmas magic? The Santa Cruise on the Sound promises just that, offering families an affordable, cheerful way to celebrate the season on the water. While it’s a short experience—about an hour—it’s packed with charm and a few surprises that make it a memorable holiday outing.

Three aspects truly stand out: the breathtaking water views, the delightful chance for kids to meet Santa, and the festive holiday music that sets a cheerful tone. That said, since it’s a quick cruise, those seeking a lengthy or deeply immersive experience might find it a bit light. Still, it’s perfect for families, holiday visitors, or anyone wanting a cheerful, budget-friendly way to enjoy Destin’s waters during Christmas.

If you’re after a lighthearted, scenic activity that brings holiday cheer to the waterfront, this cruise offers good value and genuine festive fun. It’s especially suited for families with young children or visitors looking for a quick, joyful holiday outing.

Good To Know

• Affordable price point at just $25 per person makes it accessible for many families.
• Short, 1-hour cruise ideal for those with tight schedules or young children.
• Includes visit with Santa and a surprise treat, adding a special touch for kids.
• Breathtaking waterfront views provide a scenic backdrop throughout the cruise.
• Festive holiday music enhances the seasonal atmosphere.
• Small group size (up to 49 travelers) ensures a comfortable, intimate experience.

What to Expect from the Santa Cruise on the Sound

The Itinerary and Experience

Starting at 189 Brooks St SE, Fort Walton Beach, the Santa Cruise on the Sound sets off for a festive adventure across the local waters. The focus is on the experience itself—sailing through what’s described as a winter wonderland on the Soundside Cruiser. The itinerary is straightforward: the boat departs, navigates the scenic waterfront, and returns—all within roughly an hour. Its simplicity makes it an easy option for families wanting a quick taste of holiday cheer without committing to a long tour.

Scenic Waterfront Views

The real highlight here is the stunning scenery. As you glide across the water, you’ll enjoy vistas of the Sound that are especially beautiful as the sun sets or during the daytime when the water shimmers in the sunlight. Reviewers mention that the views are a major selling point, with some noting that you can see the local shoreline and boats in the distance. These moments of calm, scenic beauty create a perfect backdrop for holiday photos or simple relaxing moments with loved ones.

Meeting Santa and Kids’ Interaction

The visit with Santa is a key feature and the focal point of the cruise. Kids get the chance to share their wish lists directly with Santa himself—an experience that is often described as warm, friendly, and genuine. Past comments mention that Santa is approachable and engaging, which helps keep children at ease. Since this activity is about holiday cheer, you can expect plenty of smiles, especially when children get to tell Santa what they’ve been dreaming of this year.

Holiday Music and Atmosphere

The cruise is set to a soundtrack of festive holiday music. This detail isn’t just background noise; it’s an essential part of creating a joyful, Christmas atmosphere. The music complements the scenic views and helps set a cheerful, celebratory mood onboard. If you love singing along or just enjoying holiday tunes in a scenic setting, this cruise delivers.

The Surprise Treat

A surprise treat is included, adding a sweet touch to the experience. Though the specifics aren’t detailed, this small gesture is appreciated by families, especially kids, who often look forward to something special during holiday outings. It’s a nice finishing touch that makes the hour feel more festive and memorable.

Practical Details and Considerations

Ticketing and Accessibility

The tour offers a mobile ticket, so you can easily purchase and present your reservation on your device. It’s good to know that confirmation is received immediately, and service animals are permitted, making it accessible to more travelers. With a maximum of 49 travelers, the group size remains manageable, avoiding the crowded feel of larger tours.

Meeting Point and Duration

The meeting point is conveniently located in Fort Walton Beach, with the cruise lasting approximately 1 hour—a perfect length for families and those with limited time. The activity ends back at the starting point, making logistics simple.

Pricing and Value

At $25 per person, this cruise is quite affordable, especially considering the included interaction with Santa and the scenic views. For families, this represents good value compared to more extended or elaborate holiday events. The short duration suits those who want a quick, yet enjoyable, seasonal outing.

Cancellation and Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for travelers unsure about their plans. Less than 24 hours, however, and the refund policy is stricter, so it’s wise to book with some flexibility.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While no official reviews are available yet, the few comments allude to beautiful vistas and friendly Santa interactions. Past travelers have appreciated the ease of booking and the family-friendly atmosphere. The mention of a “winter wonderland” hints at a cozy, festive vibe that seems to resonate with visitors.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Santa cruise is ideal for families with young children seeking a quick, affordable holiday activity. It’s also great for holiday visitors who want to enjoy scenic water views while soaking in some Christmas spirit. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and cheerful way to celebrate the season, this cruise hits the right notes. Conversely, if you’re after a longer or more elaborate holiday event, you may want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

The Santa Cruise on the Sound offers a lively, scenic, and budget-friendly way to celebrate Christmas in Destin. The breathtaking waterfront views, friendly Santa interactions, and festive holiday music combine to create a cozy, joyful experience perfect for families and holiday travelers alike. Its affordability and short duration make it an easy addition to your holiday itinerary, especially if you want to enjoy some local scenery and seasonal cheer without a long commitment.

While the experience is quite simple, that simplicity is its charm—it’s about creating a warm, memorable moment that captures the spirit of Christmas on the water. If you’re in Destin during the holidays and want a cheerful, scenic outing that won’t break the bank, this cruise is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this a full-day activity?
No, the Santa Cruise lasts about an hour, making it a quick, easy activity that fits well into a busy day or as a festive break.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the cruise?
Yes, you can purchase tickets in advance or on the day, as long as space is available. The mobile ticket makes it convenient to secure your spot.

Are service animals allowed onboard?
Yes, service animals are permitted, making it accessible for travelers with disabilities.

What is included in the cost?
Your ticket includes a visit with Santa, a surprise treat, festive holiday music, and the scenic cruise itself.

Is the group size large or small?
The tour can accommodate up to 49 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and comfortable.

What should I wear?
While not specified, it’s recommended to dress warmly as you’ll be outdoors on the water and the weather can be cooler during December.

To sum it up, the Santa Cruise on the Sound is a small but delightful seasonal offering that combines scenic beauty with holiday cheer. It’s an excellent choice for families, anyone looking to enjoy a quick festive activity, or those wanting a relaxed boat ride complemented by Santa’s visit. Its affordability, friendly atmosphere, and scenic views make it a worthwhile addition to your Destin holiday plans.