Top Fort Myers Things to Do With Family: Sunset Cruise
Renowned for its stunning beaches, verdant parks, and vibrant culture, Fort Myers is a leading destination in Florida. Year-round, this delightful city draws visitors with its outdoor activities, fresh seafood, unique entertainment, incredible attractions like Manatee Park Fort Myers, and lively annual events that add culture and fun to every stay.
However, if there’s one thing you can’t leave Fort Myers without experiencing, it’s a sunset cruise — one of the most beloved activities to do with your family. Several companies in town offer epic sunset cruises and other unforgettable experiences aboard their boats.
In this blog, we’ve put together a list of the top-rated companies offering fantastic sunset cruises, along with other useful information about this must-try activity while in Fort Myers.
Here’s a little about Us
At Sun Palace Vacations, we offer stunning vacation homes in Fort Myers Beach. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront escape or a cozy retreat, we have the perfect place for you. We consider ourselves Fort Myers Beach experts, and from the best shopping spots and top-notch restaurants to a comprehensive guide on fishing and hunting in the area, we’ve got you covered in our blog.
Heads up before we start: Prices are accurate at the time of writing but can change. Be sure to check for the latest info on the official website before making plans!
Ready for an unforgettable Gulf Coast sunset?
Why Take a Sunset Cruise in Fort Myers Beach?
A sunset cruise in Fort Myers Beach is one of the most popular and scenic activities you can experience along the Southwest Florida coast. These cruises provide stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico as the sun sets.
Beyond the views, sunset cruises are also the perfect opportunity to witness amazing wildlife, and yes, we’re talking about captivating dolphins! They are frequently spotted on these cruises, adding an extra layer of excitement to the trip.
Another great reason to invest in this experience is the romantic and relaxed atmosphere these cruises offer. With such an amazing natural spectacle, all you need to do is soak in the beauty and unique vibe they provide.
What to Expect on a Sunset Cruise
- Duration: Most sunset cruises last between 1.5 to 2 hours, offering enough time to take in the sights and enjoy the tranquil evening ambiance.
- Boat Types: You’ll have options ranging from smaller, intimate sailing vessels to larger catamarans or yachts. The type of boat depends on the company you book with and the experience you’re seeking.
- Scenery: The main attraction is, of course, the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a spectacular blend of colors. You’ll also see the beautiful coastline of Fort Myers Beach, nearby islands like Sanibel, and potentially even some local wildlife.
Extra Features of a Typical Sunset Cruise
- Live Music or Narration: Some companies enhance the experience with live music, typically mellow and suited to the relaxing vibe of a sunset sail. Others offer informative narration about the local ecosystem, the history of the area, and points of interest you pass by.
- Socializing: Depending on the boat size, you may be with other small groups, making this a fun opportunity to socialize. On smaller, more intimate boats, it can also be a private, romantic setting for couples.
Top Rated Cruise Companies in Fort Myers Beach
Here’s a list of the best companies in town offering amazing experiences beyond just sunset cruises.
Salty Sam’s Pirate Cruise
This themed cruise offers a unique and lively experience for families with kids, providing an engaging adventure while still enjoying the sunset.
Salty Sam’s Sunset Pirate Cruise is a fun, themed boat tour that departs from Fort Myers Beach. Climb aboard a replica pirate ship and immerse yourself in a pirate-themed adventure featuring games, performances, demonstrations, face painting, treasure hunts, and water cannon battles. While the activities are geared toward kids, adults can relax, soak in the lively atmosphere, and enjoy the breathtaking Gulf Coast sunset. To make things even better, there’s a full-service bar on board. Cheers to that!
The Pirate Sunset Cruise lasts 90 minutes. They also offer other themed experiences, such as adults-only cruises. Popular options include the Oktoberfest Pirate Cruise, Rocky Horror Cruise, Rum Cruise, and Halloween Cruise.
Prices:
- Adults: $36
- Children (ages 2-13): $29.5
- They also offer a variety of packages that include souvenirs for kids and pirate-themed accessories, as well as cocktails for adults.
Adventures in Paradise Cruises
Adventures in Paradise Cruises in Fort Myers Beach offers a variety of boat tours that allow you to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the Gulf Coast aboard their amazing boats.
Established in 1986, this family-run company is known for its eco-friendly tours, wildlife encounters, and scenic experiences that cater to both locals and tourists. However, their Sunset Dolphin Cruise is a crowd favorite. Combining the beauty of a Gulf Coast sunset with a wildlife experience, this cruise offers stunning views of the sunset over the water, as well as opportunities to see dolphins and other marine life. The cruise lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, with experienced guides on board who narrate the tours, sharing interesting facts and stories about the region’s marine life and ecosystems. They also point out wildlife that might otherwise be easy to miss.
Adventures in Paradise Cruises also offers morning and afternoon dolphin & wildlife cruises, sea life encounter excursions, as well as holiday cruises such as the Fourth of July Cruise, Thanksgiving Cruise, and Christmas and New Year’s Cruises, featuring decorations and a festive atmosphere paired with beautiful sunset views.
Additionally, you can also book a private charter that can be customized to fit the needs of your group. Whether it’s a family reunion, corporate event, or special celebration, these charters can be tailored for sunset viewing, wildlife watching, or exploring secluded islands.
Prices:
- Adults: $49
- Children: $39 (aged 3 and under free)
SIGHT SEA-R CRUISES
SIGHT SEA-R CRUISES is a popular boat tour operator in Fort Myers offering a range of scenic cruises that showcase the beauty of Southwest Florida’s coastline and marine life. Their cruises are designed to provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages, with a focus on wildlife viewing, sunset tours, and eco-friendly exploration.
After a day of exploring Fort Myers, the best way to end it is by boarding their spacious and comfortable catamaran for a 90-minute sunset cruise. Departing from Matanzas Pass and cruising around the waterways, channels, and the Gulf, you can marvel at the natural beauty of the region before witnessing a spectacular sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
A great feature of this company is that they allow you to bring a cooler with your favorite drinks on board (though no food is allowed). With comfy seating and plenty of space, you can watch the sunset in style while sipping your favorite drink.
SIGHT SEA-R CRUISES also offers other experiences, such as Shelling and Eco-Cruises, Holiday Lights & Caroling Cruises, and Adults-Only Party Cruises. Private charters are also available. Their boats can hold up to 49 passengers and are equipped with well-maintained bathrooms and an onboard bar.
Prices:
- Adults: $40
- Children: $35 (aged one year or younger free)
Sun-N-Fun Charters
Sun-N-Fun Charters is another great option for experiencing a sunset cruise in a more exclusive way. With a laid-back atmosphere and excellent service, they offer private charters that are perfect for couples, families, or groups looking to celebrate a special occasion.
The tours can be customized, and beyond sunset cruises, they also offer experiences such as Dolphin Tours, Eco Tours, Shelling Tours, as well as Party Cruises, Booze Cruises, and Bachelorette Parties. All tours and charters depart from Fort Myers Beach, and you’ll travel with the crew through Estero Bay, heading south toward Bonita Springs.
Extra tip: Another popular cruise offered by Sun-N-Fun Charters is the Private Dolphin & Sea Life Tour. This nature cruise takes you through the backwaters of Estero Bay looking for dolphins, birds, manatees, and other awesome wildlife in the area.
Prices:
- 2-Hour Evening/Sunset & Dolphin Tour: Starting at $385 for 6 people then $40 for each additional person.
- 5-Hour Private Custom Tour: Starting at $710 for 6 people then $60 for each additional person.
- 90-minute Private Dolphin & Sea Life Tour: Starting at $335 for 6 people then $40 for each additional person.
- 3-Hour Private Dolphin, Sea Life & Shelling Tour: Starting at $510 for 6 people then $50 for each additional person.
Best Time to Take a Sunset Cruise in Fort Myers
Sunset cruises are offered year-round, but during the winter months (November to March), the weather is cooler and less humid, making it more comfortable.
Summer cruises (June to August) are still beautiful but expect warmer temperatures and possible afternoon rain showers.
Always check the weather forecast, as cruises may be rescheduled in case of poor conditions.
Are You Wondering Where to Stay in Fort Myers?
To experience the highest quality in amenities, decor, and cleanliness, book your stay with Sun Palace Vacations. We guarantee you’ll have the most authentic, enjoyable, and relaxing time ever.