Top Sarasota Cruises & Sailing

Immerse yourself in Sarasota's coastal mangrove forests, look out for dolphins and manatees, and practice kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding skills on this immersive, small-group tour. After departing from the Turtle Beach Boat Launch, paddle out on Sarasota Bay and practice with your equipment. Then, head into the mangrove islands of the Jim Neville Preserve for your best chance to see local marine life including dolphins.

What makes this sunset cruise truly unique is the unparalleled combination of natural beauty and effortless relaxation, offering more than just a view, but an immersive experience. As the sun dips below the horizon, you're not simply watching a sunset; you're enveloped in the tranquil waters of the Gulf and Sarasota Bay, witnessing the dynamic interplay of vibrant colors reflecting off the water against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sarasota skyline and nearby keys. Beyond the stunning visuals, our comfortable boat, with its ample seating, provides a truly laid-back and intimate environment, perfect for unwinding whether you’re seeking a romantic escape or quality time with loved ones. Adding to this special journey is the potential for magical encounters with playful dolphins in their natural habitat, turning a beautiful evening into an unforgettable moment of wonder.

Explore the waterways of Sarasota Bay, Bird Key, and Lido Key on a compact two-seater catamaran. Discover a new side of Florida on these unique little speedboats, soaking up the sun and scenery. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and other marine wildlife as you enjoy the ride.

Your private boat charter with captain for the day! You'll have the best time experiencing our beautiful waters around Siesta Key and Sarasota. We will help you make it the best day of your vacation, making amazing memories. You will nearly always see dolphins and manatees up close, sometimes getting the dolphins to play and chase the boat! Experience fun sandbars and beach stops for swimming, snorkeling and paddleboarding. Just want to enjoy a cold drink and float in the pristine waters while enjoying your music? That's fine too! Maybe you would like to stop at a fun tiki bar or excellent restaurant on the water for a drink or bite. There are so many fun options for your day. You will leave wishing you had more time and we will hope to see you again!

Experience a stunning sunset cruise on the waters of Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Beach. This private 90-minute boat tour accommodates up to 12 guests, making it perfect for families, couples, and special celebrations. Your captain will navigate the intracoastal waterways and Gulf of Mexico to the perfect panoramic sunset spots, showcasing scenic views of Anna Maria Island’s coastline and the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and other coastal wildlife as you cruise through their natural habitat. Enjoy a route designed to highlight the best of AMI, bring your own beverages and snacks (BYOB), and create unforgettable memories as the sun sets over the water. Perfect for romantic dates, anniversaries, birthdays, family reunions, proposals, or simply unwinding with loved ones as the sun paints the sky in vibrant oranges and pinks. Book your private Bradenton Beach sunset cruise today and experience Florida's most magical hour on the water!

Experience a sunset to remember with this kayaking tour alongside local marine wildlife. Paddle next to dolphins and look out for local species of birds nesting on islands as you pass by. Learn all about the behavior and habitat of these animals from your guide as you observe them and soak up the Florida sunset on the water.

Sunsets in Sarasota are even more spectacular when viewed from the water. Join the Sharkey’s sunset and illuminated night tour to discover Sarasota’s waterways in a new light. You’ll slide into a glass bottom kayak that’s outfitted with LED lights. Paddle into the mangroves and grass flats, viewing marine life beneath you and astounding plant life around you. Use your lights to spot crabs, stingrays, shrimp and more.

You and your party of up to 6, will experience an unforgettable time on the water, whether you decide on a 2 hour day trip or sunset (sunset times will vary throughout the year), You choose how to make the most of the time. Kick back and relax, enjoying the local sea life up close, many times getting the dolphins to play in our wake. During your charter, you will see gorgeous homes, SeaLife, beautiful scenery and Siesta Keys amazing sunset, if that is the charter you prefer. You will ride in comfort in our 25ft Cobalt deck boat. The boat is equipped with Bluetooth so you can enjoy your own playlist. We will bring the bottled water and light snacks like PB crackers and granola bars... but feel free to bring anything else fun to eat or drink! We depart from Siesta Key, making it convenient for tourists and locals alike! After 10 years in business, we know how to show you the BEST time on the water!

The open water near Sarasota is home to pods of dolphins and manatees—if you know where to find them and can reach them. With this private boat cruise, head out from the North Siesta Key Bridge to the places you’re most likely to encounter dolphins and manatees. Along the way, stop at a sandbar or beach for swimming, and a tiki bar and restaurant to grab a drink before returning to shore.

With a variety of boat tour options available, visitors can explore the natural beauty of the Gulf, learn about local history, spend the day at a sandbar, witness dolphins and local wildlife, spread loved ones ashes, engagement, wedding, bachelor and bachelorette party. Private charters for a one of a kind personalized experience.

We are the only paddling outfitter with kayak access to this spectacular area in the clear waters between Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, which means no crowds and more exclusive wildlife viewing opportunities! Wildlife-viewing here is outstanding! Our expert naturalist guides set the gold standard for hospitality in our beautiful corner of the world and are always very respectful of any wildlife encountered on the tour. While larger groups can easily be accommodated upon request, we always limit our tours to small groups and we are rewarded with a very relaxed and happy group of paddlers. This excursion is perfect for families, couples, groups, and individuals with any level of paddling experience. First-time paddlers are always welcome. If you are looking for an incredibly relaxed and memorable adventure during your visit to Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, this is it!

Whether you are a family, group of friends, couples (we have done engagements!) or celebrating a special occasion, we are the best private boat charter on and around Siesta Key! We have been in business 10 years and made incredible memories for the many thousands of guests we have had out. You plan your day! We offer so many fun activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, sandbar and beach hopping, fun fishing, sunsets, dolphin and wildlife watching. Another popular option is lunch at one of the excellent waterfront restaurants between the North end of Sarasota Bay all the way down to Venice. We can help you decide the right one for you. There are also many fun tiki bars to hit by boat! Just let us know what sounds good to you and we will help you make it the perfect day! We are here to answer any questions or help you in the planning.

Increase your chances of spotting manatees and dolphins during an eco-friendly kayak tour of the Lido Key in Sarasota. Ideal for lovers of nature and wildlife, this experience lets you escape the crowds on land and is suitable for both beginner and advanced paddlers. Plus, traveling in a non-motorized vessel means you’re less likely to scare away animals.

Embark on a private two-hour adventure through Florida’s pristine waters, where you’ll witness dolphins and manatees up close, take in the peaceful beauty of hidden waterways, and enjoy a crowd-free, unforgettable experience

Discover the best of Sarasota, Florida as you embark on a sightseeing tour of the city. Climb aboard your air-conditioned vehicle and see several points of interest including the Ringling Museum and College, Selby Library, and the Sarasota Opera House. While you ride, learn about the vibrant history and culture of the city from your guide.

It's a private tour for you and your party, up to 6 passengers max. Captain Rachael will be providing a safe, fun, and memorable experience for you to hold onto. Her local knowledge adds to the experience by finding dolphins and telling you about the local area. She also has a bathroom onboard and a bow bimini shade if you prefer to stay out of the sun.

What makes this Sarasota Restaurant/Pub Dock Hop truly unique is its seamless blend of culinary exploration and scenic cruising directly along the intracoastal waterways. Unlike traditional dining experiences, you'll embark on a delectable journey by boat, effortlessly hopping between a diverse array of waterfront restaurants, casual beachside eateries, upscale establishments, and vibrant tiki bars – all accessible directly from the water. The breathtaking cruise itself becomes an integral part of the adventure, offering stunning views of the Sarasota coastline, nearby islands, and the chance to witness a spectacular sunset as you navigate between stops. Adding to its distinctiveness, the tour is entirely customizable, allowing your group to tailor the duration and number of stops to your preferences, ensuring a perfectly paced and personalized libation and culinary exploration.

Enjoy one of Florida's best beaches at sunset on an electric bike tour. With 5-level pedal assist and an on-demand throttle, the electric bike allows you to put in as much or as little effort as you want as you ride along Siesta Key. All experience levels are welcome. Booking in advance ensures you won't miss out on this small-group tour.

Discover the delectable highlights of Sarasota's thriving dining scene on this small-group, evening tasting tour. Meet your guide in central Sarasota, and come with an appetite: you'll visit several local restaurants, and will enjoy enough samples to add up to a meal (alcoholic drinks additional expense). As you go, soak up the convivial atmosphere, and learn more about Sarasota's unique culture and culinary offerings.

The fully private 4-hour sandbar boat party is the absolute best way to enjoy a day in Sarasota!! Once you've boarded the boat with your food, drinks and supplies, we'll cruise along the beautiful waters of Sarasota Bay headed to the sandbar. Along the way, be sure to be on the lookout for any of the hundreds of dolphins that call the bay their home. Once at the sandbar you'll be able to hop off the boat and play or lounge in the shallow clear waters. The entire charter is 4 hours long, but depending on which sandbar we go to, you'll have about 3-3.5 hours to enjoy the actual sandbar! Nothing beats a day out on the bay, especially when you're playing at the sandbar!

Experience an exclusive private dolphin and wildlife tour through the pristine waters of Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria Island! Exploring the waters of Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria Island with a USCG-licensed captain. On this tour, your group will have the entire boat to yourselves as you cruise the stunning Gulf of Mexico coastline and back bays, searching for dolphins, manatees (seasonal), and coastal wildlife in their natural habitat. Your local captain will navigate the grass flats and intracoastal waterways, where dolphins frequently play and feed. During low tide, watch wading birds like herons, egrets, and pelicans on the exposed flats. In season, you may spot manatees grazing in the shallow waters. This personalized eco-tour offers incredible photo opportunities and an intimate connection with Florida's diverse marine life. Book your private adventure today for an unforgettable Anna Maria Island experience!

Gulfcart Charters thrives to give each and every guest a fun, funny, informative fishing or tour experience! No idea how to fish!?!? NO PROBLEM! We teach young and old anglers alike how to fish and care for gear!

Welcome aboard Wanderlust, a beautifully appointed Bali 4.2 sailing catamaran offering one of the most refined sunset experiences on Sarasota Bay. With four distinct gathering spaces — flybridge, solid forward lounge, aft cockpit, and panoramic salon — guests enjoy multiple vantage points as the sky shifts from soft blue to brilliant shades of gold and rose. Her wide-beam twin-hull design delivers exceptional stability, making sunset sailing smooth, serene, and unforgettable. This is golden hour under sail. Your sunset charter offers a relaxed and elevated way to experience Sarasota Bay at its most beautiful. Sail past waterfront homes as the light softens, anchor in calm waters for cocktails and conversation, or glide gently under sail as the horizon glows. Perfect for romantic evenings, celebrations, or relaxed gatherings with friends, sunset aboard Wanderlust is defined by comfort, space, and breathtaking views.