The Gulf of Mexico to the west of Clearwater and the large natural harbour and estuary of Tampa Bay make for some of the most idyllic cruising areas to be found off the coast of Florida. One of the most popular ways to explore these pristine waters is on an organised cruise, with several companies located in the region offering a range of cruises here.
Taking to the water after dark adds a frisson of adventure and excitement to your trip – and add a delicious dinner into the mix and you have the makings of a truly memorable experience. So we’ve done some research and picked out three of the best dinner cruises available in Clearwater and Tampa, which you’ll find below.
Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining
From $15.65 per person
This 3-hour cruise of Tapa Bay invites guests to witness one of the region’s favour sunsets while enjoying live music and – for an extra charge – a mouth-watering gourmet meal. After boarding your 35-metre yacht, you’ll head off across the water, cruising along Tampa Bay and soaking up the views either from the vessel’s cosy interior or on the large outdoor deck. If you wish, you can then sit down to a lavish meal served in the yacht’s inner dining area, featuring ample seating and large windows so you can continue enjoying the magical vistas. After dinner, there’ll be live music performances and a bar serving drinks late into the night.
St. Petersburg Private Sunset Cruise
$55 per person
Embark on a memorable sail along the coastline of downtown St. Petersburg aboard a 6-passenger sailing yacht. During the trip you’ll cruise along Tampa Bay to Snell Isle and passing by the Historic Old Northeast as you head toward the elegant Sunshine Skyway Bridge. As the sea breeze fills the sails of your vessel, you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of the spectacular Florida sunset and – if you’re lucky – wild dolphins leaping alongside, as well as an array of seabirds. A range of drinks and bottled water are included in the price, and guests are invited to bring a picnic basket, snacks, or alcoholic along for the ride.
Calypso Queen Tropical Party Buffet Cruise
From $30 per person
This cruise can be taken either during the afternoon or evening, with the latter including a sumptuous buffet dinner, as well as a DJ and dancing. Departing at 6pm, you’ll be whisked across the water, navigating the Clearwater coastline while listening to live narration by your knowledgeable captain, who’ll regale you with fascinating facts about the history of the area. As the sun begins to set, tuck into an extensive buffet dinner featuring quintessential island cuisine, before hitting the dancefloor and throwing some serious shapes to the sounds of a live DJ. You can also avail yourself of the on-board bar, stocked with rum punch, beer, wine and frozen drinks.