Last Updated on March 31, 2024
So you’ve finally bought your flights for your summer vacation to sunny Southwest Florida, and you’re looking for the best Marco Island sunset cruises.
Well, you’ve come to exactly the right place! This laid-back barrier island is one of the best places to take in a stunning Floridian sunset right from the Gulf of Mexico.
In fact, Marco Island is known for its striking sunsets that occur almost nightly.
There are numerous spots to enjoy them as well, including state parks, wildlife sanctuaries, beaches, and public parks next to the coast.
However, one of the best ways to witness a sunset on Marco Island is by boat.
In addition to unobstructed views of the sunset, the waters off Marco Island are also home to some of the largest concentrations of dolphins in Southwest Florida.
Birds, manatees, sea turtles, and numerous fish species also call these waters home, so your chances of spotting wildlife on your sunset cruise are high!
Whether you’re just passing through on a day trip from Naples or Fort Myers, or you’re planning a longer-term beach vacation, experiencing a Marco Island sunset cruise is a must.
Below are some of the best boat cruises you can take while visiting Marco Island, Florida.
Best Sunset Cruises in Marco Island!
Photo credit – Cool Beans Cruises Catamaran Sailing Charters
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Trip Advisor with over 340 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 2 hours & 30 minutes
On this highly-rated sunset sail, you’ll hop aboard the 20-passenger catamaran “Cool Beans” for either a 2 or 2.5 hour sail with or without champagne – your choice!
The tour company also offers a smaller 25-foot pontoon, “Lil Beans” that can be reserved for beach access and eco-nature tours for up to six passengers.
This limited motoring sail will take you to multiple spots along the Gulf of Mexico, allowing for an opportunity to swim or snorkel in the Gulf’s pristine waters (weather permitting, of course).
There will also be plenty of opportunities to spot native Florida wildlife on this sail, so keeping your camera close by and charged up is a good idea.
The price for the sunset sail includes non-alcoholic beverages and alcoholic beverages for adults, as well as a champagne toast specifically for the sunset cruise.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
Natalie_B ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Photo credit – Easy Breezy Charters
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 94 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 2 hours
This relaxing private water excursion allows for true immersion in one of Florida’s loveliest sceneries: sunset.
You’ll meet your Captain in the mid-afternoon, and hop aboard your stiletto catamaran to set sail on the Gulf of Mexico.
Your first stop will be the stunning Ten Thousand Islands region where you will explore lush seascapes, and rich mangrove forests, and search for native wildlife.
During your sail, your expert captain and guide will provide information about historic landmarks, landscapes, and wildlife as you go.
You can choose to be a part of the crew to help man the sails, or simply sit back and take in the stunning tropical scenery along the way.
This tour can be personalized to fit your needs and schedule, with multiple tour times and routes available.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“Reserve a cruise with Easy Breezy to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Ten-Thousand Islands and their bays. Saw lots of dolphins up close, baby osprey chicks, pelicans and The Magnificent Frigate Bird. When Nick hoisted the sail it was so peaceful and relaxing. Nick was a great guide. He answered all our questions about his catamaran, the best places to scuba dive, and he gave great recommendations for places to eat and to visit based on our interests. The sun set was very pretty with a pastel sky silhouetting the mangrove and palm trees. Thanks Nick!.”
RaeAnn_M ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Photo credit – Pure Florida – Naples
This tour is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with over 295 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 1.5 hours
This short but unforgettable sail begins in Naples and takes you through the stunning waterways off the coast.
The best thing about this tour is that you choose the destination! You can pick from three stunning locations: Port Royal, the Gulf of Mexico, Keewaydin Island, or a mix of the three.
During the sail, you’ll have plenty of time to partake in activities including swimming, shelling, birding, or simply relaxing on the boat or beach.
You may even catch a glimpse of some of the area’s most popular residents: Bottlenose dolphins and manatees!
Your expert captain will provide commentary along the way with stories of Naple’s founding community and the houses on Millionaire’s Row.
After you’ve worked up an appetite, you can savor local cuisine from one of the many award-winning food boats in the Tin City Waterside harbor.
These boats sell seafood, cocktails, decadent pastries and cakes, and even ice cream.
This private tour is a great way to enjoy Naples’ wildlife and soft sand beaches away from the crowds and hassle of big group tours.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
This was so much fun especially with Captain Nick and his crew. The dolphins were an added bonus and the tour information was amazing. The location they took us to was absolutely beautiful and watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico was breathtaking. I’m glad we chose this cruise to celebrate our wedding anniversary.!
Evan_L ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can You Expect On A Sunset Cruise?
Sunset cruises are one of the most popular activities that travelers book on vacation.
Not only do they provide an incredibly romantic ambiance to celebrate anniversaries and date nights, but they are also relaxing and family-friendly for travelers of almost any age.
They are safe vacation activities and are usually operated by a certified boat captain and tour guide.
The aspect that many travelers enjoy most about a sunset cruise, is the ability to enjoy the day long after the sun goes down.
You can sip on a refreshing cocktail, enjoy a nice meal (on a dinner sunset cruise), or simply take in the sights of the sun dipping below the ocean line.
A warm breeze paired with the sighting of a playful dolphin or swooping pelican is a great way to unwind and recharge as a solo traveler or with loved ones.
How Long Is A Boat Ride From Naples To Marco Island?
Island hopping in between islands is a popular activity for both locals and visitors to Southwest Florida.
There are a couple of different routes you can take both to-and-from the islands, including Intracoastal channels or the Gulf of Mexico.
The cruise time from Naples to Marco Island in particular is short at just under 1.5 hours.
Not only is the sail enjoyable, but it offers a unique opportunity for boaters to explore the beauty of the Ten Thousand Islands.
What Is The Difference Between A Sunset Cruise And A Dinner Cruise?
The difference is quite simple. A dinner cruise offers an all-in-one package including a meal, a beautiful sunset, and a relaxing boat ride.
Sometimes these boats will even include mealtime entertainment or music.
A sunset cruise will rarely serve a full meal but may serve small snacks or appetizers.
More often than not, a sunset sail only includes non-alcoholic beverages, wine, or champagne.
The boats used for sunset sails also differ, and usually consist of catamarans or smaller to mid-sized sailboats versus cruise liners.
The sunset sail will usually try to get out into the wind and put up the sails.
Dinner cruises are typically also longer in duration to allow time to enjoy the meal, whereas sunset cruises are shorter, and typically end once the sun goes down.
What Do People Wear On Sunset Cruises?
The answer to this depends on a couple of different factors. For one, the weather and the destination where you take your sunset cruise matter.
If you’re setting sail off the coast of Boston Harbor in spring, you’ll want to dress warm and likely bring a jacket.
If you’re setting sail off the coast of Southwest Florida during the summer months, wearing lightweight linen shorts and a tee shirt will likely suffice.
If you’re concerned about being chilly, you can always bring a windbreaker for an added layer.
Above all, casual and comfortable clothes are typically encouraged.
Never hit the water without your sunscreen. You’ll want at least SPF 30 to protect from the Florida sun.
Sun Bum Sun Screen
If you’re planning a boat cruise, quick drying beach towels are an essential item to pack. Unlike regular towels, quick drying beach towels are made from materials that dry quickly, meaning you won’t have to worry about them getting wet and heavy as the day goes on.
Quick Drying Beach Towel
Keep your phone dry and take beautiful pictures under water with a waterproof phone case.
Waterproof Phone Case
You may be interested in these related posts:
5 Highest Rated Kayak Tours In Marco Island!
7 Best Dolphin Tours In Marco Island!
5 Best Public Beaches In Marco Island
Miami To Anna Maria Island: How to Get There & Stops To Make!
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Booking a last-minute trip to Marco Island?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended hotels and accommodations!
Top Hotels In Marco Island
Olde Marco Island Inn And Suites – (Top-Rated Beach Nearby In Marco Island)
Marco Island Lakeside Inn – (Cozy Inn With Lakeside View)
The BoatHouse – (Marco Island Motel With Outdoor Pool And Sun Terrace)
Holiday Inn Express & Suites – (Budget Accommodation Near Marco Island)
Looking To Get Around In Marco Island?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
Travel Resources
Book Your Next Trip! For Accommodations and short-term rentals, I recommend Booking.com as they are the best in the business when it comes to rates and places to stay.
To Book Activities- For activities, I suggest booking with Viator, they have thousands of 5-star activities to choose from!
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