Private Sunset Cruise

Our most popular cruise, with every seat reserved for your group. A sunset boat takeover for up to 40 guests.

The River Skipper II anchored at a Gulf sandbar in clear water The River Skipper II lit up at the dock at sunset Guests on board under the party lights at sunset A large group on the dock after a pub crawl cruise A dolphin riding alongside the boat Sunset over the water from the deck of the tiki boat A waterfront tiki bar stop on the river pub crawl The tiki boat lit up at night on the Bradenton Riverwalk
🌅 45 Min Before Sunset ⏱ 2 Hours 👥 25 to 40 Guests 💵 From $50 / Person
📞 Call to Book Your Charter View All Tours & Prices
The Sunset Boat Takeover

The Best Cruise We Run, All Yours

The sunset cruise is the crown jewel of our schedule, and taking it over privately is the single most requested charter we do. Your group of up to 40 gets the entire River Skipper II as we motor down the Manatee River to Tampa Bay, watch the sun melt into the Gulf, and cruise home under the dazzling lights of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Because the boat is all yours, the party is exactly what you make it. Bachelorette crews turn it into a floating dance floor. Anniversary groups keep it mellow with their own playlist and a champagne toast at golden hour. Corporate teams use it to end a season in style. Your music, your crowd, your rules, with our crew running the boat and keeping everyone safe.

Bring the drinks and the celebration, coolers welcome, ice and water on us, and we will supply the sunset.

What to Expect

A Private Party with a Built-In Show

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Front-Row Gulf Sunset

Golden hour over open water from a private deck, timed to the minute by a crew that does this nightly.

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Skyway After Dark

The ride home passes under the glow of the Skyway Bridge's famous light show.

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Your Party, Your Playlist

Turn it into a dance party or keep it intimate. No strangers, no shared speakers.

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Any Guest List

Public sunset cruises are adult oriented, but a private charter is your call. Kids welcome if you want them.

Charter Pricing

Simple, Straightforward Rates

$50 / person

25-guest minimum · up to 40 guests

  • ✅ The entire River Skipper II, exclusively yours
  • ✅ 25% deposit reserves your date
  • ✅ Your music, your people, your pace
  • ✅ BYOB with complimentary ice and water
📞 Call to Book Your Charter

Private charters require at least 25 reserved seats with a 25% deposit. Custom routes and longer trips available, just ask.

Good to Know

Trip Details

Departure Time
About 45 minutes before sunset. Departure shifts with the season and is confirmed when you book.
Duration
2 hours. Longer trips available on request.
Pricing
From $50 per person with a 25-guest minimum. The boat carries up to 40 guests.
Great For
Bachelorette and bachelor parties, birthdays, anniversaries, engagement parties, corporate celebrations.
Departure Point
Regatta Pointe Marina, 1005 Riverside Dr, Palmetto, FL 34221. See our Regatta Pointe departure page for parking and directions.
Pickup Options
Group pickups also available at the Bradenton Riverwalk and Anna Maria Island. Confirm your pickup location when booking.
Food & Drinks
BYOB, bring your own food and beverages. Coolers welcome. Complimentary water and ice onboard.
Footwear
Please wear flat, soft-soled shoes aboard the River Skipper II.
Onboard Comfort
Restroom with running water, padded seating, and plenty of tables arranged for a sociable cruise.
Accessibility
We can accommodate wheelchairs and walkers.
Safety
The River Skipper II is a 45-foot commercial vessel, US Coast Guard inspected annually.
Booking & Deposit
Private charters require at least 25 reserved seats with a 25% deposit. Call (941) 209-0203 to lock in your date.
Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should we book?

As early as possible. Weekend sunset dates for private charters go fast, especially in season. We recommend calling at least two to three weeks out.

What time does the private sunset cruise leave?

Approximately 60 to 90 minutes before sunset, timed so we reach Tampa Bay at the right moment. The exact time shifts by season. We confirm it when you book.

How many guests can come?

Two to 40 guests on one boat. Pricing is by the boat. Call (941) 209-0203 for a quote based on your group size.

Is this adults only?

All ages are welcome. The sunset cruise has a festive atmosphere and is popular with adult groups. Your group sets the vibe since the whole boat is yours.

Can we bring food and drinks?

Yes. Fully BYOB. Bring drinks, snacks, or a full catered spread. Coolers are welcome. We provide complimentary water and ice.

How do we book?

Call (941) 209-0203. Private charter reservations are handled by phone so we can hold your date and confirm all the details up front.

Explore more ways to cruise:

🎫 Prefer Per-Seat Tickets? Public Sunset Cruise 🍺 River Pub Crawl 🏖️ Private Beach & Sandbar Run 🎉 All Private Charters & Events 🎫 View All Tours & Prices

Take Over the Sunset

Sunset dates go first, especially weekends in season. Call now and a 25% deposit holds your evening.

📞 Call to Book Your Charter 📞 (941) 209-0203