Sunset Party Cruise

Our most popular cruise. Sip & Sunset cruise, Champagene and Finger Foods included, music, watch the Skyway Bridge light up, and a party all the way back upriver. Sells out fast!

The Signature Cruise

Sunset, Skyway Lights, and a Party Upriver

Champagene and Finger Foods included, music, watch the Skyway Bridge light up, and a party all the way back upriver. Sells out fast! There is a reason this is our most popular cruise. We shove off about 45 minutes before sunset and motor down the Manatee River toward Tampa Bay, where the sun melts into the Gulf with the Sunshine Skyway Bridge standing in the distance. Our sunsets can be genuinely spectacular, and the view from a tiki boat beats any beach chair. Then night falls, the Skyway shows off her dazzling lights, the music cranks up, and we party all the way back upriver. Don your dancing shoes, this leg of the trip is loud, festive, and a whole lot of fun. Bring your favorite drinks and snacks aboard, coolers welcome, and we will handle the ice.

What to Expect

Two Hours You Will Not Forget

🌅

A True Gulf Sunset

Watch the sun go down over open water from the deck of Florida's largest tiki boat.

🌉

Skyway Bridge Lights

After dark, the Sunshine Skyway puts on her famous light show as we turn for home.

🎶

Music & Dancing

The ride back upriver is a full-on party, with the music up and the deck lights on.

🍺

BYOB Party

Bring your own drinks and party snacks. Complimentary ice and water, tables, and a restroom onboard.

Good to Know

Trip Details

Departure Time: 45 minutes before sunset. Departure shifts with the season, check the calendar or your booking confirmation for the exact time.
Duration: 2 hours.
Pricing: $75 per Adult $50 per Child.
Crowd: Music, drinking, and a festive atmosphere.
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: Champagene, Finger Foods included, 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: Reservations are strongly suggested. Book online below or call us. Last-minute walk-ons are accepted when seats remain.

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I book?

As early as possible. The Sunset Sip and Cruise is our most popular cruise and fills up first, especially on weekends and during peak season. Walk-ons are rarely available.

What time does the sunset cruise leave?

Departure is approximately 60 to 90 minutes before sunset so we reach Tampa Bay at the right moment. The exact time shifts with the season. Call us or check the booking page for the current schedule.

Is this cruise adults only?

All ages are welcome on board. The sunset cruise has a lively, party-forward atmosphere and is especially popular with adult groups. BYOB applies to anyone 21 and over.

Where exactly do we go?

We cruise west down the Manatee River toward Tampa Bay to catch the Gulf sunset. The Sunshine Skyway Bridge lights up on the return. The views are best from the open water.

Can we bring food and drinks?

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

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes. The River Skipper II has an on-board restroom with running water.