There’s nothing quite like watching the sun dip below the horizon from the deck of a boat. The golden glow on the water, the cool evening breeze, and the company of friends and family all come together to create a memory you’ll treasure forever. Here’s your guide to hosting the perfect sunset cruise for your crew.
Step 1: Pick the Right Boat
The foundation of a great sunset cruise is choosing the vessel that fits your group. At Jax Boat Club, our fleet includes a variety of boats designed for different experiences:
Deck boats and bowriders: Ideal for groups who want open seating and plenty of space to mingle.
Dual consoles: Great for families with kids who want extra comfort and shade.
Sport decks: Perfect if you want to mix in some watersports before the sun sets.
Think about your group size, the vibe you’re going for, and how you want to use the time before and after the sunset.
Step 2: Time It Right
The key to a flawless sunset cruise is timing. You’ll want to leave the dock about an hour before sunset so you can find the perfect viewing spot without rushing. This also gives you time to enjoy a leisurely ride, spot dolphins along the river, and settle in with your guests before the main event.
Pro tip: Check the local sunset time in Jacksonville for the day of your cruise. Apps like Weather.com or even a quick Google search will give you the exact time so you can plan accordingly.
Step 3: Plan Your Route
Jacksonville offers countless scenic spots for sunset viewing. Some favorites include:
The Intracoastal Waterway: Wide views and open skies make for stunning reflections.
St. Johns River near downtown: The skyline lights up beautifully as the sun dips.
Near the inlets: If conditions allow, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the sun setting over the Atlantic.
Choose a route that matches your group’s preferences—whether it’s a quiet, peaceful float or a lively ride with music and laughter.
Step 4: Set the Mood with Food & Drinks
No sunset cruise is complete without refreshments. Keep it simple but thoughtful:
Snacks: Think finger foods like fruit skewers, cheese boards, or chips and salsa.
Drinks: Sparkling water, sodas, or a chilled bottle of wine (for adults) add a celebratory touch.
Cooler essentials: Ice, napkins, and reusable cups keep everything fresh and easy.
Remember, safety comes first—designate a sober captain for the evening.
Step 5: Create the Atmosphere
A little preparation goes a long way in setting the tone:
Music: Create a playlist ahead of time with relaxing tunes for the ride out and more upbeat songs for the return.
Comfort: Bring along light jackets or blankets for when the evening air cools down.
Lighting: Battery-powered string lights or lanterns add a cozy touch once the sun sets.
Step 6: Capture the Moment
Sunsets on the water are picture-perfect, so don’t forget to document the experience. Encourage guests to snap photos, or designate one person as the “photographer” so everyone else can relax. Just be sure to keep phones and cameras secure—use wrist straps or waterproof pouches to avoid accidents.
Step 7: End on a High Note
After the sun sets, enjoy the peaceful twilight ride back to the marina. This is the perfect time to reflect, laugh, and share stories. Once you’re docked, you can extend the evening by heading to a local waterfront restaurant or simply winding down at home with your guests.
Make Your Sunset Cruise Unforgettable
Hosting the perfect sunset cruise doesn’t require a lot of effort—just a little planning and the right boat. At Jax Boat Club, we take care of the details so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying time with the people you love against one of Florida’s most beautiful backdrops.