7 Best Sunset Cruises on Anna Maria Island

Photo Credit: amidolphintours_ via Instagram

• Location: 5325 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
• Duration: 2 hours
• Price: Adult tickets start at $50 per person for the public sunset cruise

What to Expect: This cruise leaves from Waterline Marina in Holmes Beach. Spend two luxurious hours cruising around the Gulf of Mexico and along the coast of Anna Maria Island as the sun dips below the horizon and paints the sky with a lavish spread of pinks, oranges, and reds.

Enjoy spectacular views and perhaps make friends with a dolphin or two as they come to greet the boat. Private charters are also available for up to 18 passengers at an additional price.

Helpful Tips: Tours operate rain or shine. There are no snacks or drinks provided, but you can bring your own! Alcoholic drinks are permitted as well.

2.  Spice Sailing Charters

Photo Credit: in_our_huggle_home via Instagram

• Location: 840 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216
• Duration: 2.5 hours or 4 hours
• Price: $50 per person for the 2.5 hour sunset cruise; $75 per person for the 4 hour sunset cruise

What to Expect: Sail away from Anna Maria Island on a 30-foot Catalina yacht with Captain Ed at the helm. You'll take in the Sunshine Skyway and Tropicana Field on this sightseeing sunset cruise around Tampa Bay, which is perfect after an exciting day of snorkeling and fun in the sun on Anna Maria Island.

Helpful Tips: You are welcome to bring a cooler with snacks and beverages on board, as none are provided during the cruise.

3.  Fun Boat Tours

Photo Credit: funboattourssiestakey via Instagram

• Location: 5501 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
• Duration: 2.5 Hours
• Price: $59.50 for adults; $34.99 for children under 10 years of age, with discounts for military personnel

What to Expect: They don't call this the Fun Boat for nothing! This is an interesting Anna Maria Island sunset cruise in that you'll even get the crew singing a bit of karaoke as you sail around Sarasota Bay on a pontoon-style boat. In addition to the vocal stylings of your attentive crew members, they will also provide tremendous insight into the sights and scenes that surround you on your cruise. The boat departs from Keyes Marina on Marina Drive.

Helpful Tips: Water, soda, coolers, and ice are provided on board.

4.  Shore Thing Tiki Cruises

Photo Credit: Mary Callam McRell

• Location: 119 Bridge St, Suite 140, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
• Duration: 1.5 Hours
• Price: $35 for adults; $25 for children under 10 years of age (plus tax)

What to Expect: Join a highly knowledgeable crew for a sunset adventure on Anna Maria Island's calm, blue waters. Keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins as you cruise along while the sun sets on the horizon. During the tour, the crew will delight you with interesting facts about dolphins and other marine life, as well as the history of Anna Maria Island.

The boat's booth-style seating is convenient for families, and well-maintained bathrooms keep you comfortable during your voyage.

Helpful Tips: Refreshments are permitted.

5.  Paradise Boat Tours

Photo Credit: seedolphins via Instagram

• Location: 200 Bridge Street, Building A, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
• Duration: 1.5 Hours
• Price: $35 for adults; $25 for children, active military discounts available

What to Expect: The Paradise Sunset Tour is a fully narrated tour, where the crew members are passionate about educating their guests on the local marine wildlife and ecosystem. The tour departs from Bradenton Beach Marina and lasts approximately 1.5 hours. You'll have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, and different bird species.

Helpful Tips: Payment upon arrival; bring snacks, beverages, and alcoholic drinks if you'd like! If you need a boat with accessibility for the handicapped, Paradise Boat Tours has you covered.

6.  Island Boat Tours & Adventures

Photo Credit: Island Boat Tours & Adventures - Anna Maria Island , Florida via Facebook

• Location: Coquina North Boat Ramp, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
• Duration: 2 Hours
• Price: $250 for up to 6 passengers

What to Expect: Cruise around Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Sarasota Bay, and its surroundings on this two-hour sunset cruise. Head out on a public or private sunset boat ride through some of Florida's most beautiful waters as you dolphin watch from the comfort of your seat on board.

The boats that Island Boat Tours & Adventures use are significantly smaller than those of other sunset cruise tour operators in Anna Maria Island, as they only hold six people. This is ideal if you're seeking a more personalized sunset adventure.

Helpful Tips: Food, non-alcoholic, and alcoholic beverages are all welcome on board.

7.  Captain Fin's Sightseeing and Boat Tours

Photo Credit: captainfins.net

• Location: 1507 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
• Duration: 2 Hours
• Price: Contact Captain Fin

What to Expect: Head out on the waters of Tampa Bay and Anna Maria Island with a company that's been doing this since 1975! Captain Fin's Sunset Cruise in Anna Maria Island is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Spend an evening relaxing as you soak in the multifaceted hues that Florida sunsets are renowned for as the waters gently lap at the boat.

Helpful Tips: Bring your drink of choice! If you're looking for a breathtaking sunset cruise while in Florida, look no further than Anna Maria Island.

Embark on a Spectacular Sunset Cruise in Anna Maria Island

A sunset cruise on Anna Maria Island offers a truly magical experience that combines natural beauty with the thrill of exploration. So gather your friends or family and set sail on an adventure that promises to be a highlight of your visit to this Florida paradise.

And if you need a place to stay,  Anna Maria Beach Rentals has you covered with a variety of beachfront properties to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Book your AMI escape today!