There’s something truly magical about celebrating life’s special moments on the water. The gentle rocking of a boat, the warm glow of a setting sun, the splash of dolphins nearby-these are the ingredients for memories that linger long after the day ends. In St. Augustine, Florida, a city steeped in history and natural beauty, Doodle Cruises offers a unique way to mark birthdays, anniversaries, bachelorette parties, and family gatherings: private, custom-themed cruises tailored just for you.
Imagine your closest friends or family gathered on a cozy 22-foot pontoon boat, the sun dipping low over the Intracoastal Waterway, the sky bursting into shades of pink and gold. You’re laughing, toasting, and soaking in the scenery, all while Captain David expertly navigates the calm waters. This isn’t just a cruise-it’s your celebration, your way.
Key Takeaways
- Doodle Cruises specializes in private, customizable cruises for small groups, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, bachelorette parties, and family outings.
- Choose from themed experiences like sunset cruises, dolphin tours, sandbar day trips, or fully tailored river adventures.
- Enjoy the comfort and privacy of a 22-foot pontoon boat with seating for up to eight guests, complete with shade and safety gear.
- Bring your food, drinks, and playlist to personalize your cruise experience.
- Book easily by calling 904-829-4201 or emailing info@doodlecruises.com to create your perfect St. Augustine celebration.
Why Choose a Custom Themed Cruise in St. Augustine?
St. Augustine is a city that invites exploration, reflection, and celebration. Its scenic waterways, historic landmarks, and abundant wildlife create a stunning backdrop for any special occasion. While many visitors opt for large group tours or crowded dinner cruises, Doodle Cruises offers something refreshingly different: an intimate, private boat experience where you set the tone.
Personalization at Its Finest
Unlike commercial tours with fixed routes and schedules, a Doodle Cruise is all about you. Whether you want to chase the sunset, spot dolphins, or anchor at a secluded sandbar for a swim, the itinerary is flexible and tailored to your preferences. This level of customization means your celebration feels unique and meaningful, not generic.
Exclusivity and Comfort
The 22-foot pontoon boat is designed for small groups, seating up to eight passengers comfortably. The canopy provides welcome shade on sunny Florida days, and the boat is equipped with all necessary safety gear, including life jackets for everyone. This exclusivity means no crowds, no strangers-just your group, your music, and your moment.
Local Expertise You Can Trust
Captain David and his wife, the owners and operators of Doodle Cruises, are lifelong St. Augustine locals. Their deep knowledge of the waterways, wildlife, and history enriches every cruise. From sharing stories about historic landmarks to pointing out playful dolphins, their expertise adds a layer of authenticity and charm you won’t find elsewhere.
Themed Cruises for Every Celebration
Sunset Cruise St. Augustine: A Romantic and Breathtaking Experience
Few experiences compare to a private sunset cruise in St. Augustine. As the sun sinks behind the horizon, the sky explodes in shades of orange, pink, and purple. The city’s historic skyline, including the iconic Bridge of Lions and the Castillo de San Marcos, is bathed in golden light.
A sunset cruise is the perfect way to celebrate anniversaries, proposals, or simply a romantic evening with your partner. Guests often bring champagne and cheese boards, soaking in the peaceful ambiance as dolphins occasionally surface nearby.
“We just got back from our sunset cruise with Captain David and his lovely wife. The boat was very spacious, and we had it all to ourselves. It was a beautiful evening on the water and the sunset over Saint Augustine was beautiful. We enjoyed champagne and cheese while watching dolphins in the river. Saint Augustine has their Nights of Lights celebration going on at this time and it is amazing to see from the water.” – Sarah M., recent guest
Sunset cruises in St. Augustine are consistently rated among the best ways to experience the city’s natural beauty, making them a must-try for couples and small groups.
Dolphin Cruise St. Augustine, FL: Family Fun and Wildlife Wonders
Dolphins are the stars of many Doodle Cruises, and spotting these graceful creatures swimming alongside the boat is a highlight for guests of all ages. The dolphin cruise is especially popular with families, offering an engaging, educational, and fun outing.
Captain David knows the best routes to maximize dolphin sightings, often cruising near Bird Island and other prime spots. Kids love the chance to take over the Bluetooth music system, choosing their favorite songs as dolphins leap nearby.
“We saw several dolphins swimming in the river, which our children will never forget. Captain David let the kids take over the Bluetooth system, so they were picking all of the music during our cruise. We will book another cruise with them again.” – The Johnson Family
The dolphin cruise is not just a boat ride; it’s a chance to connect with nature and create lasting family memories in a safe, comfortable setting.
Bachelorette and Birthday Cruises: Celebrate Your Way
Looking for the best cruise for a bachelorette party or a milestone birthday? Doodle Cruises offers an intimate, private setting that’s perfect for celebrating with your closest friends. Unlike large party boats, you control the vibe- bring your charcuterie, drinks, decorations, and playlist.
One group of friends celebrated a bachelorette party with matching hats, a curated playlist, and plenty of laughter as they cruised past St. Augustine’s historic waterfront.
“If you get the chance, I highly recommend hiring Doodle Cruises for a day on the water. Our day consisted of cruising in the intracoastal waterway with great views of Saint Augustine. Later, the captain took us to a small island where we were able to get off the boat and explore. The captain brought inflatable rafts for us to float on while we got some sun. We were also able to bring our favorite drinks, which was nice. After spending some time at the little island, we stopped at a local waterfront restaurant for some drinks and food. Then we headed back to the dock. It was a very fun, relaxing day on the water. Thank you!” – Emily R.
Custom cruises like these allow you to celebrate in style while enjoying the tranquility and beauty of St. Augustine’s waterways.
Family Cruises: Quality Time on the Water
Family cruises with Doodle Cruises are designed to be fun, safe, and memorable for all ages. The boat’s size and amenities make it easy to accommodate young children and grandparents alike. The flexible day cruise option lets you decide how long to stay out, whether it’s a quick two-hour trip or a full day adventure.
Families love stopping at sandbars for swimming and sunbathing, spotting dolphins, and enjoying the peaceful river views.
“We took our family on a day cruise with Doodle Cruises, and it was the best family cruise we’ve ever had. The kids loved swimming at the sandbar, and the adults enjoyed the beautiful views and quiet time. Captain David and his wife made us feel so welcome and took great care of everyone.” – The Martinez Family
For families looking for the best family cruise line experience in Florida, Doodle Cruises offers a personalized and unforgettable option.
What to Expect on Your Doodle Cruise
The Boat and Amenities
Doodle Cruises operates a 22-foot pontoon boat equipped with ample seating and a canopy for shade. The boat comfortably fits up to eight passengers, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups. Safety is a top priority, with life jackets for all guests and experienced local captains at the helm.
What to Bring
Since Doodle Cruises is not an all-inclusive cruise, guests bring their food, drinks, and entertainment. This allows for complete customization-whether you want a romantic picnic, a birthday cake, or a charcuterie board. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Duration and Flexibility
Cruises can be as short as a couple of hours or extended into a full day, especially if you opt for the sandbar cruise experience. Captain David works with you to design the perfect itinerary based on your preferences and schedule.
Local Insights and Hospitality
Captain David and his wife are more than just boat operators-they’re your hosts and guides. Their local knowledge brings the city’s history and wildlife to life, and their warm hospitality ensures you feel at home on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I bring my food and drinks on the cruise?
Yes! Doodle Cruises encourages guests to bring their favorite snacks, meals, and beverages. The boat has coolers stocked with ice and bottled water to keep your refreshments chilled.
2. How many people can the boat accommodate?
The pontoon boat seats up to eight passengers comfortably, perfect for couples, families, or small groups.
3. Are the cruises kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The boat is safe and spacious, and kids love the dolphin sightings and sandbar stops. Captain David even lets kids take over the Bluetooth music system!
4. Can we customize the cruise itinerary?
Yes! Every cruise is tailored to your preferences. Whether you want to focus on sunset views, dolphin watching, or island stops, Captain David will design the perfect route.
5. Is there a dinner option on the cruise?
Doodle Cruises does not offer an all-inclusive dinner cruise. Guests bring their food and drinks. However, the captain can stop at local waterfront restaurants if you want to dine ashore.
Real Stories from the Water: Connecting Through Celebration
Captain David often shares how much joy it brings him to see guests’ faces light up during their cruise. One family celebrated a grandmother’s 80th birthday by decorating the boat with balloons and bringing homemade cupcakes. The group spent hours laughing and sharing stories, with the stunning St. Augustine skyline as their backdrop.
Another unforgettable moment was a bachelorette party where friends arrived with matching hats and a playlist full of throwback tunes. As the sun set, the laughter and music floated across the water, creating a perfect sendoff for the bride-to-be.
These stories remind us that the best celebrations happen when people come together in a beautiful, relaxed setting- something Doodle Cruises delivers every day.
Why Private Cruises Are the Best Choice for Your Celebration
| Feature | Doodle Cruises (Private) | Group Tours |
| Customization | Fully customizable itinerary | Fixed routes and schedules |
| Privacy | Exclusive to your group | Shared with strangers |
| Group Size | Up to 8 passengers | Larger groups, often crowded |
| Food & Drink | Bring your own | Limited or included options |
| Experience | Personalized and intimate | Social but less flexible |
| Best For | Special occasions, families | Casual sightseeing |
Private cruises offer the freedom to celebrate exactly how you want, without compromises. For birthdays, anniversaries, or any milestone, this level of personalization makes all the difference.
Planning Your Custom Cruise: Tips for a Perfect Day on the Water
- Book Early: Popular dates and weekends fill up quickly. Call 904-829-4201 or email info@doodlecruises.com to reserve your preferred time.
- Communicate Your Vision: Share your celebration’s theme, special requests, or must-see spots with Captain David. He’ll help craft a memorable itinerary.
- Pack Essentials: Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, cameras, and your favorite snacks and drinks are a must.
- Consider Timing: Sunset cruises offer breathtaking views, while daytime cruises are perfect for dolphin spotting and sandbar stops.
- Invite Your Loved Ones: Keep the group small and intimate for the best experience.
Why St. Augustine’s Waterways Are the Ultimate Celebration Venue
St. Augustine’s Intracoastal Waterway is a treasure trove of natural beauty and history. From the historic fort to the lush mangroves and playful dolphins, every moment on the water is a chance to connect with nature and the city’s rich heritage.
Celebrating on the river means escaping the crowds, enjoying fresh air, and creating memories in a setting that’s both peaceful and inspiring. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, a custom cruise with Doodle Cruises offers a fresh perspective on this beloved city.
Ready to Make Your Celebration Unforgettable?
Life’s milestones deserve more than an ordinary party. They deserve the magic of a private cruise on the beautiful St. Augustine waterways, guided by local experts who care about your experience as much as you do.
Doodle Cruises invites you to leave the hustle behind and step into a world of sun, water, laughter, and connection. Whether you’re planning a romantic sunset cruise, a lively bachelorette party, or a family day on the river, Captain David and his wife are ready to make your vision come to life.
Call 904-829-4201 or email info@doodlecruises.com today to book your custom-themed cruise. Your perfect celebration is just a call away.
Celebrate your next birthday, anniversary, or special event with the best private cruise experience in St. Augustine. Because some moments deserve to be savored on the water, surrounded by those who matter most.
This article is proudly brought to you by Doodle Cruises, St. Augustine’s premier private boat tour company, dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences on Florida’s historic waterways.
