Best Sunset Cruises in Marathon, FL
The Florida Keys are famous for many things — Jimmy Buffet, key lime pie, and some of the most colorful and breathtaking sunsets you’ll find anywhere in the world! Ok, there’s plenty more the Keys are famous for, but the sunsets really do top the list. One of the best ways to experience this magic is on a sunset cruise.
There’s nothing quite a lazy day of sailing over the tranquil turquoise water at the end of the day while being treated to a kaleidoscope of colors slowly creeping over the horizon. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some dolphins showing off their jumping skills along the way. Some cruises also offer extras like cocktails and music.
Sunset cruises are a dreamy way to end the day (or start the evening) in The Florida Keys, and you won't have to stray far from your Coco Plum vacation rental to hop aboard one. Whether you want to set sail in a catamaran, explore on a snorkel cruise, paddle through a sunset eco-tour in a kayak, or cruise along in your very own floating Tiki Bar, there are endless ways to catch a Keys sunset.
Here’s a roundup of the best sunset cruises around the Marathon Keys to aid in your planning of the perfect Keys getaway!
Marathon Mermaid Charters
Photo Credit: Cheryl N
- Website: marathonmermaid.com
- Phone: 305-842-1492
- Location: 1688 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
- Trip Duration: 2 Hours
- Rates: $65 for adults, $45 for children under 12, $35 for children under 3
Conveniently located right off the Overseas Highway, Marathon Mermaid Charters offers nightly sunset cruises on their cozy, open-air catamarans. In addition to the stunning sunset, you’ll have the opportunity for plenty of scenic views as the cruise passes through Boot Key Harbor and the Seven Mile Bridge.
As the catamaran sails along, passengers can enjoy listening to music, sipping on complimentary champagne, and learning about the delicate ecosystems of the Keys from their knowledgeable captains. While never guaranteed, it can also be common for dolphins to be spotted on this tour. An added bonus to an already amazing evening!
Cruisin' Tikis Marathon
- Website: cruisintikismarathon.com
- Phone: 855-539-8454
- Location: 1021 11th Street Ocean, Marathon
- Trip Duration: 2 Hours
- Rates: $74.95 per person, $425 for a private Tiki (accommodates up to 6 passengers)
With a motto of “Why go bar hopping when you can hop on a bar?” — you know you’re in for a good time with Cruisin’ Tikis. As the name implies, you’ll cruise down the waterways in your very own Tiki Bar, complete with a thatched roof and comfy bar stools. While it may look like a bar, the drinks are BYOB, so be sure to stock up on whatever you like before hopping aboard. Cruisin’ Tikis does provide coolers, ice, and cups.
Cruisin' Tikis offers a sunset cruise like no other and is a local and visitor favorite, especially for celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, honeymoons, and more. If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy a Keys’ sunset with a cocktail in hand and tropical ocean breezes, it doesn’t get much better than this!
Ocean Sailing Inc.
Photo Credit: gabe blardony
- Website: oceansailinginc.com
- Phone: 305-304-2982
- Location: 11th Street Ocean, Marathon
- Trip Duration: 2 Hours
- Rates: $40 per person
Sailing out of Safe Harbor Marina, this small, locally-owned sailing company welcomes guests aboard its pride and joy, Sirius — a 24-foot sailing catamaran. Passengers can enjoy a serene evening sail with gorgeous views of the sunset and water.
If you’re a dog lover, you’ll enjoy meeting First Mate Raava, the sweetest Golden Retriever ever to welcome you aboard! Guests are also welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks (including beer and wine in non-glass containers). A sunset sail aboard Sirius is the perfect, relaxing way to end the day. They also offer private charters for those looking for a more intimate sightseeing experience.
Two Conchs
Photo Credit: Brett Jackrel
- Website: twoconchs.com/island-tours
- Phone: 305-587-1442
- Location: 1 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon
- Trip Duration: 2 Hours
- Rates: $75 for adults, $55 for children under 17, $25 for children under 3
Located on Knight’s Key, The Two Conchs Island Sunset Tour offers spectacular views and laid-back vibes on its comfy, extra-large, 53-foot catamaran. Perks include restrooms onboard and coolers for guests to bring their own drinks (beer and wine in non-glass containers are permitted).
During the sunset cruise, passengers have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy epic views of the waters off Marathon and the iconic Seven Mile Bridge. This larger boat equipped with extra comforts makes the Two Conchs Island Sunset Tour a hit with families, especially those traveling with young children.
Florida Keys Kayak and Paddleboard
Photo Credit: Apostle Islands
- Website: keykayak.com/product/sunset-night-eco-tour-marathon
- Phone: 305-998-6500
- Location: 19 Sombrero Blvd, Marathon
- Trip Duration: 2 Hours
- Rates: $65 per person
Launching from Skipjack Marina, Florida Keys Kayak and Paddleboard offers a more adventurous way to chase the sunset if you don’t mind getting a little wet! You’ll hop aboard a kayak and paddle through scenic mangrove tunnels, where you may encounter manatees and other marine life.
While this tour offers a unique way to watch a beautiful sunset, it doesn’t just stop there. Once the sun sets, underwater lights illuminate the bottom of your kayak for a beautiful glow and additional opportunities to spot stingrays, jellyfish, and more while you return to the marina. This sunset tour is a can't-miss for the adventurous at heart and those who want to do more sightseeing!
Sunset Cruises in Marathon - Know Before You Go
Weather Considerations
Thanks to the mild, tropical climate of Marathon, sunset cruises are typically available year-round but may have cancellations during the rainy season (May - October) or due to rough sea conditions.
Refund policies due to inclement weather or sea conditions can vary by agency so it’s always a good idea to read the fine print and check the weather prior to booking any boat tours.
What to Bring
Ready to pack for your adventure in the Keys? Passengers should dress comfortably and wear non-slip shoes. Dock and boat surfaces can be slippery. Mosquitos can be especially active around the docks at sunset, so bring bug repellent and/or wear long sleeves and pants.
Even during the hottest part of summer, it can get cool and windy out on the water. Consider bringing a light jacket or windbreaker.
While not a necessity, a waterproof phone case with a string attachment or floatie can come in handy. You don’t want to lose your phone overboard trying to get that perfect sunset shot!
Sail Away into the Sunset in Marathon
There’s no better place to enjoy a famous Florida Keys sunset than right in the epicenter of it all. Staying in Marathon offers a charming, laidback island retreat with quick and easy access to all the best attractions The Keys offers. In addition to sunset cruises, visitors can choose from a wide range of other boat tours, including snorkel trips, diving excursions, sandbar trips, sightseeing cruises to Key West, parasailing, and more!
Ready to plan your perfect stay? Coco Plum Vacation Rentals offers a variety of options, from resort-style luxury homes to beachy bungalows, quaint cottages, seaside condos, and more.
With vacation rentals conveniently located near all the local marinas, you can sail away into the sunset whenever you’d like. Book your perfect Marathon vacation rental now!
