Top 6 Destin Holiday Events on the Water
The holiday season in Destin, Florida, is truly magical, especially when experienced from the shimmering emerald waters of the Gulf Coast and Choctawhatchee Bay. Forget the stress of cooking, crowded malls, and endless cleaning; this year, treat yourself and your loved ones to an unforgettable celebration aboard a festive holiday cruise. We’re detailing the top 6 Destin holiday cruises to experience in Destin and Sandestin.
From delectable Thanksgiving buffets to dazzling New Year’s Eve fireworks and serene holiday light tours, Destin offers a unique way to make cherished memories. Get ready to discover the best holiday cruises that will transform your celebrations into extraordinary nautical adventures!
1. Sandestin Thanksgiving Day Buffet Cruises
When: Thursday, November 27, at 11:30 am and 6:00 pm
Where: SOLARIS Yacht – Baytowne Marina (8330 Mike Hayes Blvd. Miramar Beach, FL 32550)
Price: $30 – $87 Make reservations online!
SunQuest Cruises SOLARIS is cruising twice on Thanksgiving Day for an exclusive holiday event. This 2.5-hour Thanksgiving Day Buffet Cruise features a chef-prepared buffet aboard the 125′ SOLARIS yacht. Cruising from Sandestin at the Baytowne Marina, kick off the holiday season on the water. A traditional feast awaits you, complete with 360-degree waterfront views. This Thanksgiving Day event sells out every year, so be sure to make your reservation in advance. Reservations are available online or by calling 850-650-2519.
2. Destin Harbor Sunset, Dolphin, & Holiday Lights Cruises
When: Select dates, November 28 – December 28, at 4:00 pm
Where: SunVenture I & II – Heron Harbor (314 Harbor Blvd. Destin, FL 32541)
Price: $20 – $30 Book online!
This family-friendly cruise combines the beauty of a Destin sunset with the joy of dolphin watching and the enchanting glow of holiday lights! Enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise from the Destin Harbor aboard SunVenture Cruises this holiday season. As dusk settles, watch the sky explode in vibrant colors, spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat, and then marvel as the Destin Harbor comes alive with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Complimentary hot chocolate and holiday light necklaces are included for every guest! Book your tickets online or call 850-424-6465.
3. Sandestin SOL-AR Express Holiday Cruises
When: Select dates, November 28 – December 28, at 4:00 pm
Where: SOL y LUNA – Baytowne Marina (8330 Mike Hayes Blvd. Miramar Beach, FL 32550)
Price: $20 – $30 Book online!
A coastal twist on a holiday tradition. Book your golden ticket aboard the SOL-AR Express! This festive, family-friendly cruise from Sandestin is designed to delight guests of all ages. Wearing your finest holiday pajamas is encouraged as guests board the SOL y LUNA for a 1.5-hour holiday cruise. Your cruise starts with dolphin watching to the sound of holiday music. As the sun sets, sip on hot chocolate as the crew reads passages from your favorite holiday tale. Every guest will receive a holiday souvenir of a “magical” sleigh bell, along with a holiday light necklace and complimentary hot chocolate. Book your tickets online or call 850-424-6465.
4. Sandestin New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise
When: Wednesday, December 31, at 7:00 pm
Where: SOL y LUNA – Baytowne Marina (8330 Mike Hayes Blvd. Miramar Beach, FL 32550)
Price: $20 – $35 Book online!
SOL y LUNA offers the perfect solution for families with young children who want to celebrate New Year’s Eve without staying up past bedtime. Join this 1.5-hour cruise departing from Sandestin to catch the early fireworks show! You’ll get the absolute best, crowd-free view of the spectacular display right from the water. Bring your own cooler stocked with snacks and drinks to toast to the new year (a little early, but just as fun!). Tickets are available online or by calling 850-424-6465.
5. Destin New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise
When: Wednesday, December 31, at 7:00 pm and 11:00 pm
Where:SunVenture I & II – Heron Harbor (314 Harbor Blvd. Destin, FL 32541)
Price: $20 – $35 Book online!
Celebrate the New Year your way! SunVenture Cruises in Destin is offering two spectacular fireworks cruises to ensure everyone gets the best view of the harbor fireworks, no matter their bedtime. The 7:00 pm Family Cruise: For families with young children or anyone who prefers to get to bed at a reasonable hour, this early cruise is the perfect fit. You get the incredible fireworks display without the late night. The 11:00 pm Countdown Cruise: Join the night owls and stay up to welcome the New Year on the water! This cruise puts you right beneath the action for the official midnight fireworks show, offering an unforgettable and dazzling start to the year. Both cruises feature a crowd-free experience and the best possible view of the Destin Harbor fireworks. Tickets are available online or by calling 850-424-6465.
6. Sandestin New Year’s Eve Dinner & Fireworks Cruise (21+)
When: Wednesday, December 31, at 8:00 pm
Where: SOLARIS Yacht – Baytowne Marina (8330 Mike Hayes Blvd. Miramar Beach, FL 32550)
Price: $200 – $300 Make reservations online!
This is the most highly anticipated New Year’s Eve celebration on the water! Exclusively for guests 21+, enjoy a four-course plated dinner, a live DJ, party favors, a midnight champagne toast, and a booming fireworks display! This 4.5-hour cruise departs from Sandestin at the Baytowne Marina. A VIP experience is also available to include an open bar with unlimited beer, wine, and premium cocktails throughout the evening. With limited reservations available aboard the SOLARIS yacht, this New Year’s Eve dinner & fireworks cruise offers an exclusive experience away from the crowds. Reservations are required and can be made online or by calling 850-650-2519.