Destin: Sunset Tiki Boat Cruise with Cooler & BYOB

Summary

Destin sunset cruise on a tiki boat with byob and island music

You’ll float through Destin’s bay on a tiki-style boat while the sun sets around you—BYOB encouraged, cooler and cups waiting onboard. Expect laid-back tunes, friendly faces (including your local captain), and plenty of time for photos or just soaking up that salty air with your favorite drink in hand.

What’s the experience like?

I never pictured myself watching the sun dip over Destin from what’s basically a floating tiki hut — but here we are. The first thing I noticed was how everyone loosened up as soon as we stepped aboard, maybe it was the soft reggae playing or just that weird thrill of being on a round boat with a straw roof. Our captain, Mike, handed me a cup (they’ve got ice and coolers ready) and nodded toward the little fridge. “BYOB, don’t be shy.” Someone cracked open a can and I caught that faint salty smell from the bay mixing with sunscreen and lime. It felt like summer even though it was barely spring.

We drifted out into Choctawhatchee Bay — not far at all from where we started, maybe 10 minutes? The water looked glassy in that way it gets right before sunset, when everything slows down. Kids pointed at pelicans skimming past; one little girl asked if she could steer (Mike let her pretend). Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed. There’s something about watching the sky go pink-orange while you’re bobbing gently with strangers who start to feel like friends after half an hour and two drinks. At one point someone tried to play DJ and fumbled the Bluetooth — we all laughed, nobody cared.

The best part wasn’t even the view (though yeah, you’ll get those classic Destin sunset photos). It was this quiet moment when everyone just stopped talking for a second — even the music faded out — and you could hear gulls overhead and the clink of ice in plastic cups. I still think about that silence sometimes. Anyway, if you want something different than your usual day trip in Destin, this sunset cruise is easygoing and honestly kind of goofy in the best way. Just don’t forget your own drinks or you’ll be bumming sips off someone else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset cruise on Destin bay

• Board unique tiki boat
• Head into Destin bay
• Watch famous sunset
• Listen to island tunes
• Enjoy tranquil sunset celebration
• Bring your own beverages

Top questions

Is this Destin sunset cruise family-friendly?

Yes, children are welcome on board and infants can ride in a pram or stroller.

Can I bring my own drinks on the tiki boat?

Yes, this is a BYOB cruise—bring your favorite beverages along.

Are service animals allowed on the sunset cruise?

Service animals trained to assist are permitted; emotional support animals are not allowed.

What happens if there’s bad weather?

If weather causes cancellation by the captain, you’ll get a full refund or can rebook if possible.

Is there music during the cruise?

Yes, island tunes play throughout the sunset cruise for a relaxed vibe.

How long does it take to reach the bay from departure?

The boat reaches Choctawhatchee Bay within about 10 minutes from departure.

Are weapons or drugs allowed on board?

No weapons or non-prescribed drugs are permitted on this tour.

What’s included

Your evening includes a spot on Destin’s unique tiki boat with coolers stocked with ice and plenty of cups—just bring your own drinks. The local captain handles everything else while you enjoy island music and those slow-changing colors over Choctawhatchee Bay before heading back after sunset.