Fort Lauderdale: Sea Rocket Sunset Cruise & Intracoastal Tour

Summary

Sunset colors, city lights and sea air on Fort Lauderdale’s waterways

You’ll feel Fort Lauderdale’s pulse from the water — gliding past famous beachfronts and wild cruise ships at Port Everglades, guided by locals who know every story behind those waterfront mansions. With salty air in your hair and city lights flickering onshore, this sunset cruise is less about sightseeing and more about soaking up a mood you’ll want to hold onto.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the slap of water against the hull — not loud, just steady, like someone drumming their fingers. We’d barely left Bahia Mar Marina when our guide (I think her name was Jamie?) pointed out a house with a rooftop pool. The sun was still high enough to throw gold across the water, but you could already smell that mix of salt and sunscreen that always means Florida to me. There were pelicans bobbing near the docks, totally unbothered by our boat or anything else.

I didn’t expect to laugh as much as I did — Jamie had this way of making even the billionaire mansions seem like part of some neighborhood gossip. “That one’s got more bathrooms than bedrooms,” she said, and someone behind me snorted into their drink. We drifted past skyscrapers that looked almost soft in the late light, then slid by Port Everglades where these massive cruise ships loomed over us like apartment blocks. It’s weirdly peaceful seeing all that bustle from the quiet of the water.

There was a point where we weren’t sure if we’d head out to the Atlantic or stick to the Intracoastal Waterway — depends on weather and mood, I guess. Either way, watching Fort Lauderdale light up as the sun dropped felt kind of private, even though there were other people around. The whole 75-minute cruise went fast; I kept thinking I should take more photos but mostly just ended up leaning on the rail, letting it all sink in. Still think about that last bit of sunlight catching on the waves.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Fort Lauderdale Waterway and Sunset Cruise

• Arrive 25 minutes early
• Board Sea Rocket at Bahia Mar Marina
• Cruise along Fort Lauderdale Beach
• View historic Fort Lauderdale Beach and Intracoastal
• See billion-dollar homes and downtown skyscrapers
• Pass by Port Everglades cruise and cargo ships
• Enjoy sunset from Atlantic Ocean or Intracoastal
• Return to marina after 75-minute tour

Top questions

How long is the Sea Rocket sunset cruise in Fort Lauderdale?

The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes from departure to return.

Where does the Sea Rocket cruise depart from?

The boat leaves from C Dock at Bahia Mar Resort & Marina in Fort Lauderdale.

Is there a restroom on board during the cruise?

Yes, there is a restroom available for guests onboard the Sea Rocket.

Are infants allowed on this Fort Lauderdale sunset cruise?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the trip.

Will we see Port Everglades and cruise ships?

Yes, part of the route includes views of Port Everglades with its large cruise ships and cargo vessels.

Is pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup is included; guests need to arrive at Bahia Mar Marina 25 minutes before departure.

Do I need to book tickets in advance for this sunset cruise?

Your ticket grants admission; it’s best to reserve ahead since space is limited and departure is punctual.

What will we see along Fort Lauderdale’s Intracoastal Waterway?

You’ll see famous homes, downtown skyscrapers, beaches, restaurants, bars, and passing boats along the route.

What’s included

Your ticket covers your spot aboard the new Sea Rocket boat for a 75-minute narrated sunset tour through Fort Lauderdale’s waterways. You’ll have an in-person local guide sharing stories along the way, access to an onboard restroom for comfort, and no extra add-ons or surprise fees—just show up at Bahia Mar Marina before departure time and you’re set for your evening on the water.