Ft. Lauderdale: Sunset Catamaran Cruise & Champagne Toast

Summary

Drift past Ft. Lauderdale’s mansions and yachts as the sun slips behind the city lights, champagne in hand

You’ll board a catamaran in Ft. Lauderdale just as daylight starts to fade, sipping complimentary champagne while gliding past waterfront mansions and mega yachts. Watch bridges open for your boat and listen to relaxed music as city lights flicker on behind you. Feel that soft ocean breeze and take in those unreal sunset colors—this cruise leaves you with more than just photos.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the evening air felt — not hot, not cool, just that sticky Florida softness that clings to your skin. We’d barely stepped onto the catamaran before someone handed me a glass of champagne (I almost dropped it because I was distracted by a pelican gliding right past us). Our guide — I think his name was Mike, or maybe Mark? — pointed out some wild-looking mega yachts as we pulled away from the dock. He had this dry humor about all the “millionaire row” stories. The houses looked almost fake, like movie sets. But there were kids in one backyard waving at us, which made it feel less distant somehow.

As we cruised along Ft. Lauderdale’s waterways, music drifted from hidden speakers — mellow stuff, nothing too loud — and you could hear people laughing in little pockets around the deck. There was this moment when the 17th Street causeway bridge started to lift for us; traffic stopped and drivers leaned out their windows to watch our boat glide through. It felt oddly special, like we were part of some local ritual. The sky started changing color right then — kind of orange but with weird pink streaks that didn’t look real. I tried taking a photo but it never looks the same as when you’re actually there.

Once we hit open water, sails up, you could really smell the salt and something else — sunscreen maybe? Or just Florida itself. The city lights started flickering on behind us while everyone clustered at the rail for pictures or just to stare quietly at the horizon (I overheard someone say they’d lived here for years but never saw this view before). Mike/Mark kept topping up glasses and telling stories about cruise ships so big they block out half the skyline when they leave port. I still think about that view back toward land — fiery colors fading into blue-black water — it sticks with you longer than you expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset catamaran cruise in Fort Lauderdale

• Board catamaran at Fort Lauderdale
• Cruise along waterways viewing mansions
• Pass busiest cruise ship port
• See waterfront mansions and mega yachts
• Set sail into Atlantic Ocean
• Enjoy sunset views over Fort Lauderdale Beach

Top questions

Is champagne included on the Ft. Lauderdale sunset catamaran cruise?

Yes, a complimentary glass of champagne is included during the cruise.

Does the sunset catamaran cruise go out onto the Atlantic Ocean?

Yes, after cruising along Ft. Lauderdale's waterways, you'll set sail on the Atlantic Ocean.

Will we see any famous landmarks or areas during this cruise?

You'll pass Millionaires Row, see waterfront mansions, mega yachts, and cruise ship ports.

Is pickup included for this sunset catamaran tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests should make their own way to the departure point.

Are children allowed on this sunset catamaran cruise?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

Can service animals join this Ft. Lauderdale sunset cruise?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this catamaran tour.

Is public transportation available near the departure point?

Yes, there are public transportation options nearby for easy access to the boat.

What should I wear for a Ft. Lauderdale sunset catamaran cruise?

Sundresses, flowered shirts, sandals—casual tropical attire is perfect for this evening sail.

What’s included

Your evening includes a complimentary glass of champagne as you sail from Ft. Lauderdale’s waterways out onto the Atlantic Ocean aboard a comfortable catamaran—with music playing softly and plenty of space to relax while passing waterfront mansions and mega yachts before returning after sunset.