Naples: Sunset Cruise on Double Sunshine & Port Royal Sights

Summary

Golden light on the gulf, dolphins near keewaydin, port royal’s quiet luxury

You’ll board at Tin City for a relaxed sunset cruise through Naples’ waterways, passing Keewaydin Island and spotting dolphins if you’re lucky. Listen to your captain’s stories about Port Royal’s mansions while golden light spills across the deck. Return just as night falls, feeling like you’ve seen another side of Florida.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed wasn’t the sunset — it was the low hum of voices bouncing off the water as we stepped onto the Double Sunshine at Tin City. Someone behind me was debating which ice cream shop to try after, and honestly, that felt just right for Naples. The boat smelled faintly of sunscreen and salty air, and our captain — I think his name was Tom? — gave a wave like he’d been doing this forever. He started telling stories before we even left the dock, little bits about old Naples families and how Port Royal got its name. I didn’t expect to care about real estate gossip, but hearing about “snowbirds” with houses bigger than my whole apartment building made me laugh.

We slid past pelicans perched like grumpy old men on pilings, then out toward Keewaydin Island where the water opened up wide. The breeze got cooler out there, almost sharp against my skin for a second — Florida’s version of refreshing. Someone pointed and suddenly everyone was craning for dolphins; two arched up right near us, so close you could hear them breathe if you were quiet (nobody really was). There’s something about seeing wild animals when you’re not expecting it that sticks with you longer than any photo.

As we cruised past those Port Royal mansions — all manicured lawns and windows catching the last gold light — Tom kept tossing out facts in between jokes. A couple in front of me tried to guess which house belonged to a famous football player (they were both wrong, according to Tom). The sun dropped lower until everything turned sort of pink-orange and people stopped talking for a minute. It felt like Naples itself was slowing down too. Then someone’s phone rang with a ringtone that totally broke the mood — but that’s real life, right?

I still think about that moment when we turned back toward Tin City: just quiet water behind us and a handful of strangers who’d all watched the same sky change colors together. If you’re looking for a sunset cruise in Naples that isn’t trying too hard but still gives you those little goosebump moments (plus free parking), this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Naples sunset cruise and shopping

• Board Double Sunshine at Tin City
• Cruise along Gordon River to Gulf
• Enjoy historical narration on board
• Admire Port Royal mansions
• View wildlife and Keewaydin Island
• Return to Tin City Waterside Shops
• Shop and dine at Tin City or 5th Ave

Top questions

How long is the Naples sunset cruise?

The cruise lasts 90 minutes from departure to return at Tin City.

Where does the Double Sunshine sunset cruise depart from?

The boat departs from Tin City Waterside Shops off 5th Ave South in Naples.

Is there parking available for the sunset cruise?

Yes, free parking is included for guests at Tin City Waterside Shops.

Will I see dolphins or other wildlife on this tour?

You may see dolphins, birds, or manatees (seasonal) along the route.

Is food or drink included on the cruise?

No food or drink is included; however, there are restaurants at Tin City before or after your cruise.

Is this sunset cruise wheelchair accessible?

The tour is accessible to non-motorized wheelchairs but not service animals unless arranged directly with staff.

Does the tour include historical commentary?

Yes, your captain provides historical narration about Naples and Port Royal during the cruise.

What should I wear for a sunset cruise in Naples?

Wear comfortable clothes suitable for warm weather; sunscreen and bug spray are recommended.

What’s included

Your evening includes boarding at Tin City Waterside Shops with free parking provided, a 90-minute narrated sunset cruise on the Double Sunshine led by an experienced local guide (your captain), plus plenty of chances to spot dolphins or birds along Gordon River and out toward Keewaydin Island before returning just after dusk.