St. Pete Pier: Floating Tiki Boat Cruise & BYO Drinks

Summary

BYO drinks and cruise the St. Pete Pier on a floating tiki bar with friends, music, and city views

You’ll step onto a floating tiki boat at St. Pete Pier with your favorite drinks in hand, music playing through Bluetooth speakers, and a local captain steering you past city views. Expect laughter, salty air, dolphin sightings if you’re lucky—and an easygoing vibe that lingers long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely stepped onto the floating tiki boat when Captain Ray grinned at our cooler—“You packed enough for a week?” he joked, helping us settle in. I liked him right away. The pier was busy with families and pelicans but as soon as we drifted out, the noise faded behind us. It’s weird how quickly you feel like you’re somewhere else entirely, just a few minutes from downtown St. Petersburg.

I didn’t expect to notice the smell of salt and sunscreen mixing with our snacks (someone brought spicy chips—bad idea in the wind). We played our own playlist over the Bluetooth speakers—my friend tried to DJ but kept getting distracted by the views of the city skyline reflected in the water. There’s something about seeing those tall buildings from this low angle that makes them look softer, less intimidating somehow.

Captain Ray pointed out a couple of dolphins off to one side—not sure if they were showing off or just curious about our little floating bar. He told us stories about other groups he’s taken out; apparently people celebrate everything on these boats—birthdays, divorces, Tuesdays. I liked that there was no script or rush; just us, our drinks (no overpriced cocktails here), and whatever breeze decided to show up that afternoon. I still think about how easy it felt to laugh out there, sun on my arms and nothing urgent waiting back on shore.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tiki boat cruise at St. Pete Pier

• Bring your favorite beverages
• Board the floating tiki bar
• Enjoy cruise around St. Pete Pier
• Sip drinks while listening to music
• Relax with USCG licensed captain

Top questions

Can I bring my own alcohol on the St. Pete tiki boat?

Yes, you can bring your own alcoholic beverages and snacks.

How many people fit on each floating tiki boat?

Each tiki boat can hold up to 6 people per group.

Is there a captain or do we drive ourselves?

A US Coast Guard licensed captain is included for every cruise.

Are coolers and ice provided?

Yes, coolers with ice are provided for your drinks and food.

Can we play our own music during the cruise?

Yes, there’s a Bluetooth radio so you can play your own music.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed on the tiki boat.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near St. Pete Pier.

What’s included

Your day includes a USCG certified captain guiding your cruise around St. Pete Pier, coolers filled with ice for your BYO drinks or snacks, plus a Bluetooth radio so you can play whatever music fits your mood while you float along with friends or family.