ST. PETE BEACH BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Cupid Cruise: A Three-Hour Valentine’s Escape from St. Pete Beach
A 3-hour Gulf catamaran cruise from Tradewinds Beach for dolphin sightings, shelling at Shell Key, sunset views, and onboard wine and charcuterie—this guide lays out what to expect and how to prepare.
Cupid Cruise: A Three-Hour Valentine’s Escape from St. Pete Beach.
Aboard a 52-foot catamaran launching from the sun-soft sands of St. Pete Beach, the Cupid Cruise stages an intimate three-hour passage across emerald Gulf waters—dolphins cavort, a sandbar island waits for shelling, and the return trip is timed to catch a Floridian sunset.
Boarding is on Tradewinds Beach: check in at the watersports tiki hut and be ready to board from the shore—guests are asked to arrive 20 minutes before their reservation and beach attire is recommended.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Dolphin Sightings in Natural Habitat
As the catamaran crosses the Gulf, crews point out playful Florida bottlenose dolphins that frequently ride the bow and surface near the boat—an effortless, marine highlight that punctuates the cruise.
Shell Key: Private Sandbar Strolls and Shelling
The cruise anchors at Shell Key, described as an eco-rich sandbar paradise; couples can disembark to stroll pristine sands and search for sand dollars and other shells that make the stop feel like a private island.
Sunset, Sips and a Keepsake Polaroid
Complimentary wines, beers, seltzers, sodas and chilled bottle water are served alongside a curated charcuterie board; as the sun drops, the crew offers a free Polaroid photo against the sunset—an immediate memento of the evening.
What the day feels like
What the Cruise Feels Like
The Cupid Cruise unfolds like a carefully timed vignette: boarding from the shoreline, a steady glide across emerald water with chances to watch dolphins, a slow anchor at Shell Key for barefoot exploration and shelling, and a return leg that frames the sunset while guests sip and share a charcuterie board—culminating in a relaxed disembarkation back at Tradewinds Beach.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Arrive at the watersports tiki hut on Tradewinds Beach at least 20 minutes before your reservation to complete check‑in and electronic waivers via smartphone.
Beach attire and bathing suits are recommended; bring a smartphone to complete waivers and any personal items you want while ashore—food is welcome but not provided.
Complimentary wines, beers, seltzers, sodas and chilled bottle water are provided; a charcuterie board is served and there is a bathroom onboard.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Cupid Cruise?
The excursion is three hours in duration.
Where and when do I check in?
Check in at the watersports tiki hut on Tradewinds Beach and arrive about 20 minutes before your reservation; boarding takes place at the shore.
Are waivers required?
Yes—waivers must be signed for all participants; bring a smartphone to complete electronic waivers at least 20 minutes prior to your reservation.
What happens if weather affects the trip?
If weather or another conflict affects your reservation, a reservationist will contact you to rebook.
Can I go ashore at Shell Key?
Yes—the cruise anchors at Shell Key so passengers can disembark to stroll the sandbar and search for shells and sand dollars.
What should I expect for boarding conditions?
Tide levels vary and boarding may occur in water anywhere between the ankles and waist.
Is food or drink provided onboard?
Beverages (wine, beer, seltzers, sodas and chilled water) and a charcuterie board are included; additional food is welcome but not provided by the operator.
Is there a restroom onboard?
Yes, there is a bathroom onboard the catamaran.
Is there a minimum number of guests required for departure?
Yes—the trip requires a minimum of eight guests to depart.