tampa bay private boat tours

Signed in as:

[email protected]

• Finn's Boat Rides
• Book a Boat Ride
• Boat Rental Yacht Charter
• Charter Concierge
• Property Showings
• Yacht Tender
• Valet Services
• Quick Links

Welcome to Coast Runner Marine

Providing Private Boat Rides, Yacht Charters, Captain Services and More

Come Experience the Tampa Bay Area’s Boating Lifestyle.

Private Day and Evening Boat Rides

Enjoy the Tampa area waterfront by boat with your own private boat chauffeur with day and evening cruises. 

Stops at Sparkman Wharf, Armature Works  and American Social, offers some of the best dining experiences in Tampa.  

We Launch from Down Town Tampa and Apollo Beach.

Some of Our Popular Stops

All along the Tampa Riverwalk you’ll find amazing restaurants and bars to explore.  Our day and evening cruises are the most popular. Perfect for special occasions, entertaining clients and visitors. 

NEW LOCATION ADDED at 

Finn's Bar and Grill Apollo Beach.

Private Chase Tender and Yacht Charters

We also provide private tender support for a wide variety of scenarios. We can support your Yacht Charters with additional supplies and run your clients safely and swiftly to beaches, sand bars, eco tours and dockside dining.

Waterfront Property Showings

There is no more exciting a way to show a waterfront property than by boat. For those discerning home buyers seeking the Tampa Bay Regions waterside lifestyle, we provide brokers private showings by boat. 

Valet Services * Detailing * Crew for Hire

Need your boat taken to the marina for service or fueled before a big outing and don’t have time?  We’ll run it for you.  Need it Captained so you can kick back and join your friends and family in the party? 

Valet, Detailing, Delivery.....We got you!

Photography Video and Drone Support

Camera crews and photographers needing tender service for their production and photo shoots can rely on us for flexible scheduling and rates. Need aerial footage captured by drone?  We can meet your needs. Contact us with your project needs and we'll tailor your outing.

Our Tenders

Avoid crowded tourist barges, tiny dingies and ride in private at your own pace. Our sporty center consoles are perfect for coastal and intracoastal waters of the Tampa bay area. They are comfortable dry rides great for cruising yet nimble to handle busy waterways and docks, beaches and sand bars.  

Sign up to hear from us about specials, sales, and events.

We can’t wait to see you on the water.

Coast runner marine.

601 S Harbour Island Blvd, Tampa, Florida 33602

E [email protected] P 813.816.0241

Contact Form

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Copyright © 2024 Coast Runner Marine LLC - All Rights Reserved.

This website uses cookies.

We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.

THE 10 BEST Tampa Boat Tours

Boat tours in tampa.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Boat Rentals
• Gear Rentals
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Sunshine Skyway Bridge
• Tampa Water Taxi Company
• St. Pete Beach Eco Tours
• Egmont Key State Park
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Island Sunset and Skyway Light Show in St. Petersburg

2. Tampa History Cruise

3. 4-Hour St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key Experience by Ferry

4. St Petersburg Speed Boat Adventure

5. 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa

6. Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour

7. Premiere Private Sunset Cruise With Lights Of The Skyway Bridge

8. 2 Person Mini Power Boat Rental at Tampa Riverwalk

9. Luxury Private Boat Charter

10. 2-Hour Dolphin Watching Tour in Florida

11. Private Charter

12. Private Sunset Cruise in St.Petersburg

13. Half Day Luxury Boat Tour in Tampa with Snorkeling

14. Sunset and Night Cruises Tour

15. 38' Private Boat Charter Rental - Tampa W/ Captain up to 13ppl

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Little Toot Dolphin Adventure at Clearwater Beach

Calypso Queen Tropical Party Buffet Cruise

Clearwater Encounters with Dolphins Tour

Clear Kayak Tour of Shell Key Preserve and Tampa Bay Area

Sunset Cruise from Clearwater

Mega Bite Dolphin Tour Boat in Clearwater Beach

Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass

Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining in St. Petersburg

Small Group 2 Hour Dolphin Cruise with Snorkeling to Shell Key

Sharkey's LED Illuminated Night Tour on Glass Bottom Kayaks in St. Pete Beach

Clearwater Dolphin-Watching Tour

Sharkey's LED illuminated Night & Sunset Tour on Glass Bottom Kayaks in Sarasota

Dolphin Quest - Sightseeing/Eco Cruise, John's Pass, Madeira Beach, FL

2 Hour Sunset Cruise in Clearwater, Florida

Dolphin Tour in St. Pete Beach

What travelers are saying.

• Tampa History Cruise
• Island Sunset and Skyway Light Show in St. Petersburg
• 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa
• Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour
• 4-Hour St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key Experience by Ferry
• Tampa Fishing Charters
• Slobby Joe Charters
• Salt Luxury Charters
• Captain Zach Charters
• Liquid Fun Charters
• Tampa Bay Fun Boat LLC
• Pirate Tikis
• Kraken Cycleboats
• Olde World Sailing Line

Private Charter

Description

Celebrate the next special occasion on The Tropics for your very own Private Charter. There's nothing like having the 126-passenger double-decker catamaran all to yourself! From our regular day cruises to creating your own route or even going to a special destination, we can accommodate almost any request. We have even structured our pricing by season and time of day to make your Private Charter affordable. We also offer catering and drink options.

Packages start as low as $1,000.00 and are tiered depending on the total number of passengers.

Complete the form below to request information or for complete pricing details.

Connect with your Private Charter Coordinator Kristi today!

Private Cruise

Knowledgeable crews, photographic sceneries, safety equipment, catering set-up with order, frequently asked questions, do you have a smaller group and the large tropics vessel is too large, where do i park, how does the guaranteed dolphin sightings work, are there restrooms on board, is there any shade or protection from the elements, can we bring food on board, do you offer private charters, are pets allowed, are you wheelchair accessible, can i bring a stroller, how are we notified when inclimate weather impacts our tour time, things to know, photo disclaimer.

By submitting/posting/sharing images to The Tropics Boat Tours, LLC, all participants grant The Tropics Boat Tours, LLC, its affiliates and assigns, the right to print, publish, broadcast, and use in any manner and at any time or times, worldwide, in any media now known or hereafter developed, including, without limitation, the World Wide Web, the participant's name, photographs and any language contained therein, for public information without additional consideration or compensation. Participants further release Tropics Boat Tours, LLC, its affiliates and assigns from any and all liability, claims, or damages arising out of or relating the participant's submission. All photographs submitted become the property of Tropics Boat Tours, LLC and will not be returned to the submitter.

Accessibility Details

We strive to make sure all passengers can access our vessel but our amenities are limited. All standard wheelchairs fit our ramp to come on board, but wheelchairs larger than 22 inches wide do not fit our door into the covered cabin of the boat. However, passengers in wheelchairs can enjoy our tours from the uncovered bow of our boat, which provides a great view of the pods of dolphins spotted by our crew, as well as the beautiful sunset. If boarding assistance is needed, please ask our crew. For the safety of all, kindly note that our employees are not permitted to lift strollers, wheelchairs or any other mobility equipment.

Cancellation

All Sales are final and the normal check in of 45 minutes prior to boarding time still applies. Please review our parking information page for details about parking and alternative modes of getting to us. You can cancel up to 48 hours in advance with no penalty. No refunds are available for cancellations made within 48 hours. Reschedules within 48 may have rescheduling fees. Tours rescheduled by patrons are subject to rescheduling fees. Tours that need to be rescheduled due to not meeting passenger minimums or weather are not subject to a rescheduling fee.

Kids On Board

We love when families join us on board, and ask that parents/accompanying adults keep a close eye on the children they are responsible for. Our rules will be announced upon departure, and include No Running, No Standing on the Benches, and No Littering on Board. Our crew members have very important responsibilities and tasks to complete to keep all passengers safe, and cannot be expected to monitor children's behaviors as well.

Guaranteed Dolphin Sighting Policy

We offer 100% guaranteed dolphin sightings on all our regular Dolphin Exploration Tours. Our guarantee means in the unlikely event the many wild dolphins in the area are not out to play, we invite you to return at a later date on us. This guarantee does not include a refund of any kind as your complimentary Dolphin Exploration Tour in the future never expires.

Hold Harmless

All guests give up their right to sue The Tropics Boat Tours and agree to hold The Tropics Boat Tours harmless from any and all liability for personal injury, property damage or wrongful death caused by negligence or gross negligence. Guests assume all risks in connection with the commercial boating activity of The Tropics Boat Tours.

Ask a question

Check availability, more experiences .accent-svg{fill:#cde54a;}.

Dolphin Exploration Tours

Our Dolphin Exploration Tours will take you from Clearwater Bay out Clearwater Pass on the beautiful emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico (weather permitting) in search of the Sun Coast’s favorite….the Bottlenose Dolphin. In addition to offering Guaranteed...

Sunset Celebration Cruises

The Tropics Sunset Celebration Cruise will take you from Clearwater Bay through Clearwater Pass to the beautiful Gulf of Mexico (weather permitting). Sail the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico as you view a breathtaking Florida sunset and —...

Tampa Bay CityPASS®

Family fun starts with Tampa Bay CityPASS®! Save 53% on Tampa Bay's top 5 attractions. CityPASS® includes a Dolphin Exploration Tour or Sunset Celebration Cruise with The Tropics Boat Tours. You’ll also have admission to Bush Gardens® Tampa Bay, The...

The Tropics Boat Tours offers gift cards for $30 (one daily tour ticket), $60 (two daily tour tickets), or any other increment of your choice. For example, you could give a friend or relative a $35 gift card for them...

• Create Account

Signed in as:

[email protected]

• Reservations

No Boat? No Problem! 

Let us take you out to explore the waters of Tampa Bay for any occasion!

813-476-1190

Your boating adventure will take place on our 25 foot Robalo with Captain Jim at the helm. This boat is perfect for any type of day on the water! Whether you’d like to go flats or deep water fishing, visit the local hot spots, go dolphin watching, or take a night cruise down the river; we can accommodate up to 6 people (max 1000 lbs. total). Our Robalo 246 Cayman is one of the most versatile boats on the water and can be arranged to make your perfect day on the water a reality. 

Meet Captain Jim

Captain Jim  is licensed with the USCG Merchant Mariner Credential  (ref#6232661) and has been an avid boater his whole life. He loves nothing more than being on the water and is happy to show you his favorite spots around Tampa Bay! 

First Mate "Little" Jimmy

Meet your first mate! He's been fishing and driving a boat since he learned to walk! Some might say he's even better at this than the captain! He's been known to wake up, catch himself a fish, filet it, and cook it up for breakfast! 

Please use the Book Now option for more details, or call to discuss custom plans. We can accommodate most requests while remaining competitive for your individual needs. 

Photo Gallery

Send us a message with any comments, questions, or scheduling concerns. We will get back to you soon!

Tampa River Tours

Tampa, Florida, United States

Get in Touch!

Sign up for our email list for updates, promotions, and more.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

This website uses cookies.

We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.

• CHOOSE A BOAT
• CHOOSE A CAPTAIN
• AIRBOAT ADVENTURES

At Salt Luxury Charters, we offer several waterfront boat rides in Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater. Check out our diverse choices, and book the tour that appeals best to your adventurous side.

We offer 2-2.5 hour sunset tours, 4 hour tours, 6 hour tours, and 8 hour tours. Below are options of different tours we offer. Feel free to book one of our two beautiful boats and customize your tour exactly how you want it!

Egmont Key Tour

This boat tour takes you past the landmark Skyway Bridge to the beautiful Egmont Key. You’ll sample area restaurants, go dolphin sightseeing, and experience even more. The crystal-clear water here makes for the best snorkeling near Tampa. (6 OR 8 hour tour)

John's Pass Tour

If you want a day to leisurely stroll around and smell crisp marine air, head to John’s Pass Village on our full-day boat tour. The sandbar is the perfect place to hang out and relax, and you may even spot dolphins along the way. (8 hour tour)

Beer Can Island Tour

The most luxurious island booze cruise sets sail from Tampa! This cocktail boat is bound for Beer Can Island where you’ll find a hip tiki bar and other popular hot spots. (4, 6, OR 8 hour tour)

Downtown Tampa Tour

Our downtown boat excursion tours through the heart of Tampa Bay. This is your chance to check out Harbour Island or take a breezy stroll down the Tampa Riverwalk. Make stops along the waterfront wherever you choose! (6 OR 8 hour tour)

Downtown St. Pete Tour

Tour downtown St. Pete in luxury with this fantastic boat ride. Our 6 hour tour gives you plenty of time to enjoy the city, but opt for a full day if you wish to experience a breathtaking sunset cruise in St. Petersburg and add an island stop. With plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you occupied, you’ll have a fabulous time. (6 OR 8 hour tour)

Waterfront Bar Hopping Tour

This tour offers a little bit of everything for the Tampa Bay bar enthusiast. Check out the area’s most popular bars with safe and luxurious transportation to each hot spot. We’ll make up to four stops when you choose our full-day option. 

Private Sunset and Dolphin Tour

This 2-2.5 hour evening tour gives you an island experience you won’t want to miss. The Florida Gulf is a great place for dolphin sightseeing, and you’ll end your night with a gorgeous sunset on this fantastic cruise. We also recommend a gourmet dinner at one of the area’s waterfront restaurants.

Don’t wait to book your waterfront boat ride in Tampa Bay! We’ll help you tour the coast in luxury.

Cancellation Policy : We require 48 notice to cancel your tour for a full refund. If you provide less than 48 hour advance cancellation notice, you will lose a $100 deposit. If for any reason we are unable to tour due to weather or wind, the full amount paid will be refunded. 

Salt Luxury Charters Inc.

Tampa Bay / Clearwater / St. Pete

(813) 610-7847

Copyright © 2019 Salt Luxury Charters Inc. - All Rights Reserved.

This website uses cookies.

We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.

Party Boat Charters in Tampa Bay, FL

Private Boat Charters

We drive... you party!

4-Hour Party Boat Charter

Spend 4 hours on the water cruising the Tampa Bay, FL sights.

View Package

6-Hour Party Boat Charter

Explore sandbars, private beaches, and more on the 6-hour party boat charter.

8-Hour Party Boat Charter

Explore Beer Can Island, Tampa Riverwalk, Armature Works, and more.

Sunset Party Boat Charter

Relax with a beautiful sunset on a party boat in Tampa Bay, Florida.

• Davis Island
• Downtown Tampa
• University of Tampa
• Channelside District
• South Tampa
• Harbour Island

Party Boat Destinations

Florida destinations, party boat experience.

Beer Can Island Party Boat Destination

Explore the famous Beer Can Island location on our private party boat charters.

Private Beaches Party Boat Destination

Cruise up and enjoy the many private beaches in the Tampa Bay, FL area.

Hillsborough Riverwalk Party Boat Destination

See the sights at the Hillsborough Riverwalk destination in the Tampa area.

Armature Works Party Boat Destination

See one of the hottest spots in the Tampa, Florida at Armature Works.

Sparkman Wharf Party Boat Destination

Hang out at the infamous Sparkman Wharf location in the Tampa Bay, FL area.

More Destinations Coming Soon in the Tampa Bay, FL Area

Tampa Bay Boating Adventures is adding new destinations to our charters soon!

Life is better with Sandy Toes

Private Boat Charters in St Petersburg, FL

Personalized Private Boat Charters

St Petersburg and the Tampa Bay Area offer some of the most playful wildlife, breath-taking sunsets, and world-class white sand beaches. Enjoy a day trip to a pristine barrier island accessible only by boat. Each and every charter is aimed at giving our clients the best possible experience out on the water with a unique personal touch. Come have some fun with us! We have the local knowledge and experience to make your trip unforgettable! Below are some of the awesome features of our tours and we are happy to offer customized experiences that you won’t find elsewhere. Give us a call 727-224-0164

Dolphin Tours

Dolphins are majestic creatures. Fortunately, our private boat charters take you right through their natural playground. Seeing dolphins is always an unforgettable experience.

Local Island Tours

Crave the solitude of a deserted island? Want to find the party off the coast? Take the family someplace special. Our private boat charters put you on to pristine barrier island beaches not accessible to your average beach goer.

Sunset Cruise

St Pete is home to some of the most captivating sunsets in the world. Every evening the earth makes a spectacular work of art in the sky each uniquely beautiful in its own way. Enjoy a relaxing, care-free sunset cruise in St Pete, FL.

Book a Private Boat Charter In St Pete, FL

Book a Private Boat Charter and let us know what you’re looking forward to the most!

Max Capacity: 6 Passengers

Pricing Per Charter (not per person):

Sunset Cruise: $250

2 Hr Trip -$250

3 Hr Trip – $325

4 Hr Trip – $425

6 Hr Trip – $600

Full Day Customized Adventure – Call for Pricing

Captain Randy LOVES having a great time!

Captain Randy doesn’t just like what he does, he absolutely LOVES it! Captain Randy Dunham is a United States Coast Guard Licensed Captain with a 100 Ton Masters for nearly 30 years. Randy has spent his entire life navigating the Gulf of Mexico and our local waterways. Growing up in Florida has given him an appreciation for the surrounding ecosystem and knowledge of the local wildlife. He captains a 24ft Seahunt Edge with bow and stern seating and tons of amenities.

1-727-276-3032

We are a Pet friendly company and Marine Fuel expenses are included in ALL of our trips! 

Welcome to salt and mist sea tours experience a top rated, award winning dolphin, sunset, twilight and barrier island boat tour company in st. petersburg, florida .

Salt and Mist Sea Tours

Enjoy and experience a beautiful boat tour in the warmth and sunshine on tampa bay ,  boca ciega bay and the gulf of mexico which includes:.

Bottlenose Dolphin Tour & Architecture Cruise in St. Petersburg, Fl

Gulf Sunset Cruise & Bottlenose Dolphin Tour in St. Petersburg, Fl

Gulf Barrier Island & Bottlenose Dolphin Tour in St. Petersburg, Fl

Connect With Us

Call Us Now

813-541-6571

Tampa Bay Private Sunset Cruises

The west coast of Florida, where Tampa Bay is located, offers a uniquely-breathtaking vantage point for watching the sun set over the water. As the sun descends towards the horizon, it casts a warm, golden glow over the Gulf of Mexico, creating a picturesque scene of vibrant hues and tranquil waters.

This magical moment is amplified when experienced from a boat, as it allows for unobstructed views of the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky with a symphony of colors that leave an indelible impression on all who witness it.

Island Way Excursions understands the beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast sunsets, and offers private boat trips designed specifically to bask in their beauty. As you embark on a journey across the serene waters of Tampa Bay, Sarasota, and Anna Maria Island, we navigate the best routes and vantage points to ensure you enjoy the full splendor of the setting sun.

Surrounded by the gentle lapping waves and the soothing hues of twilight, these private sunset cruises create an intimate and memorable atmosphere, perfect for sharing with loved ones, friends, or colleagues.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic escape, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, Island Way Excursions’ private sunset cruises provide an unparalleled experience that is sure to leave you with cherished memories of Florida.

Commonly Asked Questions

Q: why are sunsets on florida’s gulf coast so beautiful.

People often comment on the differences between sunsets on Florida’s West Coast compared to its East Coast, and there are a few reasons for this.

Note that the Gulf Coast is the “Sunset Coast” of Florida. This means it faces westward, allowing for unobstructed views of the sun as it descends below the horizon.

The flat, expansive nature of the Gulf Coast geography—especially around the low-lying areas like Tampa Bay and Anna Maria Island—allows for a broader view of the sky, giving the colors more space to show their full spectrum.

These factors, along with atmospheric conditions, contribute significantly to the more dramatic and colorful sunsets we experience here.

The spectacular palette of a Florida sunset over the Gulf of Mexico can shift dramatically depending on the time of year and prevailing weather conditions.

Expect a vivid spectrum ranging from deep oranges and purples during drier months, to softer pinks and blues when the atmosphere is more humid.

Q: How Long Does a Private Sunset Tour Last?

Our sunset cruise is designed to allow ample time for wildlife viewing, relaxation, and, of course, to savor the sunset itself.

Expect the journey to last approximately 2.5 hours, during which you’ll be treated to some of the most beautiful vistas Florida’s west coast has to offer.

Q: What Should I Wear for a Tampa Bay Sunset Cruise?

While Florida is famous for its warm weather, it can get cooler out on the water, especially in the evening.

We recommend bringing a light jacket or sweater to ensure you’re comfortable as you enjoy the sunset and the sea breeze.

Sunset Cruise Reservations

At Island Way Excursions, we deeply appreciate the mesmerizing beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast sunsets. As we navigate the tranquil waters of Tampa Bay, Sarasota, and Anna Maria Island, our expert captains guide you towards the best vantage points, ensuring you savor the Florida sun’s grand finale to its fullest.

Encircled by the soothing sound of gentle waves and bathed in the twilight’s soft hues, our sunset boat tours are designed to create an intimate, memorable atmosphere.

These trips are perfect for sharing precious moments with loved ones, marking a special celebration, or simply indulging in a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Whether it’s a romantic escapade, a joyous occasion, or a quest for serenity, Island Way Excursions’ sunset tours promise an unmatched experience that’s sure to leave you with lifelong memories. Step aboard and step into the sunset with us. Book an unforgettable private sunset cruise today!

Toys Available

• Paddleboard
• Floating mat
• Freefall Extreme

Quick Links

Site policies.

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Services

Contact Info

[email protected]

509 Marina Dr. Palmetto, FL 34221

APRIL 20th - MAY 7th | CLOSED FOR MAINTENANCE

813-641-1311

Morning eco-tour.

Embark on a fully narrated eco-tour exploring the captivating sights of the Little Manatee River and the picturesque Tampa Bay Estuary. Delve into tales of diverse wildlife and the rich history that shapes this remarkable area. Reserve your spot today for an unforgettable adventure!

Eco-Tour With Optional Lunch

Enjoy a 2-hour narrated tour guided by your knowledgable captain and first mate, offering an exploration of the Little Manatee River and Tampa Bay Estuary system. Experience a continuously moving waterfront view and observe the area’s diverse wildlife and unique historical aspects. For an additional cost, lunch options are available for participants.

• THIS TOUR BOOKS FAST

Sunset Cruise With Optional Dinner

Have you heard about the sunset dinner cruise? It’s the talk of the town! The breathtaking sunset views of Tampa Bay and beyond are worth experiencing. This tour is great for all ages!

Beach Bus Tours + More

Our 15 passenger shuttle bus can take passengers within 60 to 90 minutes from the start location. Popular destinations are Anna Maria Island beaches, Hard Rock Casino, Shopping, Theme Parks, Sports Events, Local Tourist Attractions, and Fine Arts performances as well as other popular locations.

Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award

Give them a memorable experience, gift certificate.

Purchase the perfect gift: a gift card in the amount you choose with no expiration date!

Exciting Tampa Boat Trips for Everyone (St. Pete Too)

F or a city on the water, Tampa boat trips and boating culture are essential to living in – and visiting – this city on the bay. No matter how long you’re in the Tampa area or nearby St. Petersburg (or “St. Pete”), you must sign up for a boat trip; it’s the best way to see sites you cannot reach by car or on foot.

We have listed something below for every kind of Tampa boat trip and boat adventure desire, from fishing excursions to luxury yacht charters and group Tampa Bay boat tours. 

So grab your sunscreen and sunglasses because whether you’re a Tampa native or tourist, you’ll want to get on the water ASAP after reading about these fantastic Tampa and St. Pete boat trips! 

Disclosure: We may make a small commission from affiliate links in this post, but all opinions are ours. We bring you content with genuine facts, photos, thoughts, and recommendations. Always. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps keep our content free and accessible to our reader s .

Tampa Boat Trips

One of the things Florida is well known for is its incredible coastline. Tampa is amongst the most popular destinations along the west coast of the Sunshine State, and Tampa boat tours will allow you to see the bay of Tampa (yes, there is an actual bay!) and the blue-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

You’ll have the best time forming romantic memories as you see the breathtaking Florida sunset from the water, enjoy an exhilarating motorboat ride as a family, or perhaps sign up for one of the boating day trips for a bachelorette party. There’s really no celebration that isn’t appropriate for a fun time on the water! 

Tampa Water Taxi Celebrity Homes and Tampa Bay History Tour

If you want a relaxing tour that cruises from Tampa, where you will see celebrity homes (like Derek Jeter’s, former New York Yankees baseball player) and learn about the history of Tampa in a marine setting, book this tour .

It’s marketed as a “Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour,” but the more compelling part may be its focus on Tampa’s history.

During this 1.5-hour boating adventure, you’ll get to see the city’s skyscrapers from the water, Harbour Island lighthouse, experience Davis Islands canals, and get a narrated tour. The boat leaves behind The Tampa Bay History Center, right next to downtown’s Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park.

Tickets are just under $40 per person. Bottle water is offered onboard and included in the ticket price.

Prepare for an epic ride with the Bay Rocket boat tour in Tampa. This bad boy takes you on a 45-minute joyride through the most extraordinary sights in town for a great time you’ll remember as a highlight of your time in Tampa.

You’ll zoom past the Tampa Riverwalk, the Skyway Bridge, and the downtown Tampa skyline, all while feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. 

But it’s not just about the thrill. Your boat captain will also fill you in on the city’s backstory and highlight all the cool stuff you don’t want to miss, including waterfront mansions and a lighthouse. 

And the best part? This ride is so much fun for everyone, young and old. So, grab your whole family and hop aboard the Bay Rockets for a wicked good time on the bay.

Tickets start at $34.95

Don’t forget to bring these Florida essentials to Tampa

Cruisin tikis clearwater.

Let’s talk about the ultimate party on the water with Cruisin Tikis Clearwater Tampa boat ride. (Don’t let the company name throw you – it does, in fact, leave from Tampa and cruise Tampa’s Hillsborough River.)

This is different from your average boat ride, my friend! It is a 90-minute tiki boat tour on an octagonal “boat” with a thatched roof that is all about living your best life with your favorite people.

The tiki bar boat is fully equipped with a cooler and a sound system, so BYOB and drinks to get the party started. You’ll pass the Amelie Arena, Tampa Riverwalk, and Starz Center For the Performing Arts as you jam to your favorite tunes cruising along the pretty coastline.

This Tampa boat tour has a strict guest cap of 6 people. (Coast Guard’s rules!)

But don’t forget to take in the breathtaking views around you. You’ll be passing by some of the most iconic sights in the area, including the Clearwater Beach Marina and Caladesi Island. 

Could this be one of Tampa’s most entertaining outdoor activities? We think so.

Tickets from $59.95.

Tiki Tampa Boat Tour (with a Bathroom Onboard)

If you prefer something that is a little more of a cross between a “normal” boat and a tiki boat that can fit double the passengers, check out this tiki boat . It has a 12-person capacity and also has a bathroom onboard.

Luxury Yacht Charter For the Day

Are you ready to take luxury to the next level? The Yacht Charter Tampa Bay private charter lets you experience Tampa Bay in style. This yacht is perfect for any occasion for up to 12 guests with Mahi Mike at the wheel. (And there is a restroom onboard!)

You’ll cruise on a beautiful boat with a bar, sound system, and comfortable seating. You can use the kitchen onboard, and the boat has Wifi. It’s great for a fun family day or a group of friends who want to charter a yacht. Want to rent the boat for something even more unique, like a wedding ceremony? No problem. 

The tour’s highlights are undoubtedly the sunset and a chance to see playful dolphins. Then, as the sun starts to dip below the horizon, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of the bay. It’s the outstanding backdrop for a romantic date or an unforgettable celebration with your friends.

Starts at $2,500 per group.

Luxury Private Boat Charter

If you want something that is a little more low-key than a multi-deck private charter yacht, this is the Tampa boating option for you .

Leave from the Gandy Boat Ramp right on Old Tampa Bay and head south to cruise towards St. Pete. Use of snorkel equipment is included with your boat rental, there’s a restroom onboard, and it includes snacks and bottled water.

Since you’re chartering your own boat, you’re able to customize your tour. Sail during the day and pay for a full day or half day. Sail at night for a sunset half-day cruise option. A full-day tour includes 2-4 stops, and a half-day tour includes 1-2 stops. Moreover, the company (Salt Life Watersports) will pick you up at the dock nearest your Tampa vacation location.

Tampa Bay stop options include Egmont Key, Downtown Tampa and Harbour Island, Downtown St. Pete, Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, John’s Pass, WTR, the Getaway, Weedon Island, the company’s “Mystery Island,” and more.

Prices start at $918 for a half-day tour.

Pirate Water Taxi 

If you want an easy way to get around the waterways of Tampa as you dash around the city’s great landmarks and sites, consider buying a hop-on hop-off all-day ticket for Pirate Water Taxi Tour.

They have six boats that comprise their fleet that travel the Hillsborough River and Tampa’s waterways daily, starting at 11:30 am. You can track where the boats are on their website if you’re wondering when the next boat will come to your stop.

They have two routes – River Route and Island Route – with a total of 14 stops. Stops include Tampa’s Riverwalk, Sparkman Wharf/ Channel District, Harbour Island, Davis Islands, Armature Works , Ricks on the River, and the Florida Aquarium. Guests can transfer between routes at stop seven at the Convention Center.

The Pirate Water Taxi even offers happy hour beer specials Monday through Thursday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on their River Route boats.

Though you may be tempted to take your dog with you, only service animals are allowed onboard.

Purchase a pass that allows unlimited hop on and off at various spots in Tampa all day for $34.00. You can purchase tickets onboard at any one of their route stops or save $2 by booking on their website .

Pirate Ship Boat Tour

Grab your eyepatch, hoist the Jolly Roger, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on this Pirate Boat Tour. This unique tour lets you live out your pirate fantasies and sail the waters of the Tampa Bay area like a true buccaneer.

The ship is fully equipped with everything a pirate needs, from cannons and muskets to a fully stocked bar. And the crew? They’re all dressed up in full pirate regalia and ready to entertain you with stories, songs, and games.

The highlight of the tour is the water cannon battle, where you’ll engage in a friendly “battle” with another pirate ship. It’s an especially great experience for little ones.

The boat is also available to rent for private charters and has a variety of special event cruises each year. Keep this in mind for a Tampa Bay boat tour – we hope she’ll be out of dry dock soon so you can get your tickets.

Tampa Bay Fun Boat Sightseeing Cruise

Are you ready for some sightseeing fun? Look no further than the Tampa Bay Fun Boat . This boat tour is all about having an amazing time while enjoying the beautiful sights of Tampa Bay. 

Your point of embarkation is Tampa Convention Center Boat Docks, where you will board a 35-passenger, 36-foot commercial deck boat.

Captain Darryl doubles as your tour guide as you begin your tour on the Hillsborough River and continue to the bay. You’ll learn about Davis Islands and Harbor Island and have a chance to see dolphins and maybe a rare sea turtle spotting.

The boat ride provides great value during a 2-hour journey, passing by some of the most iconic area landmarks, such as the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and the historic Fort De Soto Park.

There is an onboard bathroom, and guests can bring a small cooler with beverages – alcohol is approved to bring onboard as long as you have an ID. You can bring food onboard as well. Want to bring your dog along? No problem! They’re pet-friendly. This tour is also wheelchair accessible; they simply ask that you call ahead to arrange things. 

Tickets start at $18.

If two hours isn’t enough, you can inquire with the company about a full-day trip that stops at Beer Can Island, where you can swim, sunbathe, and play on the beach. Pricing is available upon request.

Little Toot Dolphin Adventure

If you want to get up close and personal with some of Florida’s most beloved marine life and ocean creatures, the Little Toot Dolphin Adventure is the tour for you. You’ll have the chance to spot the resident bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.

The star of the dolphin exploration tour is the Little Toot, a unique boat that’s designed to create a big wake that the dolphins love to play in. As the boat powers through the water, you’ll see the dolphins jumping and swimming right alongside you.

But the Little Toot Dolphin Adventure is more than just a dolphin tour. You’ll also get to enjoy the stunning views of Clearwater Beach and the surrounding islands, and the knowledgeable crew will keep you entertained with interesting facts about the local wildlife and the area’s history.

Tickets are $25.24 plus taxes.

Tampa Water Taxi Dolphin Sightseeing

Looking for a relaxing and scenic way to experience Tampa Bay? Look no further than the Tampa Water Taxi Dolphin Sightseeing tour.

This 1.5-hour tour takes you on a leisurely cruise through the bay, which takes you past some of Tampa Bay’s most iconic landmarks, including the historic Tampa Riverwalk and the impressive downtown skyline. 

But the real star of the show is the dolphins, who often swim right up to the boat and provide some lively entertainment.

The crew is also knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions you may have about the local wildlife and the area’s history.

Tickets start at just under $34.

Yacht Star Ship Lunch and Dinner Cruises

If you’re looking for a luxurious and unforgettable experience in Tampa Bay, Yacht StarShip Cruises has got you covered. This company offers a variety of cruise options, from romantic dinners to corporate events. 

The boat dock is next to Sparkman Wharf in downtown Tampa , in the Channelside District near the Florida Aquarium and Port Tampa Bay. They also have options for sailing from Clearwater if that is closer to your location.

The yachts are a sight to behold, with sleek designs and elegant interiors, and the staff is friendly and professional. 

While onboard the cruise, you’ll sail through Tampa Bay and take in beautiful views of the skyline and surrounding islands. And if you’re lucky, you may even spot some dolphins or other wildlife.

They have plenty of date options if you are interested in Yacht Starship’s Dining Cruises. You’ll be treated to a free bar at sea with cocktails, beer, and wine. During a few hours of sailing time, you’ll enjoy a 3-course meal. Afterward, dance to the tunes from a DJ until you dock! If you’re more of a breakfast person, check out their brunch cruises.

The cost from Tampa starts around $47 for a cruise-only ticket. And $79.95 for dinner cruises. Tickets from Clearwater start around $52.

Tampa Boat Fishing Charter

Reel Nauti Fishing Charters is the perfect choice for those looking to experience the thrill of fishing in the beautiful waters surrounding Tampa Bay. The charter’s captain is a knowledgeable and experienced fisherman, ready to take you to the best spots for catching fish. 

The boat is equipped with all the necessary fishing gear and safety equipment, so you can relax and enjoy your day on the water.

During your charter, you’ll have the chance to catch a variety of fish, including redfish, snook, trout, and tarpon. And with the stunning views of Tampa Bay as your backdrop, it’s a truly unforgettable experience.

Starts at $650 per group.

St. Petersburg Boat Tours

St. pete coastal cruises.

St. Pete Coastal Cruises is the perfect choice for exploring the beautiful waters surrounding Tampa Bay through various cruise options . You can choose the perfect experience, whether a relaxing sunset celebration cruise (think: proposal or an anniversary!), a booze cruise, or an adventurous dolphin-watching excursion.

The company’s fleet of boats is modern, comfortable, and equipped with all the amenities you need for an unforgettable trip. The friendly and knowledgeable crew is always ready to answer your questions and point out interesting sights along the way.

Prices start at $40 per person.

• Armature Works Restaurants in Tampa: the Historic Food Hall with Something for Everyone
• Over 40 of the Coolest Murals in Tampa Florida (and Where to Find Them)
• Best Orlando Boat Tours

The post Exciting Tampa Boat Trips for Everyone (St. Pete Too) appeared first on Sometimes Home: Couples Travel .

• Life & Culture

What’s it like to dine on Tampa’s new riverboat cruise Craft? We took a ride.

• Helen Freund Times staff

TAMPA — We almost didn’t make the boat.

Traffic snarled through downtown Tampa and stretched onto the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, delaying what would have been a 45-minute drive from St. Petersburg to nearly an hour and a half in stop-and-go congestion.

We had reservations for Craft, Tampa’s brand-new riverboat dinner cruise set to depart at 7:30 p.m. — and a friendly confirmation email reminding us that our purchase was nonrefundable. We’d been encouraged to arrive 45 minutes early, when we would have presumably been able to commence a leisurely boarding, river breeze in our hair, Champagne flute in hand.

Life had other plans. At 7:25 p.m., my dinner date and I swung our car into the Garrison Street parking lot, narrowly avoiding getting struck by an oncoming streetcar.

Following a quick security wand-down (the boat adheres to U.S. Coast Guard rules) and a $30 event-fueled parking fee (Tim McGraw was playing a show at nearby Amalie Arena), crew members greeted us with a quick photograph and a glass of bubbly before sending us on our way.

“Welcome to our maiden voyage!” they exclaimed as we rushed aboard.

Shortly after 7:30 p.m., we were off, out of the Ybor Turning Basin and into the sunset.

Described as a “culinary and cocktail river journey,” Craft debuted its inaugural dinner cruise on March 15. The multimillion-dollar project is the latest endeavor from Jill and Troy Manthey, who also run several other entertainment-on-the-water concepts, including Yacht StarShip, Pirate Water Taxi and the Bay Rocket.

Designed with European riverboats in mind, the 130-foot-long vessel boasts a sleek, white silhouette with less than 11 feet of vertical clearance — meaning it can comfortably drift beneath many of Tampa’s low-lying bridges. But this ship’s real appeal lies in the coupling of an elevated culinary program, contemporary aesthetic and craft cocktails.

A trip aboard Craft includes a two-hour cruise up and down the Hillsborough River and a three-course prix-fixe meal. To start, there are lunch, brunch and dinner trips on deck, but a happy hour option may soon be in the works.

Running any kind of marine operation comes with steep operating costs — including fuel, dock rental fees and staffing — and the experience here is priced accordingly. But it still comes with a good deal of sticker shock. For two people on a Friday evening, we paid $392.59 for the boat ride and the three-course dinner — not including gratuity or drinks.

Dig in to Tampa Bay’s food and drink scenes

Subscribe to our free Taste newsletter

You’re all signed up!

Want more of our free, weekly newsletters in your inbox? Let’s get started.

I love a fancy boat ride as much as the next person, but the pricing gave me pause.

Would the experience be worth it?

Things were a lot smoother once we got on board.

We entered through the front of the boat, or bow, and were shown to our seats inside a narrow dining room, flanked by windows overlooking the water. Wood paneling combined with slight nautical touches lent the space a warm, industrial-chic vibe.

Servers clad in white collared shirts and gray aprons whisked back and forth between the tables, balancing martini coupes and taking orders. In an attempt to let the crew develop their sea legs, the boat wasn’t fully booked that evening, but the dining room still felt abuzz with excitement and curiosity.

Clutching our Champagne, we glided through Sparkman Channel at dusk, glitzy Harbour Island homes glowing in the evening light as a Maggie Rogers track played softly in the background. We let out a collective exhale as the chaos of the day faded away.

Over the course of the roughly two-hour cruise, the boat steered up the Hillsborough River, passing Riverwalk landmarks including the Tampa Convention Center, Armature Works and Rick’s on the River, before turning around and heading back.

Guests were encouraged to explore the boat. The Bow and Stern bar, beautifully designed and fashioned out of a vintage 1914 cruiser, provided additional seating in the rear for those looking for more of an al fresco experience.

Throughout the evening, the crew moved back and forth between the dining room, the bar and the kitchen, sometimes stepping out on the deck to alert passengers when their meals had been delivered. Guests roamed the boat taking photographs, while patrons inside chatted up their neighbors, much of the voyage illuminated by the lights of downtown Tampa.

Craft’s strongest selling point is its culinary program, and the menu here is a far cry from the goblets of white wine and dry chicken associated with most dinner cruises.

Designed by chef Allison Beasman (formerly of Edison: Food + Drink Lab), the list of contemporary New American dishes runs the gamut from a black grouper served with Little Neck clams and Pernod cream to a Wagyu coulotte with kabocha caramel and a Korean barbecue octopus. As part of the prix-fixe deal, guests are able to pick an appetizer, entree and dessert from a menu of roughly 13 different dishes.

Part of what makes the vessel stand out is the addition of an open kitchen with gas stoves, and the concept’s design allows guests to get a peek of the action if they’re on their way to the bathroom or the bar.

When it came time to order dinner, our server patiently guided us through the menu, pointing out the additional dishes we could choose if we wished to add a little something extra onto our prepaid meal. We opted for the olive oil-marinated sheep and goat’s milk cheese ($18), which was just as tasty as our server touted. It arrived in a rich red pepper-packed pisto, drizzled with a healthy glug of olive oil and served with crusty bread for dipping.

Dishes are made to order and don’t necessarily arrive at the same time as other passengers’ meals. Our appetizers showed up roughly 45 minutes into the trip, a delightful baby kale salad lightly dressed in a white balsamic vinaigrette that was toothsome with chicory and shaved carrots and plumped up with fried baby potatoes and a healthy shaving of ricotta salata. Also good was the hearty tomato bisque with roasted bone marrow and blackened cipollini onions.

For our entrees, a seared duck breast arrived fanned out over silky whipped potatoes and a creamy goat cheese fondue, framed by Brussels sprouts and fat wedges of roasted golden beets. Though the duck was cooked a little past the requested temperature, it was still delicious. A plate of sweet and sour braised short ribs packed powerhouse flavors that paired beautifully together, all served over a sweet and sticky coconut rice sidling bok choy and juicy tangerine segments.

For dessert, we paired a perfect few scoops of pistachio ice cream with a chocolate espresso dacquoise, an intensely rich and sweet layer cake featuring a tart blackberry curd and creamy dark chocolate ganache.

The fine print

The water was calm that night and the entire service appeared well-rehearsed — absent of any major hiccups and even graceful at moments. As far as I could tell, there were no seasick passengers or man-overboard scenarios, which felt like some kind of success, though I did wonder what type of balance or physical dexterity would be required to maneuver trays of wobbling martini glasses over stormier seas.

Though tiered pricing exists for Craft — for different seats, times of day or days of the week — there’s no overlooking that a trip aboard the vessel isn’t cheap.

With neither drinks nor gratuity included in the booking price, if you’re looking to enjoy the evening with a couple of libations, it’s going to cost you. The add-ons can feel excessive, from a $50 king crab leg tray to the preboarding photograph crew members try to sell you at the end of the night. A suggested gratuity is presented on your bill, based on the total sales tallied for the table that evening, including the cost of the original reservation.

Some changes are bound to be expected as the company assesses guest interest and feedback. Even after the first week, it appears some prices have been slightly adjusted. Dinner for two people seated in the dining room with window seats now comes to $369.89 after taxes and marine fees, while weekend brunches for the same seats start at $89.95 per person.

It’s hard to imagine making dining here a regular occurrence, but for a special occasion, an evening aboard Craft can be a real delight.

Next time, though, I’ll remember to leave myself plenty of time to get there.

For Craft reservations and information, go to crafttampa.com/ . The riverboat departs from the dock at 603 Channelside Drive, Tampa.

Helen Freund is the food and dining critic, reporting on and reviewing restaurants throughout Tampa Bay. Reach her at [email protected].

MORE FOR YOU

• Advertisement

ONLY AVAILABLE FOR SUBSCRIBERS

The Tampa Bay Times e-Newspaper is a digital replica of the printed paper seven days a week that is available to read on desktop, mobile, and our app for subscribers only. To enjoy the e-Newspaper every day, please subscribe.

Things to do in Tampa

Sunset boat tours, fun trips on the fun boat are just that, fun.

Our sunset boat tour will have you watching the sun go down, watching for dolphin and then seeing downtown Tampa at night while cruising on Hillsborough Bay. The skyline lights up with beautifully lit architecture and bridges that change colors. A customer favorite!

We have a bathroom on board and you are welcome to bring a small cooler with your own beverages. Alcohol is okay with a valid ID. No Cork Fee!

Sunset Boat Tour

Children 2 years old and under are FREE, but must be included on the reservation.

*NOTE: Please allow plenty of time to locate a parking spot or utilize the parking garage located at 141 E. Brorein Street, Tampa, FL 33602. Once inside the parking garage, use the exit doors that say Tampa Convention Center. They will bring you to Channelside and S. Franklin St. Continue walking South on S. Franklin and the boat will be in the marina behind the Tampa Convention Center on your right side. We are at the seawall directly in front of the Sail Pavilion bar at the entrance to the marina.

CHECK OUT OUR FULL CALENDAR

Sightseeing Boat Tours

Private Events / Charters

Special Events

Let's connect, be one of the first to know about upcoming specials and deals..

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Not to worry, we will never share your information or spam you.

Tripadvisor Traveler's Choice Awards

© 2021 Tampa Bay Fun Boat. All Rights Reserved​.

Wes Moore envisioned economic revival. Then the Key Bridge collapsed.

The freshman governor, an ascendant figure for democrats who had already faced high expectations, now tackles his first major test in a moment of crisis.

PATAPSCO RIVER — Rain pierced the fog in the quiet Baltimore Harbor as Maryland Gov. Wes Moore stood on the bow of a Coast Guard cutter, flanked by other grim-faced politicians approaching the twisted remains of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

“It doesn’t look real,” Moore said. “It just doesn’t look real.”

To his right, the southern trusses of the Key Bridge hinged over the 248 million-pound Dali, the wayward container ship that collapsed the bridge the day before, disrupting global supply chains in a few catastrophic, fatal seconds . To his left, dive teams worked to free the remains of two construction workers from a red pickup truck submerged in the murky deep.

Confronted with the wreckage up close for the first time, Moore said he felt heartbreak. And while he believed the team he had built could meet the moment, he said that the path ahead is “daunting.”

The first major test of his first term in public office had nearly severed the economic artery to Maryland’s largest and most troubled city — his own adopted hometown. Baltimore had been on the rise, and he had promised to help usher in a renaissance. Months ago, he said the problem that kept him up at night was that Maryland’s lackluster economy couldn’t finance the state’s ambitions. The recently expanded port, generating 15,000 jobs and handling a record $80 billion worth of foreign cargo , was a bright spot. But now that activity would flow elsewhere .

Suddenly, Moore’s community was grieving. Commutes were upended. Thousands of jobs were at stake . A divided Congress needed to be persuaded to help . The world was watching, and the bodies of four more construction workers were encased in the bridge’s superstructure. The families wanted their loved ones’ bodies back.

Standing on the cutter, Moore considered the transformed skyline. What rises there next could allow for even bigger ships — and more economic opportunity — to sail into Baltimore’s ports, one day. He asked his staff to begin exploring that. For now, he has requested detailed memos on what went right when Minneapolis rebuilt its major bridge in a year after its 2007 collapse, and on what went wrong in Tampa Bay when it took seven years to rebuild its Sunshine Skyway after a freighter hit it in 1980.

The days ahead called for strategy and diplomacy. They required a front-and-center presence on national television to reassure the public, reach for help and position Baltimore’s crisis as everyone’s problem. Those parts, he knew how to do. It’s easier than what comes next.

Even before the collapsed bridge put Moore, 45, in the world’s spotlight, he faced enormous expectations .

Some he built himself, promising to end child poverty and “leave no one behind.” Some he could not avoid, such as the gravity of being the lone Black governor of a U.S. state. People started talking about a future presidential bid for the former Rhodes scholar and Afghanistan war veteran before he even took office. The Democratic Party was counting on his surrogacy to help reelect President Biden .

Dry and seated in his satellite office in a downtown Baltimore office tower two hours after surveying the damage, Moore said he feels as though his life has been a series of steppingstones that, in hindsight, was preparation for this crisis.

“I wasn’t leading soldiers and saying, ‘One day this is gonna be great when I run for governor.’ Or when you’re running a business or you’re working in finance, you’re not doing that saying, ‘Well, this is a great skill set.’ But it was, right?” he said.

“I just feel like everything about the complexity of this time we find ourselves in, everything that we have done, has really prepared us for this moment when so much about the future of the state is very much on the line,” he said.

“And so this is daunting,” he said. “But we’re not flinching.”

‘Hey, what do you need?’

Moore was in Boston on Tuesday, focusing on economic development in advance of being honored for his “inspired leadership,” when the call came from Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott (D), just after 1:30 a.m. He didn’t hear it. His chief of staff’s call awoke him, but the magnitude did not hit him until he saw footage of the ship careening into the Key Bridge, fracturing steel like matchsticks.

On less than three hours’ sleep, Moore talked to U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. He declared a state of emergency. He repeatedly asked for an earlier flight than the 5:48 a.m. JetBlue trip to Baltimore that still left behind some staff members — and some of his essential staff’s luggage.

“You can learn a lot about a person when a crisis emerges,” said Tom Perez, a senior White House adviser to Biden and former Democratic National Committee chair who lost the 2022 primary to Moore. This week, Perez helped coordinate the federal response in his home state. “ And from the moment we learned of this … Governor Moore was steadfast.”

“‘Hey, what do you need?’ That’s the first question that the president asked him,” Perez recalled. Moore had a clear answer, and plans and ideas, he said.

Baltimore bridge collapse

Moore’s nearly empty flight was descending toward Baltimore-Washington International Marshall Airport south of the city, as the mayor was telling the world the collapse “looked like something from an action movie.”

When Moore addressed the cameras two hours later, he emphasized the victims, their families and the region’s collective grief.

He then deviated from the plan, aides said, when he revealed that the ship had issued a mayday call that allowed police to stop traffic on the bridge, setting a global narrative focused on the heroes and what went right.

Moore went on to set a tone he would amplify in the coming days, praising Baltimore’s strength and casting the region’s fortunes as worthy of national attention and tied to the global economy.

By midday, Biden said he would “move heaven and earth” to help, citing the Port of Baltimore’s role in the global supply chain. He pledged the federal government would pay the full cost to rebuild the bridge. The price tag could reach $1 billion , according to two people familiar with early government estimates, aside from the cost of clearing the shipping channel.

Before the collapse, slightly more than half of Maryland voters approved of the job Moore had done during his first 14 months in office, according to a Washington Post-University of Maryland poll conducted March 5-12.

Moore received some of his highest marks from registered Democrats, with 66 percent saying he had done a good job. About 1 in 5 voters said they had no opinion, and roughly a quarter of Republicans gave him positive marks.

Among the detractors was Republican Richard Jeffrey Fisher, 66, who said he has not been a fan of the Moore administration so far because of the governor’s approach to almost every political issue. But Fisher, a retired machinist from Anne Arundel County, said the governor has stepped up in this moment.

“He’s not sitting on his butt,” Fisher said, rating Moore’s response “okay so far.”

Midmorning Tuesday, Moore was leaving a briefing when a Republican state delegate who represents the port area approached him. They embraced. They prayed.

“Governor Moore has handled this as a stellar gentleman,” Del. Ric Metzgar (R-Baltimore County), a Pentecostal minister, recalled of the exchange. “You know, this man’s not a trained politician. This is not what he’s used to, but I think he is handling this very, very well.”

That afternoon, Moore spent an hour with relatives of the six construction workers who had been on the bridge to repair potholes and were now missing. He comforted them while they cried and prayed with them. By the end of the day, the Coast Guard announced that the rescue mission had ended. The workers, all immigrants, were presumed dead.

The next morning, again on three hours of sleep, Moore was at the bridge site 10 minutes before dawn for four consecutive TV interviews on national morning shows. First he focused on the victims’ families; then he began ramping up his case that Baltimore’s economic problem should be everyone’s concern.

Farmers in Kentucky rely on equipment imported via Baltimore, he said. Auto dealers in Michigan would feel the consequences.

“The collapse of the Key Bridge is not just a Maryland crisis,” he continued at a Wednesday news conference. “The collapse of the Key Bridge is a global crisis. The national economy and the world’s economy depends on the Port of Baltimore.”

To Kaye Whitehead, a Loyola University Maryland professor and Baltimore talk-radio host, it was the sort of message people were longing to hear in oft-unappreciated Baltimore, which has drawn attention for the acclaimed HBO series “The Wire,” about the city’s troubles, and entered the global spotlight for 2015 unrest after the death of Freddie Gray in police custody.

“We need this firm sense that someone has our best interests at heart, someone will be there fighting for us, someone can really show the compassion and empathy that is needed at this moment,” Whitehead said. “He uplifted the best of Baltimore and who we are, what we do here and what we contribute both to the state and to the world.”

‘It’s a marathon you’ve got to run like a sprint’

Two hours after his morning-show blitz, Moore was at the port’s cruise ship terminal.

Joined by the mayor, Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman, Baltimore County Executive John Olszewski Jr. and Rep. David Trone (D-Md.), U.S. Coast Guard officials delivered a briefing on recovery efforts and the impending feat of maritime engineering the salvage operation required.

Pittman watched, impressed with how Moore’s staff was empowered to ask questions alongside the governor and how quickly Moore processed so much information.

“I’ve always known that he’s a good listener,” Pittman said. “He’s completely in your world when he talks to you. But when he’s being briefed by whoever it is, I was watching how he’s completely absorbed in what that person is saying. And then you can tell that he’s on top of it from the questions that he asks.”

After the briefing, together, the politicians boarded the USCGC James Rankin to retrace the course the Dali took before it lost power and veered into the bridge’s support structure.

Moore peppered the Coast Guard personnel with questions about the location of the shipping channels, crouching to examine a depth chart of the harbor and nodding attentively as they pointed out where tugboats had peeled off after helping to maneuver the Dali into the channel.

As the rain grew heavier, his focus turned to all the pieces required to remove the submerged metal-and-concrete superstructure and how long similar work took elsewhere.

In the first 36 hours, Moore leaned on his sprawling network of mentors and said he reached out to several other governors: Maura Healey (D) in Massachusetts, Josh Shapiro (D) in Pennsylvania and Andy Beshear (D) in Kentucky, “who has had to go through natural disaster after natural disaster in his time.”

“I made some calls at some pretty random hours of the night, just asking people if they can just give me 10 minutes of their time,” he said. “The best advice is: Never forget, this is going to be a marathon. But it’s a marathon you’ve got to run like a sprint.”

His profile elevated, Moore drew both accolades and scorn online: A reply to a social media post of him wearing a Coast Guard life vest before boarding a boat read “2028 Presidential campaign content.”

Moore also endured the same racist attacks unleashed on Baltimore’s mayor, with people calling both men “DEI” politicians — an initialism for “diversity, equity and inclusion” that some used to suggest the men were undeserving of their elected positions.

“We know that so many folks, for any mistake that he makes, folks will say: This is why ‘they’ can’t be in these kind of positions,” Scott said. “And he’s proving those folks wrong.”

Moore later responded to the vitriol by saying, “I have no time for foolishness.”

Moore left the Coast Guard boat and returned to the Maryland Cruise Terminal, where his transportation team was waiting to brief him in the lounge normally reserved for cruise ship employees. He had questions about the state’s insurance policies, the process to request federal emergency aid, the cost-benefit analysis of rebuilding the Key Bridge in a way that would usher in more economic activity.

As he left the room, headed downtown to meet his senior staff, his phone rang with no caller ID. “Hello, Mr. President,” he said, stepping into a storage closet to talk.

Downtown, Moore listened to his circle of senior advisers give updates and troubleshoot as they devised strategies to expeditiously clear the channel, get resources to roughly 8,000 dockworkers, and address the ripple effects on an estimated 140,000 jobs linked to port activity. State lawmakers were also working on ways to stave off the calamity facing port workers.

“These next few days are going to set the tone for everything we’re going to do,” Moore told them, saying that he “could care less” about where the solutions come from and that “I care about what solves the problem.”

Before he gave them a pep talk about the long days ahead, how talented he thought they were and how important the work is, he reminded them that Baltimore had been on an upswing . The catastrophe could rally people around the city, and the intense attention that could help Maryland would not last long.

“We really want to be thoughtful about that,” Moore told his team.

Katie Shepherd contributed to this report.

• Senior living resident sentenced to life for ‘soulless’ killing of 2 workers February 23, 2024 Senior living resident sentenced to life for ‘soulless’ killing of 2 workers February 23, 2024
• Md. defendants could face jail as funds dry up for private home monitoring February 21, 2024 Md. defendants could face jail as funds dry up for private home monitoring February 21, 2024
• A Maryland city’s apology for lynchings rings hollow for some March 11, 2024 A Maryland city’s apology for lynchings rings hollow for some March 11, 2024