Public Cruises
Public Sandbar & Dolphin Cruises Near Siesta Key
Join a shared tiki boat cruise for sandbar time and dolphin watching on Sarasota Bay. Public cruises board in downtown Sarasota, about 15 to 20 minutes from Siesta Key. Here for the sunset? See our Siesta Key sunset cruises.
Cruise Options
Choose Your Siesta Key Cruise
From lively sandbar time to scenic evening cruising, Barefoot Tiki Tours offers a more elevated alternative to crowded tourist boats.
Sandbar Fun
Head out for a relaxed public cruise with tropical vibes, shallow-water stops, and time to enjoy the Siesta Key sandbar atmosphere.
Dolphin & Sunset Cruise
Take in golden-hour views, watch for dolphins, and enjoy a stylish sunset cruise designed for couples, friends, and visiting guests.
Want It Private?
For birthdays, anniversaries, bachelorette parties, and custom celebrations, upgrade to a private tiki charter tailored to your group.
Why Guests Love This Cruise
“Had an amazing time on Barefoot Tiki’s sandbar tour. The weather was perfect, music was on point… We saw so many dolphins too!” (Google review)
“The boat is beautiful, upscale, comfortable, and has a bathroom.” (Joni J., Google review, after two sandbar tours and a sunset cruise)
Siesta Key Public Cruise FAQ
Is a public cruise shared with other guests?
Yes. Public cruises are sold per person, so you share the boat with other guests. If you want the whole boat, book a private charter instead.
For prices, departure details and a month-by-month sunset chart, see our main Sarasota sunset cruise page.
What public cruises are there and what do they cost?
The Dolphin & Mimosas cruise is $60 per person, the sunset cruise is $75 and the Sandbar Fun cruise is $99. Departure times change with the season, and you can see every available time when you book online.
Where does the cruise leave from?
We depart from 1101 10th Street in downtown Sarasota, about 15 to 20 minutes’ drive from Siesta Key, with free parking next to the dock. Public cruises do not board on Siesta Key; private charters can add a free pickup at Nora Patterson Park. There is ample free parking in the lot next to the dock.
Can we swim at the sandbar?
Yes. The Sandbar Fun cruise stops in shallow water so you can swim and wade in the warm, clear water of Sarasota Bay.
When does the public sandbar cruise run?
Public sandbar cruises run March through November, when the water is warm enough to swim. From December through February, our Dolphin & Mimosa cruise and sunset cruise keep running, and you can ask about a private sandbar charter on a warm winter day.
What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, a swimsuit for the sandbar, and your own food and drinks. Guests who drink alcohol must be 21 or older. We supply coolers, ice and bottled water.
Will we see dolphins?
Sightings are not guaranteed, but Sarasota Bay is home to many dolphins, and depending on the time of day and conditions there is a very good chance you will see them.