Christmas Light Cruise

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Christmas Light Cruise

Tampa, FL

holiday_light_displays

Front-row seats to a festive boat parade

About

Experience the magic of the holidays from the water with the Christmas Light Cruise! They offer front-row seats to a dazzling festive boat parade, providing spectacular views of the Hillsborough River and the glittering downtown Tampa skyline. It's a unique way to soak in the holiday spirit and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Our Take

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (4/5)

Best For

Couples, families, sightseers

Vibe

Festive, scenic, relaxed

Energy Level

Low

Budget

Mid-Range

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Medium

Tags

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Location

333 South Franklin Street
Tampa, FL
33602
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Event Details

Duration

All day

Schedule

Operating hours are Sunday-Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Friday-Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Organizer

Pirate Water Taxi

Practical Information

Parking

Several parking garages are conveniently located near the home dock (Stop #7), including the Tampa Convention Center Garage, Pam Iorio Park Garage, and Fort Brooke Garage.

Accessibility

Click for Accessibility

Pet Policy

No pets allowed (service animals welcome)

Food & Drink

Listen to the Captain tell tales of Tampa history while you indulge in happy hour specials and a leisurely cruise on the hour-long river route.

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive at the Pirate Water Taxi Home Dock (Stop #7) at least 15-20 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as it can be cooler on the water, especially in the evening.
  • Consider booking tickets in advance, especially during peak holiday season, to secure your spot on this popular cruise.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning light displays and the festive parade from the unique vantage point of the water.
  • Take advantage of the 'Hop On, Hop Off' option if available on this special cruise to explore different waterfront areas before or after the parade viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to get to the Pirate Water Taxi Home Dock?

They recommend parking in nearby garages such as the Tampa Convention Center Garage, Pam Iorio Park Garage, or Fort Brooke Garage. Detailed driving directions are available on their website.

Can I bring food and drinks on the cruise?

While specific food and drink policies for this special event may vary, they often offer happy hour specials and encourage guests to enjoy the festive atmosphere. It's best to check their website or contact them directly for details.

What is the duration of the Christmas Light Cruise?

The event is described as an 'hour-long river route' and offers front-row seats to a parade, suggesting a duration of approximately one to two hours, but it's advisable to confirm the exact timing.

Is this cruise suitable for children?

The festive lights and boat parade are generally enjoyable for all ages, making it a family-friendly experience. However, specific age restrictions, if any, should be confirmed with the organizer.

What happens if the weather is bad?

In case of inclement weather, Pirate Water Taxi typically offers rescheduling options or refunds. It is recommended to check their cancellation policy or contact them directly for specific information regarding weather-related changes.

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Contributors & Updates

The ChristmasLocal.com editorial teamOriginal submitter • Jul 1, 2025