If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to enjoy Port Aransas, hopping on a boat is a fantastic option. Imagine gathering your friends for a day out on a pontoon or joining a fishing charter to see if you can reel in a big one. You can also cruise along the coastline on a party boat, or channel your inner swashbuckler on a pirate ship. If all this sounds like your cup of tea, explore our list of the best boat rides in Port Aransas; you’re bound to have a great time.
Looking for a home base to land between all of your boating adventures and other outdoor activities? Then book with Coral Cay Beachfront condominiums. You’ll have a sweet spot to kick back and relax after a day on the water.
Excited to hit the bay or the Gulf in a boat? Read on to learn all about the best boat rides in Port Aransas.
In This Piece:
- Red Dragon Pirate Cruise
- Dolphin and Sunset Cruises
- Party Cruises
- Fishing Charters
- Book Your Port Aransas Vacation Today
- Frequently Asked Questions About Boat Rides in Port Aransas
Red Dragon Pirate Cruise
Ahoy, matey! Climb aboard the Red Dragon, a smooth-sailing modern pirate ship that promises fun for all ages. Listen to the cannons, watch sword fights, and go treasure hunting; there’s so much entertainment aboard this ship. Below deck, you can also indulge in delicious food and drink. Your whole crew will love the Red Dragon.
- Details: A 2-hour cruise (on season) is $40 for kids ages 3 to 12 and $50 for Adults. Off-season, prices are $30 for kids ages 3 to 12 and $40 for adults. Children under 2 are free. There is an adult cruise (off-season only) for $25.
- Location: 440 W. Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, Texas 78373
- Phone: 361-749-2469
- Website: Red Dragon Pirate Cruises
Dolphin and Sunset Cruises
If you’re looking for a special way to spend a day or an evening, consider a dolphin or sunset cruise. There’s nothing better than watching the sun set over the horizon or catching a glimpse of playful dolphins while you’re aboard a ship. You won’t soon forget this boat ride, especially if the dolphins are active when you head out.
Meanwhile, a sunset cruise is perfect for anyone looking for a gorgeous view and a beautiful way to end the day. This atmosphere is ideal for a romantic evening; you and your date can watch the sky change color as twilight gently descends on Port Aransas.
Scarlet Lady Dolphin and Sunset Cruise
- Details: Enjoy a 1.5-hour tour, starting at $38 for the dolphin cruise and $43 for the sunset dolphin cruise.
- Location: 440 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
- Phone: 361-749-5597
- Website: Scarlet Lady Dolphin and Sunset Cruise
Neptune Charters Dolphin Watch
- Details: Enjoy a 1.5-hour tour for $34; children under 2 are free.
- Location: 154 West Cotter Avenue Port Aransas, TX 78373
- Phone: (361) 749-6969
- Website: Neptune Charters Dolphin Watch
Party Cruises
We’ve covered the family-friendly options, but what if you want to go out on the water and have a party? There are plenty of options for some 21+ fun in Port Aransas, too. After all, that’s what party cruises are for! Rent a pontoon with room for up to 11 passengers, pack a cooler, and hit the bay for a few hours. Or you can head out with Tiki Tours, which is a floating BYOB bar that cruises around the shoreline. Whatever boat you choose, you’re bound to have a blast.
SaltLyf Port Aransas Boat Rentals
- Details: Rent a pontoon for 3-8 hours, with capacity for up to 11 people. Prices range from $350 to $1,100, with options for no captain or with a captain.
- Location: Given upon booking
- Phone: (210) 378-4570
- Website: SaltLyf Port Aransas Boat Rentals
Tiki Tours
- Details: Charter Tiki Tours for anywhere between 2 to 6 hours for up to 6 people. Prices range from $350 to $700 depending on duration. The trip comes with a captain.
- Location: 3500 Island Moorings Pkwy Slip 004, Port Aransas, TX 78373
- Phone: (361) 205-7707
- Website: Tiki Tours
Fishing Charters
Port Aransas is called the fishing capital of Texas, thanks to its prime location on the Gulf of Mexico, and you can get in on the action by heading out on a fishing charter. Fishing charters are captained boats that take you to the best fishing spots, either inshore or offshore. These trips range from 3 hours to overnight, providing you with multiple options for your fishing adventure. If you’re an avid angler or just starting out, this is a great way to have an active day on the water.
Fisherman’s Wharf
- Details: Starting prices are $60 for adults, $50 for seniors, $35 for children. This is for a 3-hour bay fishing trip on a large catamaran. For offshore trips and overnight tuna trips, please contact the charter.
- Location: 900 Tarpon Street Port Aransas, Texas 78373
- Phone: (361) 749-5448
- Website: Fisherman’s Wharf
Dolphin Dock
- Details: The starting price for a 4-hour trip is $68 per person. For other trips, please contact the charter.
- Location: 300 W Cotter Ave Port Aransas, Texas 78373
- Phone: (361) 749-4188
- Website: Dolphin Dock
Book Your Port Aransas Vacation Today
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Frequently Asked Questions About Boat Rides in Port Aransas
Yes, if you are over 17, you need a fishing license, which is easily obtainable online or at certain stores.
Dolphins reside in Port A year-round, but they are particularly active during the late spring and summer when the weather is warm.
It depends on the tour. Some tours recommend bringing a small cooler with your own provisions, while others have a concession stand or bar to purchase food and drinks.
