Schooner Sunset Sail

There is a particular pleasure in a sunset under sail, and the schooner cruise from Clearwater Beach delivers it. You board a classic sailing vessel at the marina, hoist canvas with the crew and glide into the Gulf as the sun lowers. The mood is quiet compared with motor cruises, with only the sound of water, wind and the occasional snap of a sail. Dolphins sometimes appear, pelicans trace the shoreline and the sky turns orange, pink and violet. It is a romantic, unhurried outing, good for couples, small groups and anyone who wants to slow down after a day at the beach.

The cruise usually lasts about two hours, with time for boarding, a brief safety talk and the sail itself. Seating is on deck, with shade at the stern, and guests can sometimes help raise sails or take the wheel under supervision. Commentary from the captain describes the coast, the boat's history and the wildlife. Some cruises offer drinks for purchase or include them, so check what is on offer, and consider bringing a camera with a good low-light setting.

Weather decides the experience. A light breeze gives the best sailing, while calm days may see the engine used more, and strong winds or storms can cancel departures. Winter evenings are cooler, so bring a jacket, while summer evenings are warm and sometimes humid. Sunset time varies through the year, so schedules adjust, and it is wise to confirm the departure time a day in advance. Arrive early to board and choose a seat on the sunset side.

The experience suits couples celebrating a milestone, small groups of friends and families with children who like boats. There are few handrails on a traditional sailing vessel, so supervise small children and wear shoes with grip. The motion is gentle but not nil, so those prone to seasickness may wish to take precautions. Alcohol policies and age limits vary, so ask when you book.

The cruise pairs with dinner at a beachside restaurant or a walk to Pier 60 for the sunset festival afterward. If you prefer a more energetic evening, consider the tiki cruise or the Skyway light show on the St. Petersburg side. A day that starts with a dolphin cruise and ends with a schooner sail gives you the full range of the coast's water experiences.

If you are celebrating, tell the crew when you book. Many captains enjoy marking an anniversary or proposal with a small touch, and the setting is hard to beat. Photographers should bring a lens cloth, since salt spray settles on glass, and plan to shoot the sky as well as the people. Be ready for a quick change of mood after sunset, when the temperature drops and the lights along the shore begin to glow. Many guests stay on deck as the boat motors back, simply enjoying the quiet.

The schooner also stands out for its authenticity. In a region full of motorboats and jet skis, a sailing vessel feels like a window into an older way of traveling the coast, and children who have never seen a sailing ship often remember it. Ask the captain about the rigging and the history of the boat, because most are glad to explain.