This is the island's evening cruise with a twist. The boat leaves from the Grace Bay beachfront in the late afternoon, sails out over the shallow banks as the light turns gold, and stays on the water until after dark, when the crew looks for glow worms, tiny marine worms that give off a pale blue-green light in the water. The trip takes about three hours, carries up to fifty guests, and includes red and white wine, rum punch, local beer, soft drinks, bottled water and local appetizers, with the government tax already in the price. Gratuities for the crew are not included. Pickup is by boat from the beach at selected Grace Bay hotels, so you give your hotel name when you book and the operator tells you the nearest meeting point. Start times move through the year, because the last pickup is about an hour before sunset, and you choose your slot when you reserve. Stargazing is part of the evening too, and away from the lights of the resorts the sky over the banks is dark and full.
What the evening is like
It is a social catamaran-style cruise rather than a quiet couples sail, so expect music, conversation and a drink in hand. Reviewers praise the sunset and the crew, and a few mention a party atmosphere, so if you want hush and romance, the smaller Grace Bay catamaran trips are a better fit.
The glow worm display is a natural event, tied to conditions and the lunar cycle, so some nights show a lot and some show only a little. Treat the glow worms as a bonus on top of a good sunset sail, not a guarantee, and you will not be disappointed.
Who it suits
Adults and couples, friends travelling together, and anyone who has already done a daytime snorkel and wants something different. The minimum drinking age is eighteen, and the booking details do not state a minimum age for boarding, so ask the operator before bringing children, especially since the boat is busy and the deck edge needs care.
The trip is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions or other serious medical issues, or for pregnant travelers. Free cancellation is offered up to twenty-four hours before departure, and the operator may cancel and offer an alternative or a refund if too few guests book.
Making it work
Wear a light layer, because it can feel cool on the water once the sun is down, and bring a small bag you do not mind getting splashed. Reef-safe sunscreen for the afternoon and insect repellent for the beach walk help. Eat a little beforehand, since the appetizers are snacks rather than a meal, and plan a late dinner on shore afterwards, booking ahead in winter.
If the weather turns or the seas are rough, trips can be rescheduled, so keep the following evening free. Pair it with a quiet morning on the beach and a snorkel earlier in the week, and it becomes the memorable last night of a stay.
What to expect
The experience
A three-hour group sail from the Grace Bay beachfront with a sunset, drinks and appetizers, then a look for glow worms and stars after dark.
Best time
Choose a clear evening with light wind; the start time moves with the sunset through the year.
How long
About three hours, including the beach pickup and the return.
Tips
Give your hotel name when booking for the nearest pickup point, wear a light layer for the cool air after dark and do not count on glow worms every night.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Adults who want a sunset on the water with drinks and a chance of a natural light show.
- Families
- Not an obvious family trip: the minimum drinking age is eighteen and no boarding age is stated, so ask the operator first.
- Couples
- A lovely evening out, though it is lively and social rather than private.
- Pair with
- A relaxed day on Grace Bay Beach and a late dinner on the shoreline afterwards.
- Time needed
- Keep the whole evening free, from late afternoon until after dark.
Good questions
Will we definitely see glow worms?+
No. The glow worms are a natural display that depends on conditions and the lunar cycle, so some nights show many and others only a few. The sunset sail and the stars are the reliable part of the trip.
What is included in the price?+
Wine, rum punch, local beer, soft drinks, water and local appetizers are included, along with the government tax. Gratuities for the crew are extra, so bring some cash.
How do I get to the boat?+
The boat collects guests from the beach at selected Grace Bay hotels. Give your hotel name when you book, and the operator will tell you where to meet. Some guests walk a short way along the sand.
Is it suitable for children?+
The minimum drinking age is eighteen, and the booking details do not give a boarding age. The boat is busy and the deck edge needs care, so ask the operator before bringing young children.
Can I cancel?+
Free cancellation is offered up to twenty-four hours before departure. The operator may also cancel if too few guests book, and will offer another date or a refund.
