NIGHTS OF LIGHTS CELEBRATION

Aboard A Luxury Sailing Yacht

As the holiday season approaches, St. Augustine transforms into a winter wonderland with its renowned Nights of Lights Celebration. This enchanting event, which runs from late November through late January, showcases more than 3 million dazzling lights illuminating the historic district, turning the city into a sparkling spectacle of holiday cheer. While strolling through the streets and enjoying the festive atmosphere is magical, experiencing the lights from the water offers a uniquely serene and breathtaking perspective.

Picture yourself on a luxurious sailing charter, gently gliding past beautifully lit landmarks and twinkling trees. This is the unique experience that St. Augustine Sailing offers with its exclusive sailing packages. These packages are designed to elevate your Nights of Lights experience, allowing you to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the beauty of the holiday season from a serene and breathtaking perspective on the water. If you’re planning an intimate evening with loved ones or a festive gathering with friends, there’s a perfect Nights of Lights sailing charter option to make your holiday memories truly unforgettable.

Nights of Lights: A Holiday Tradition

The Nights of Lights is a cherished holiday tradition that lights up the nation’s oldest city with a stunning display of festive illumination. This annual event traces its roots back to a Spanish tradition of placing white candles in windows during the Christmas season, symbolizing hospitality and making room for Jesus as Mary and Joseph sought shelter. Today, this practice has evolved into a grand celebration, reflecting the city’s rich history and the warmth of the holiday season.

During the event, downtown businesses extend their hours, offering visitors the chance to enjoy a meal with a view of the lights or explore the beautifully decorated shops. Strolling through Plaza de la Constitución and the charming brick streets, guests are treated to a magical atmosphere filled with twinkling lights and holiday cheer. Outdoor displays, like the grand holiday tree in the town plaza, invite visitors to take photos and savor the festive spirit.

While walking through the sparkling spectacle of the Nights of Lights is delightful, viewing the lights from the water provides a unique and captivating experience. The reflection of the lights on the water creates an even more enchanting scene, making it a truly memorable way to celebrate the season. This is not just a different perspective; it’s a whole new level of excitement and intrigue.

Sailing Charters During the Nights of Lights

Experiencing the Nights of Lights from a sailing charter offers a unique perspective you can’t get from the shore. While walking through the illuminated streets of St. Augustine is magical, there’s something extraordinary about gliding along the water, away from the bustling crowds and directly into the heart of the city’s holiday enchantment.

Avoid the Crowds

One of the greatest advantages of a sailing charter is the opportunity to escape the busy streets and enjoy the lights in a more intimate and relaxed setting. With a limited number of guests on board, you can avoid the hustle and bustle of downtown and savor a more peaceful and private viewing experience.

Unique Perspective

From the water, you’ll have a panoramic view of the lights reflecting on the bay, creating a mesmerizing and serene ambiance. The twinkling lights along the city promenade and the Bridge of Lions are even more spectacular when seen from the water, offering a breathtaking and tranquil perspective.

Luxurious Comfort

At St. Augustine Sailing, we understand that comfort and luxury are essential for a truly memorable holiday experience. Our charter packages, ranging from cozy 75-minute cruises to elegant 3-hour charters featuring gourmet dining, are designed to provide just that. Imagine the beauty of the Nights of Lights, viewed from the comfort of a well-appointed yacht, with a festive atmosphere and delicious food.

Exclusive Experience

A sailing charter offers an exclusive experience that enhances the magic of the event. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to make the most of the holiday season, the privacy and luxury of a charter create an exceptional setting for making cherished memories with friends or loved ones.

Nights of Lights Tour Packages

St. Augustine Sailing presents an array of exclusive sailing packages designed to enhance your experience of the Nights of Lights. Each package offers a unique way to view the city’s festive display, catering to various preferences and budgets.

Glitter Package

The Glitter package is the epitome of luxury, featuring a private three-hour charter aboard a sailing yacht. This package ensures a premier view of the dazzling lights with a reserved front-row seat on the water. Guests will indulge in a gourmet four-course dinner prepared by a private chef, complemented by expertly paired wines for each course. This exclusive experience starts at $425 per person for a party of six people ($2,550), making it ideal for those seeking a sumptuous and memorable holiday celebration.

St Augustine Sailing also offers the Glitter package as a shared experience, allowing guests to enjoy this luxurious outing alongside others. With a minimum of four and a maximum of 12 guests, this option starts at $549 per person, providing an opportunity for smaller groups or individuals to savor the same elegance and festive ambiance of the private charter.

Sparkle Package

For a more relaxed yet equally enchanting experience, the Sparkle package offers a two-hour private charter. As you sail along the picturesque Intracoastal waterways, you can enjoy a selection of sweet and savory bites paired with a hot festive beverage. Cozy blankets, available for advance purchase, add a touch of warmth to the evening. This package costs $129 per person based on a party of six ($774 private), providing a cozy and intimate setting perfect for small gatherings with friends or family. Convenient, free parking at Camachee Cove Marina ensures a smooth start to your evening.

Twinkle Package

The Twinkle package provides a charming 75-minute charter experience. Floating along the waterway, you’ll savor a delectable dessert cruise and a signature festive beverage. Warm, cozy blankets are also available for purchase to enhance your comfort. With a starting price of $99 per person based on a party of six ($574 private), this package offers a delightful and affordable way to enjoy the Nights of Lights, ideal for couples or small groups looking to indulge in the holiday spirit.

Shared Tour

For those seeking a more economical option, the Shared Nights of Lights Tour allows you to experience the festive display aboard a 35-foot sailboat with other guests. This shared experience offers a chance to enjoy the lights at a starting price of $89 per person Monday thru Thursday and $99 per person Friday thru Sunday, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget who still want to savor the beauty of the Nights of Lights from the water.

Booking Your Nights of Lights Experience

Booking your sailing charter for the Nights of Lights is easy and ensures you secure a spot for this unforgettable experience. Choose your preferred package and reserve your sailing date today.