biloxi sunset music cruise

Take a Sunset Cruise on a Biloxi Schooner

by James Fox-Smith

September 3, 2013

Photo by James Fox-Smith

Biloxi Schooner

This is, in our estimation, one in a list of thirty marvelous places, flavors, events, and experiences that anyone who lives in—or loves—our part of the world should experience at least once in his or her lifetime.

Get yourself to the Biloxi Schooner Pier complex at 4 pm on a breezy afternoon, and you’re in for a treat. That’s when the Glenn L. Swetman, a faithful replica of the iconic Biloxi Schooner sailing ships, offers two-and-a-half-hour walk-on cruises that leave from the pier complex daily. Captain Ron Reiter and crew welcome passengers with a pleasantly short list of dos and don’ts before starting the ship’s motor to push away from the dock and out into the channel. Then the crew hoist the Swetman’s sails, and the throb of the diesel is replaced by the creak of rigging and the languid rush of water along the hull. Passengers relax; coolers open; bottles of wine are brought forth; and folks stretch out on benches and hatch covers to soak up the evening sun. As the wind picks up Captain Ron shares snatches of local seafaring history while letting the kids take turns at the helm. A two-and-a-half hour cruise costs $30 for adults, $15 for children, and is a valuable source of revenue for the Maritime Museum, which lost its building to Katrina and is currently working on a replacement. (228) 435-6320 or maritimemuseum.org .

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Betsy Ann Riverboat

Price & Hours

• Facilities 2.0
• Atmosphere 4.0

Learn about Biloxi history, the seafood industry's importance to the local economy and the wildlife that call the Mississippi Sound home on a cruise aboard the Betsy Ann Riverboat. The boat, which accommodates up to 70 passengers, operates a variety of cruises year-round. One of the most popular is the two-hour Historical and Ecological Tour, which travels in the Mississippi Sound and around the barrier islands on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico – areas where you might glimpse wildlife like dolphins or pelicans. The tour, which travels between the city and Deer Island, is offered year-round Wednesday through Sunday at 3 p.m. It focuses on local history and the ecology of the Mississippi Sound. Meanwhile, the Hibachi Dinner Cruise, which is offered on select evenings from March through November, features the scenery of the Gulf Coast and a dinner prepared on board. The seasonal Sunset Eco-Tour may head to the sound or Biloxi Bay, depending on the weather. Cruises featuring live music also operate seasonally.

Cruise passengers typically find the excursions enjoyable and the captain's narration informative. Those who opt for the dinner cruise consistently call the food excellent.

Prices vary depending on which tour you take, but generally start at around $25 for adults, $17 for children 4 to 12 and $10 for infants for the afternoon and evening eco-tours. Tickets for the dinner cruises cost around $55 for adults, $40 for children and $10 for infants. Private charters are also available. The boat is equipped with a full bar and snacks available for purchase. Boats depart from the marina located between Margaritaville Resort Biloxi and the Golden Nugget Biloxi Hotel & Casino . For more information, visit the official website .

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#1 Biloxi Casinos

Biloxi's casinos draw gamblers far and wide – and they're a big part of the city's tourism and history. Many of the area's casinos are connected to megaresorts that bring in millions of dollars for the city, and they have certainly seen some changes (and improvements) over the years. All of the city's casinos were originally floating gaming venues: They were required by Mississippi law to be built on barges separate from the land communities (in an attempt to isolate gaming activity from the general public). But when Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005, all the casinos were either severely damaged or completely destroyed. A new law allowed the casinos to be rebuilt on land and hoteliers invested in the construction of new or refurbished casinos.

Some of the most popular gaming spots in Biloxi include the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino , the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi , IP Casino Resort Spa , Harrah's Gulf Coast and Treasure Bay Casino and Hotel . These properties are not only home to casinos, but also offer accommodations and amenities like spas, fitness centers and pools. Beau Rivage also boasts a theater that receives rave reviews and has featured musical acts like Tony Bennett, ZZ Top and Martina McBride as well as comedians and dance performances. When it comes to gambling, the casinos host everything from table games, roulette and slots to poker rooms and high-stakes card lounges.

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Reservations: (228) 338-1020

Best Ways to Relax on a Gulfport Sunset Cruise

A sunset cruise is one of the best ways to enjoy your Gulfport getaway. After all, it combines the most beautiful part of the day with the most relaxing activity.

ENJOY A GULFPORT SUNSET CRUISE

There's no better way to enjoy the coast than by taking a sunset cruise. Whether you are looking for a romantic date night or a family activity, everyone will enjoy this memorable experience.

The Gulfport area offers different ways to get out on the water. Step back in time and imagine conversing with Mark Twain on a riverboat tour. Enjoy sailing on a private sunset cruise. Or, dance with a DJ on a large passenger boat.

However you choose to cruise, you'll make memories to last a lifetime.

BETSY ANN RIVERBOAT

The Betsy Ann Riverboat offers a few different ways to enjoy a sunset cruise.

THE BETSY ANN RIVERBOAT

The Betsy Ann is an old-fashioned paddlewheel boat that is sure to charm. The main cabin is heated and air-conditioned and can accommodate 70 guests, while the upper deck is covered with open sides and has bench seating. The Betsy Ann provides a beautiful platform to step back in time and enjoy your evening.

SUNSET ECO-TOUR

The Sunset Eco-Tour combines gorgeous views with informative narration. Guests will either experience the Mississippi Sound or Biloxi Bay. While you cruise, the captain will entertain you with fun facts about the local area. In addition, you'll learn about the wildlife that calls this area home. Guests often spot dolphins, pelicans, and other birdlife and wildlife.

Have your camera ready for the gorgeous sunset. Some of these cruises feature live entertainment, so check their Facebook Page for more information. Dinner isn't served on the Sunset Eco-Tour, but guests can bring a picnic and visit the shipboard bar, featuring snacks and a full bar.

HIBACHI DINNER CRUISE

The Hibachi Dinner Cruise features a choice of delicious menu items. Guests can enjoy a fantastic feast while taking in the sights and be entertained by live music.

LIVE MUSIC SUNSET CRUISE

During the live music sunset cruise, guests can enjoy the wonderful music while watching the sunset over Mississippi Sound. There's no dinner served, but you can bring a picnic or check out the full bar.

NORTH STAR SAILING CHARTERS

North Star Sailing Charters offers charters aboard their two sailing vessels. North Star Sailing Charters can accommodate up to six passengers. Sailing with North Star Sailing Charters is a wonderful way to enjoy a private sunset sail.

Guests can watch for pelicans and dolphins while enjoying a relaxing sunset sail. Each sailing charter is private so that you can enjoy time on the water with your family.

Guests are welcome to bring a cooler, take-out, a picnic, and the beverages of their choice. Sailing with North Star Sailing Charters is a wonderful way to create special Mississippi Gulf Coast memories.

SHIP ISLAND EXCURSIONS MOONLIGHT COCKTAIL CRUISE

Ship Island Excursions offers a two-hour moonlight cocktail cruise. This unique cruise allows guests to enjoy a spectacular sunset and watch the lights come on over the Gulfport and Biloxi waterfront.

DJs play their best music selections while everyone enjoys the night. Soft drinks, a full bar, and light snacks are available for purchase. Watch for dolphins and enjoy the magic of being on the water as the sun sets and the moon rises.

The tour takes place on the 100-foot Capt. Pete. Capt. Pete has outdoor decks as well as climate-controlled cabins and restrooms.

RELAX IN GULFPORT

Gulfport, Mississippi, offers the ultimate in relaxation. For the best pizza, check out our list of pizza places near you and enjoy the best of everything Gulfport has to offer.

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Ship Island Ferry Service is now Open - Dolphin Watching & Sunset Cruises now offered!

Ship Island Excursions

Experience the best beaches in mississippi.

SHIP ISLAND EXCURSIONS

Gulf islands national seashore, tour fort massachusetts, arriving at ship island.

THE SHIP ISLAND FERRY

Ship Island Excursions and the Skrmetta Family are celebrating 98 years of transporting visitors to the Mississippi Islands.

Relaxation, recreation, and history-these are the gifts offered to you on Ship Island. Here in the Gulf of Mexico, about 11 miles off Mississippi’s Coast, are some of the last undeveloped barrier islands in America. Part of Gulf Islands National Seashore and protected by the U.S. Park Service, these exquisite sand islands offer visitors the first high-quality, natural beaches for swimming, birding and shelling east of New Orleans.

A cruise to Ship Island is an affordable, family-friendly adventure and one of the most popular outdoor attractions on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Passengers are sure to spot dolphins while crossing the Mississippi Sound on the 1-hour boat ride. You’ll discover what locals and visitors have enjoyed for generations, the Coast’s finest beaches.  The passenger ferries depart from the Gulfport Yacht Harbor in Jones Park (intersection of Hwy. 90 and Hwy. 49). Boats operate typically mid-March through October.

 The island is also home to Fort Massachusetts, a beautifully preserved, brick structure used during the Civil War. Seasonal fort tours are offered by the National Park Service. A section of beach with lifeguards is available in summer. Food service is offered on the boats and on the island. Umbrella and beach chair rentals are also available.

Printable Brochure  

Ship Island Interview with Captain Louis 

ALL CRUISES DEPART FROM GULFPORT HARBOR

• Most Popular!
• User All Ages

Ferry Service to Ship Island

Experience Mississippi’s best beaches! Swim, snorkel, explore, or just relax, and leave the transportation to us.

• Hour Glass 2 Hours

4th of July Fireworks Cruise

Come aboard a 2.5 hour Sunset Music Cruise capped off with a Fireworks Show!

• Hour Glass 1.5 Hours

Dolphin Watching Cruise

Join us for a dolphin watching adventure, including a tour of the Gulfport Harbor.

• User Ages 21+

Gulfport Sunset Cruise

Come join us for a (2) hour Sunset Cocktail Cruise aboard the M/V Capt. Pete. Sounds by Tri Star DJ Services.

Private Charters

Entertain clients, friends, family, or colleagues on a private cruise along the beach between Gulfport and Biloxi!

ROUND-TRIP CRUISE

Ship island is part of Gulf Island National Seashore and one of four Mississippi barrier islands. You’ll depart the Gulfport Yacht Harbor for a truly fun getaway. Our vessels provide two spacious open air decks, perfect for viewing marine life. In addition to the cruise, passengers will have access to Mississippi’s best beaches for swimming and shelling. Swim in emerald green waters, snorkel, hike, and explore. Visitors can relax under a beach umbrella or sit under one of two large picnic pavilions. Ship Island is a national park, protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy in their natural unspoiled state.

Book your cruise and experience the Coast’s favorite water-borne attraction: An excursion to Ship island and Fort Massachusetts. Family owned and operated by the Skrmetta family since 1926.

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A 5-STAR BARRIER ISLAND BEACH EXPERIENCE

"What a great place to visit. We took the trip out from Biloxi on Captain Pete the Crew on the Boat was great. Once out on the Island it was awesome to see the old Fort and the Island was great. Snack bar with clean restrooms a great day away from everything. We will definitely do it again when we are down there."

"Was worth every penny to take the boat out to Ship Island... On the way out and trip back we saw dolphins! The boat was fully shaded and crew was very nice. Ship Island itself is beautiful, water is clear all around it and you will see all kinds of wildlife. The water was much better for swimming than the mainland. Whole experience was amazing, one of the best beaches I have been to. Wanted to go back the next day!"

"We went here because there wasn't anything to do but swim, walk on the beach, or sunbathe. We walked on the beach, then took the fort tour, which was interesting. We had a blast. The best news was that the concession stand had reasonably priced food and drinks, and you can rent umbrellas and chairs so you don't need to drag it with you."

"We purchased tickets online one day before our trip. It was simple and user friendly. We arrived early for the 9:00am departure. Thankfully we did, they had to use two boats for the 9:00 departure. We were able to get onto that first boat, which ensured us an umbrella and chair rental. The day was beautiful, water was clear...it was a wonderful family day trip."

"This is a terrific day-trip! Bring an ice chest, rest chairs and an umbrella and get ready for a great beach adventure. I love going to Ship Island and have been doing it for many years now. It's a bargain and it is a treat to spend the day there! Go! Do it! Love it!"

FOR A DAY ON A QUIET BARRIER ISLAND

Leave the stress of the mainland behind. Board our ferry and cross the beautiful Mississippi Sound, approximately 11 miles out to where the offshore islands meet the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. As the ferry docks on the north shore of Ship Island, passengers will notice fish and other sea life in the clear water next to the boat. Visitors can tour a beautifully persevered Civil War fort, followed by an opportunity to explore miles of enchanting beach, perfect for swimming, shelling and birding.  A snack bar, picnic pavilions, restrooms, and other visitor amenities are provided.

Sunset by Sail

Sunset Sailing with Endless Horizons and Golden Skies!

Quick Details

• User Ages: All Ages
• Clock Duration: 2.5 - 3.5 Hours
• Users Capacity: Up to 6 People
• Info Inclusions: A captain and a trusty mate & light food and beverages

(Prices apply for the first two guests then $25 per additional guest)

Join us for a Gorgeous Sunset Sail in Bay Saint Louis, MS!

About the sunset sail.

We will depart Bay Saint Louis Municipal Harbor and sail in the Mississippi Sound between our Barrier Islands and the coastline. We set sail about an hour before sundown to find the perfect spot for gorgeous photographs. The duration of the cruise will determine how far we will be able to travel.

We no longer have a dinner cruise, but you can have complimentary light snacks and beverages on the boat and then find a nice restaurant in Bay Saint Louis after your cruise.

This sunset cruise is perfect for proposals, special occasions, anniversaries, birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or just spending time with your favorite people. A captain and a trusty mate will see to your every need. If you would like historical and ecological tidbits, the captain is well-prepared to educate. He might even let you take the wheel for a photograph.

What to bring:

• Soft-soled shoes (no dark soles)
• You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks

Related Sails

• Highly Recommended!
• Users Up to 6 People
• Clock 2.5 - 3.5 Hours
• User All Ages

Sightseeing by Sail

Sit back, relax and enjoy the beauty of our Mississippi Sound. Spend time with family and/or friends and have your camera ready for wildlife sightings. Come aboard our premium boats in Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi for a lovely sail. Book online!

The Mississippi Dinner Cruise You Simply Have To Take

Daniella DiRienzo

Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as the Mississippi-based Parents & Kids Magazine. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.

More by this Author

Are you tired of the typical dinner-and-a-movie night out? Then why not change things up a bit with dinner and a cruise ? Thanks to Biloxi’s Betsy Ann Riverboat, it’s a real possibility. Dinner cruises are offered throughout the year and are catered by the best restaurants on the coast. Serving up incredible food in an atmosphere to match, this Mississippi dinner cruise belongs on your bucket list. Take a look:

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For more information, visit the Betsy Ann Riverboat website or Facebook page . You can also call (228) 229-4270 .

So, ever set sail on the Betsy Ann? Did you dine while aboard the boat? If so, what’d you think? Tell us in the comments section.

Looking for another boat ride to add to your bucket list? Click here .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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THE 10 BEST Biloxi Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in biloxi.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Boat Rentals
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Parasailing & Paragliding
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Biloxi Shrimping Trip

2. Ship Island Excursions

3. Nauti-Toons Boat Rentals

4. Dominator Fishing Charters

5. Mega-Bite Fishing Charters, LLC

6. Fish-Finder Charters

7. Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum - Biloxi Schooners

8. Parasail Adventures

9. Fish-On Charters

10. Three Sons IV Pure Fishing

11. WhipaSnapa Charters

12. The Happy Hooker Fishing Charter

13. Biloxi Charter Fishing

14. Go Topless Fishing Charters

15. SYL Fishing Charters

16. Adventure Charters

17. Island Time Charters

18. Double Ace Charters

19. Barlow's Charters and Guide Services

20. Amberjack Charters

21. Skipper Charters

22. Happy Daze Kayaking

23. Tuna Chasa Charters

24. The Biloxi Fishing Trip

25. Mississippi Gulf Coast Fishing Charters

26. Reel Therapy

27. Sting Raye Fishing Charters, LLC.

28. Biloxi Bluewater Charters

29. All Coast Water Taxi Service LLC

30. Side Bet Sport Fishing

What travelers are saying.

• Biloxi Shrimping Trip
• Fish-Finder Charters
• Dominator Fishing Charters
• Mega-Bite Fishing Charters, LLC
• Three Sons IV Pure Fishing
• Ship Island Excursions
• Nauti-Toons Boat Rentals
• Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum - Biloxi Schooners

Mystic Charters

Relax and stay aboard a piece of gulf coast history.

Slide title

  The Mystic is a relaxing retreat on the water! Built in 1939 and full of history, she is located in the heart of Ocean Springs Harbor, which is walking distance from the beach and historic Downtown Ocean Springs. There is a full bathroom, 2 state rooms and a spacious galley. The outside decks are great for relaxing and spending time with friends and family.