Our sunset cruise was absolutely amazing! The Captain, the crew couldn't have been more friendly or accommodating. They welcomed us aboard and we immediately felt welcomed. After a quick safety briefing we were on our way to watch one of the most beautiful sunsets ever. The ship was equipped with a bunch of beanbags to lounge on and we had plenty of room to relax. As an added bonus we were escorted back to the dock by a small pod of dolphins. An absolutely amazing trip from start to finish! Bring your favorite wine and have a great time like we did. read more

Schooner Clearwater - Boat Charters Near Me - Clearwater, Florida

On previous vacations to Clearwater Beach we would always see this schooner out in the sunset and joked that the city paid them to go out for beautiful sunset pictures. On our last visit I looked it up and saw that it was actually an excursion that we could go on! So before our last trip to Clearwater I booked us tickets to go on Schooner Clearwater. It was a beautiful evening although it was overcast and no beautiful sunset, we still enjoyed the experience. My suggestion is to take grab the beanbag chairs on the side where you board. These seats face beach as you're heading out and face the sunset on the way back. The opposite side faces the water on the way out and the beach on the way back, so you kind of lose the best views. You are allowed to bring a couple canned drinks (alcohol) with you that they put on ice (no glass). read more

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Highly recommend!! We did the sunset tour and it was great to get out on the water and see the sunset! The staff was great, boat was comfortable, and weather was perfect! read more

We booked a sunset cruise for our group of 15 and it was an absolute highlight of our trip. The crew was fantastic and made everyone feel welcome, from the youngest kids to the adults. They were so great with the kids, letting them be part of the fun while keeping everything safe and relaxed. The views were incredible and the sunset was nothing short of amazing. Being out on the water with the sails up as the sky turned shades of pink, orange, and gold was unforgettable. If you are visiting the Clearwater area, this is a must-do experience for all ages. We will definitely be back. read more

Schooner Clearwater - Amazing sunset! - Boat Charters Near Me - Clearwater, Florida

This was for a morning memorial, which isn't a happy event, but it went very well. The boat and crew (two people) did a phenomenal job. The boat itself was gorgeous. And the trip was smooth as can be. The scenery was outstanding. If I had to point out one negative, it's that they don't want you to use the bathroom. But I think these are mostly two-hour charters, so just hold it in. Overall, highly recommended! read more

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We had a great experience with Captain Mark and deck-mate Cory. They were the kind of people that I could hang out with all day! The Clearwater was an incredibly well maintained vessel; Mark takes a lot of pride in his custom schooner. We went on a midday cruise with an brisk easterly wind. The weather was perfect for the cruise! I'll definitely schedule another cruise next time I'm in Clearwater Beach!! read more

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Expert captain and crew. Smooth sailing. Lovely, clean boat. Peaceful ride and a 360-degree sunset so pretty we took about 200 photos. Highly recommend! read more

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Can't say enough wonderful things about our trip! My sister was visiting from Texas so I thought a sunset boat ride would be fun. I looked up several places but after reading the reviews, I was sold on Schooner Clearwater. Capt Mark and his 1st mate Kyle were such wonderful hosts. They interacted with everyone and even had us take some Titanic type pics! The boat is beautiful and everyone was well spread out. Not to mention it's BYOB It was such a fun and relaxing way to watch the sunset over the gulf. I will definitely be going back sooner then later. read more

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Don't miss this great experience. We went on the sunset sailing on 05/29/2021. I recommend this highly as a must do item in Clearwater. The captain made everyone safe and comfortable. The shipmate was a very nice young man. There is a restroom onboard. We had a relaxing and fun sailing and would repeat it over and over again. read more

Schooner Clearwater - These are photos from our sunset sailing. - Boat Charters Near Me - Clearwater, Florida

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It's not far down to paradise, at least not when you're on the Schooner Clearwater. What a fantastic experience! This will be my welcome present to my guests for now on when they visit me in FL. Captain Mark loves sailing and he embraces the trip with enthusiasm, fun, and a sense of adventure. The ship is beautiful - and you will actually go sailing! You will glide around the gulf with the craft under full sail power. There is room to move about and explore. The first mate Cory was friendly and helpful as well. From my perspective, The Schooner Clearwater is one of the top rated things to do in Clearwater Beach! Highly recommended! read more

I'm local and typically avoid "touristy" attractions, but I also enjoy nautical adventures, so I booked a short voyage on the schooner Clearwater. I rarely give 5-star ratings, but if more "stars" were available, I'd give 'em. Online reservations were easy, and followed momentarily by an email confirmation AND a detailed email giving detailed instructions about the upcoming adventure. We arrived early, checked in, were issued boarding passes, and then spent some time exploring Pier60 and downtown Clearwater Beach. We boarded on time, and cast off. We exited the harbor using the auxiliary engine, but after going under the bridge, raised the sails and turned off the engine and glided along, powered only by the wind. During the first 30 minutes of our trip, there wasn't much wind, but then the wind picked up, whitecaps appeared, the temperature dropped a few degrees, the boat heeled over, the speed increased and a GREAT time was had by all, experienced sailors and landlubbers alike. Here's a few hints for a more enjoyable cruise. 1) This is NOT a raucous "booze cruise". This is relaxation. The sound of the wind in the rigging is music to my ears, but that's me. If you need "all you can drink" with "rumpa-thumpa-dumpa" music, perhaps you should choose a different nautical adventure. Water is provided, and you're welcome to bring a bottle of wine or a couple cans of beer, but the emphasis is on beauty, not booze. 2) Go potty BEFORE you board. There's several public restroom facilities available on shore. The potty on a boat is called the "head". This one is spotlessly clean but like most marine toilets, primitive. 3) Put the phones away and enjoy the experience up close and personal, rather than thru a 3 inch screen. Several times people missed cool stuff, like a passing pod of dolphins because they were taking selfies. 4) Although the Captain says that it's OK to go barefoot once you're on board, I always wear close-toed footwear. There plenty of deck fittings for an unwary mariner to stub their toes on! 5) Children. Although this subject is not mentioned on the website, I'd guess that "WELL-BEHAVED" children under the complete control of the caregivers" are welcome. Others, not so much. Parents CANNOT turn children loose to run around like they might do at home. The Captain has rigged lifelines, so it's not likely that a child would go overboard, but an unsupervised child may get in the way of a crewmember in a hurry, or just trip over a deck fitting. 6) PARKING! The website and the email both caution visitors to allow PLENTY of time to arrive and find a parking spot. This cannot be over emphasized enough. According to government sources, on a busy day, 50,000 people cross the bridge to Clearwater Beach. For example, I live just 30 minutes away, yet I left 3 HOURS before our adventure. Yes, you might be early, but better early than late! it gives you a chance to go potty and explore the area without stressing about missing the boat. Anyway, I had an AWESOME time, and if you prefer "old-fashioned" adventure, you may, too read more

Schooner Clearwater - Boat Charters Near Me - Clearwater, Florida

Very experienced captain & accommodating crew! They prioritize safety & an exceptional experience so everyone comes away fulfilled! Definitely worth scheduling for a special occasion or for a treat! A favorite for my house guests! Aside from the factors that the business can control, Mother Nature dishes up some beautiful sea skies a refreshing breezes! read more

This was a great experience! Capt Mark and Kyle were very personable and worked hard to make sure all of us were comfortable. They were great hosts. We got lots of pics , had some drinks and another couple got engaged ! Our first time on a sailboat ...the views were beautiful and sailing was amazing. Prices are great, well worth it ! read more

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Omg! This was so much fun! There was plenty of room and... wait for it girls... a HUGE BATHROOM! Captain Mark even passed another sailboat during our expedition which means that he's a better sailor! We waved at the other sail boat as swiftly passed them by! It was awesome and so was the sunset and me. Please see picture. read more

Schooner Clearwater - Boat Charters Near Me - Clearwater, Florida

Captain Mark of the Schooner Clearwater and his first mate Zack are amazing. Friendly, patient and very safe. This is a perfect way to see some great sights, a beautiful sunset and build lasting memories.....I know we did. I highly recommend this for anyone looking for some fun. Well worth the money. read more

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We love nothing more than to drive from Orlando for a sunset cruise with Captain Mark and First Mate Zach! This company, led by Mary Ellen on the home front, is friendly and warm. You can bring snacks to drinks aboard (water available on board). The sail is always expertly done, most of it without an engine running so it's the sound and feel of the winds and the gulf. The sunsets are spectacular and it's not unusual tos we dolphins frolicking while you enjoy the trip. Love this experience! read more

Schooner Clearwater - A happy crew on board! - Boat Charters Near Me - Clearwater, Florida

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Great Trip. Small group, very personal. The Captain was very talkative and cool to hang with. The boat is beautiful, clean and comfortable, it's very roomy, you can easily move around. I highly recommend the back corner railing seats. We had a cloudy night, so the sunset didn't work out. But the sailing was so nice no one cared. So much better than the other boats packed with people. read more

This by far was our favorite part of our Florida trip. We rented a private charter. You will not be disappointed as it is relaxing, and beautiful. Captain Mark is great company as well. Charming, knowledgeable and answered all our questions! The crew was perfect and the booking process seamless. Thank you for having us! We will be back!! read more

Wonderful sunset watching activity. We ran into some rain and Mark and Corey made the experience fabulous, despite the less-than-perfect conditions. An adventure to treasure! read more

Best sailing tour of Clearwater Beach! Mary Ellen was fun to chat with when we called to make our reso for a sunset cruise. Captain Mark is a highly skilled sailor and passionate about sharing his love for the water on his custom 52ft schooner. He and mate Zach worked in tandem to find us good wind for a memorable sail. We even raced a catamaran! My husband and I are avid boaters and loved every minute of this tour. We look forward to bringing our family back very soon. read more

What a fantastic evening on a Schooner Clearwater sunset cruise. Captain Mark, First Mate Mary Ellen and Zack did an amazing job welcoming our group on board and getting us out to see the Clearwater Beach sunsets that people from all over the world come to see. Highly recommend this wonderful adventure! read more

Schooner Clearwater - The boat is tilted because we were turning, but I wanted the shot with the sunset, American flag and life ring. - Boat Charters Near Me - Clearwater, Florida

If you want an enjoyable and relaxing sail in the Gulf of Mexico you must go on the schooner. Captain Mark, Zack, and Mary Ellen really know how to care for people. Its just a magical experience. Bring what you like to drink and snack on. And just relax. You wont be disappointed. I try to go whenever I'm in the area. read more

Between Capt Matk and First Mate Zach, it was wonderful from beginning to end! A wonderful experience.

Beautiful cruise, personable captain and mate. Had a wonderful time and highly recommend this cruise. We went a second time and it was just as much fun. We'll have to try an evening cruise. read more

The Schooner is the best way to see the sunset in Clearwater...period...no arguments. We've done one in St. Pete's but Captain Mark and the Schooner in Clearwater is superior. So book a trip, bring some wine, kick back and relax. You might even get a visit from some dolphins. read more

Captain Mark and Crew were amazing. They took us on a wonderful cruise around the waters. A must go on for sure .

The best boat ride! Captain Mark was very nice and professional. Definitely a people person :-) Offering water and drinks on the boat. Sunset on the boat - speechless. Totally recommended! read more

Schooner Clearwater - Boat Charters Near Me - Clearwater, Florida

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Relaxing sail around Clearwater. Captain Mark and Zach did an outstanding job welcoming us on board and provided great insight to sailing as well as Clearwater. Genuine, great people. I highly recommend the Schooner if you have never sailed. Great experience. read more

We enjoyed a beautiful sunset cruise last Saturday with Captain Mark. We sailed out into the Gulf and then south towards Indian Rocks. The sunset was beautiful. The other passengers were lovely. We had sailed with Captain Mark years ago - so glad that we reconnected! If you are looking for a sail, don't miss out on sailing with Mark! read more

Capt. Mark and First Mate Zack added a wonderful Christmas Eve memory to our 2019 holiday itinerary. Plus Maryellen's decorating added sparkle to the Schooner Clearwater. Mercurial weather inhibited an ocean voyage, however the Captain set sail on the ICW. Fantastic hospitality, superb service, easy conversation, uncrowded comfortable setting, chill environment, quality time. Wish we lived closer to sail again with this crew. Definitely highly recommend! FYI, the Bait Shop's Drunken Shrimp meal referral was truly angel made. Much appreciated ;) read more

The entire experience was perfect! Booking the charter was easy as Maryellen was responsive, accommodating & friendly. Our sunset sail was beautiful with a great breeze, top notch champagne and a wonderful Salmon and salad catered dinner. Captain Mark is a skilled sailor and Zack did a great job a First Mate; they easily handled the ship as we sailed into the Gulf to watch the sunset. By the end of the evening we felt like we made new friends and look forward to our next cruise with the crew from Schooner Clearwater. read more

This was a groupon deal and TOTALLY worth it. I had such a great time, got to bring my own wine and just relax on the water. Zach always made sure I had a full glass which was a nice touch and the captain was soooo friendly. It was literally 2 hours, and thankfully there's a bathroom on-board lol. I will definitely be back and bringing friends. Thanks for the great experience!! read more

Great family experience. We went on the sunset cruise. The boat was very comfortable. Such a relaxing and enjoyable time. Thank you Captain Mark and Zach! read more

Oh my GOSH! At first when my mom said we are going on a sailboat I thought it was going to be sooo boring ! But then when we went on it was the best thing ever! We got to take as much pictures as we want! We also had drinks! It was amazing! read more

Excellent trip! Captain and crew were fantastic hosts. My wife and I celebrated her birthday watching a beautiful sunset, while capping off a fun week at the beach. read more

These guys are super nice and know what they are doing. Great sail around Clearwater beach area. Free sparkling water and good conversation!