Best Virginia Beach Boat Tours – Sunset Cruises, Dolphin Excursions & More
Virginia Beach is a top coastal destination, offering plenty of activities for families and travelers looking to enjoy the ocean along the East Coast. One of the best ways to experience the stunning waterfront is by taking a Virginia Beach boat tour.
Hi there! Just a heads up- if you click on a link within this post I may receive a small commission from affiliate links. I appreciate your support of To Travel & Beyond and hope to bring you great recommendations for many years to come! See the full privacy policy here.
Whether you’re hoping to see dolphins, explore the Chesapeake Bay, or take a relaxing sunset cruise, there’s a perfect boating experience for everyone. In this guide, we’ll cover the best Virginia Beach boat tours, marine life experiences, adventurous tours and relaxing sailings. Along with what they include, who would enjoy them, the cost, and their locations to help you choose the right adventure.
If you are planning a vacation in Virginia Beach, I am sure these tours will be a great option for one of your days! One of our favorite things to do when traveling is experience a boat or water experience!
Dolphin Watching Tours
Dolphin-watching tours are among the most popular Virginia Beach boat tours, giving travelers a chance to see these playful marine mammals up close. These tours typically take place on large passenger boats designed for sightseeing. While there are private experiences available, I recommend booking space on a group tour.
While many families are focused on seeing beautiful Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, you could also see other wildlife like sea turtles, bald eagles…or dare I say it, some slithering creatures as well.
What’s Included
- Guided narration from marine experts
- A scenic cruise along the Virginia Beach coastline
- High chances of spotting dolphins in their natural habitat
- Some tours offer refreshments or a cash bar
Who Would Enjoy It? Dolphin tours are great for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking for an exciting and educational experience on the water.
Average Cost Per Person: Expect to pay around $25-$40 per adult and $15-$30 per child.
Location of the Tour: Most dolphin tours depart from Rudee Inlet in Virginia Beach.
Dolphin tours operate seasonally, with the best chances of sightings from late spring through early fall. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.
We have experienced some amazing sightseeing tours to see Dolphins throughout our time living near the Atlantic Ocean, as well as while in Virginia Beach for summer vacation. I highly recommend these tours, it’s always so exciting to see the dolphins playing in the ocean!
If you want a guided tour on a larger boat, this Dolphin cruises boat tour is a great option.
If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, I highly recommend this tour where you will be up close and personal with the dolphins while kayaking.
Sunset Cruises
Sunset cruises provide a relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful evening sky while sailing through the calm waters of the Norfolk area and Chesapeake Bay. This are a relaxing experience for the whole family, though they may be a bit low-key if you have children who prefer a more exciting excursion. Though we have found this to be the perfect way to end a day spent at the beach!
What’s Included
- A tranquil cruise along the Virginia Beach coastline or Norfolk harbor
- Stunning sunset views over the water
- Music and light refreshments (some offer full dining options)
- Licensed bar available on certain tours
Who Would Enjoy It? Couples, families, honeymooners, and groups of friends looking for a romantic and scenic evening on the water will love sunset cruises.
Average Cost Per Person: Prices range from $40-$70 per person, depending on whether dinner and drinks are included.
Location of the Tour: Departures vary, but many leave from Rudee Inlet or downtown Norfolk.
Some tours require a minimum number of passengers, so check ahead when booking. Bring a light jacket as the breeze can be cooler in the evenings.
Interested in an adults only sunset & cocktails boat tour? This tour by Rudee Tours is for you!
Looking for something more exciting? Try a sunset paddle board experience!
Fishing Charters
For those who love fishing, a chartered fishing boat tour is a great way to experience deep-sea or inshore fishing in Virginia Beach. This is always a great experience for those who enjoy fishing, a day on the water, or are used to waking up before the sun and want to drink their coffee while in the middle of the ocean. If you are thinking “that’s me” (I did!) to any of the above- a fishing charter will be perfect for you!
What’s Included
- Professional fishing gear and bait
- A licensed fishing guide
- Coolers for storing your catch
- Some charters offer food and drinks
Who Would Enjoy It? Fishing enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and families looking for a fun and hands-on experience on the water will love fishing charters.
Average Cost Per Person
- Half-day trips: $75-$150 per person
- Full-day deep-sea charters: $150-$300 per person
Location of the Tour: Most fishing charters leave from Rudee Inlet and Lynnhaven Marina.
Fishing licenses are typically included, but it’s best to confirm when booking. Be prepared for early morning departures for the best fishing conditions- bring your coffee!
Sightseeing Tours
Sightseeing boat tours provide a relaxing way to explore the beauty of the Virginia Beach coastline and Norfolk area, with options that include brunch and dinner cruises.
I highly recommend a dining tour, like a brunch boat tour or even for a special event or holiday. These tours are a great experience for the whole family!
What’s Included
- Guided sightseeing experience with scenic coastal views
- Some tours feature brunch or dinner with drinks
- Narration about the local area and marine life
- Comfortable seating and climate-controlled indoor areas
Who Would Enjoy It? Sightseeing tours are perfect for couples, families, and visitors looking to enjoy a laid-back experience with stunning water views.
Average Cost Per Person
- Standard sightseeing tours: $30-$60 per person
- Brunch or dinner cruises: $50-$100 per person
Location of the Tour: Departures vary, but many leave from Rudee Inlet or downtown Norfolk.
Brunch and dinner cruises often require reservations in advance. Dress codes may apply for dinner cruises, so check with the tour provider.
History Tours
These tours focus on the rich maritime history of the Norfolk area and the Virginia Beach coastline, offering a mix of history and beautiful sightseeing.
I highly recommend reaching out to Patriotic Excursions, aka Atlantic Launch for an amazing historical and memorable experience. They offer a wide range of boat tours, so just let them know what you are interested in!
What’s Included
- Guided narration on historical landmarks and military history
- A relaxing cruise with views of lighthouses, naval bases, and historic sites
- A veteran-owned company with years of experience as Naval captains
Who Would Enjoy It? History buffs, families, and travelers interested in learning about the area’s naval and maritime heritage will find these tours fascinating.
Average Cost Per Person: Prices range depending on the type of tour you book.
Location of the Tour: Common departure points include Norfolk’s Waterside Marina and Virginia Beach’s marinas, though you should connect with your tour guide.
These tours are available year-round, making them a great option even during cooler months.
Pro Tip: If you happen to experience a rainy day in Virginia Beach, check out the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center!
Private Boat Cruises & Charters
For a more personalized experience, private boat charters allow you to customize your tour, whether for a special occasion or a group outing.
What’s Included
- Private boat with a captain
- Flexible itinerary (sunset cruises, dolphin watching, fishing, or sightseeing)
- Option to bring food and drinks or have them provided
Who Would Enjoy It? Private charters are ideal for families, groups, and those celebrating special events like birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate outings.
Average Cost Per Person: Pricing varies widely but generally starts at $500-$1,500 per boat, accommodating multiple passengers.
Location of the Tour: Most private charters depart from Rudee Inlet, Lynnhaven Boat Ramp, or Norfolk’s marinas.
Advance reservations are necessary, especially during peak season.
If you are staying in the area, check out this guide to the best wineries and wine bars in Virginia Beach!
Rudee Rocket
The Rudee Rocket is a high-speed boat tour designed for thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline-pumping ride along the entire Virginia Beach area coastline.
What’s Included
- A high-speed, wave-jumping boat ride
- Scenic views of the Virginia Beach shoreline
- Frequent dolphin sightings
Who Would Enjoy It? Adventure lovers, families with older kids, and anyone looking for an exciting and fast-paced boat tour.
Average Cost Per Person: Prices range from $30-$50 per person.
Location of the Tour: The Rudee Rocket departs from Rudee Inlet in Virginia Beach.
Be prepared to get wet! This is one of the most thrilling boat tours in the area and is best for those comfortable with high speeds and waves.
You will also notice that they offer a wide variety of experiences if you are looking for other options. I love the mission of Rudee Tours and hope you check them out!
Other Water Experiences
If you are looking for something similar to a boat tour but maybe you don’t want to spend a few hours on the water? There are several tours and options for the fun-seeking vacationer.
Jet Skiing
A fun option for a few people to rent their own jet ski to pop around the water.
- Rentals available for solo or tandem rides, depending on if you book single person waverunners or tandems. Double check the requirements when booking!
- Prices range from $60-$120 per hour
- Available at various marinas along the coast
We love jet ski rentals in new places to see the coast from another vantage point while having a great time on the water!
Parasailing Tours
I have done a few parasailing tours and they are a lot of fun! I prefer an early morning parasail flight to start the day
- Soar above the ocean for breathtaking views
- Prices range from $75-$150 per person, usually depending on group size and if you want to experience the highest flight
- Most tours depart from Rudee Inlet
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
- Great for a relaxed and scenic water experience
- Rentals start at $25 per hour
- Available in Back Bay, Chesapeake Bay, and local waterways
Pro Tip: Keep in mind, even though it’s important to book many tours in advance, especially in the summer months, you want to ensure a full refund if anything is cancelled due to sea conditions or weather.
Virginia Beach boat tours offer something for everyone, from thrilling dolphin encounters to relaxing sunset cruises and exciting fishing adventures. Whether you’re visiting the Norfolk areas or staying right in Virginia Beach, there’s a boat tour that fits your interests and budget. It’s a great way to see beautiful Virginia Beach!
Plan ahead, book early, and get ready to explore the waters of Virginia Beach in a way you’ll never forget!
