Photo credits: Pirate Water Taxi
Multiple Dates & Times | November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Hop aboard the Pirate Water Taxi for a magical River of Lights Cruise — a sparkling Tampa holiday tradition that’s fun for all ages! Set sail down the Hillsborough River for a 45-minute journey filled with twinkling waterfront lights, festive decorations, and joyful holiday spirit.
This year, the cruise departs from the Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park, adding even more seasonal charm to your adventure. Enjoy cheerful sing-alongs (complete with snow flurries during “Let It Snow”), family-friendly games, and heartwarming surprises at every turn. Kids can write a letter to Santa and deliver it to Tampa’s only floating mail buoy, then stop by to visit the Elf on a Barge, where each child will receive a holiday stocking surprise.
Each Ticket Includes:
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45-minute cruise along the Hillsborough River & Holiday Island
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Visit from Santa’s Elf host on board
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Mail a letter to Santa via Tampa’s only floating mail buoy
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Dazzling views of holiday lights & waterfront décor
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Festive onboard entertainment and games
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Magical snow flurry finale
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A holiday stocking for every child
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Beer, wine, seltzers, soda, and bottled water available for purchase
Tickets:
Adults starting at $35 | Children starting at $25
(Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.)
With twinkling lights, photo ops galore, and a touch of holiday magic on the water, River of Lights is one Tampa tradition you won’t want to miss!
