The water turns brutal at noon. Sun attacks from above while waves throw light back at you. No shade, no breaks - just pure heat that finds every uncovered spot. Come ready, or the bay will teach you hard lessons about preparation. Pack smart, and you'll watch others suffer while you enjoy the views. Skip the basics, and you'll count every minute until you hit the dock. Your comfort depends on what you bring - and what you forget.

Sun Protection That Works

Out on the water, sun hits from every angle. Direct rays mix with reflections off each wave. Even cloud cover won't help. Skip proper protection, and you'll end the day looking like a lobster.

• Strong sunscreen matters most. Pick SPF 30 or higher with broad-spectrum coverage. Apply before boarding, then every two hours like clockwork. Don't trust "water-resistant" claims. Pack backup.
• Good hats make the day better. Wide brims cut glare and stop squinting. Ball caps work too. Get one with a chin strap - wind loves to steal hats.
• Real polarized glasses protect and help you see. Skip cheap knockoffs. True polarized lenses cut glare so you spot wildlife instead of white reflections.
• Long sleeves beat bare arms. Tank tops fail every time. The right shirt blocks rays and dries fast when spray hits.
• Keep lip protection handy. Lips burn quick and easy. One morning coat never lasts the day.

Every midday cruise means hours of direct sun. Load up on sunscreen before you step on board, and keep it where you can grab it fast. One missed spot can wreck your whole day.

Clothing and Comfort That Lasts

Out on the bay, sweat dries quick. Until a breeze hits and you’re suddenly cold. The right clothes keep you comfortable from start to finish. Forget heavy cotton. Go for:

• Breathable, quick-drying shirts and shorts. Athletic fabrics work best. Light colors reflect heat, so you stay cooler.
• Light jacket or windbreaker. Even in summer, a gust off the water can chill you. Pack it small and pull it out when you need it.
• Comfortable shoes with grip. Decks get slippery. Flip-flops work, but boat shoes or sandals with straps stay on better.
• Swimsuit under your clothes. You might want to jump in, or just cool off with a splash.

A small waterproof bag keeps your phone, wallet, and keys dry. The boats we use handle the chop, but spray happens. Don’t trust a plastic grocery bag, get a real dry bag and toss it under your seat.

Gear for Photos and Fun

Wildlife shows up when you least expect it. Dolphins, pelicans, and the city skyline all beg for a photo. Miss the shot, and you’ll wish you’d packed better. Here’s what works:

• Fully charged smartphone or camera. Don’t count on outlets on board. Charge up before you leave.
• Portable charger or power bank. Photos and videos drain batteries fast, especially in the sun.
• Waterproof phone case. One rogue wave or a quick rain shower can end your electronics. Snap on a case and relax.
• Binoculars. Spotting dolphins or distant landmarks gets easier. Small, lightweight models fit in any bag.
• Small dry bag for all your tech. Keep it zipped and within reach.

St. Pete's waters show you what's real. Dolphins jump right next to the boat. Old lighthouses stand tall against the sky. The sun sets in colors no phone filter can match. Want proof? Check our photo gallery. But those shots just hint at what you'll see. Bring your camera - our crew knows exactly where to stop for the shots everyone wants to take home.

Food, Water, and Staying Comfortable

Hunger and thirst hit harder on the water. The sun pulls moisture out of you, and excitement makes you forget to drink. Don’t count on snacks or drinks being available, bring your own:

• Refillable water bottle. Fill it before you board. Drink more than you think you need.
• Light snacks in sealed containers. Fruit, nuts, or granola bars keep energy up without making a mess.
• Motion sickness remedies. Even calm days can surprise you. Pack ginger chews, wristbands, or your go-to solution.
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes. Saltwater and sunscreen get sticky. Clean hands make snacks taste better.
• Small first-aid kit. Bandages, pain relievers, and allergy meds cover most surprises.

On signature cruises, dehydration sneaks up. The mix of sun, salt, and excitement dries you out. Keep your bottle close and sip often. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. If you have questions about what to bring, we’re always available to offer tips based on the day’s conditions.

Extras That Make a Difference

Small details separate a good trip from a great one. A few extras can save the day:

• Travel-size towel. Wipe off sweat, dry your hands, or sit on it if the seat’s hot.
• Zip-top bags for trash. Keep wrappers and peels contained until you’re back on shore.
• Personal ID and a little cash. Some docks or marinas charge for parking or snacks.
• Printed reservation or digital confirmation. Don’t fumble with emails at the dock.

Every trip brings its own surprises. The right prep means you handle them without missing a beat.

Ready to Set Sail in St. Petersburg?

Call St. Pete Sun Cruise at 404-281-8892 or contact us to book your perfect midday outing on Tampa Bay.