Fort Myers Beach Christmas Lights Boat Parade: A Magical 37-Year Tradition on the Water

The Fort Myers Beach Christmas Lights Boat Parade has been lighting up Southwest Florida for 37 unforgettable years—and 2025 was no exception. This treasured annual event brought together locals, visitors, captains, and families to celebrate the season with shimmering holiday lights, festive music, and the sparkling beauty of Estero Bay.

This year’s parade was made even more special thanks to Adventures in Paradise Cruises, who proudly donated the lead boat for the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce and City Officials, helping guide the illuminated fleet through the calm coastal waters.

🎄 A Holiday Tradition That Shines Brighter Each Year

Few Southwest Florida festivities capture the spirit and charm of the holidays like the Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Every December, an eclectic, colorful lineup of decorated vessels—ranging from small personal watercraft to stunning commercial cruisers—sails the shoreline.

What makes this event truly stand out?

• 37 years of tradition bringing the community together
• Hundreds of spectators lining the waterfront restaurants, marinas, and piers
• Creative holiday light displays that turn each boat into a floating work of art
• A festive, family-friendly atmosphere that’s become a seasonal staple

🚤 Adventures in Paradise Cruises Leads the Way

This year, Adventures in Paradise Cruises once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting local heritage and community spirit by donating the lead boat for Chamber and City Officials.

Their spacious, comfortable catamaran added elegance and visibility to the parade’s head of fleet—setting the tone for a joyful night on the water.

Why the lead boat matters:

• It helps anchor the visual flow of the parade
• Gives officials a proud vantage point to experience the event
• Symbolizes partnership between local businesses, government, and residents

Adventures in Paradise has long been known for dolphin cruises, shelling excursions, and eco-friendly adventures—so supporting an event rooted in coastal culture is a natural fit.

🌊 Calm Waters & Coastal Magic

Mother Nature delivered pure perfection for this year's event.

✨ Glass-calm waters mirrored the shimmering lights
🐬 Playful dolphins were frequently spotted swimming alongside the boats
🌕 A breathtaking full moon illuminated the night sky, heightening the festive glow

For many spectators and participants, the peaceful weather and wildlife sightings were as memorable as the parade itself.

🐬 Where Holiday Spirit Meets Natural Beauty

The Fort Myers Beach Boat Parade is more than a holiday attraction—it's a reminder of the vibrant marine life and incredible natural environment that make the region so special.

Sides of the parade route echoed with “Look—dolphins!” as families watched sleek bottlenose dolphins join the celebration. Combined with the glittering reflections off the bay and the warm Gulf breeze, the evening felt like a postcard-perfect Florida holiday.

📅 Mark Your Calendar for Next Year!

If you missed this year’s parade, don’t worry—this beloved tradition returns every December, and each year promises new creativity, more boats, and unforgettable coastal scenery.

Visitors planning holiday trips to Southwest Florida should consider timing their stay around the next Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade and booking a cruise or waterfront seat early.

🌴 Experience the Magic Year-Round with Adventures in Paradise

Whether you're drawn to dolphins, sunsets, or local culture, Adventures in Paradise Cruises offers unforgettable experiences on Fort Myers’ waterways all year long. Their dedication to community events like the Christmas Lights Boat Parade reflects their passion for sharing the beauty and joy of the region with everyone who visits.