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Azure Seas

Unforgettable Cruises & Charters in Santa Barbara

Explore Santa Barbara from the Water

Discover the beauty of the Santa Barbara coastline with our unforgettable cruises and private charters. Whether you’re looking for a scenic tour, a romantic sunset sail, or a fun-filled private event, we offer the perfect experience on the water. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the magic of the sea!

PUBLIC CRUISES


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PRIVATE CHARTERS


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GIFT CARD


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Captain Fred And Kathy Hershman

With 40+ years experience in both pleasure and commercial vessels, Captain Fred Hershman has spent his entire life on or near boats – growing up with his father on a 51-foot Ketch sailboat and serving in the Coast Guard from 1968 to 1974. A decorated veteran from the Vietnam War, he holds a 100-ton, near coastal Masters license. Captain Fred’s wife Kathy is Azure Seas’ business manager, event planner, and cruise director.

Currently they live on one of the 113 live-aboard vessels in the Santa Barbara Harbor. Together, they make the perfect team for safety and service. The Hershman’s started Santa Barbara’s original water taxi service Santa Barbara Water Taxi (aka Lil’ Toot) in 2003. Lil’ Toot offers daily narrated boat rides between the Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf. They started Celebration Cruises in 2010 to offer the Santa Barbara community and visitors more cruise and private charter opportunities, acquiring Azure Seas in 2014 and Whisper is 2017.

Both Fred and Kathy share a deep passion and commitment to Santa Barbara and the waterfront community. They are active members of Santa Barbara Chamber of Commerce, contribute to many local fund-raising events, and offer free tours to public schools as well as individuals on active military duty.

What Our Guests Are Saying
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Very enjoyable sunset cruise

Everyone at Celebration Cruises is customer focused and wants to assure that you have an enjoyable experience. Service was great. The cruise along the coast is spectacular with a lovely trek through the Harbor for a great view of the many boats, and the sea lions. Sunset was lovely and the journey was smooth all the way.

– Departure58292030750 via TripAdvisor
Fun, comfortable, easy

As part of a bachelorette weekend for my sister, I bought 5 seats on a sunset sail with Celebration Cruises. The experience was easy from start to finish -- booking was a breeze, the instructions on where to meet the boat were clear and helpful, and the boat ride itself was just wonderful. The crew took care of everything. And the views of the SB coastline were insanely worth it. This was a huge highlight of our trip, and I would definitely recommend checking it out!

– keragrace - TripAdvisor
Relaxing Evening!

"Wonderful way to relax and enjoy some beautiful evening views of Santa Barbara at sunset. Kathy booked for us at the last minute and was just so helpful. The crew was so nice. Light appetizers are included but you must purchase any cocktails you desire. We really enjoyed this cruise after a long day of driving."

– Hikerup6 - TripAdvisor
Ssh! Whisper is a hidden gem

Charter the Whisper for a maximum of 6 for 1 hour, bring your own lite fare and some wine, and enjoy a pleasant time in and around the Santa Barbara harbor.

– cactuspal - TripAdvisor
Amazing experience, so relaxing and beautiful

"I live in Santa Barbara and I decided to checkout the Sunset cruise. What a great idea! it was such as a nice and relaxing trip. Romantic music (excellent trip for couples), the staff was super friendly, and the captain was great. I would love to go back soon for sure. Highly recommended."

– sblocal2018 - TripAdvisor
Lovely sunset cruise

Had a lovely sunset cruise on board. The captain was accommodating and even extended our trip to see a pod of dolphins!

– Claire H - Google
Perfect rehearsal dinner

"Perfect way to wine and dine (well with appetizers!) our out of town family and friends for our rehearsal dinner. The best way to show off our beautiful city. The staff were so wonderful, kind, and accommodating."

– nic0le0685 - TripAdvisor
Amazing!

"The boat is super nice, stocked with great wine, Perry was INCREDIBLE, and the whole things was a perfect experience. For the price, we will literally do this EVERY time we go to Santa Barbara - best $20 I've ever spent!"

– Unknown - TripAdvisor
Sunday evening sunset cruise

"The crew was very friendly and helpful. We had beautiful views of Santa Barbara and its surroundings. The appetizers were delicious. The boat was clean and comfortable. If we have the opportunity, we will do this again."

– maileann - TripAdvisor
Awesome boat ride

"Super clean boat and friendly staff. Nice spread of food and reasonably priced drinks. My two older kids sat with the captain the whole time and he was super sweet to entertain them and answer all of their questions. Captain Taylor rocked!"

– Amanda B. - TripAdvisor