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Public Cruises

Quick Details

  • SCHEDULE : Public Cruises: Saturday & Sunday only (not available Monday-Friday). Private Charters: available 7 days a week
  • Duration: 25 minutes EACH way
  • One Way Trips: Each trip is ONE WAY. Tickets may be purchased online or in person (see locations below). Online reservations are highly encouraged. In person ticket purchases are subject to availability. Ticket is required for guests of all ages (including babies). We accept debit or credits cards only, no cash.
  • Harbor Departure Location: Harbor Departure: 113 Harbor Way (in front of Santa Barbara Maritime Museum)
  • Stearns Wharf Departure Location : 237 Stearns Wharf (wood pier at the end of State Street). We are on left side near the end.
  • Drinks & Snacks Available for Purchase: Beer, wine, hard seltzer, soda, water & juice. Assortment of potato chips, pretzels and candy. We accept debit & credit only, no cash. 21+ with valid hard copy ID required to purchase alcohol.
  • Accessibility: Due to various ramps, stairs and threshold, our boats do not accommodate wheelchairs or mobility assistance devices such as canes, walkers or crutches (including boots or braces). With loading and unloading passengers from an open ocean pier (Stearns Wharf), we are unable to board passengers that require assistance from others or any special equipment. All guests must be able to walk independently, using strong and wide unassisted steps. Safety is our highest priority.
  • Stroller Policy : Lil Toot can only accommodate SINGLE folded strollers. We are unable to board joggers, double strollers or wagon strollers. If you are riding roundtrip, we recommend leaving strollers in your car.
  • Pet Policy: Pets are not permitted onboard (including emotional support animals).
  • Cancellation Policy: Refunds are not available for cancellations. However, tickets can be rescheduled if we are notified at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure. Rescheduling is not allowed for cancellations made within 48 hours of the departure time. Please note: There are no refunds or rebooking options for late arrivals, no-shows, or unused tickets. Trip protection plan available at checkout.
  • Group Reservations: Lil Toot is available for (1) hour private charters 7 days a week, year-round. Charter fee includes up to 19 guests. See "private charters" tab on home page.

Lil' Toot Ticket - Adult

One Way - Ages 13+

$ 12

Lil' Toot Ticket - Child

One Way - Ages 0-12

$ 5

Tickets are required for guests of all ages (including babies)

Lil’ Toot, Santa Barbara’s only water taxi, offers 25-minute narrated public boat rides between the Harbor and Stearns Wharf every hour. With seating up to 19 passengers per the USCG requirements, our narrated boat rides are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Experience the two exciting sides of the Santa Barbara Waterfront

From Santa Barbara Harbor to Stearns Wharf, we take you for souvenir shopping, the Sea Center, wharf fishing area, wine tasting and dining at the Shellfish Company, Longboard’s, Deep Sea Winery and Moby Dick Restaurant. There’s always something happening at Stearns Wharf!

From the Wharf to the Harbor, we take you to the must-see destination, Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. Check out the world-class restaurants offering the freshest seafood available – like Brophy Brothers and Santa Barbara Fish Market. You can also enjoy the incredible scenery by strolling out on the breakwater and taking in a magnificent sunset.

Lil’ Toot offers a first-rate experience and tour of the Santa Barbara waterfront. Our captain and crew will fill the cruise with interesting facts and tidbits about local harbor history, celebrity-owned yachts, wildlife, and more! With a smile on its bow and bubbles rising from its smokestack, the Lil’ Toot is a Santa Barbara tradition that has delighted guests of all ages since 2003.

Lil’ Toot also offers private parties, corporate events, memorials at sea, and kids’ birthday parties. You can even get married on the Lil’ Toot by an ordained captain!