Santa Claus is sailing into town, but this year he’s swapped his red sleigh for a crimson yacht — aboard the SOLARIS at Sandestin.

Make a reservation for Cruisin’ with Santa charity luncheon on Saturday, December 14th from Noon until 2 p.m. 

Featuring three decks of indoor and outdoor fun for all ages, guests will enjoy holiday music, a two-course chef-prepared luncheon and a keepsake photo portrait with the celebrity of the season — St. Nick himself.

(Of course, you’ll have the chance to meet the most authentic, real, snowy bearded Santa this side of the North Pole.)

Tickets to Cruisin’ with Santa luncheon cruise are $40 for adults, $22 for children (ages 10-2) and $10 (1 and under). Guests are encouraged to get into the giving spirit by bringing an unwrapped toy to be donated to local children in need. A portion of the proceeds will be donated and unwrapped toys will be collected for the Sandestin Foundation for Kids.

At the end of the month, SunQuest Cruises is hosting its annual New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Dinner and Dancing Cruise on Tuesday, December 31st from 8 pm – 12:30 am. Guests will embark on a very memorable evening that includes a five-course seated dinner, live entertainment, fireworks, party favors and champagne.

After being greeted by Captain Rick, guests will start the evening with a cocktail from the full-service bar. As everyone explores all three indoor and outdoor decks, the SOLARIS chefs are freshly preparing gourmet meals in the yacht’s galley.

“New Year’s Eve is our ultimate celebration on the water,” said James Murray, General Manager for SunQuest Cruises. “We combine the best of all worlds from cruising our local waters to indulging in fresh seafood to enjoying the best seat in the house for fireworks.”

This year’s five-course fine dining menu will begin with a black-eye pea blini, crab spring roll appetizer and harvest salad. Guests’ entrée choices include Chateaubriand of Beef Tenderloin, House-made Lobster Tortellini, Almond & Apricot-stuffed Loin of Pork or Southern Caprese Stack. The culinary experience concludes with Bananas Foster over 2014 Celebration Cake.

The soiree features live music that can be heard from all three decks. During the final countdown, guests will grab party favors and raise a glass to 2014 with a midnight Champagne toast. The sky will illuminate above  as guests enjoy the best seat in the house for the fireworks show from the nearby Sandestin resort. (Sandestin offers a variety of accommodations on-property for anyone seeking a worry-free night.)

To make a reservation, call SunQuest Cruises at 850-650-2519.