Instead of swimming in front of the dolphins (which is illegal), we will swim parallel with them, instead of reaching out for them (which also violates the law). This will allow them to approach us ethically.
Relax and unwind while your private USCG captain/tour guide takes you to watch some breathtaking sunsets and views that can only be seen on the water. Bring your favorite beverage & or snacks if you like while you enjoy the evening.
Compared to other bigger tour boats that have a capacity of up to 175 tour goers, this Dolphin Tour boat carries a maximum of six passengers, including kids of all ages. Now, larger groups always create lots of noise, which disturbs the dolphins and drives them away. The best thing is that we will expertly get you in the water fast, and most importantly, without scaring the dolphins away.
The Dolphin Tour boat is smaller than other larger tour boats, with a maximum capacity of six passengers. This includes children of all ages. The dolphins are often disturbed by large groups of people, and this can lead to them being driven away. We will get you in the water quickly, and, most importantly, we won't scare the dolphins away.
Our boats can be used for cruising. You can also enjoy swimming with dolphins and watching them in their natural environment.
The friendly captains from the local area have decades of combined experience and knowledge about the marine life of the area, including manatees and dolphins. They are happy to tailor your trip and will show you the beauty of this amazing place.
Reserve the whole boat on a private tour for only your group. This is your tour. This tour can be tailored to your preferences. A private charter can only accommodate six people.
For complete information about pricing, policies, what to expect and what to bring, please visit our Pricing & Information page.
You can also see dolphins on our island and dolphin tours. You can visit the beach and hunt for shells. If conditions permit, you can also swim in the protected waters.
St. Andrews Bay Charters' private charters allow for 12 passengers (maximum 13 per boat) to enjoy Panama City dolphin tours and Shell Island excursions. This gives you a more personal and intimate experience. You won't have to share your boat with anyone.
You can snorkel to your hearts content aboard our boat, and there is no additional cost! You can also get complimentary Capri Suns and bottled water from the onboard cooler. Bring your own beverages, snacks, or BYOB.
Swim with Panama City’s resident pod of wild bottle-nosed dolphins in their natural home on your trip aboard super-fast boats specially designed for finding and visiting with the dolphins. Unlike the larger tour boats that carry up to 150 people, Blue Dolphin Tours carries only 13 passengers on some boats & 7-15 on other boats (children of all ages included). We can have you in the water with your snorkel gear on quickly and without all the splashing and disruptions that large groups create, often frightening the dolphins away.Learn from Your Knowledgeable Captain - Your private captain will instruct you on the best means of interacting with the dolphins, such as swimming parallel with the dolphins rather than swimming toward them or reaching out for them.Swim with Dolphins - We'll put you in the water before the dolphins arrive. That way, the dolphins are more likely to come to us than swim away.Discover wildlife including birds of prey, pelicans, underwater creatures and herons. Explore the Shell Island area for sand dollars and shells. Snorkel grass flats and explore St. Andrews Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
Swimming parallel with the dolphins rather than swimming toward them or reaching out for them (this is also illegal), we will allow the dolphins to come to us (best, most ethical method).
Our Dolphin & Island Tours take approximately 3 hours. Seasonal departure times will vary. The dock is currently empty at 9:00 a.m., and 12:30.
Snorkeling is a fun and easy activity for people of all ages. One of the best things about Shell Island is that the calm shallow water behind the jetty is ideal for first-time snorkelers.
When is the Best Time to Visit Florida to See Dolphins? The best time to see dolphins is from late May to early August. You're most likely to see them between 10 a.m. and noon, and then again between 2 p.m. and dark.
If you and your family enjoy fishing, eating seafood, golfing, a vibrant nightlife, and shopping, Destin is the place to be. However, if you want a more relaxed family vacation with excellent waterfront lodging and a variety of children's activities, Panama City Beach is the place to be.