There are many birds that can be seen out of water. They include raptors like bald Eagles and Ospreys as well as shorebirds like great Blue Herons and Egrets. Seabirds include magnificent frigatebirds (terns) and terns. There are also deer sometimes found on the island.
Captain Jack was amazing. He was extremely well-informed. He allowed us to choose what was important. We chose dolphin sightings for most of our time."
Enjoy a relaxing boat ride with dolphins and swim with them in their natural habitat. Our boats are real dive boats so kids will love seeing and swimming with dolphins.
The water is home to a variety of birds. There are raptors like bald and ospreys. There are also shorebirds like great blu egrets. And there are seabirds like majestic frigatebirds. Sometimes we see deer.
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.
We will bring you as close to dolphins and as safe as possible. The dolphins will decide how close or far they want to be able to interact with them. We practice passive observation, which simply means we let the dolphins approach us. Our dolphins in St. Andrews Bay can be extremely playful and interactive. Many of our guests have memorable encounters with them.
Boat Tours are fun for the entire family, no matter what their age. When you just want to relax, take in the beautiful views, and go swimming with our most famous residents, the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, a Lagoon Pontoons boat tour is just what you need.
Would you like to reserve a private tour? Our private charter options let customers add additional time to their dolphin tour (which starts at 2 or 3 hour) and add activities (ex. additional snorkeling area, more island time etc.). 13 people can each boat. Your captain will help you get in the water to view dolphins in their natural habitat. You can then take a guided snorkel tour around Shell Island to observe other sealife.
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.
Maximum group size is 13 people per boat. Maximum number of 12 guests. We can accommodate up to 13 people per boat, but we can also make arrangements with local partners if you have a larger group.
Also, manatees are often seen. Manatees are sometimes seen in the water, although you can enter the water if it is safe. We practice passive observation and do not approach them.
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.
On your excursion you will visit Panama City Pass as well as the area where St. Andrews Bay converges with the Gulf of Mexico. Here you will find dolphins. We will show the way to get in and close up.
We often see manatees. Manatees may occasionally be found in the waters near you, but we only practice passive observation.
It's all worth it once you get there because the water is the most beautiful I've ever seen. The water is so clear that it feels like you're swimming in a pool. We had no idea what to expect, so we went with the intention of spending a few hours on the island. Come prepared to spend the entire day!
Dolphins, loggerhead turtles, green sea turtles, ghost crabs, beach mice, nine-banded armadillos, alligators that live in the island's lake, marsh rabbits, racoons, and other wildlife can be found on Shell Island.
Wear nothing but a swimsuit. Dolphins have extremely sensitive skin, and because you will be able to touch them during your interaction, we recommend that you refrain from wearing sunscreen, oils, or perfumes.