We will reserve the boat for your group or family, and the captain, during our private dolphin tour. Coast Guard regulations stipulate that 6 passengers are allowed, including children and infants.
There are many species we see, including starfish, sanddollars bay scallops, whelks conchs upto 21" long, seahorses urchins and hermit crabs. These animals can be brought up to the surface, handled gently, and photographed. We bring large containers so that snorkelers, as well as non-snorkelers, can get close to the animals before they're released into the bay. The shells of non-living creatures can be taken home.
The second leg will be spent spotting the best St Andrews Bay has for wildlife. You'll see birds such as pelicans and herons, along with underwater marine life like starfish, blue crabs and sea horses. Shell Island has sand dollars, shells and other treasures. You can also go snorkeling in grass flats, and explore St. Andrews Bay on the Gulf of Mexico.
Your excursion will take in Panama City Pass and the area that St. Andrews Bay (and the Gulf of Mexico) meet. This is where dolphins are found. You will learn how to get in the sea and see them up-close.
Cancellations received within 24 hours of the tour time/date will not be honored. You will be charged for the entire tour.
We had a wonderful trip. The captain was amazing. He even showed us a jellyfish that doesn't sting. The shell island had many shells so we stopped there. Everyone had a great time. We will definitely be back.
With the professional guidance of your captain, you’ll be able to enter the water and watch the dolphins at very close range.
Your excursion will take you to Panama City Pass and show you the area where St. Andrews Bay converges with the Gulf of Mexico. We will guide you in how to interact and interact with dolphins.
Panama City dolphin tours and Shell Island trips with St. Andrews Bay Charters are small, private charters, for a maximum of 12 guests (no more than 6 per boat). This not only allows for a much more intimate and interactive experience but also a safer trip since you won’t be sharing the boat with anyone outside your party.
Your captain will instruct you on the best method of entering the water and seeing the dolphins up close and personal. Reaching out to or swimming towards the dolphins is not allowed. We employ the most ethical way of interacting with them by swimming parallel with them and also let them come willingly towards us.
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.
There are 6 maximum guests per boat so you have the best chance of swimming with dolphins. Personalize a private trip to make memories you will never forget. Flippers Dolphin Tours has been consistently ranked as Panama City Beach's top thing to do by Yelp since 2010. Our Captains are local experts about Bottlenose Dolphins.
Find the best snorkeling spots and beaches in Florida. Mexico Beach or Port St. Joe can be your starting point for adventure.
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.
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.