Panama City Beach is home to dolphins year round! We literally go the extra mile – or 10 – to fulfill your dream of seeing dolphins in their natural habitat on your dolphin tour!
We have almost everything you will need on board, but you can bring anything you would like to. I would recommend bringing a towel, polarized sunglasses and sweater or jacket, just in case. It is always cooler on the water then it is on land because of the breeze and the open air boat. You are also welcome to bring and snacks or drinks with you.
Your Captain will guide you - You'll learn from your captain how to interact best with the dolphins. Swim with Dolphins. We'll take you into the water before the dolphins arrive. So the dolphins will come to you rather than swim away. Find wildlife like birds of prey, pelicans underwater creatures and herons. Shells and Sand Dollars are found on Shell Island. Enjoy snorkeling in the flats of seagrass and exploring St. Andrews Bay, Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
Your trip aboard the super-fast boats, specially designed to find and visit with dolphins, will take you along Panama City's native pod of wild bottlenosed dolphins. Blue Dolphin Tours can only carry 6 passengers on some boats and 7-15 people on other boats (children of any age are also welcome). We can quickly get you on the water wearing your snorkel gear without the disruptions and splashing that large groups often cause, which often scares dolphins away.
Although you may have seen dolphins in captivity in a marine park or aquarium, it is much more fascinating to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Even though wild dolphin behavior cannot be predicted, and sightings on all trips are not guaranteed, tour captains have a lot of experience on the waters of St. Andrew Bay almost every day. Our captains know where dolphins can be found, and they do everything possible to ensure guests have a good time. Dolphins can be seen on most tours jumping, playing, looking for food and communicating with each other.
Our photos section and social media offer a glimpse into the wildlife we might see. All of these photos have been taken on actual tours. It is not unusual to spot sharks, turtles or starfish.
Limit six people per Shell Island Dolphin Tour. Our guests are able to enjoy St. Andrew Bay from comfort, get to know the tour captain, and even see the dolphins. You are able to take pictures and video and ask any questions as the captain brings you as close to the dolphins as possible. He is respectful and will not cause harm to them.
Shell Island is a local must-see location for Panama City Beach visitors looking for the unspoiled white-sand beach experience. The island offers plenty of beach space and peaceful inshore waters where swimming and snorkeling are great.
Shell Island is an undeveloped 7-mile long barrier island and beach that makes up the southern reach of St. Andrews State Park. Accessed via private boat or the official Shell Island Shuttle, the island is a local must-see location for visitors who want the pristine beach experience. Swimming and snorkeling are great.
It's one of the best places in Panama City Beach. Shallow pools can be found with fish and sea life. Plus the clear water in the Gulf is perfect to get out with the family. So bring your snorkeling gear or rent it from a local tour operator.