Where to Go: the 4 Best Panama City Beach Dolphin Watching Tours

1.Shell Island Snorkel and Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 4,362 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $57Our pick

Cruise from Panama City Beach to Shell Island aboard Island Time’s roomy catamaran. Watch for wild dolphins, snorkel in St. Andrews Bay, paddle board, use the waterslide, or walk the beach. The crew, including captains such as Clay and Heath and crew members such as Emma and Sarah, keeps the three-hour trip relaxed and social.

“shell Island was beautiful seeing dolphins on the way was fun. We also snorkeled and collected shells.”

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2.Sunset & Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,867 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $57

Spend about two hours aboard Island Time Sailing’s catamaran, cruising Grand Lagoon and the waters near St. Andrews State Park. You’ll look for dolphins, watch the sails go up, enjoy music, and buy drinks or snacks from the onboard galley. Captain Clay and crew members including Christo, Sara, Audra, Carter, and Emma are among the friendly faces connected with this popular cruise.

“It was great, good service and great views. The team was very polite. Being out on the water for 2 hours was definitely worth the experience.”

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3.Snorkel & Dolphin Sightseeing Tour Aboard the Footloose

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 441 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $50Best value

Spend about three hours aboard the Footloose from Panama City Beach, snorkeling at Shell Island, walking its white-sand beach, and searching for dolphins in the Gulf. Your ticket includes equipment, a guide, and one complimentary beverage. Captains such as Gordon, Marcy, Ryan, and Jamie are known for friendly help, though dolphin sightings and water clarity can vary.

“All of the workers with this experience were great! I had my mom with me & she has some trouble walking far distances & you have to walk along a pretty long pier to get on the boat. The staff noticed my mom was having trouble & got her wheelchair for the walk.”

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4.2 Hours Swim with the Dolphins in Panama City

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 302 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $71

Join Bay Point Water Sports for a two-hour Gulf trip with up to six people per boat. Captains Dale, Dan, Robert, and others search for wild dolphins, then offer time in the water with masks, snorkels, and life jackets. You’ll also spot marine life and stop at Shell Island.

“Started out slow but in a few minutes dolphins were all around the boat !! Amazing experience!! Captain knew right were the dolphins were gn to be ! We were well pleased!! Papa Joe's 2hr swim with the dolphins was well worth it seen 3 pods of dolphin for about 2hrs ! If it's cool in October be prepared for the water to be cold when you get in !!”

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