Set sail on the Jolly Mon for a 3.5-hour sail and snorkeling trip in Pensacola Bay. Discover vibrant marine life and stunning views on this small-group cruise.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended for swimming and standing on a small sailboat
Wildlife
History
The Gulf Islands National Seashore was established in 1971 to protect the unique coastal and marine ecosystems of the area.
Conservation
This tour prioritizes sustainable practices, encouraging minimal impact on marine life and supporting local conservation efforts in Pensacola Bay.
Jolly Sailing
Set sail on the Jolly Mon for a 3.5-hour sail and snorkeling trip in Pensacola Bay. Discover vibrant marine life and stunning views on this small-group cruise.
Jolly Sailing is a small-boat charter operator based in Long Beach, California, that offers a curated range of private and semi-private maritime experiences concentrated in the Pensacola area. The company operates two main vessels: the Jolly Dolphin, a 42' powerboat tritoon used for dolphin cruises, scenic bay tours, and Blue Angels viewing; and the Jolly Mon, a custom 27' sailboat used for snorkeling, sunset sails, and full-day island excursions.
Trips are designed for intimate groups with a maximum of six guests, emphasizing close wildlife encounters, hands-on sailing options, and flexible itineraries. Offerings include short two-hour dolphin and scenic bay tours, multi-hour snorkeling and beach days, Blue Angels practice and show cruises that pause at Sand Island, and extended seven-hour island sails with snorkeling and paddleboarding opportunities.
Jolly Sailing highlights transparency and safety by specifying boat types, passenger limits, and clear trip formats. The focus on small groups supports personalized attention, easy access to secluded islands and snorkeling sites, and enhanced opportunities to spot Bottlenose dolphins and other marine life. Routes often include Pensacola Bay landmarks such as Fort Pickens, Pensacola Lighthouse, Sand Island, and Santa Rosa Sound.
All descriptions reference the operator’s published trip summaries and vessel details. Jolly Sailing positions itself as a specialist in intimate, wildlife-focused maritime tours that combine sightseeing, snorkeling, and specialty Blue Angels viewing from the water.
Location
Long Beach, California
Business headquarters
Group Size
Up to 6 guests
Intimate private and semi-private tours
Trip Lengths
2–7 hours
Options from two-hour tours to full day
Boat Types
Powerboat & Sailboat
Jolly Dolphin 42' and Jolly Mon 27'
Reserve a small-group trip aboard the Jolly Dolphin or Jolly Mon for dolphin sightings, snorkeling, or Blue Angels viewing — limited to six guests per tour.
Bring biodegradable sunscreen
Protect your skin and the marine ecosystem by using reef-safe sunscreen during your snorkeling adventure.
Wear water shoes with good grip
Boat decks and underwater terrain can be slippery; water shoes protect your feet and improve stability.
Stay hydrated before and after the trip
Though surrounded by water, bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your outing.
Arrive early for a smooth boarding
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to complete any preparation and ensure a timely start.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and sensitive marine life during snorkeling under the sun.
summer
Snorkel mask and fins
Allows you to navigate underwater comfortably and see the vibrant marine environment.
summer
Quick-dry swimwear
Keeps you comfortable on the boat and in the water throughout the trip.
summer
Light windbreaker
Useful for cooler breezes on the water, especially in early mornings or evenings.
spring