Watch the Blue Angels perform during their practice sessions aboard a cozy sailboat in Pensacola Bay. Enjoy stunning aerial displays, dolphins, and complimentary beverages on a small-group adventure that offers an up-close perspective like no other.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, no special physical preparation required
Wildlife
History
Pensacola has a long military aviation history, with the Blue Angels based at nearby Naval Air Station Pensacola since 1946.
Conservation
Jolly Sailing emphasizes low-impact cruising with respect for marine life and minimal environmental footprint.
Jolly Sailing
Watch the Blue Angels perform during their practice sessions aboard a cozy sailboat in Pensacola Bay. Enjoy stunning aerial displays, dolphins, and complimentary beverages on a small-group adventure that offers an up-close perspective like no other.
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.
Arrive Early
Get to the dock at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to ensure smooth boarding and a relaxed start.
Dress Appropriately
Wear weather-appropriate attire, including hats and sun protection, as you'll be on the water for several hours.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your viewing experience with binoculars to see the jets and marine life more clearly.
Be Prepared for Winds
Bring a light jacket or layer as it can be breezy on the water, especially if you’re sensitive to wind.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from UV rays during the daytime sail.
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Sunglasses
Reduce glare and improve visibility over the water.
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Hat
Shield your face from the sun or wind while on deck.
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Light Jacket
Stay comfortable if the wind picks up or temperatures drop.
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