Boat Tours & Rentals with Charter Finders in Madeira Beach - St. Petersburg

Boat Tours & Rentals with Charter Finders in Madeira Beach

St. Petersburgeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; low physical exertion unless swimming/snorkeling

Overview

Charter Finders offers a range of boat tours and rentals in Madeira Beach, Florida, letting you experience island snorkeling, dolphin watching, and sunset cruises on the Gulf Coast. Discover what makes these waterways and islands a standout outdoor destination.

Details

Madeira Beach, Florida, offers a vibrant gateway to coastal adventures with Charter Finders, a standout outfitter specializing in boat-based excursions and rentals. Situated on the Gulf side of the Sunshine State, this locale combines calm, clear waters with diverse marine habitats, making it a prime setting for discovering aquatic wildlife and island landscapes. From leisurely sunset cruises to hands-on deck boat rentals, Charter Finders provides a range of experiences tailored to both casual vacationers and seasoned sea travelers.

The standout activity here is the varied island tours and snorkeling trips. Notably, the Egmont Key Snorkeling Dolphin Cruise invites visitors to swim alongside schools of tropical fish and perhaps spot dolphins gliding beneath. Egmont Key, an uninhabited state park and historic fort site, features pristine beaches and mangrove shorelines. The Three Island Tour navigates around key points including Shell Key, where shelling is prolific and seabirds congregate, and the mysterious allure of calmer, less-trafficked waters.

For those eager to take command, Charter Finders offers deck boat and pontoon rentals without a captain—ideal for groups wanting a private day on the water. These boats come equipped with fuel options, except for pontoon rentals where fuel is separate, allowing for flexible trip planning. Private four-hour tours cater to personalized requests, whether focused on spotting dolphins, collecting shells, or simply gliding beneath the fading sun.

Madeira Beach’s combination of accessible islands, clear Gulf waters, and abundant marine life creates a uniquely immersive boating environment. Charter Finders stands out by mixing versatility with local expertise, placing visitors in the heart of Florida’s coastal charm. Whether seeking a relaxing cruise or an active day of snorkeling and shelling, this company is an essential part of Madeira Beach's outdoor adventure fabric.

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Popular Tours

Sunset cruises and dolphin snorkeling can fill up quickly during peak months—reserve your spot well in advance.

Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect marine life while enjoying snorkeling trips by using eco-friendly sunscreen products.

Check Fuel Policies for Rentals

Pontoon rentals do not include fuel, so plan accordingly to avoid unexpected costs or interruptions.

Stay Hydrated Onboard

Bring plenty of water, especially for private and longer tours to stay comfortable under the Florida sun.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Shell Key Preserve for secluded beach walks and shell collecting
  • Egmont Key's historic lighthouse and fort ruins

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins often seen nearshore
  • Brown pelicans and terns nesting on nearby islands

History

Egmont Key served as a strategic coastal defense fort and quarantine station during the 19th century.

Conservation

Local efforts focus on protecting fragile seagrass beds and nesting shorebirds, encouraging visitors to minimize impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Mid-morning for bright water colors
Late afternoon for dolphin activity

Best Viewpoints

  • The deck of the boat during the Three Island Tour
  • Egmont Key shoreline
  • Sunset framing off Madeira Beach pier

What to Photograph

Dolphins and other marine wildlife
Sunset reflections over the Gulf
Crystal-clear underwater scenes while snorkeling

Recommended Gear

Reef-safe Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin without harming sensitive marine ecosystems.

summer specific

Swimsuit and Towel

Essential

Necessary for water activities like snorkeling and swimming.

summer specific

Wide-brimmed Hat

Essential

Provides shade and sun protection during boat tours.

summer specific

Waterproof Camera or GoPro

Capture underwater life and scenic moments on your trip.