Dolphin Cruises & Private Charters by Fun Boat Tours Sarasota - Sarasota

Dolphin Cruises & Private Charters by Fun Boat Tours Sarasota

Sarasotaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; primarily seated or light swimming/snorkeling optional

Overview

Fun Boat Tours in Sarasota offers unique boat charters and dolphin cruises around Siesta Key and Anna Maria Island. From sandy shallows to sunset waters, their trips blend wildlife encounters, local lore, and family fun on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Details

Along Florida's sun-soaked Gulf Coast, Sarasota stands out as a gateway to some of the most laid-back yet exhilarating marine adventures the region offers. Fun Boat Tours operates here with a lineup of boat charters and dolphin cruises that make the most of Sarasota’s coastal treasures including Siesta Key and Anna Maria Island. Their fleet includes everything from lively Beach Cat catamarans and sleek FunBoats to private charters catering to intimate groups or family outings.

One of the signature experiences is the Sandbar Adventure Tour, which transports guests to shimmering shallow waters where the Gulf is dotted with pristine sandbars, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or snorkeling around schools of fish and rays. For wildlife lovers, the Dolphin & Donuts and Dolphins & Drinks cruises add playful social elements to these marine excursions, combining beverages and treats with expert narration on dolphin behavior and local ecology. Expect to spot bottlenose dolphins weaving through the boat’s wake, alongside occasional stingrays and coastal birds.

Sunset Dolphin Cruises departing from Siesta Key or Anna Maria Island capture the magic hour on the water, when the sky’s colors deepen and the marine activity takes on an even more vibrant energy. Captains and their knowledgeable mates bring a friendly, flexible approach, tailoring each trip to the group’s mood and interests—as praised repeatedly in glowing reviews—making every voyage feel personalized and effortless.

Beyond the decks, Fun Boat Tours enhances the experience with water toys, well-curated playlists, and a focus on safety, especially in waters busy with jet skis and other pleasure craft. The company’s presence strengthens the vibrant water recreation scene in Sarasota, offering a standout mix of relaxation, wildlife watching, and family-friendly fun set amidst one of Florida’s most beloved coastal communities.

Adventure Tips

Book in advance for peak times

Weekend and sunset cruises often fill up quickly, so reserving your spot early ensures you get the preferred date and time.

Bring sun protection

Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are vital as most of the tours spend hours under direct Florida sun with limited shade.

Arrive early for boarding

Arriving at least 15 minutes before departure helps with a smooth check-in and gives you time to settle in on board.

Consider the water toys

Many private charters come with paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and floaties—ask ahead if you want to include these extras.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Little Sarasota Bay’s quiet mangrove tunnels
  • Remnant historic fishing docks near Anna Maria Island

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins
  • Southern stingrays

History

Sarasota’s coastline has long been a fishing and boating hub, with early maritime activity dating back to Florida’s territorial days.

Conservation

Fun Boat Tours practices eco-conscious boating, prioritizing safe wildlife viewing distances and minimizing disturbance in sensitive marine habitats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour at sunset
Early morning light
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • From the bow of the boat facing the horizon
  • On sandbars during stopovers
  • Near dolphin pods surfaced just offshore

What to Photograph

Dolphin pods swimming
Colorful coastal birds
Sunset reflections over the Gulf

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin from intense Florida sun during open-water boat tours.

summer|null specific

Waterproof camera or GoPro

Captures dolphins, sunsets, and on-the-water memories with clarity.

Light jacket or windbreaker

Essential

Provides warmth during cooler or breezy conditions on the water.

fall|winter specific

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Keeps you hydrated during hours cruising under the sun.

all specific