Set sail on an unforgettable dolphin tour in Panama City, Florida. Spot playful dolphins, enjoy stunning bay views, and soak up the Gulf Coast’s natural charm on this easy, guided boat excursion.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
St. Andrews Bay has been a vital fishing and trading area since indigenous and early Spanish settlements.
Conservation
Gulf Coast Excursions supports local marine conservation efforts and stresses eco-friendly practices during tours.
Gulf Coast Excursions
Set sail on an unforgettable dolphin tour in Panama City, Florida. Spot playful dolphins, enjoy stunning bay views, and soak up the Gulf Coast’s natural charm on this easy, guided boat excursion.
Gulf Coast Excursions is a Panama City, Florida-based charter operator offering private boat experiences along the Gulf Coast. The company provides a selection of fisheries-focused and sightseeing trips, including full-day Shell Island excursions, multi-hour fishing charters, dolphin tours, and 12-hour day trips to historic Apalachicola.
Trips are conducted aboard comfortable, well-equipped vessels—one advertised option is a 36’ sport fish boat with an air-conditioned cabin. Several trips include a personal captain and a first mate to manage safety, navigation, and guest needs. Onboard amenities that appear across trip descriptions include air conditioning, a clean bathroom, complimentary refreshments, and provided bait for fishing trips.
Fishing charters range from half-day to full-day outings and target species such as red snapper, triggerfish, grouper, mingo, Spanish mackerel, and occasional pelagic species when trolling. Sightseeing options focus on Shell Island and St. Andrews Bay, with a dedicated two-hour dolphin tour and the option for sunset cruises.
Gulf Coast Excursions lists specific trip lengths and on-water experiences to help guests choose the right charter. Third-party listings and The Adventure Collective feature the business and trip summaries, enabling potential guests to confirm details and view booking options. All trip information is presented in third-person summaries to describe what guests can expect during each charter.
Location
Panama City, FL
Based on Florida's Gulf Coast
Boat
36' sport fish
Air-conditioned cabin available
Trip Lengths
2–12 hours
Options from quick tours to full days
Crew
Captain & first mate
Personalized, private charters
Choose a fishing charter, Shell Island day, or dolphin tour — book dates and confirm trip details through available booking channels.
Bring Sunscreen and Protective Clothing
The sun over the Gulf can be intense; apply sunscreen regularly and wear a hat or UV-protective clothing.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Arriving 15-20 minutes before departure helps ensure smooth check-in and seating preferences.
Use Binoculars for Better Wildlife Viewing
A pair of binoculars can enhance your dolphin spotting experience and help see distant birds or boats.
Stay Seated During Rough Waters
Wave height can vary; remain seated to prevent falls during choppier stretches of the tour.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from strong UV rays during the boat tour.
summer
Camera with Zoom Lens
Capture clear photos of dolphins and scenic coastal views.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Stay comfortable during cooler or windy moments on the water.
fall
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while enjoying your tour, especially on warm days.