Dolphin Tours & Snorkeling with Passage Key in Bradenton Beach

Bradenton Beach, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast near the barrier island of Anna Maria Island, offers a mix of sun, sea, and unfiltered natural beauty. Passage Key Dolphin Tours operates from this vibrant coastal town, providing unforgettable water-based adventures that highlight the region’s rich marine life and pristine aquatic environments. Known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife, this area is a standout on the Florida coast for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The tour company specializes in dolphin- and manatee-focused excursions, launching from Anna Maria Island’s shores. Their flagship offerings range from quick two-hour dolphin and manatee rides to customized build-your-own adventures lasting up to eight hours. Options include beginner-friendly snorkeling trips, sunset cruises, and journeys to Egmont Key, a nearby small island teeming with coastal flora and sandy beaches. Each trip is designed to get visitors close to nature, often with private, small-group settings that enhance the intimacy with the environment.

Captain Bruce, the guide at Passage Key Dolphin Tours, is consistently praised for his local knowledge, patient approach, and gift for storytelling. He balances informative narration about the area’s history and wildlife with stretches of quiet, letting guests soak in the experience. Expect to see dolphins riding bow waves, manatees surfacing near seagrass beds, and coastal birds like osprey overhead. The waters across this region are shallow, calm, and ideal for beginners and families.

What sets this operator apart is their flexibility and genuine connection to the locale. The ability to build your own itinerary allows travelers to tailor their trip—whether it’s focusing on snorkeling, wildlife viewing, or simply soaking up the West Florida sun. Passage Key Dolphin Tours offers a compelling way to engage with the Gulf Coast’s marine ecosystems while supporting sustainable tourism practices that protect the delicate habitats visitors come to appreciate.