Board a private two‑hour cruise from C.S.S. Yacht Basin to St. Andrews Bay and Shell Island for close-up dolphin sightings and optional snorkeling. Family-friendly, customizable, and ideal for short coastal explorations.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The boat eases away from the dock and the bay opens like a page of moving light: St. Andrews Bay broadens, currents nudge the bow, and the grasses of the shallows flash beneath clear water. Within minutes the horizon is interrupted by the arcing backs of bottlenose dolphins — curious, fast, and unbothered by the human eyes watching them.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people who can sit and move on a small boat; minimal mobility required for short dock walk.
Wildlife
History
The shallow bays were used for centuries by coastal indigenous groups and later developed into fishing and navigation hubs; Shell Island’s sands record ongoing coastal change.
Conservation
Protect seagrass beds by avoiding wading zones marked by the crew and use reef‑safe sunscreen; take all trash back to shore to prevent marine debris.
Reserve your spot on the 2-Hour Private Sightseeing Dolphin Tour in Panama City Beach today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early to board easily
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before departure — the slip is a short walk from the parking lot and crew load time is limited.
Expect to get splashed
Wear quick-dry clothing or a swimsuit and bring a towel; even anchored stops can produce spray from the wind and wake.
Bring sun protection
High UV reflects off water — use reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses for comfort and marine viewing.
Respect wildlife and habitats
Observe dolphins at a distance when possible and follow crew guidance when handling invertebrates to avoid stressing animals and damaging seagrass.
Sunscreen (reef-safe)
Protects skin in open sun and reduces chemical impact on marine life.
summer
Light towel and swimwear
Useful for snorkeling stops and drying off after spray or a quick dip.
summer
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare for spotting dolphins and viewing underwater features from the boat.
Light windbreaker
Provides warmth and blocks wind if the bay is breezy, especially in mornings or evenings.
spring