Sailing & Snorkeling in Fort Walton Beach with Destin Sailing Adventures - Destin

Sailing & Snorkeling in Fort Walton Beach with Destin Sailing Adventures

Destineasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Comfortable for most fitness levels, including families with young children

Overview

Set sail off Florida’s Emerald Coast with Destin Sailing Adventures for unforgettable snorkeling and sunset cruises. Discover why their personalized charters around Fort Walton Beach and Santa Rosa Island make every trip memorable.

Details

Fort Walton Beach, Florida, situated along the emerald waters of the Gulf Coast, offers a playground for those seeking tranquil open-water escapes paired with vibrant marine life. Destin Sailing Adventures has earned a sterling reputation here, providing personalized sail and snorkel expeditions that blend serene seascapes with hands-on outdoor activity. Captained by the knowledgeable and friendly Captain Kip and accompanied by Elizabeth, each trip is tailored to showcase the best of this coastal region, from dolphins darting through the waves to the crystal-clear waters surrounding Santa Rosa Island.

The company’s signature experiences include sunrise and sunset sails, private charters creating an intimate setting perfect for families and special celebrations, and active snorkel adventures that let you swim alongside starfish, colorful reefs, and native saltwater fish. The Santa Rosa Island Adventure stands out for venturing to this pristine barrier island, where white sand beaches and tidal pools offer a chance to step off the boat and stretch legs on quiet shores rarely crowded.

Fort Walton Beach’s coastal waters harbor unique ecological features, including seagrass beds vital for local fisheries and a regular dolphin population that frequently escorts the sailboats. The Gulf’s shallow bays and protected coves create ideal conditions for beginner and experienced snorkelers alike. Whether you’re new to sailing or looking to deepen your engagement with the ocean’s rhythms, Destin Sailing Adventures combines safety, instruction, and authentic moments with nature.

Accessible just east of Destin, this business integrates seamlessly with the growing outdoor recreation offerings in the region. Their small-group approach and personalized care make each adventure feel both exclusive and welcoming. From celebrating a birthday aboard to sharing the thrill of a first-time sailing experience for children, their trips invite you to connect deeply with the Gulf’s marine environment through an active, joyful lens.

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Private Charters

Private trips with Captain Kip fill up quickly, especially for sunset sails, so reserve your spot well in advance.

Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect your skin and the marine ecosystem by using reef-safe sunscreen during all snorkeling and sailing activities.

Wear Swimsuit Under Clothes

Dressing in layers with your swimsuit beneath makes it easy to jump into the water during snorkeling stops.

Seasickness Preparedness

If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking preventive medication before boarding to ensure a smooth trip.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Tidal pools on Santa Rosa Island teeming with marine life
  • Quiet coves near Crab Island off Fort Walton Beach

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins
  • Loggerhead sea turtles

History

Santa Rosa Island is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, established in 1971 to protect coastal habitats and heritage.

Conservation

Captains practice reef-friendly snorkeling guidelines and encourage guests to respect marine life to preserve this delicate ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour during sunrise and sunset
Mid-morning with clear skies

Best Viewpoints

  • Edge of the sailboat looking toward Santa Rosa Island
  • Deck capturing sprawling Gulf waters
  • Tidal pools during island stops

What to Photograph

Playful dolphins near the boat
Vibrant coral reefs beneath the surface
Sunset skies reflecting on the water

Recommended Gear

Reef-safe Sunscreen

Essential

Keeps skin protected without harming fragile marine environments.

summer specific

Swimsuit

Essential

Allows quick access for snorkeling and water activities.

summer|spring|fall specific

Light Jacket or Windbreaker

Necessary for cooler mornings and breezy sails.

spring|fall|winter specific

Water Shoes

Provides protection when stepping onto rocky or sandy shores during island stops.

summer|fall specific