St. Augustine Dolphin & Wildlife Adventure — 90-Minute Estuary Eco Cruise
Difficulty
easy
Duration
Approximately 1.5 hours (90 minutes)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to walk down a dock ramp and step aboard a vessel.
Overview
Slide out of the marina and into the estuary for a 90-minute wildlife cruise that puts dolphins, sea turtles and coastal birds within arm’s reach. Naturalist-led commentary, easy boarding and options to BYOB on select vessels make this a low-effort, high-reward way to experience St. Augustine’s coastline.
St. Augustine Dolphin & Wildlife Adventure — 90-Minute Estuary Eco Cruise
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The boat slips away from Camachee Cove Marina with a soft thud and the salt-slick air immediately trades the city’s rhythms for something looser — gull calls, the slap of wake against pilings, and the patient click of binoculars. Within minutes the marina’s docks are a line on the horizon and the estuary opens, an active, shallow world where currents tease the shoreline grasses and pods of bottlenose dolphins cut arcs through the water as if answering an old, oceanic bell.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive early for parking and check-in
Plan to be at the dock at least 15 minutes before departure; take the first right after the marina entrance to find Florida Water Tours parking.
Wear secured footwear
No heels or loose sandals — you’ll be walking down ramps and stepping over small gaps when boarding the boat.
Sun and wind protection
Bring SPF, a hat and a light wind layer; the open deck can be considerably cooler and sunnier than shore.
Bring seasickness prevention if needed
Although waters are usually calm, tidal channels can be choppy—consider medication or acupressure bands if you’re sensitive.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphin
- Green sea turtle
History
St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental U.S.; coastal forts and the lighthouse are prominent reminders of its maritime past.
Conservation
The estuary’s seagrass beds and oyster reefs are fragile — avoid tossing anything overboard and support local operators who follow wildlife viewing guidelines.
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Adventure Hotspots in St. Augustine
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
Close-focus optics bring distant dolphins and birds into sharp view.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Open water amplifies sun exposure; protection keeps the trip comfortable.
summer specific
Light wind/rain layer
A packable jacket protects against spray and changing coastal winds.
spring specific
Mid-range telephoto lens or zoom camera
A 200–300mm equivalent helps capture dolphin behavior without disturbing wildlife.