Explore Egmont Key: St. Pete Pier Dolphin & Sailing Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels since most of the trip involves sailing and gentle walking on flat terrain.
Overview
Discover dolphins, historic landmarks, and untouched beaches on a private sailing tour from St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key. Perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Details
Embark on a captivating St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key Tour, offered by The Pelican LLC, where adventure meets natural beauty in Florida’s Gulf Coast. This private dolphin-ferry-sailing experience takes you from the vibrant St. Petersburg pier across sparkling waters to the serene Egmont Key, a hidden treasure known for its rich wildlife and historic landmarks. Along the way, you'll glide past pods of playful dolphins, spot diverse seabirds, and enjoy refreshing ocean breezes while sailing aboard a comfortable, eco-friendly vessel. Once on Egmont Key, explore pristine beaches, walk the trails through native coastal vegetation, and discover the old lighthouse and Fort Dade ruins that tell stories of the area’s past. This tour seamlessly combines wildlife watching, history, and scenic sailing — perfect for families, nature lovers, or those seeking a peaceful getaway from city life. The Pelican LLC ensures a personalized journey with knowledgeable guides, making it an unforgettable day trip from St. Petersburg. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or simply looking for a relaxing nature escape, this excursion offers a unique perspective of Florida's coastal charm and marine ecosystem.
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin and the marine environment by using reef-safe sunscreen during the tour.
Watch for slippery docks
Be cautious when boarding or disembarking as pier and ferry docks can be slippery, especially when wet.
Stay hydrated
Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the sailing and beach exploration.
Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing
Binoculars enhance your chances of spotting distant dolphins and seabirds during the ferry ride.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- The secluded lighthouse area with historic lighthouse ruins
- Quiet mangrove-lined trails on the island’s interior
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphins
- Brown pelicans
History
Egmont Key served as a military fortification and quarantine station in the 1800s, remnants of which still remain on the island.
Conservation
Egmont Key is a protected wildlife refuge with ongoing efforts to preserve nesting seabird habitats and marine ecosystems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- From the ferry deck looking back to St. Pete Pier
- Egmont Key lighthouse ruins
- Egmont Key beach shoreline
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and nearby marine life from harmful chemicals.
summer specific
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry during occasional spring showers or sudden weather changes.
spring specific
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing, especially spotting dolphins and seabirds.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout your outdoor sailing tour.