Captain Jack was an amazing man. He was very knowledgeable. We decided what was most important to him and he chose dolphin sightings for the majority.
Your captain will show you the best way to enter the water and see the dolphins up close. It is against the law to reach out to dolphins or swim towards them. The best way to interact with dolphins is to swim parallel with them, and then let them come towards you.
Cancellations made within 24 hours of tour start/end time will not be granted a refund. This is due to the fact that it takes to reserve seats for other clients.
These friendly local captains have decades experience in the waters of this area and are knowledgeable about dolphins, manatees, as well as other marine life. They love to customize your trip and show you the natural beauty of this special place.
Species we frequently see include a variety of starfish, sand dollars, bay scallops, whelks, conchs up to 21” long, seahorses, urchins, and hermit crabs and other crab species. These animals can be brought to the surface, handled carefully, and photographed. We bring large containers so that even non-snorkelers can observe them up close before they’re released back into the bay. Shells found without living creatures can be taken home.
You can motor in our boats built for cruising while watching beautiful dolphins in their natural environment and swimming with them.
Out of the water, you’ll see a huge variety of birds, ranging from raptors like bald eagles and ospreys, to shorebirds like great blue herons and egrets, to seabirds like magnificent frigatebirds and terns. We also sometimes see deer on the island.
Starfish, bay scallops and starfish are all common species. We also see conchs upto 21 inches in length, seahorses, urchins, hermit crabs, and other crab species. These animals can easily be brought to the surface, photographed, and handled with care. So that anyone can view them, even those who are not snorkers, we bring large containers. Any shells found with no living creatures can be taken home.
On the second leg, you will see the best of St Andrews Bay in terms of wildlife. These include pelicans, birds such as herons, ospreys or ospreys, as well underwater marine life such hermit and blue crabs, sea horses, blue and hermit urchins. Shell Island is a great place to explore for people who are interested in shells, sand dollars, and other marine life. Enjoy snorkeling in the Gulf of Mexico and discovering St. Andrews Bay.
This is a wonderful way to spend a single day. My 22-year-old son and his friends went for half a day. The pontoon boat was amazing, as was the entire day. Rob was great, and everyone had the most amazing time.
You have the best chance to swim with dolphins as there are only 6 people on each boat. For unforgettable memories, you can personalize a private tour for your family. Flippers Dolphin Tours is a Panama City Beach favorite. We have been rated #1 on Yelp for more than 10 years. Our captains have local knowledge about Bottlenose Dolphins.
All snorkeling gear is provided onboard at no additional charge. Capri Suns, bottled water and complimentary refreshments will be available in the cooler. You are encouraged to bring your own beverages, snacks, and BYOB.
It's all worth it once you get there because the water is the most beautiful I've ever seen. The water is so clear that it feels like you're swimming in a pool. We had no idea what to expect, so we went with the intention of spending a few hours on the island. Come prepared to spend the entire day!
Dolphins, loggerhead turtles, green sea turtles, ghost crabs, beach mice, nine-banded armadillos, alligators that live in the island's lake, marsh rabbits, racoons, and other wildlife can be found on Shell Island.
Wear nothing but a swimsuit. Dolphins have extremely sensitive skin, and because you will be able to touch them during your interaction, we recommend that you refrain from wearing sunscreen, oils, or perfumes.