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.
Would you like to reserve a private tour? Our private charter options let customers add additional time to their dolphin tour (which starts at 2 or 3 hour) and add activities (ex. additional snorkeling area, more island time etc.). 6 people can each boat. Your captain will help you get in the water to view dolphins in their natural habitat. You can then take a guided snorkel tour around Shell Island to observe other sealife.
Our Dolphin & Island Tours take approximately 3 hours. Seasonal departure times will vary. The dock is currently empty at 9:00 a.m., and 12:30.
You will be visiting Panama City Pass, and exploring the area where St. Andrews Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico during your excursion. Here dolphins can be found and we will show you how to swim in the water to see them up close.
You'll be able watch the dolphins up close with the help of your captain.
The captain will take you to your snorkeling location and help you find seashells. This private tour allows you to customize the way you wish to spend your time.
If the conditions permit, guests can jump in the water with dolphins nearby if they are allowed. Safety is our top priority. Your captain will show you how to safely snorkel among marine mammals.
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.
Your privacy will always be guaranteed when you take a private dolphin tour. There will only ever be your family or friends on board, along with the captain. Keep in Mind that the Coast Guard sets the maximum number of passengers at 6. All ages welcome.
Gabby's Dolphin Tours PCB Are you looking for the dolphin adventure to remember? Gabby's Dolphin Tours PCB offers the finest in guided dolphin tours, private charters and many other activities. Our guide will take you on a tour of the beaches and islands of Panama City Beach, Shell Island, and other areas. We look forward meeting you!
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.
Dolphins are most active at dawn, between 10 a.m. and noon, and from 2 p.m. to dusk. A good pair of telephoto lenses or binoculars can be extremely useful for spotting dolphins.
Islamorada and Key Largo are popular locations for seeing the animals in the wild. The Florida Keys are a popular breeding ground for dolphins, so you can see them all year.
A: You can get to Shell Island by boat or jet ski. The St. Andrews Shuttle to Shell Island costs $24.95 for adults, $17.95 for children ages 2 to 12, and free for infants ages 0 to 1. There are also several locations where you can rent a jet ski or pontoon boat.