Fort Myers offers several outstanding dolphin-watching excursions that deliver reliable wildlife encounters without tourist traps. After testing multiple options, three tours stand above the rest.
The intimate Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour gets you up close on paddleboards during a 2-hour journey – perfect for families with kids 6 and older. For a more laid-back experience, the Sunset and Dolphin Cruise combines wildlife watching with gorgeous evening views from a private tiki boat. The highly-rated Dolphin Tiki Cruise (5.0/65 reviews) provides the most comfortable viewing setup and consistent dolphin sightings.
Let’s examine these top tours in detail:
Good To Know
- The Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour offers a 2-hour paddleboarding excursion with knowledgeable guides, allowing observation of various marine life and a 4.9-star rating.
- The Sunset and Dolphin Cruise provides a private tiki boat adventure with scenic sunset views and potential dolphin and manatee sightings, along with a 100% traveler recommendation.
- The Dolphin Tiki Cruise is a private tiki boat ride with a 5.0 rating, offering comfortable seating, sightings of dolphins and manatees, and a relaxing atmosphere.
- The Sunset and Dolphin Tour features views of the Sanibel Lighthouse, opportunities to spot dolphins and manatees, and complimentary beverages, with a 4.7 rating.
- The Private Dolphin & Sightseeing Boat Day Tour offers an intimate experience for up to 6 guests, with a US Coast Guard licensed captain, boat, and fuel, priced from $160 per person.
Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour of Fort Myers
Embarking on the Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour of Fort Myers, travelers can expect a two-hour paddleboarding excursion through the city’s picturesque waterways.
Guided by knowledgeable instructors, participants can observe West Indian manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and pelicans in their natural habitats. The tour, which is suitable for ages six and up, provides all necessary paddleboard equipment and no prior kayaking experience is required.
With a maximum group size of 25, the tour boasts a 4.9-star rating from over 1,700 reviews, and 98% of travelers recommend the experience.
Participants can also search for seashells at a nearby beach and learn about Fort Myers’ history from the guides.
Read our full review: Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour of Fort Myers Review
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Sunset and Dolphin Cruise Around Fort Myers Beach
Typically, the Sunset and Dolphin Cruise Around Fort Myers Beach offers a private tiki boat adventure for travelers seeking a scenic and wildlife-filled excursion.
The 2-hour cruise boasts a 100% traveler recommendation based on 58 reviews, showcasing stunning sunset views and potential sightings of dolphins and manatees.
Passengers can enjoy the onboard stereo system while bringing their own drinks and snacks, with coolers and ice provided.
The personalized experience is led by a knowledgeable captain who shares insights about the local ecosystem.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, with refunds offered for weather-related cancellations.
Read our full review: Sunset and Dolphin Cruise Around Fort Myers Beach Review
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Dolphin Tiki Cruise Around Fort Myers Beach
The Dolphin Tiki Cruise Around Fort Myers Beach offers travelers a unique and personalized way to explore the waterways while spotting local wildlife. Rated 5.0 out of 65 reviews, this private tiki boat ride provides comfortable seating, both shaded and unshaded, as you cruise along the Fort Myers Beach area.
Guests can expect to see dolphins, manatees, and a variety of birds during the tour. The experience includes bringing your own drinks and snacks, with coolers and ice provided.
While some visitors expressed limited dolphin sightings, the overall feedback highlights Captain Kate’s knowledge, the relaxing atmosphere, and the informative nature of the tour. Highly recommended for families and those seeking a memorable water-based adventure.
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Sunset and Dolphin Tour, Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Lighthouse
As the sun dips below the horizon, travelers embark on a captivating Sunset and Dolphin Tour from Fort Myers Beach, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Sanibel Lighthouse.
This 4.7-rated experience provides the chance to spot dolphins, manatees, and other local wildlife on a scenic cruise. Complimentary beverages and a maximum of 18 travelers create an intimate and relaxing atmosphere.
While most guests praise the friendly crew and stunning views, some have reported overcrowding and lack of informative narration.
Nonetheless, with a 93% traveler recommendation and free cancellation, this tour is a popular choice for those seeking a memorable sunset adventure in Fort Myers.
Read our full review: Sunset and Dolphin Tour, Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Lighthouse Review
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Cape Coral Private Sunset Dolphin Boat Cruise – Fort Myers
For those seeking a more intimate and personalized dolphin-watching experience in the Fort Myers area, the Cape Coral Private Sunset Dolphin Boat Cruise offers an enchanting alternative to the larger group tours.
This evening excursion, led by a USCG licensed Master Captain, accommodates up to six passengers as it cruises along the picturesque Cape Coral waterways. Guests can expect to spot dolphins and other wildlife while enjoying the stunning sunset views.
The tour includes comfortable amenities, such as a boat with a restroom and alcoholic beverages.
While not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is suitable for most ages and fitness levels, with a moderate effort required to board the vessel.
Read our full review: Cape Coral Private Sunset Dolphin Boat Cruise – Fort Myers Review
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4 Hour Dolphin and Sandbar Cruise
Embarking on the 4-Hour Dolphin and Sandbar Cruise in Fort Myers allows visitors to enjoy the area’s natural wonders.
Priced at $550 for up to 6 people, this private tour departs from 18400 San Carlos Blvd, with $10 parking available on-site.
Led by the knowledgeable and personable Captain Lauren, the experience promises opportunities to spot dolphins, manatees, and various bird species.
Guests can also enjoy swimming at a sandbar and collecting shells.
Reviewers rave about the captains’ expertise and the overall positive wildlife encounters.
Wheelchair-accessible but not stroller-friendly, this tour is a recommended choice for families and groups seeking an intimate dolphin-watching adventure in Fort Myers.
Read our full review: 4 Hour Dolphin and Sandbar Cruise Review
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Private Dolphin & Sightseeing Boat Day Tour
This private Dolphin & Sightseeing Boat Day Tour in Fort Myers offers an intimate and personalized experience for up to 6 guests.
Priced from $160 per person, the tour includes a US Coast Guard licensed master captain, boat and fuel, as well as all fees and taxes.
Guests can expect to see dolphins and enjoy sightseeing from the boat, which departs between 9-10 AM and returns to the meeting point.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, though infants must sit on laps, and life vests are required for children under 6.
Guests can book with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and receive updates via text after booking.
Read our full review: Private Dolphin & Sightseeing Boat Day Tour Review
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Dolphin and Sightseeing Tiki Cruise
The Dolphin and Sightseeing Tiki Cruise offers an immersive experience for up to 16 travelers, departing from the convenient meeting point at 445 Harbor Ct, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931.
With a 98% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this 2-hour tour provides the opportunity to spot dolphins and manatees.
Guests can enjoy the comfortable seating, bottled water, and soda, as knowledgeable captains share insights about the local wildlife and area.
The cruise’s positive reviews highlight the friendliness of the staff and the stunning sights, making it a must-do activity for those seeking an unforgettable dolphin watching adventure in Fort Myers.
Read our full review: Dolphin and Sightseeing Tiki Cruise Review
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2 HR Dolphin Tour for 7 People
Departing from the Getaway Marina’s Slip 3, the HR Dolphin Tour for 7 people offers an immersive 2-hour experience to spot dolphins and other marine life in the Fort Myers area.
This private tour ensures your group enjoys an exclusive outing, with the option to bring along your own alcoholic beverages. The tour includes a cooler with ice and water, and guests can use it for their personal items.
While gratuity for the captain and guide isn’t included, the tour’s perfect 5.0 rating from 3 reviews suggests an enjoyable and memorable experience.
The tour operates Monday through Saturday from 8 AM to 5 PM, and on Sundays from 8 AM to 3 PM.
Read our full review: 2 HR Dolphin Tour for 7 People Review
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The Sum Up
Fort Myers offers a variety of dolphin watching tours to suit different preferences. Whether you’re looking for a sunset cruise, a tiki boat ride, or a longer adventure, there are plenty of options to catch a glimpse of these amazing marine creatures. With so many choices, you’re sure to find the perfect dolphin watching experience to make your Fort Myers trip unforgettable.