As the sun rises over the glistening waters of Boca Ciega Bay, a small group of adventurers eagerly boards a boat, their anticipation riding high like a gentle breeze.
They are embarking on a journey unlike any other, a 2-hour dolphin cruise with snorkeling to Shell Key. This captivating tour promises an intimate encounter with the majestic dolphins and an opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world of Shell Key Island Wildlife Preserve.
But what lies beyond the surface of this marine paradise? What secrets do the crystal-clear waters hold?
Join the voyage and uncover the wonders that await on this unforgettable adventure.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Dolphin Watching Tours In St Petersburg.
Good To Know
- Lowest Price Guarantee starting from €54.97
- Possible sightings of dolphins, manatees, rays, and seabirds
- Family-friendly tour with late morning and afternoon departures
- Visit Shell Key island, a wildlife preserve in the Gulf of Mexico
Pricing and Booking Information
When booking the Dolphin Cruise with Snorkeling to Shell Key, you can secure your spot while staying flexible and enjoy the lowest price guarantee starting from just €54.97. This tour offers a great value for your money, allowing you to have an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank.
To book, simply select your preferred date and number of travelers. Check the availability and reserve your spot with ease. What’s even better is that you can pay later, giving you the flexibility to plan your trip accordingly.
In case your plans change, don’t worry. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, giving you peace of mind.
Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability. On the day of the tour, make sure to check-in 30 minutes prior to the departure time.
Please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a minimum of 2 people per booking. However, it’s stroller accessible and service animals are allowed.
With all the necessary information in mind, you can now secure your spot on the Dolphin Cruise with Snorkeling to Shell Key and look forward to an amazing adventure in the Tampa Bay Area.
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Tour Overview
Set out on a thrilling dolphin cruise in the Tampa Bay Area, where you can explore the scenic Boca Ciega Bay and visit the captivating Shell Key island. This family-friendly tour offers late morning and afternoon departures, making it convenient for all.
Departing from Tierra Verde Marina Resort and Residence Inn Marriott, you’ll meet the friendly crew and board the boat at St. Pete Beach marina. As you cruise through Boca Ciega Bay, keep an eye out for dolphins and occasionally manatees.
The highlight of the tour is a visit to Shell Key island, a wildlife preserve in the Gulf of Mexico. Here, you can enjoy a white sand beach and even have the opportunity to go snorkeling. With possible sightings of dolphins, manatees, rays, and seabirds, this tour guarantees a memorable experience in the stunning natural surroundings of Tampa Bay.
Tour Experience
As the boat sets sail from St. Pete Beach marina, passengers are immediately immersed in the captivating tour experience of the Dolphin Cruise with Snorkeling to Shell Key.
The crew warmly welcomes everyone aboard and ensures their comfort throughout the journey.
As the boat glides through the waters of Boca Ciega Bay, passengers eagerly keep their eyes peeled for the playful dolphins and occasional manatees that frequent the area. The excitement builds as the boat arrives at Shell Key Island Wildlife Preserve, revealing a pristine white sand beach and inviting snorkeling opportunities.
Florida’s diverse wildlife can be observed in their natural habitat, from rays gliding through the water to seabirds soaring above.
With knowledgeable guides providing interesting information along the way, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure filled with lasting memories.
Positive Reviews
Passengers have praised the knowledgeable and attentive crew, with Captain Kurt providing lots of information and ensuring safety throughout the tour. The positive reviews highlight the exceptional service and enjoyable experience provided by the crew members. Captain Chris was also commended for making passengers feel comfortable and Captain Dalton was praised for making the trip fun. Captain Vanessa’s efforts in ensuring dolphin sightings were also appreciated. The table below summarizes the positive reviews from passengers:
Captain | Positive Review |
---|---|
Kurt | Provided lots of knowledge and ensured safety |
Chris | Nice and made passengers comfortable |
Dalton | Awesome and made the trip fun |
Vanessa | Ensured dolphins were spotted |
Passengers were particularly pleased with the family-friendly experience, as it provided a great time for kids and even included a bonus hot dog boat. The online booking process was described as easy and fast, and the staff was friendly and informative. Passengers found the tour to be a fun family time with knowledgeable guides. The positive reviews indicate that the dolphin cruise with snorkeling to Shell Key is a memorable experience that offers the opportunity to make lasting memories.
Disappointments and Criticisms
While the positive reviews highlighted the exceptional service and enjoyable experience provided by the crew, there were some disappointments and criticisms expressed by passengers on the dolphin cruise with snorkeling to Shell Key.
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No dolphins seen on the tour: Some passengers were disappointed not to have spotted any dolphins during the cruise.
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Shell island not suitable for snorkeling: There were complaints that Shell Key island didn’t offer suitable snorkeling opportunities, which was disappointing for those hoping to explore underwater.
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No aquatic life seen on the trip: Some passengers expressed disappointment at the lack of sightings of other aquatic life such as manatees, rays, and seabirds.
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Bull shark spotted: While some may find it exciting, the sighting of a bull shark was a disappointment for others, possibly due to safety concerns.
Although there were some disappointments and criticisms, it’s important to note that experiences can vary and overall, the crew received positive feedback for their friendly and informative service.
Enjoy dolphin spotting? More St Petersburg marine tours we've reviewed
- St. Pete Beach Dolphin Racer Speedboat Adventure
- Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise and Eco Tour From Hubbards Marina in Johns Pass
- Dolphin Quest – Sightseeing/Eco Cruise, Johns Pass, Madeira Beach, FL
- Dolphin Shelling Snorkeling Cruise in Tampa
- St. Pete Dolphin Watching and Shelling Adventure
- Dolphin Tour in St. Pete Beach
Family-Friendly Experience
The family-friendly experience on the dolphin cruise with snorkeling to Shell Key is a great time for kids and offers a fun-filled adventure for the whole family. Children will be thrilled to spot dolphins and occasionally manatees in the crystal-clear waters of Boca Ciega Bay.
The tour also includes a visit to Shell Key Island Wildlife Preserve, where families can enjoy a white sand beach and have snorkeling opportunities. As they explore the island, they’ll have the chance to observe Florida’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
The friendly and informative staff ensures that families have a memorable experience, providing interesting information about the marine life and creating a safe and enjoyable environment. It’s a perfect opportunity for families to bond, make lasting memories, and have a fantastic time together.
Memorable Experience
As families explore the island and observe Florida’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat, they’re sure to have a memorable experience on the dolphin cruise with snorkeling to Shell Key. Here are some reasons why this experience is unforgettable:
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Lots of dolphins and manatees spotted: The cruise provides ample opportunities to see these majestic creatures up close and personal.
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Snorkeling and finding beautiful shells: Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters around Shell Key allows visitors to discover a vibrant underwater world and collect unique shells as souvenirs.
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Guides provided interesting information: The knowledgeable guides on board share fascinating facts about the local wildlife and ecosystem, enhancing the overall experience.
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Opportunity to make lasting memories: From the excitement of spotting dolphins to the joy of exploring the island, this cruise offers countless moments that families will remember for years to come.
Common Questions
What Is the Maximum Capacity of the Boat for the Small Group 2 Hour Dolphin Cruise With Snorkeling to Shell Key?
The maximum capacity of the boat for the small group 2-hour dolphin cruise with snorkeling to Shell Key is not mentioned in the given information.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children Participating in the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for children participating in the tour. It’s a family-friendly experience, perfect for kids. They can enjoy spotting dolphins, snorkeling at Shell Key, and learning about Florida’s wildlife from the knowledgeable guides.
Is Snorkeling Equipment Provided on the Tour?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided on the tour. Guests can enjoy snorkeling opportunities at Shell Key island’s white sand beach and explore the underwater world while observing Florida’s marine life in their natural habitat.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Yes, passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. It’s a great opportunity to pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic views while cruising to Shell Key.
Is There a Restroom Available on the Boat for the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, there is a restroom available on the boat for the duration of the tour. Guests can use the restroom facilities onboard, ensuring their comfort during the Small Group 2 Hour Dolphin Cruise With Snorkeling to Shell Key.
The Sum Up
To sum it up, the Small Group 2 Hour Dolphin Cruise with Snorkeling to Shell Key offers an exciting and educational experience for visitors in the Tampa Bay Area.
Despite occasional disappointments with dolphin sightings, the knowledgeable and friendly staff make the tour enjoyable for all.
With the chance to spot dolphins, manatees, rays, and seabirds, as well as snorkel and collect beautiful shells, this family-friendly adventure is a must-visit attraction for those seeking a memorable experience in the natural beauty of Boca Ciega Bay.
More Dolphin Tours in St Petersburg
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- Half Day Luxury Boat Tour in St. Petersburg with Snorkeling
- Dolphin Watching Intercoastal Cruise
- 3 Hour Shared Shell Key Deck Boat Adventure
- Boat Tour For Sunset Cruise And Sunset Bridge Tour
- St. Pete Private Luxury Charter Rental: Boat Rental With Captain
- Private Johns Pass Sandbar Sail and Paddle Experience
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- 2 Hour Private Dolphin Eco Bout Tour St Pete Beach Florida
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- Private Bar Hopping Tour (for 8-15 people) on a Party Bike
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- St Petersburg Party Bus Private Tour
- Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach
- 3 Hour Shared Shell Key Deck Boat Adventure
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