Private Boat: Island Cruise and Dolphins

An Intimate Tampa Bay Adventure with Water Wildlife and Spectacular Views

The Private Boat: Island Cruise and Dolphins offers a personalized way to explore Tampa Bay from St. Petersburg. Priced at $590 per group for up to six guests, this 2-hour boat trip combines wildlife spotting, scenic cruising, and fun water activities. The tour’s small group setup ensures a relaxing, tailored experience, making it ideal for families, friends, or couples seeking an authentic and memorable outing. The guide, Captain Tyler, is praised for his knowledge and friendly manner, contributing to a warm and informative atmosphere.

While the main experience focuses on dolphin sightings, birdwatching, and enjoying the bay’s natural beauty, extended options allow visitors to explore Shell Key, Bunces Pass, or Egmont Key—adding hours of beach and island discovery. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy wildlife, water activities, and flexible itineraries, but it’s worth noting that lunch and alcoholic beverages are not included.

Key Points

• Private boat experience for up to six guests in Tampa Bay, offering an intimate outing.
• Includes wildlife sightings such as dolphins, turtles, and waterfowl like herons and pelicans.
• Options to snorkel or tube during the cruise, adding fun water activities.
• Extended trips can visit Shell Key, Bunces Pass, or Egmont Key for beaches, shells, and island exploration.
• Comfort features include a full bathroom, Bluetooth music, and a swim ladder for easy water access.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Starting Point and Group Size

This private boat tour departs from 375 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, making it easily accessible near public transportation. The tour is limited to six guests, ensuring a private, crowd-free experience. The boat is equipped with a full bathroom, Bluetooth music, and a swim ladder, making the trip comfortable and suitable for families and small groups.

The 2-Hour Tampa Bay Scenic Cruise

The core experience lasts approximately 2 hours, during which the boat heads from St. Petersburg to Coffee Pot Bayou. Here, the boat stops at the bird sanctuary to observe Roseate spoonbills, herons, ibises, pelicans, and cormorants. This stop is especially praised for its amazing birdwatching opportunities, with the chance to see a variety of waterbirds in their natural habitat.

From the bird sanctuary, the boat passes some of the most expensive waterfront homes in St. Petersburg, offering a scenic view of the city’s upscale neighborhoods. The captain actively searches for dolphins, and sightings of these playful creatures are a highlight, often seen playing in the waves or swimming alongside the boat.

Sunset and Relaxation Moments

A special feature of this tour is the cut-off engine moment, when the boat drifts away from land in the bay. During this time, guests can sit back, dip their feet in the water, watch the sunset, or simply relax with a drink. The boat’s Bluetooth music system adds a personal touch, allowing customizable tunes while enjoying the bay’s peaceful atmosphere.

Snorkeling and Tubing Options

Guests are welcome to snorkel using provided equipment or opt to tube along the waves for added fun. The tour’s flexible nature means you can choose to relax or get active during your time on the water. The swim ladder makes water access easy, and the boat’s full bathroom ensures comfort during the trip.

Upgrading to Longer Island Excursions

The extended trip options open up exciting possibilities for island exploration:

• 3-hour trip to Shell Key: Situated between Pass-a-grille and Fort DeSoto, Shell Key is renowned for its beautiful beaches and shells. This stop offers time for shelling, beach walks, and relaxing on pristine sands.

• 4-hour trip to Bunces Pass: Located at the edge of the Gulf, Bunces Pass is a popular local sandbar near Fort DeSoto. It provides a scenic spot for beach lounging and socializing in a lively, beautiful setting.

• 5-hour trip to Egmont Key: The most comprehensive upgrade, Egmont Key features ruins from an 1800s town and is inhabited by gopher tortoises. It feels like a tropical paradise, perfect for exploring or just unwinding on the beach.

Included and Not Included in the Tour

Passengers receive snorkeling gear and a tube for water activities, adding to the fun. However, alcoholic beverages and lunch are not included, so guests are encouraged to bring their own drinks and snacks, which they can enjoy on board or at the stops.

Practical Details and Booking

The tour is available with mobile tickets for easy access. Most travelers find the booking process smooth, with the tour typically booked around 12 days in advance. Confirmations are prompt, and the tour requires good weather—if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

The activity ends back at the original meeting point at 375 2nd Ave NE. Cancellations are free if made 24 hours prior, making it a flexible choice for spontaneous plans or changing weather conditions.

The Guide and Customer Experience

Captain Tyler, the guide most frequently mentioned, is praised for his knowledge, accommodating nature, and friendly demeanor. Guests appreciate his ability to balance fun with education, especially during birdwatching and dolphin spotting. His efforts to cater to last-minute bookings showcase professionalism and dedication.

Who Will Love This Tour

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a personalized, relaxing day on the water. The mix of wildlife, scenic views, and optional water activities appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The small group size ensures a quiet, intimate experience, away from crowds.

Summary: A Relaxed and Wildlife-Focused Boat Trip

The Private Boat: Island Cruise and Dolphins offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, scenic cruising, and water fun. The 2-hour core experience is packed with opportunities to see dolphins, birds, and luxurious waterfront homes, with the option to extend your trip for beach and island exploration.

While lunch and alcohol are not included, the tour’s comfort features—full bathroom, Bluetooth music, swim ladder—and knowledgeable captain make it a well-rounded choice for those wanting a personalized and memorable day on Tampa Bay. It suits travelers who appreciate flexible itineraries and nature-focused activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially since the captain is accommodating with young children and provides water activities like snorkeling and tubing.

What should I bring on the trip?
Guests should bring food and drinks, as these are not provided. You might also want sunscreen, hat, and swimsuit for snorkeling or tubing.

Can I book for fewer than six people?
The private experience is priced per group of up to six; fewer guests can still book, but the total price remains the same.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Most bookings are confirmed immediately, but if poor weather cancels the tour, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Are extended trips available?
Yes, extended options are available, adding more hours to visit Shell Key, Bunces Pass, or Egmont Key.

Is alcohol allowed on board?
Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price; guests may bring their own drinks for personal consumption.