Taking a Dolphin Cruise in Panama City Beach in 2025

Panama City Beach is an amazing place for so many reasons, but I suppose you already know that. And yes, there’s more to it than just the beaches. One activity I couldn’t recommend enough here is the dolphin cruise in Panama City Beach.

I personally joined a cruise when I was in town, and I absolutely loved my time on the catamaran. So much that it was one of the coolest trips I took!

Considering a dolphin-watching cruise?

This is the complete guide you need before going. I’ll discuss what makes these cruises one of the best activities in Panama City Beach, what you should know, and where to book.

Is a Dolphin Cruise in Panama City Beach Worth it?

Yes, these dolphin cruises are worth it. This is your chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat while enjoying the stunning backdrop of Panama City Beach.

You’ll be right in the Gulf of Mexico (or Gulf of America) and that’s as stunning as it gets.

You not only get to see dolphins but that’s also the perfect way to see the beautiful scenery around the city.

Can You Actually See Dolphins in Panama City Beach?

Yes, you can actually see them on the sunset dolphin tours. The area is known for its marine life, and that is an excellent habitat for dolphins.

And the best way to spot the wild animals is to join a cruise, and they even sometimes swim close to the boat!

While you can’t guarantee local wildlife (and weather conditions, for that matter), dolphin cruises in Panama City Beach have a high success rate.

I can only speak based on my experience, but the crew was very knowledgeable and knew exactly where to find the dolphins.

How Long Do Dolphin Cruises in Panama City Beach Last?

Dolphin cruises in Panama City Beach typically last between 2 and 3 hours. This is about the same as taking a dolphin cruise in Perdido Key and it’s enough for exploring the areas where dolphins are most commonly seen.

Some dolphin-watching cruises in Panama City Beach even include a drink, and this is a nice touch when spending the day out!

Also, in case the trip is sold out, you can consider joining a sunset cruise in Panama City Beach instead, which also allows you them!

When I was on the tour, we also spotted large groups of sea turtles, which was awesome!

Best Panama City Beach Dolphin Cruises

What to Expect on a Cruise in Panama City Beach?

The dolphin sunset cruise I joined was an excursion to the beautiful Shell Island and we stopped on the way to spot and observe the playful dolphins.

From the moment we met up at the designated spot, I was in for a treat. We first got to Shell Island, a spot famous for its natural beauty. And I’m not exaggerating.

Here, you can choose to snorkel in St. Andrews Bay, paddle board, or just relax on the deck. There’s no right or wrong activity, and you’re guaranteed a great time anyway.

The goal is to spot wild dolphins in their natural habitat, which is always a highlight, but you will of course have time to relax!

The boat itself is designed for comfort with a broad and stable deck, offering a smooth ride free from the rocking you might find on smaller boats.

Drinks were not included in this specific cruise but we could buy them at the bar, and that made the whole trip even better!

At the end of the adventure, the catamaran brings you back to the original meeting spot in Panama City Beach.

The best part is that everything’s included…all taxes, fees, and other charges. Snorkelling equipment, paddle boards, and life jackets are all provided too.

FAQ About the Dolphin Cruises in Panama City Beach

Now that you have more information about the trip and know what to expect, let’s answer some questions from first-timers that you might find helpful too.

What Dolphins are in Panama City Beach?

There are several dolphin species in Panama City Beach. For instance, you can see the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, Clymene Dolphins, Pantropical Spotted Dolphins, and Fraseris Dolphins.

The abundant marine life in this part of America makes it an ideal spot for them, and it’s great to see different species throughout the dolphin boat tour!

What’s Included in a Dolphin Cruise?

A sunset dolphin cruise comes with everything you need. Apart from the cruise itself, they give you the snorkelling equipment and life jackets. That’s so convenient.

There’s also a knowledgeable guide onboard, and trust me when I say he’s ready to share facts about the dolphins and make you laugh!

The cruise promises a fun time for the whole family, but also if you’re a couple or solo traveller.

Is There a Restroom on the Cruise?

Yes, there is a restroom on the cruise, which is comfortable and convenient.

Is There Live Music Onboard?

Yes, there’s live music onboard. But don’t worry, it’s not that loud and, instead, I found it to be pretty relaxing and the whole cruise even more enjoyable.

What Time Do Dolphin Cruises in Panama City Beach Start?

Dolphin cruises in Panama City Beach start throughout the day, from early morning at 7:30 AM to the afternoon at 3:00 PM.

I recommend taking an early cruise for a cooler, more peaceful experience. Alternatively, you can take an evening cruise to see the sunset. In short, there’s no right or wrong time, but it all depends on your preferences.

Do Dolphin Cruises Sell Out?

Dolphin and sunset cruises tend to sell out quickly. For this reason, make sure to book early to secure your spot and avoid any potential disappointment.

Final Thought

Wrapping up, a dolphin cruise in Panama City Beach isn’t just another item on your bucket list; It’s just one of the best outdoor activities in Florida!

It’s hard to describe the feeling of joining such a cruise. But watching dolphins in their natural habitat, feeling the sea breeze, and just being out on the water was simply so special.

To conclude, if you’re heading to Florida, then do yourself a favour and consider one of the dolphin cruises in Panama City Beach!