Three-hour tours in Destin pack plenty of bang for your buck. The best options are refreshingly straightforward: At Crab Island Excursion (4.9/5 stars), you’ll get a perfect mix of swimming and socializing at this underwater sandbar hotspot. I love how the Dolphin Private Guided Tour pairs you with a marine biologist who knows exactly where to spot marine life. The elegant Solaris Yacht Dinner Cruise dishes up a memorable 3-course dinner with live music, while Sailing Adventures delivers low-key coastal views without the crowds. For couples, the Sunset Valentine Dinner Cruise hits all the right notes with its romantic waterfront dining. Let’s explore these top-rated tours.
Key Points
- For a popular aquatic adventure, consider the 3-hour Crab Island Excursion with high ratings, amenities, and accommodation for up to 6 guests.
- Explore the local marine life on a private 3-hour Dolphin Tour led by a marine biologist, offering opportunities to spot various wildlife and swim with dolphins.
- Enjoy a captivating 3-hour Solaris Yacht Dinner Cruise with a 3-course plated meal, live entertainment, and scenic views.
- Set out on a 3-hour Sailing Adventure near Destin for an exhilarating yet relaxing excursion with a USCG licensed captain and scenic sights.
- Choose between the Moonlit or Sunset 3-hour Valentine Dinner Cruises, both featuring a 4-course plated meal and live entertainment.
3-Hour Crab Island Excursion
For the 3-hour Crab Island Excursion, guests embark on a dynamic outing to this popular aquatic destination.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from 90 reviews, it’s recommended by 98% of travelers. At $88 per person, this small-group tour accommodates up to 6 guests and departs from Beignets & Brew.
The captain provides a cooler, ice, cups, and shot glasses, while guests can bring their own alcoholic beverages.
Though not wheelchair-accessible, the experience does allow for infants and service animals.
While some reviewers noted the presence of jellyfish, they praised the captains’ friendliness and the opportunity to spot dolphins during the excursion.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Crab Island Excursion Review
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3 Hour Dolphin Private Guided Tour By A Marine Biologist
This 3-hour Dolphin Private Guided Tour by a Marine Biologist provides an exceptional educational experience for travelers seeking an up-close encounter with the local dolphin population and marine life.
Departing from Panama City, the tour offers a 100% recommended, 5-star rated experience with a Badge of Excellence. Travelers can expect to spot dolphins, rays, sharks, manatees, and other wildlife, while also having the opportunity to swim with the dolphins.
The private tour allows for a flexible itinerary and personal attention from the marine biologist guide. Included are use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, snacks, and private transportation, making this a comprehensive and convenient excursion.
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3 Hour Destin Dinner Cruise: Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach
The Solaris Yacht Dinner Cruise in Miramar Beach, Destin offers travelers a captivating 3-hour experience on the water.
This cruise can accommodate up to 149 guests, featuring a 3-course plated dinner with a selection of entrees like braised short ribs and crab cakes. Alcohol is available for purchase separately.
The cruise also includes live entertainment, coffee/tea, and all taxes/fees.
With an overall rating of 4.0/5 from 7 reviews, the Solaris Yacht Dinner Cruise is praised for its food quality and service. Guests can enjoy the views and dancing after the meal.
While priced from $128 per person, this premium dinner cruise is worth the cost, according to reviewers.
Read our full review: 3 Hour Destin Dinner Cruise: Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach Review
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Sailing Adventures 3-Hour Activity in Destin
Travelers seeking an exhilarating yet relaxing 3-hour excursion on the waters near Destin can embark on a Sailing Adventures activity operated by Southern Country Sailing.
This private tour accommodates groups of up to 6 people and includes a USCG licensed captain, safety equipment, and a cooler filled with ice.
The meeting point is at 203 Old Ferry Rd, Shalimar, FL, across from Two George Marina, and the activity ends back at the same location.
With a 5-star rating based on 4 reviews, this sailing adventure promises unforgettable sights, including potential dolphin sightings and opportunities to swim, in a safe and enjoyable environment.
Read our full review: Sailing Adventures 3-Hour Activity in Destin Review
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3 Hour Moonlit Valentines Dinner Cruise in Miramar Beach, FL
A 3-hour Moonlit Valentines Dinner Cruise in Miramar Beach, FL offers couples an unforgettable evening on the water.
The cruise features a 4-course plated dinner, live entertainment, and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. Theres some good starters like wedge salad and smoked tomato basil bisque, entrees such as braised short rib and bronzed gulf fish, and a decadent strawberry & white chocolate bread pudding for dessert.
Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. The cruise departs from the Baytowne Marina within the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort and returns to the same location.
While the cruise has received a 2.0 out of 5-star review, it may still appeal to couples seeking a romantic Valentine’s Day experience on the water.
Read our full review: 3 Hour Moonlit Valentines Dinner Cruise in Miramar Beach, FL Review
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3 Hour Sunset Valentine Dinner Cruise in Miramar Beach
Couples seeking a romantic Valentine’s Day experience on the water can embark on a 3-hour Sunset Valentine Dinner Cruise in Miramar Beach, Destin.
The cruise features a 4-course plated dinner with starter options like salad and bisque, main course choices such as braised short rib and crab cakes, and a decadent strawberry and white chocolate bread pudding for dessert.
Included in the cruise are coffee, tea, live entertainment, all fees and taxes, and gratuities. Alcoholic beverages can be purchased separately.
The cruise departs at 5:00 PM from the Baytowne Marina and is wheelchair accessible.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and the maximum capacity is 149 travelers.
Read our full review: 3 Hour Sunset Valentine Dinner Cruise in Miramar Beach Review
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3 Hour Crab Island and Harbor Tour From Destin Non-Private
For those seeking a more adventurous 3-hour excursion, the Crab Island and Harbor Tour from Destin offers a chance to explore the vibrant waters and lively atmosphere of this local hotspot.
Rated 4.8/5 with a 96% recommendation rate, this tour provides snorkeling equipment, paddle boards, and lily pads for shared use.
While the crew receives praise for their attentiveness, some travelers have reported issues with equipment and overcrowding at Crab Island.
The tour departs promptly, so arrive early. Parking is available but not wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: 3 Hour Crab Island and Harbor Tour From Destin Non-Private Review
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The Sum Up
The Destin area offers a variety of 3-hour tours and experiences to suit different interests, from exploring Crab Island to sailing adventures and dinner cruises. Visitors can choose from private guided dolphin tours, romantic moonlit or sunset dinner cruises, or more general harbor and Crab Island tours. These excursions provide a great way to enjoy the natural beauty and attractions of the Destin region in a convenient 3-hour timeframe.