Panama City Beach’s best tours center on its pristine waters and abundant marine life. Of all options available, the private two-hour sightseeing tours stand out for their intimate dolphin encounters and expert local guides. The Footloose Catamaran cruise earns my recommendation for its comfortable seating and reliable dolphin spotting success – perfect for families and those who prefer a steadier ride. Experienced tour operators make Shell Island excursions particularly worthwhile, giving visitors access to secluded beaches and crystal-clear snorkeling spots. These carefully selected tours showcase the best of Panama City Beach’s natural attractions. Let’s explore the top-rated tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
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Panama City Beach offers a variety of top-rated dolphin tours, including private sightseeing, sunset speedboat, and catamaran cruises, providing opportunities to observe dolphins in their natural habitat.
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Scuba diving and snorkeling tours cater to beginners and experts, exploring lively reefs and diverse marine life, with comprehensive instruction and equipment provided.
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Guided tours, such as the VIP pontoon tour and beach sunset/lagoon skyline tour, offer exclusive experiences with knowledgeable captains and opportunities to see dolphins and natural scenery.
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Tour highlights include interactive and educational wildlife encounters, personalized attention from guides, and accessibility considerations for families and individuals of varying fitness levels.
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High customer satisfaction is reflected in the excellent ratings and positive reviews for many of the dolphin, scuba, and guided tour options in Panama City Beach.
Two Hour Private Sightseeing/Dolphin Tour in Panama City Beach
The Two Hour Private Sightseeing/Dolphin Tour in Panama City Beach offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning waterways and marine life of the region.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts. Guests embark from Boat Slip #1 at the C.S.S. Yacht Basin, where they’ll be guided by the knowledgeable local captain, Captain Zach.
During the tour, travelers can expect to spot dolphin pods in the St. Andrews Bay and Gulf of Mexico, as well as other marine life. The experience also includes snorkeling equipment and a walk on the pristine Shell Island.
Along the way, Captain Zach provides expert commentary on the local coastline and wildlife. With a maximum of 6 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized and intimate experience.
Priced at $74.99 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, making it an accessible and flexible choice for visitors.
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Panama City: Sunset Speedboat Tour With Dolphin Watching
Visitors to Panama City Beach can embark on an exhilarating Sunset Speedboat Tour with Dolphin Watching. This 1-hour high-speed adventure allows participants to experience the thrill of a speedboat while also spotting dolphins in their natural habitat. The tour departs from St. Andrews Bay and cruises through the bay and surrounding waterways, offering stunning views of the sunset.
With a rating of 4.7 out of 29 reviews, this tour is a popular choice for those seeking an adrenaline-filled experience. The speedboat can accommodate up to 6 passengers, providing an intimate and personalized outing.
At Kč 1,889 per person, the tour offers excellent value for the excitement and sightseeing it provides. Along With the speedboat thrill, the tour also offers the chance to observe dolphins swimming freely in their natural environment.
Participants can witness these majestic creatures up close as the boat navigates the bay. The Sunset Speedboat Tour with Dolphin Watching is a must-try activity for visitors to Panama City Beach.
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Swim With the Dolphins Boat Tour in Panama City Beach
Offering an unparalleled opportunity to interact with marine life, the Swim with the Dolphins Boat Tour in Panama City Beach transports visitors on an unforgettable journey.
Boasting a stellar 4.9-star rating from over 200 reviews, this USCG-certified tour allows guests to observe Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins in their natural habitat and even swim and snorkel near them, weather permitting.
The tour also includes a stop at Shell Island, where visitors can collect colorful shells. With a maximum of 6 travelers per excursion, the experience promises an intimate and personalized encounter.
Snorkeling gear is provided, and guests can bring their own snacks and drinks. Praised for their friendliness and expertise, the captains enhance the overall experience, making this tour a must-do for anyone seeking a glimpse into the wonders of the local marine ecosystem.
At $63.13 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Swim with the Dolphins Boat Tour offers an exceptional value.
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Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on the Footloose Catamaran From Panama City Beach
For those seeking a more leisurely dolphin encounter, the Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on the Footloose Catamaran from Panama City Beach provides a relaxing alternative.
This 1.5-2 hour tour departs at 12:30 PM from 4114 Jan Cooley Dr, with guests meeting at the Bluegreen Bayside Golf & Spa Resort. The tour operates on a 32-person catamaran and has received 96% positive reviews from travelers.
Highlights include numerous dolphin sightings, a relaxing atmosphere, and an engaging crew. While some guests wished for a longer trip and more music variety, the overall experience is praised for its value and fun.
Casual attire is required, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated with assistance.
This tour provides an excellent opportunity to view dolphins in a scenic setting, making it a popular choice among visitors to Panama City Beach.
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Beginner Scuba Diving Tour With Videos-Pcb
This beginner scuba diving tour in Panama City Beach provides a private, personalized experience for both children 10 and up and adults.
Led by a qualified instructor, the tour teaches diving basics before exploring lively reef locations. Participants will receive photos and video footage as souvenirs of their underwater adventure.
All necessary diving gear and equipment are provided, and the tour includes 134 reviews with an overall rating of 4.5 stars.
However, there’s a $8 parking fee required at check-in, and gratuities aren’t included. The tour meets at the public beach in St Andrews State Park, with directions provided upon arrival at the guard station.
Health and safety are a priority – confirmation is received at booking, and a health questionnaire is required prior to diving.
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, and participants should consult a doctor for pre-existing conditions.
The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, and service animals are allowed.
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2 Hour Private Dolphin Sightseeing Tour
What better way to experience the beauty of Panama City Beach than on a private two-hour dolphin sightseeing tour? For $499 per group of up to 6 people, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure on the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay.
Guests will have the chance to spot dolphins, sea turtles, fish, and birds in their natural habitat. The relaxed boat ride comes with free drinks and snacks, and the vessel is equipped with a restroom, making it suitable for families.
With a 5-star rating based on 46 reviews, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence, and 100% of travelers recommend it. Guests praise the friendly and knowledgeable hosts, and many report seeing dolphins shortly after departure.
This is a highlight of many visitors’ trips, with memorable experiences shared. For those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Panama City Beach, this dolphin sightseeing tour is an absolute must.
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Famous Private Center Console Boat Tour
Offering a unique and thrilling way to explore the waters around Panama City Beach, the Famous Private Center Console Boat Tour provides guests with an unforgettable adventure.
With a near-perfect rating of 4.9/5 based on 19 reviews, this popular tour is highly recommended by 95% of travelers. Departing from the Bluegreen’s Bayside Resort & Spa, the tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, fuel, a cooler with ice, and gratuity.
Guests should arrive 45 minutes prior to the start time and be prepared for a moderate physical fitness level, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. However, infants are welcome to sit on laps, and service animals are allowed.
Positive reviews highlight the tour’s many highlights, including dolphin sightings, visits to Shell Island, and memorable experiences with family and friends. Travelers also praise the captain’s performance and the enjoyable weather conditions during the trips.
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Private 2 Hour Dolphin Snorkeling and Island Excursion
For travelers seeking an intimate encounter with the marine life of Panama City Beach, the Private 2 Hour Dolphin Snorkeling and Island Excursion offers an unparalleled opportunity.
This private tour boasts a 5.0 rating based on 12 glowing reviews, with 100% of guests recommending the experience. Guests can expect to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees while snorkeling and exploring the islands.
The knowledgeable guides, such as Captain Chandler and Justin, provide personalized attention and insights into the local wildlife. The tour includes snorkeling equipment and bottled water, and guests can relax on the private beach before departure.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and near public transportation. Travelers should note the moderate fitness level required and heed the cautions for those with back problems, pregnant women, or serious medical conditions.
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Beginner Scuba Diving Tour PCB Free Videos
The Beginner Scuba Diving Tour in Panama City Beach provides an unparalleled opportunity for novice divers to explore the underwater wonders of the area. With 55 reviews and an impressive 4.6 overall rating, this tour offers a safe and enjoyable experience for participants.
The tour includes the use of all necessary scuba equipment, as well as the added bonus of free pictures and videos to capture the memories.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from the knowledgeable and highly-praised instructors, such as Roni and Felipe. Reviewers consistently commend the instructors’ expertise, patience, and commitment to safety.
While most travelers had a positive experience, a few mixed reviews suggest the importance of clear communication and organization.
The tour takes place within the beautiful St Andrews State Park, with the meeting point located near the Jetty Store. Participants can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including crabs, flounders, and colorful fish.
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Beginner Snorkeling Tour- PCB
What better way to explore the vibrant marine life of Panama City Beach than with the Beginner Snorkeling Tour? With a perfect 5.0 rating from 5 reviews, this tour is a fantastic option for those new to snorkeling. The tour includes the use of all necessary snorkeling equipment, making it a hassle-free experience.
The tour departs from the convenient meeting point at 47G8+G4 Lower Grand Lagoon, FL, USA. Travelers will need to follow the detailed directions to reach the check-in location at the middle tables past the Jetty Store.
The tour is capped at a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
However, it’s essential to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical conditions. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.
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Panama City Beach VIP Guided Pontoon Tour for Snorkel & Beach Hop
Exploring the marine wonders of Panama City Beach just got more exclusive with the Panama City Beach VIP Guided Pontoon Tour for Snorkel & Beach Hop.
This private tour, rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 9 reviews, departs from the Bluegreen’s Bayside Resort & Spa and takes guests on a journey to discover the region’s stunning natural beauty.
Guests will be treated to a guided pontoon tour, with fuel, fees, and taxes all included. The experienced guides, praised for their excellent navigation and interaction with guests, will lead the way to breathtaking snorkeling spots and uncrowded beaches.
Highlights include sightings of 20-25 dolphins and the opportunity to explore the underwater world with your own snorkeling equipment.
While the booking process has received some complaints, the overall tour experience remains highly satisfactory.
With a gratuity of 20% requested for private charters, this VIP tour offers an exclusive way to fully learn about the natural wonders of Panama City Beach.
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Private 2-Hour Dolphin and Sightseeing Tour
Embarking on a private 2-hour dolphin and sightseeing tour in Panama City Beach allows visitors to enjoy the region’s natural wonders.
This family-owned tour, operated by local captains, offers a 100% traveler recommendation based on 13 reviews. Passengers can expect to spot dolphins in their natural habitat, along with other marine life like sea turtles, while enjoying the picturesque Emerald waters and white sand beaches of Panama City Beach.
The tour includes a visit to Shell Island, an undeveloped barrier island with abundant seashells.
Accommodating big groups with multiple boats available for up to 18 people, the tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller accessible, with service animals allowed. Bottled water is provided for hydration during the tour, which starts at $72.00 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Confirmation is received at booking, allowing for flexibility in planning.
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2 Hour Private Dolphin and Sightseeing Tour in Shell Island
Although a private 2-hour dolphin and sightseeing tour in Panama City Beach offers visitors an immersive experience in the region’s natural beauty, the Hour Private Dolphin and Sightseeing Tour in Shell Island provides another opportunity to explore the area’s captivating coastal landscapes.
This 2-hour tour allows guests to witness the wonders of Shell Island and St. Andrews Bay, with the highlight being the chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat.
The evening boat cruise offers cooler weather and fewer crowds, enhancing the overall experience. Praised for their knowledge and friendliness, the captains ensure a personalized tour, catering to the specific needs of each group.
With free bottled water provided and accessibility features, this tour caters to a wide range of travelers. Boasting a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, the Hour Private Dolphin and Sightseeing Tour in Shell Island is an excellent choice for those seeking a memorable and immersive exploration of Panama City Beach’s natural splendor.
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3 Hour Dolphin Tour and Snorkeling in Shell Island
This 3-hour dolphin tour and snorkeling experience in Panama City Beach’s Shell Island allows visitors to encounter dolphins in their natural habitat and explore the island’s underwater wonders.
Led by a former marine mammal trainer, the tour promises an intimate and engaging encounter with the playful creatures. Guests can also snorkel for sand dollars and starfish, with equipment provided.
Accommodating groups of up to six, the private tour is perfect for families seeking a unique and memorable adventure. Flexible departure times make it easy to plan around other activities.
With a 4.9-star rating from 56 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, this tour is a top choice for those seeking the best of Panama City Beach’s marine life.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable captains, who cater the experience to suit their needs. This tour offers an excellent value and a chance to take in the region’s natural wonders.
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3 Hour Private Dolphin Swim Snorkel and Shell Island Excursion
A captivating 3-hour private excursion allows guests to enjoy the natural wonders of Panama City Beach’s Shell Island. Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 2 reviews, this tour offers a unique opportunity to swim with dolphins, snorkel, and explore the island’s pristine beaches.
The excursion departs from Papa Joes Pontoons, where participants can enjoy the private beach and seating area before setting sail.
Once on the water, the knowledgeable Captain Chandler leads the group in search of dolphins and sea turtles, providing engaging activities for both adults and children. The use of snorkeling equipment and bottled water are included, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Guests rave about the beautiful sunset, ample exploration time on Shell Island, and the overall engaging nature of the tour.
With a moderate physical fitness level required, this excursion isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, but it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable adventure in Panama City Beach.
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Private Dolphin and Shell Island Excursion in Panama Beach
Captivating Panama City Beach travelers, the Private Dolphin and Shell Island Excursion offers a 3-hour immersive adventure exploring the area’s natural wonders.
Operated by Into the Blue Excursions, this tour departs from the Bayside Marina and takes guests on a boat ride to spot friendly dolphins and visit the pristine Shell Island.
The tour includes complimentary refreshments, and adults can enjoy adult beverages on board the comfortable, luxurious vessel.
The knowledgeable captain provides engaging commentary, offering guests close encounters with dolphins and the opportunity to see other marine life like sea turtles and sand dollars.
Despite a cancellation due to engine failure, the company has addressed the issue, and the overall reviews are positive, with travelers highlighting the friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and unforgettable experiences.
This excursion is highly recommended for families and individuals seeking an interactive and educational encounter with the local wildlife in Panama City Beach.
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Discover Snorkeling Tour in Panama City
For those seeking an immersive underwater adventure in Panama City Beach, the Discover Snorkeling Tour offers a captivating small-group experience.
With a maximum of 10 guests, this guided excursion provides the perfect opportunity to explore the area’s diverse marine life, including blue crabs, hermit crabs, octopus, dolphins, manatees, and rays.
Suitable for beginners, the tour includes comprehensive instruction before participants hit the water, ensuring a comfortable and safe snorkeling experience.
Priced from $65 per person, the tour includes all necessary equipment and even covers the $8 parking fee.
Conveniently located at Saint Andrews Park Road, the tour’s meeting point is easily accessible, with clear driving directions provided.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience, as well as the reserve now and pay later option.
With a 5.0 rating from previous participants, the Discover Snorkeling Tour in Panama City Beach is an exceptional choice for those seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure.
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4 Hour Private Tour in Shell Island With Snorkeling
This 4-hour private tour in Shell Island offers snorkeling enthusiasts an immersive underwater adventure in the waters off Panama City Beach.
You’ll have the use of snorkeling equipment and bottled water as you explore the island’s pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. The tour departs from Papa Joes Pontoons, where you’ll have time to relax in the private beach and seating area before setting off.
Once on the water, you’ll be the only group participating, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour ends back at the meeting point, so you can continue enjoying the area’s food and drink options.
Do note that a moderate level of physical fitness is required, and the tour may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions. Infants must also sit on laps during the journey.
With advance confirmation and easy access via public transportation, this private snorkeling tour is an ideal way to discover the natural wonders of Shell Island.
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Beach Sunset and Lagoon Skyline Tour
As the sun dips below the horizon, the Beach Sunset and Lagoon Skyline Tour offers visitors a serene evening on the waters of Panama City Beach.
This tour starts at 7:00 PM and can accommodate up to 23 participants. The meeting point is at 5709 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408, USA, and the tour returns to the same location.
Guests will enjoy the company of a knowledgeable captain and crew, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Those with heart problems or serious medical conditions should refrain from participating.
The tour is located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for most travelers.
With a total of 1 review and a 2.0/5 star rating, this tour may not be the top choice for many visitors to Panama City Beach.
However, for those seeking a relaxing sunset experience on the water, the Beach Sunset and Lagoon Skyline Tour could be a viable option to consider.
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Recap
Panama City Beach offers a variety of tours, from private sightseeing and dolphin watching to scuba diving and snorkeling. Visitors can explore the area’s natural beauty, spot wildlife, and enjoy the stunning sunsets. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing boat tour or an adventurous water activity, there’s something for all in this coastal destination.