Discover the natural wonders of Tampa Bay on a small group dolphin cruise that offers a unique opportunity to explore the area’s diverse marine life. This 2-hour excursion takes guests on a scenic journey through Boca Ciega Bay, where they can spot dolphins, manatees, rays, and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitats. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the pristine Shell Key, where travelers can enjoy the island’s unspoiled beauty through snorkeling, swimming, and shell collecting. With a maximum of 6 participants, this eco-friendly activity promises an intimate and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. What secrets might Shell Key hold?
Just The Basics
- A 2-hour small group dolphin cruise that departs from Tierra Verde Marina Resort and includes a snorkeling excursion to the pristine Shell Key.
- Opportunity to spot diverse wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, rays, and a variety of seabirds during the scenic cruise through Boca Ciega Bay.
- Snorkeling experience at Shell Key allows exploration of the island’s clear waters and observation of marine life, including fish, stingrays, and potentially dolphins or manatees.
- The tour is an eco-tourism focused experience with knowledgeable captains who ensure respectful and sustainable wildlife encounters.
- The tour operates with a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 6 travelers, with a 100% refund for cancellations 24 hours in advance.
More tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
The 2-hour Dolphin Cruise with Snorkeling to Shell Key offers an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Tampa Bay area, with the chance to spot dolphins, manatees, rays, and seabirds along the way.
Departing from the Tierra Verde Marina Resort, the cruise takes passengers through Boca Ciega Bay to the pristine Shell Key island, where they can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and shell collecting.
The family-friendly tour runs both morning and afternoon departures and includes all necessary snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and a BYOB option.
With rave reviews and a 5-star rating, this cruise promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Florida’s stunning coastal ecosystem.
Cruise Experience
Passengers’ journey begins with a check-in 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure from the Tierra Verde Marina Resort in St. Pete Beach. Upon boarding the 25-foot luxury pontoon boats, they’ll embark on a scenic cruise through the serene waters of Boca Ciega Bay, keeping an eye out for the area’s diverse wildlife. Throughout the 2-hour excursion, there’s a chance to spot dolphins, manatees, rays, and seabirds in their natural habitats. The highlight of the trip is the visit to Shell Key, where passengers can explore the island, go snorkeling, and collect shells. With the BYOB option and complimentary bottled water, guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the Gulf Coast.
| Wildlife Spotting | Island Activities | Onboard Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Dolphins | Snorkeling | BYOB |
| Manatees | Swimming | Bottled water |
| Rays | Shell collecting | – |
| Seabirds | – | – |
Shell Key Snorkeling
Upon arriving at Shell Key, passengers can explore the pristine island and enjoy the opportunity to go snorkeling in the clear waters surrounding it.
The snorkeling experience allows visitors to get up close and personal with the abundant marine life, including schools of colorful fish, stingrays, and perhaps even the occasional dolphin or manatee. The shallow waters make it easy for both experienced and novice snorkelers to navigate, providing a safe and enjoyable experience.
Guests can also spend time combing the beaches for unique shells and sand dollars. With its unspoiled natural beauty and diverse ecosystem, Shell Key offers a truly memorable snorkeling adventure for all who visit.
Wildlife Sightings
During the dolphin cruise, passengers can expect to spot a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, rays, and an abundance of seabirds.
The knowledgeable captains are skilled at locating these creatures, providing guests with ample opportunities to observe the local marine life in their natural habitats.
Lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of playful dolphins surfacing and jumping alongside the boat, while manatees can sometimes be seen grazing peacefully in the shallow waters.
Vibrant rays and a diverse array of seabirds, such as herons, egrets, and pelicans, further enhance the wildlife experience.
The tour’s focus on eco-tourism ensures a respectful and sustainable encounter with the area’s rich marine ecosystem.
Schedule and Departures
The dolphin cruise and snorkeling tour to Shell Key offers both morning and afternoon departures to accommodate travelers’ schedules.
The tour departs from the Tierra Verde Marina Resort, with guests advised to check in 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
The 2-hour cruise takes visitors through the beautiful Boca Ciega Bay, providing opportunities to spot dolphins, manatees, rays, and seabirds.
After arriving at Shell Key, guests can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and collecting shells.
The tour ends back at the Tierra Verde Marina Resort, where free parking is available.
With a minimum of 2 people per booking, this family-friendly adventure ensures a memorable experience for all.
Meeting and Pickup
Travelers meet up at the Tierra Verde Marina Resort, the designated meeting point for the dolphin cruise and snorkeling tour to Shell Key. From here, the tour departs and returns to the same location. Guests should arrive 30 minutes early to check-in before the boat leaves.
| Meeting Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Tierra Verde Marina Resort |
| Departure | From Tierra Verde Marina Resort |
| End Point | Back at the Marina Resort |
| Accessibility | Not wheelchair accessible |
The tour requires a minimum of 2 people per booking, and service animals are allowed. With a maximum of 6 travelers per cruise, this small group experience promises an intimate and personalized wildlife adventure.
Accessibility and Policies
Accessibility and logistics for this dolphin cruise and snorkeling tour are clearly outlined, ensuring a smooth and accommodating experience for all guests.
Notably, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, catering instead to a small group of up to 6 travelers. Plus, a minimum booking of 2 people is required, with service animals permitted on the excursion.
Guests can expect a 100% refund if they cancel the tour at least 24 hours in advance, and confirmation of their booking will be provided within 48 hours.
The tour operates weather permitting, so travelers are advised to check the forecast before their scheduled departure.
Reviews and Recommendations
Guests’ overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the tour’s exceptional wildlife spotting, knowledgeable captains, and picturesque scenery. With a 5-star rating across over 1,200 reviews, the tour consistently receives praise for delivering an unforgettable experience.
Frequent dolphin, manatee, ray, and seabird sightings, allowing guests to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Captains who are described as extremely knowledgeable, providing insightful commentary on the local wildlife and ecosystem.
The beautiful scenery of Boca Ciega Bay and Shell Key, offering a tranquil and visually stunning backdrop for the adventure.
Guests are advised to come prepared with swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and cameras to fully enjoy this small group dolphin cruise and snorkeling excursion.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?
Yes, guests can bring their own snorkeling gear for the tour. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but allows guests to use their own if they prefer. This provides more flexibility and comfort during the snorkeling experience.
Do the Boats Have Shade or Cover?
The boats have a sun canopy that provides shade and cover. This allows passengers to enjoy the cruise and snorkeling activities while protected from the sun. The canopy ensures a comfortable experience throughout the tour.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Children?
There’s no minimum age requirement for children on this tour. The family-friendly cruise welcomes guests of all ages, making it a great option for families with young kids wanting to spot dolphins and explore Shell Key.
Can I Store My Belongings on the Boat?
Yes, passengers can store their belongings on the boat during the tour. The pontoon boats used have ample storage space to securely keep items like bags, towels, and other personal effects while exploring Shell Key and spotting wildlife.
Is the Cruise Suitable for Non-Swimmers?
The cruise is suitable for non-swimmers as it includes snorkeling equipment and the opportunity to explore Shell Key without swimming. The crew provides guidance and assistance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Small Group Kayak Tour of the Shell Key Preserve
- Kayak Adventure of Shell Key Preserve & Island With a Local
- Dolphin Quest – Sightseeing/Eco Cruise, Johns Pass, Madeira Beach, FL
- St. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour
- Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise and Eco Tour From Hubbards Marina in Johns Pass
- Dolphin Shelling Snorkeling Cruise in Tampa
- Escape Room Experience – SCORCHED (Approx 1 Hour)
- Egmont Key Ferry From Ft. Desoto Park
- 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour of Downtown St Pete
- St Petersburg Speed Boat Adventure
- Semi-Private 2Hr. Sunset Cruise of St. Pete Beach
- Half Day Fishing Experience From Johns Pass in Madeira Beach, FL – 5 Hours
- Sunset Cruise Over the Gulf of Mexico
- St. Pete Beach Dolphin Racer Speedboat Adventure
- Small-Group Clear Kayak Tour in Shell Key
Sum Up
This 2-hour dolphin cruise offers a chance to explore the natural beauty of Tampa Bay and spot diverse wildlife.
Guests can enjoy a scenic cruise, visit Shell Key island for snorkeling, and observe marine life in a sustainable and respectful manner.
With a small group experience, this eco-tourism activity is an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts.
