Clearwater Beach: Dolphin Cruise on Little Toot Tug Boat

Summary

Clearwater harbor dolphin cruise with playful wild dolphins

You’ll ride a cheerful tug boat with locals and travelers along Clearwater Harbor, watching wild dolphins leap right in the boat’s wake. Listen to relaxed stories from your guide as sea spray hits your face and kids giggle nearby. It’s casual, close-up fun — perfect if you want real moments instead of big productions.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I booked the Little Toot dolphin cruise in Clearwater Beach mostly because my niece wouldn’t stop talking about dolphins — but by the end, I was just as giddy as she was. There’s something about stepping onto that stubby little tug boat, paint chipped in spots and ropes smelling of salt, that makes you feel like a kid again. The captain (I think his name was Rick?) greeted everyone with this easy Florida grin, tossing out dolphin facts between jokes. I didn’t expect to laugh so much before we even left the dock.

The water in Clearwater Harbor looked almost glassy at first, but once we got moving, it all changed. The engine’s hum vibrated right through the wooden benches, and suddenly there were squeals — not from us, but from dolphins chasing our wake. The guide pointed out how they love the big waves Little Toot kicks up (apparently it’s a thing), and sure enough, we saw two dolphins leap right beside us. My niece shrieked; I dropped my phone trying to film it. There was this moment where everything smelled like sea spray and sunscreen and for a second I forgot about emails or traffic or anything else.

You can sit in sun or shade — I moved around because I couldn’t decide what felt better. There’s no bad seat when wild dolphins are basically showing off for you. At one point, a little boy tried to shout “hello” at them and his mom just laughed; honestly, everyone seemed lighter out there. The tour is narrated but not in that “listen now” way — more like someone sharing stories while you’re all watching for fins together. It’s public transport friendly too, which I wish I’d known before fighting for parking (get there early — trust me).

I still think about that split second when the dolphins arched out of the water right under the sun glare — it looked almost fake. If you’re near Clearwater Beach and want something simple but kind of magical (without needing to be super fit or anything), this dolphin cruise is just… good for your soul, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin tour at Clearwater Beach

• Arrive 45 minutes before departure
• Park and ticketing
• Board 10 minutes before departure
• Enjoy narrated dolphin tour
• Watch dolphins jump in wake
• Choose seat in sun or shade
• Walk around the boat freely

Top questions

How long is the Little Toot dolphin cruise?

The exact duration isn’t listed here, but most narrated tours last around 1-2 hours.

Where does the Little Toot dolphin tour depart from?

The tour departs from Clearwater Beach at Clearwater Harbor.

Are children allowed on the Little Toot dolphin cruise?

Yes, adults and children of all ages are welcome on this dolphin tour.

Is there shade on the boat during the dolphin cruise?

You can choose seats in either sun or shade while onboard.

Do I need to arrive early for boarding?

Yes, please arrive 45 minutes before departure for parking and ticketing; boarding starts 10 minutes before departure.

Is public transportation available near Little Toot tours?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby Clearwater Beach.

Are infants allowed on board?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

Will we definitely see dolphins on this cruise?

Dolphin sightings are very common since they love playing in the boat’s wake, though they can’t be guaranteed every time.

What’s included

Your day includes a narrated sightseeing tour with a local guide aboard the Little Toot tug boat through Clearwater Harbor and out into the Gulf of Mexico; you’ll have your choice of shaded or sunny seats and plenty of chances to move around as wild dolphins play nearby before returning back to shore together.