Destin: 2-Stop Snorkeling & Dolphin Cruise with Gear

Summary

Snorkeling Destin’s clear shallows and watching dolphins play

You’ll slip into Destin’s clear waters with all your gear ready, watch dolphins from the boat as you cruise between two unique snorkeling stops, and share laughs with locals who know every ripple of this coast. Expect real moments—like sunlight on your back or salt on your lips—that linger long after you’ve dried off.

What’s the experience like?

Someone handed me a mask that still smelled faintly of rubber and sunscreen, and I remember thinking, “Well, here goes.” We’d just left the dock in Destin, Florida — the harbor was busy with fishing boats and gulls arguing overhead. Our guide, Jamie (she grew up here), pointed out where the water shifted from emerald to that pale blue you only see in postcards. She kept an eye out for dolphins while we motored past the jetties — apparently they like to race boats on calm mornings. We actually saw a few fins slicing through the surface, which made everyone scramble for their cameras. I just watched. It felt better not to look through a screen for once.

The first snorkeling stop was at the Destin Jetty’s — I’m not sure what I expected, but when I put my face in the water it was like someone turned up the color dial. Fish everywhere: silvery flashes darting by, little ones picking at rocks. The water was cooler than I thought it would be; it woke me up fast. Jamie floated nearby and pointed out a crab scuttling under a ledge (I missed it — too slow). My nephew tried to talk through his snorkel, which mostly came out as bubbles and giggling. There’s something about being half-submerged with strangers that makes everyone loosen up a bit.

After that we cruised over to Coast Guard Flats for our second stop. The sun had come out properly by then and everything smelled like salt and seaweed — not unpleasant, just honest. A couple of kids on board were nervous about jumping in again but Jamie coaxed them gently (“You can always just float,” she said). I liked how nobody rushed us; we could swim or just hang off the side of the boat if we wanted. By the end even the shyest folks had dipped their heads under at least once. I still think about how quiet it got underwater compared to all that chatter above.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and dolphin cruise tour

• Start at tour location
• Tour Destin Harbor
• Look for dolphins
• Snorkel at Destin Jetty's
• Snorkel at Coast Guard Flats
• Complete 2.5 hour trip

Top questions

How long does the Destin snorkeling & dolphin cruise last?

The tour takes about 2½ hours from start to finish.

Are snorkeling equipment and gear included?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your booking.

Is this Destin snorkeling tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s great for first-timers or anyone comfortable swimming.

Do you see dolphins on every trip?

Dolphin sightings are common but not guaranteed—they’re wild animals.

Where are the two snorkeling stops in Destin?

The tour visits Destin Jetty’s and Coast Guard Flats for snorkeling.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours start at a set location in Destin Harbor.

Can infants or small children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller onboard.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to departure point.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all necessary snorkeling equipment—just bring yourself (and maybe some sunscreen). You’ll have guidance from local crew throughout both stops and time for dolphin spotting as you cruise between Destin Jetty’s and Coast Guard Flats before returning to shore together.