Destin: Dolphin & Sunset Cruise with Glass Bottom Views

Summary

Watch dolphins play near Crab Island and glide past Destin’s emerald shoreline on a relaxed one-hour cruise with glass bottom views

You’ll cruise along Destin’s emerald coast on a glass bottom boat, spotting wild dolphins near Crab Island while soaking in sunset colors or midday light. Friendly guides share local stories as you drift through the harbor and Gulf waters. Snacks are available onboard—and there’s something quietly special about watching dolphins glide by while your hands are sticky from popcorn.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first—my niece kept asking if we’d really see dolphins or just squint at empty waves. Turns out, about ten minutes after we left Destin Harbor, someone shouted “there!” and suddenly everyone was pressed up against the glass bottom panels. You could hear the engines humming low, but mostly it was kids giggling and the slap of water against the hull. The air smelled faintly salty, mixed with popcorn from the snack bar—kind of funny how those two go together.

Our guide—her name was Carla, I think—pointed out Crab Island as we drifted closer to the bay. She told us how locals come here on weekends for floating parties (I had no idea). The dolphins didn’t seem to care about us; they just did their thing, arching up in pairs and disappearing again. At one point I tried to snap a photo but missed it completely—ended up with a blurry shot of my own shoe. Carla laughed and said most people do that their first time.

The sun started dipping lower by then, turning everything this weird gold-pink color that made even my brother stop talking for a minute. It got quiet except for some distant music from boats anchored near Crab Island. I leaned over the rail just to feel the breeze and realized I hadn’t checked my phone once since we left shore. Not sure why that sticks with me now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin and Harbor Cruise

• Board the boat in Destin Harbor
• Travel through Harbor and East Pass
• View dolphins in natural habitat
• Enjoy glass bottom viewing area
• Pass through Bay into Gulf of Mexico
• Relax in air conditioned cabin
• Purchase snacks and beverages onboard
• Disembark after one hour cruise

Top questions

How long is the Destin dolphin cruise?

The dolphin cruise lasts about 1 hour.

Are snacks or drinks available during the dolphin cruise?

Yes, light snacks and beverages are sold onboard at the snack bar.

Is there a restroom on the boat?

Yes, there is a restroom available onboard.

Can you see dolphins on every cruise?

Dolphins are often seen in their natural habitat but sightings can't be guaranteed.

Is the Destin dolphin cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Does this tour include pickup from my hotel?

No, hotel pickup is not included; you board at Destin Harbor.

Are infants allowed on the dolphin cruise?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap or ride in a stroller or pram.

Is there air conditioning or heating inside?

Yes, the cabin is air conditioned and heated for comfort year-round.

What’s included

Your hour-long outing includes a narrated dolphin & sunset cruise through Destin Harbor, East Pass into the Gulf of Mexico and toward Crab Island aboard a glass bottom boat with an air-conditioned cabin, restrooms onboard, concession snacks for purchase, life preservers provided for safety—and full wheelchair accessibility throughout your trip.