Marco Island: Jet Ski Dolphin Tour & Mangrove Adventure

Summary

Jet ski through mangroves and spot dolphins near Marco Island

You’ll speed through mangrove forests by jet ski with a local guide from Marco Island, spotting dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and wild birds along the way. Feel the salt air on your face and pause for stories (and bottled water) in hidden coves. This adventure includes all gear—just show up ready to get splashed.

What’s the experience like?

"If you see their fins before I do, shout!" That’s what Avi said as we zipped out from Marco Island, and honestly, I was too busy clutching the handlebars to answer. The air had that salty-tangy smell you only get near the Gulf, and my friend kept laughing every time we hit a little wave. I could hear birds overhead — some kind of heron maybe — but it was hard to focus on anything except how fast we were moving.

We followed Avi’s jet ski into these winding mangrove tunnels. The water went glassy and quiet there, almost like it swallowed up the engine noise. At one point he slowed down and pointed at a swirl in the water — "Manatee," he whispered. I squinted but mostly saw shadows. Then suddenly a dolphin arched right by us, so close I could see the spray on its back. I think I yelled something embarrassing.

I didn’t expect to feel so small out there among the 10,000 islands — just us, the guide, and all that tangled green. Avi told us stories about nesting birds (I forgot most of the names), and tossed us bottled water when we stopped in a sunny patch. If you go when it’s chilly they’ve got windbreakers ready; mine smelled faintly like sunscreen from whoever wore it last time. It made me laugh for no reason.

The ride back felt different somehow — maybe because my hands weren’t shaking anymore or maybe just because I knew what to watch for this time. Still think about that dolphin though.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore mangrove forest and islands

• Travel through mangrove forest
• Journey through 10,000 islands

Top questions

How many people can ride each jet ski?

Each jet ski holds up to 2 passengers or 400 lbs total weight.

Is this dolphin tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it's suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for those with spinal injuries or pregnant travelers.

Do I need a boating license for this tour?

If you were born after January 1, 1988 you need a valid boater's certificate; details are sent with confirmation.

What wildlife might we see during the tour?

You may spot dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and various migrating or nesting birds.

Are life jackets provided on this Marco Island jet ski tour?

Yes, Coast Guard approved life jackets are included for all participants.

Is bottled water included?

Bottled water is provided during your dolphin tour adventure.

What should I wear or bring on the day trip?

Wear comfortable clothes that can get wet; windbreakers are provided if it's chilly.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a premium jet ski (for two people or up to 400 lbs), Coast Guard approved life jackets for safety, bottled water to keep you refreshed out on the water, plus windbreakers if it gets chilly—everything handled so you can just show up at Marco Island ready for adventure with your local guide leading the way.