Panama City Beach: Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Drinks

Summary

Sail the gulf on footloose spot dolphins sip a punch watch the sun shift

You’ll board a laid-back catamaran from Panama City Beach with local guides who know where dolphins like to play. Watch wild dolphins glide by as you sip your included drink and listen to music drifting over the Gulf breeze. There’s time for photos but also quiet moments by the rail — it’s more peaceful than you might expect.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway down the dock before I realized how salty the air felt on my skin — not sticky exactly, just that soft Gulf thing. The Footloose catamaran was easy to spot, with its bright blue trim and crew waving us over like old friends. I’d barely found a seat when our captain grinned and said, “Keep your eyes out — they’re playful today.” Someone behind me laughed, and I wondered if that was just something they always say or if we’d really get lucky with dolphins this time.

Music drifted around us, not too loud, just enough to make you want to loosen your shoulders. We slid out past Panama City Beach’s skyline into open water, the wind picking up in a way that made my hair stick to my lip balm (should’ve tied it back). The first dolphin sighting happened so fast — a flash of gray right by the bow. Our guide pointed and called out, “There! See her calf?” It took me a second but then I saw them both, curving through the water together. Everyone sort of forgot their phones for a minute.

I grabbed my free drink — Footloose Punch, sweet and cold — and leaned against the rail. There was this moment when all you could hear was water slapping the hull and someone’s kid whispering about mermaids. I didn’t expect to feel so calm out there. Dolphins came closer than I thought they would; one even splashed near enough that Li (from our group) got soaked and just started laughing. The crew told us little stories about dolphin habits, sometimes pausing to point out pelicans or explain why the water looked extra green after last night’s rain.

We stayed out for maybe two hours? Hard to keep track when you’re watching sunlight shift across the bay. Heading back in, nobody seemed in a rush. I still think about that view — dolphins slipping under the surface, everyone quiet for once except for the sound of ice clinking in plastic cups. If you’re ever in Panama City Beach and want something simple but real, this dolphin sightseeing tour is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin sightseeing cruise on catamaran

• Board the 40-foot catamaran Footloose
• Sail along Gulf of Mexico waters
• Watch dolphins swim and play
• Enjoy one complimentary beverage
• Listen to tropical music onboard
• Purchase additional snacks and drinks

Top questions

Where does the dolphin sightseeing tour depart from?

The tour departs from 4114 Jan Cooley Dr., Panama City Beach, FL 32408.

Is there an included drink on this dolphin cruise?

Yes, each guest receives one complimentary beverage during the cruise.

How long does the dolphin sightseeing tour last?

The cruise lasts approximately two hours along the Gulf Coastline and Bay area.

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed on this tour?

No, while sightings are common, they cannot be guaranteed since dolphins are wild animals.

Is food available onboard during the catamaran cruise?

Snacks and additional beverages are available for purchase at the onboard bar.

Is hotel pickup included in this Panama City Beach tour?

No, hotel pickup is not included; guests must arrive at the departure location themselves.

Can children join this dolphin sightseeing cruise?

Yes, all ages are welcome; however, only guests 21+ may consume alcoholic beverages.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

The boat is not fully wheelchair accessible but collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated if guests can board with assistance.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing aboard the Footloose catamaran from Panama City Beach with a friendly local crew guiding you along Gulf waters. You’ll get one complimentary beverage (like their signature Footloose Punch), plus access to snacks and drinks for purchase at the onboard bar before returning after about two hours on the water.