Panama City Beach: Private Dolphin Cruise & Shell Island Stop

Summary

Private dolphin cruise in Panama City Beach with snorkeling stop and Shell Island views

You’ll cruise Panama City Beach’s waters on a private boat with your own local captain, searching for wild dolphins up close and stopping at Shell Island to explore or snorkel. Hold sea urchins or hermit crabs if you’re lucky, enjoy cold drinks from the cooler, and soak up that easy pace only locals seem to know.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect to laugh so much on a boat in Panama City Beach. The sun was already sharp when we met our captain — he’s lived here forever, and you could tell by the way he waved at every passing boat. There was a salty smell clinging to the air, and I kept hearing pelicans squabble nearby while we loaded up our snacks (no glass, just cans — learned that quick). The boat felt spotless but not fussy, which made it easy to relax. Our group of five fit just right.

We cut through St. Andrews Bay first, water slapping gently against the hull. I kept scanning for dolphins — honestly, I was more hopeful than convinced — and then suddenly there they were. A pair surfaced so close I could see their scars and hear them exhale. Our guide grinned like it was his first time too (it wasn’t), telling us how sometimes the dolphins recognize his engine sound. That stuck with me for some reason. He handed out snorkel masks for anyone who wanted to jump in; my nephew found a hermit crab and shrieked so loud I nearly dropped my phone.

Shell Island came next, all white sand and that weird hush you get when everyone’s just happy to be somewhere new. We wandered barefoot for a bit — sand still cool underfoot from last night’s rain — before heading back for cold water from the cooler (ice included). There was no rush at any point, which is rare on tours like this. On the way back I realized my shoulders were already pink from the sun and I didn’t care much; it felt like summer should feel.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private 2-hour dolphin sightseeing cruise

• Board private boat in Panama City Beach
• Enjoy cruise in St. Andrews Bay
• Visit Shell Island during tour
• Spot wild dolphins in natural habitat
• Optional snorkeling to see sea urchins and hermit crabs
• Bring towel, sunscreen, and swimwear
• Use provided life jackets for children under 6

Top questions

How long is the private dolphin tour in Panama City Beach?

The tour lasts about 2 hours from start to finish.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this dolphin cruise?

Yes, snorkel gear is provided if you want to swim or explore during the trip.

Does this tour include a stop at Shell Island?

Yes, every tour includes time at Shell Island as part of the route.

Are drinks or food provided on board?

Bottled water is included along with a cooler of ice; you can bring your own food or drinks (no glass).

Is this Panama City Beach dolphin tour private?

Yes, it’s a private sightseeing cruise for your group only (up to 6 people).

Can children join this boat trip? Are life jackets available?

Children are welcome; life jackets are provided free for kids under 6 as required by law.

Where does the tour take place?

The cruise explores St. Andrews Bay and around the inlet near Panama City Beach.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the tour.

What’s included

Your outing covers private transportation by clean boat with an experienced local captain, bottled water plus a cooler with ice for your own drinks or snacks (just no glass), all necessary snorkeling equipment if you want it, and free use of life jackets for kids—so you really just need sunscreen and maybe a towel before heading out onto St. Andrews Bay and Shell Island.