Snorkel Shell Island & Dolphins: Panama City Beach, 18-person max

Three hours to hunt shells, spot dolphins and snorkel the Emerald Coast

A 3-hour snorkel excursion from Panama City Beach takes up to 18 passengers on a pontoon to Shell Island, where you snorkel for shells and marine life while cruising for dolphins and sea turtles along the way. Life jackets and snorkel equipment are provided. The boat departs from Lighthouse Marina Boat House with a licensed English-speaking guide. No restrooms are on board.

The experience

The boat holds 18 passengers: small enough that you're not jostling for space or competing for the guide's attention, but large enough that the tour runs regularly and costs less than a private charter. You'll board a pontoon at Lighthouse Marina Boat House (park in front of the Grand Marlin and walk down the left dock, the crew meets you at the picnic table) and head out into the Emerald Coast waters. The captain and crew watch for dolphins and other wildlife as you cruise, so you're not just pointed at a map. You're actively looking.

At Shell Island, you anchor and snorkel in the shallows. The snorkel gear and life jackets are already on board, so you don't rent them separately or hunt for a shop beforehand. You'll find shells, explore what's under the surface, and keep an eye out for sea turtles and other marine creatures. The whole excursion runs three hours, which gives you time in the water without eating up your entire day.

This tour works for families with children, solo travelers, and anyone who wants to see what lives in the bay without needing diving certification or a lot of experience. The crew handles the boat and the navigation. You handle the snorkeling. Bring a towel and sunscreen (neither is provided), and wear something you don't mind getting wet.

What’s included

• Life jackets and snorkel equipment.
• a licensed English-speaking guide.
• a 3-hour boat tour with up to 18 passengers.
• time to snorkel and swim at Shell Island.
• dolphin and wildlife sightseeing during the cruise.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00 and 10:00

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (under 13)

GroupUp to 18

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPets welcome

Operated by Good Jibez Only Boat Tours

Is this one for you?Groups of up to 18 keep the boat intimate and the crew attentive without the cost of a private charter, so families and small groups get personalized service at a shared-boat price.

Traveler reviews

4.98★★★★★★★★★★

160 verified traveler reviews

5 ★157

4 ★3

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 13).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What exactly will I see when I snorkel at Shell Island?

Shell Island is shallow enough for snorkeling, so you'll hunt for shells and spot small fish, sea turtles and other marine life in the water. The crew watches for dolphins during the boat ride out and back, though sightings are not guaranteed.

Is snorkel equipment included, or do I need to bring my own?

Snorkels and life jackets are provided on the boat. You don't need to rent them beforehand or bring your own.

How many people will be on the boat with me?

The pontoon holds up to 18 passengers at a time, which keeps the group small and manageable compared to larger tour boats in the area.

What do I need to bring or wear?

Wear swimwear and bring a towel and sunscreen: neither is provided on board. The boat has no restrooms, so plan accordingly before departure.

Where do I meet the boat, and how do I find the crew?

Park in front of the Grand Marlin by Lighthouse Marina Boat House, then walk down the dock on the left side. The captain and crew will meet you at the picnic table.

Do I need snorkeling experience or swimming ability to join?

The tour is designed for families, children and individuals of varying experience levels. You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, and life jackets are provided for safety.