Panama City Beach: Sunset Dolphin Catamaran Cruise & Rum Punch

Summary

Gulf waters shimmer as dolphins surface near Shell Island, laughter blends with music and the sky glows orange while you sip rum punch on deck

You’ll watch wild dolphins near Shell Island from a catamaran as sunset colors spill across Panama City Beach. Sip fresh rum punch and listen to music while your local crew keeps things lively with games or dancing—or just let yourself drift into that warm Gulf Coast feeling as daylight fades.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the salt in the air mixed with that faint coconutty smell from someone’s sunscreen. We’d barely left the Lagoon Pontoons Marina in Panama City Beach when someone pointed—dolphins already, just off Shell Island. Our guide (I think her name was Jamie?) slowed the catamaran and everyone shuffled to one side, drinks in hand. There was this quiet moment where even the usual chatter died down—just soft waves and a couple of kids whispering “there!” every time a fin popped up. I didn’t expect to feel so giddy about seeing dolphins but… yeah, it got me.

I grabbed a rum punch from the galley (they’re generous with the pour) and found a spot at the rail. The sun started dipping lower, turning everything gold-orange. Someone’s playlist drifted out—easy stuff, nothing too loud—and people just relaxed into it. A guy near me tried to teach his daughter how to spot pelicans gliding over the water; she kept getting distracted by her own reflection in his sunglasses. It was warm but not sticky, with this breeze that made you want to stay outside forever. Honestly, I wish I’d brought a light sweater for later but didn’t really care once we got going.

On the way back toward Panama City Beach, things got a little rowdier—in a good way. The crew started up some games (I lost at trivia about local sea life, which is embarrassing considering how confident I sounded). People danced if they wanted or just watched the last bit of sunlight disappear behind Shell Island. I still think about that view sometimes—how it felt like everyone on board kind of loosened up together for those two hours. Not perfect, maybe, but real fun.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin watching and sunset cruise

• Arrive 30 minutes early
• Check in at office
• Board Island Time catamaran
• Enjoy rum punch and snacks
• Watch for dolphins and wildlife
• Listen to relaxing music
• Watch sunset over horizon
• Participate in games and dancing
• Return to dock

Top questions

Where does the sunset dolphin cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from Lagoon Pontoons Marina in Panama City Beach, Florida.

How long is the dolphin watching & sunset sail?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours on the water.

Is there alcohol included on this catamaran cruise?

Yes, rum punch is available onboard for guests over 21 years old.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

No outside food or drink is allowed on board; no outside alcohol permitted.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No, you need to arrive at Lagoon Pontoons Marina 30 minutes before departure.

Are children allowed on this sunset cruise?

Yes, all ages are welcome but only those 21+ may have alcoholic drinks.

What should I bring for the sunset dolphin cruise?

Bring comfortable clothes (maybe a light sweater), sunscreen, and your ID if you plan to drink alcohol.

Is smoking allowed on board?

No smoking or chewing gum is allowed during the tour.

What’s included

Your evening includes a two-hour catamaran cruise along Panama City Beach’s Gulf Coast waters with dolphin watching near Shell Island, all taxes and fees covered, plus onboard rum punch for guests over 21. Friendly crew leads games and music is provided throughout before returning you safely to shore at Lagoon Pontoons Marina.