St. Pete: Dolphin Watching & Shell Island Cruise with Bar

Summary

Dolphin spotting near St. Pete then shell hunting on wild islands

You’ll watch dolphins leap beside your boat as you cruise out from St. Pete toward wild shelling islands, then wander sandy shores collecting shells or swim in warm water before relaxing onboard with a cold drink and local stories from your crew. There’s something quietly joyful about seeing dolphins up close—something you’ll probably remember long after you shake the sand out of your shoes.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to see so many dolphins so close to St. Pete — honestly, I thought they’d be shy, but there they were, weaving through the wake as we cruised past those crazy waterfront mansions. Our guide (I think his name was Mike?) pointed out which homes belonged to who, but I was too busy watching a dolphin calf keep up with its mom. The breeze smelled like sunscreen and salt, and someone behind me laughed when a pelican dive-bombed right next to the boat. Guess they’re regulars here.

We drifted under this big bridge — Pinellas Bayway, Mike said — and the way the light filtered through made it feel almost like a cathedral, which sounds dramatic but really, it did. Then suddenly we were pulling up to Shell Island (or maybe Sand Dollar? I can’t remember), and everyone kind of scattered onto the sand. I wandered off with my shoes in hand, toes digging into that weirdly soft sand, hunting for shells that looked nothing like the ones back home. Found a tiny spiral one I still have in my bag somewhere.

I ended up chatting with one of the crew about local spots while sipping something cold from the bar (they’ve got shade if you burn easily — learned that lesson last summer). Some people just stayed on board watching whatever game was on TV, which honestly sounded tempting after all that sun. On the way back toward St. Pete marina we caught another pod of dolphins riding alongside us for a bit — quieter this time, like they knew we’d already had our fill of excitement or maybe they were just showing off for themselves.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dolphin watching and shelling tour

• Pass by waterfront millionaires' homes
• Pass St. Petersburg's historic Gulfport community
• Pass under Pinellas Bayway bridge
• Arrive at Shell or Sand Dollar Island
• Swim, tan, or search for shells ashore
• Relax in shade and chat with crew
• Return via intercoastal waterways dolphin watching

Top questions

How long is the St. Pete dolphin watching & shelling tour?

The tour lasts approximately three hours from departure to return at the marina.

Does the tour include time on Shell Island?

Yes, guests spend up to 1.5 hours ashore at either Shell Island or Sand Dollar Island for swimming and shelling.

Is there shade or seating on the boat?

Yes, there’s plenty of shaded seating available onboard for those who prefer not to stay in direct sun.

Are drinks available during the cruise?

There is a bar onboard where guests can purchase drinks during the tour.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on board throughout the trip.

Will we see dolphins every time?

Dolphin sightings are common along these waterways but can’t be guaranteed every single trip.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed onboard during the cruise.

Can infants join this dolphin watching cruise?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the journey.

What should I bring for shelling at Shell Island?

You might want sandals or water shoes for walking ashore and a small bag for any shells you find.

What’s included

Your day includes a three-hour dolphin watching cruise from St. Pete with stops at either Shell or Sand Dollar Island for swimming and shell collecting; shaded seating and restrooms are available onboard along with a bar serving drinks—plus plenty of chances to chat with local crew about area history before returning to shore.