pensacola fl dolphin tour

Dolphin Tours Pensacola

A boating adventure with Fun in the Sun Boat Rides is a must do if you’re visiting Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, Navarre, or Perdido Key.

A boating adventure with Fun in the Sun Boat Rides is a must do if you’re visiting Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, Navarre, or Perdido Key. We have numerous pickup locations throughout the area and can even pick you up at your private dock if you’re staying on the water

Fun in the Sun is owned and operated by a group of the best fishing guides in Pensacola. When you climb aboard with one of our captains you are in the hands of someone with extensive experience and someone who knows the area and local waters as well as anyone. Our goal is for you to have a fun and exciting time while on our boats. With that being said we basically tailor each trip around what you and your family or friends want to do. All of our trips are private cruises with a designated captain provided. This way we can ensure a more one on one experience and keep the crowd on the boat limited to your group of family and friends. There’s a long list of things to do, but we can dolphin watch, visit beaches only accessible by boat, or hit up one of the local waterfront restaurants or bars.

Coming to Pensacola and not spending some time on a boat is a huge mistake, so if fishing doesn’t peak your interest and climbing aboard a boat with fifty other people isn’t what you classify a good time give us a call and let’s setup a private trip for your group.

TWO HOUR PRIVATE DOLPHIN CRUISE/SCENIC BOAT TOUR

• UP TO SIX GUESTS – YOUR PRIVATE TOUR • DOG FRIENDLY • CRUISE IN SHADE OR SUN • OFFERED IN MORNING OR AFTERNOON • SOFT DRINKS INCLUDED • YOU CAN ALSO BRING YOR OWN FOOD & DRINK – ALCOHOL PERMITTED • FASTEST DOLPHIN/CRUISE BOAT IN THE AREA CAN COVER MORE GROUND IF NECESSARY • CUSTOM TRIPS AVAILABLE • SHORT STOP ON REMOTE BEACH/ISLAND IF DESIRED

This scenic trip typically covers approximately a 20 mile round trip through Pensacola Bay , Santa Rosa Sound and the Gulf of Mexico ( when conditions are calm). Sights include The National Seashore, Fort Pickens , Pensacola Lighthouse, Fort McRae , Pensacola NAS and the Gulf Breeze Peninsula. You typically will encounter dolphin, ospreys, pelicans, cormorants , skimmers and herons . Eagle sightings are possible , especially during the colder months ( November – April ) Turtle , shark and sting ray sightings are more common in the warmer periods. On occasion we encounter manatees during summer/fall which are typically found in more southern waters. Schools of fish feeding on the surface aren also common during from spring through fall.

If you would like to experience some fishing, catch and release is available for a small up charge.

THREE HOUR PRIVATE DOLPHIN CRUISE SCENIC BOAT TOUR

SIX HOUR PRIVATE CUSTOM TOUR

Testimonials

My wife and children were dying to go on one of the dolphin tours,but I was not interested in being on a boat with fifty other tourist, so we opted for a private trip. The fam saw all of the dolphins they cared to and I was able to enjoy my beers in peace.

We did the two hour Pensacola Bay adventure and it was an absolute blast. We departed from Portofino and went to sand island near Pensacola Pass where the kids played on the giant sand hills.

What a Blast! Our captain picked us up in Pensacola within walking distance of our hotel and took us to the Florabama for some frosty adult beverages. Sight seeing on the way was awesome, a beautiful body of water.

The visit Destin tour is awesome, but be prepared for some riding time. We opted to visit Crab Island for some swimming and playing in the water instead of going to the boardwalk and it was a great decision.

My wife and I did the private Pensacola Bay boat ride while we were visiting Pensacola Beach on our anniversary vacation and it was great. We ask if we could go later and it was not a problem, we went at sunset and the captain took us to a private beach.

We took a wonderful 2 hour boat ride with Captain Bob! We saw a shark, several dolphins, some birds with their babies in their nest, and some cool landmarks! Our tour guide was friendly and helpful with tips on things to see and do.

KEEP IN TOUCH

Now Booking For 2024

• Most Popular!

Dolphin Cruises in Florida

Quick details, what to bring.

• Drinks (Please NO glass containers)
• Some like to grab a burger on the way to the boat and make it a “dinner cruise”
• Polarized sunglasses

*Wheelchair accessible

Cruise Times

10 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m.

Young Child (4 and under)

Welcome to pensacola beach’s original dolphin cruise boat.

Discover Florida’s friendly dolphins on our two-hour Pensacola Bay cruise! Chase-n-Fins is a 50-ft. twin diesel Navy Launch converted into a cruise ship certified for 49 passengers. With plenty of open deck space, passengers can move about for the perfect photo or take advantage of the shaded area.

Chase-n-Fins is staffed by our welcoming crew. They’ll teach you everything you need to know about dolphins and local marine life as well as important Pensacola beach landmarks. Of course there’s nothing better than letting the dolphins entertain you in their natural environment. So, bring the whole family on a cruise you will remember long after your vacation ends. We also offer private charters for reunions, weddings, school groups, dinner cruises, etc.

Dolphins guaranteed or your next cruise is free!

Walk-ons are welcome! However, we recommend you make your dolphin cruise reservation  online so we may accommodate your entire party at the time you desire. Book online today! 

The schedule is for summer months between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Other months – the times vary with the weather/sunset and passenger load.

Related Activities

• Clock 2.5 Hours

Blue Angels Cruise

A rare opportunity to see the famous U.S. Navy Blue Angels acrobatic flying team practice their thrilling aerial maneuvers. This cruise includes both an air show and dolphin watching!

Private Events

Looking for some privacy for your Pensacola Beach, FL cruise or private event? Book a private charter with Chase-n-Fins for a reunion, wedding, school group event, or any other special occasion!

💙💛 BOOK NOW: NEXT BLUES PRACTICE 💙 TUESDAY 9.24.24 💛 9:35AM DEPART 💙💛

Dolphin Sightseeing Bay Cruise Pensacola Up to 6 People

Get up close to watch dolphins and other marine and wildlife in their environment aboard Frisky1

Quick Details

• User Ages: All Ages
• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours
• Scuba Mask Snorkel Package Included: Adult sizes only and includes mask, fin and basic instruction. You are more than welcome to bring your own, or some for a smaller member of your group.
• Food Sodas & Bottled Water Complimentary: Food & Beverage and a small cooler is allowed, but NO Glass.
• Spotify Playlist: FriskyMermaid1: Enjoy a variety of upbeat, fun music any time you like and be back in vacay mode.
• Paw Pet-Friendly on Private Tours: Non-aggressive, leashed dogs are welcome.
• Lightning Florida Weather: Can be a handful, decisions regarding weather are made at the gate by our seasoned Captain & Crew. In case of unsafe water conditions, rest assured, you can either reschedule or receive a refund.
• Parking: There is free public parking across the street as well as at Casino Beach Parking (Beach Ball Water Tower) 3 Casino Beach Boardwalk Parking, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Your local USCG licensed Captain will keep you entertained while learning about dolphins, marine life, wildlife and historical sites around Pensacola Beach in Santa Rosa Sound

• Not wheelchair accessible ; however, we will make every effort to accommodate your needs
• USCG approved and required safety equipment included

Prices starting at:

Minimum of 4 people required to operate, private charter, up to 6 passengers.

If getting up close and personal to all the amazing marine and wildlife is more your vibe, Frisky1 is fully covered with a restroom on board and I’m Frisky2 both can carry up to six (6) passengers.

Both boats are extremely comfortable and operates both the three (3) hour secluded beach stop and the Seas the 1/2 Day Pensacola Beach Excursion, as well as two (2) hour tours throughout the day.  Your local Captain will provide you with facts, so much fun, upbeat music and entertainment as you embark on your private or semi-private tour.

Types of Tours:

• Semi-Private Tour : Share a memorable trip with other adventurers. Ideal for up to six (6) passengers, including infants and children.
• Private Tour : Experience an exclusive adventure just for your group, pets included! Suitable for up to six (6) passengers.  Multiple vessels available for larger groups.

Special Early Riser Tour:

If you love the serenity of early mornings, this scenic boat tour for you! Enjoy the calmest waters and witness the local dolphins at their playful best. Bonus: It’s usually the most economical option and lets you escape the midday heat.

Experience Unforgettable Boat Rides Near Pensacola Beach!

Navigating the serene waters for a boat ride is an excellent way to explore the beauty of coastal areas. Whether it’s a boat ride for a group outing or a private night boat ride for a romantic escapade, the options are endless. Let’s dive into some of the best boat ride experiences you can enjoy near this stunning beach destination. Discover the magic of Pensacola waters with our private or semi-private scenic boat tours. From playful dolphins to breathtaking sceneries and historic sights , our tours offer an immersive experience for all ages.

Embark on a journey of fun, adventure , and discovery . Whether you’re here to explore, relax, or both, Frisky Boat Tours promises a day you’ll cherish forever. Join us for a dose of vitamin sea and create memories that last a lifetime. Book now so you can dive into water adventure!  The calm waters we cruise are home to a diverse marine life, including frisky dolphins that often swim along side our boat.

PSA:  Dolphins are protected under the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act .  It is against federal law to feed or harass wild dolphins.  Swimming with or feeding can be dangerous and should not be attempted.  The NOAA Fisheries Service warns that disruption of normal behavior and activities can ultimately harm these mammals.

• Chevron down Things to know before you go (FAQ's):

✅ In: @the gate behind the Sandbar/Sabine Marina with Mermaid Crew

❌ Cancellations: No cancellation within 14 days

❓Will I get wet? It’s possible, you are in a boat on the water. Feel free to bring a towel along for comfort.

⚓️ Accessibility: Passengers must be physically able to climb up, over and down stairs at the stern to board and disembark the vessel.

👨🏼‍✈️ Gratuity: Not required, but graciously accepted and appreciated by our Mermaid Crew.  It is customary to tip the crew 15-20%.

⛈ Weather Policy: Captain makes the decision at the time of departure, no exceptions! You will receive information via text and/or email if the weather prevents us from cruising.

🅿️ Parking: One car per group may park on premise.  Public parking is available across the street (sound side), use crosswalk. 735 Pensacola Beach Blvd. or at 3 Casino Beach Boardwalk, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 (Casino Beach @ The Beach Ball). Do not park in any beach restaurant or marina parking lots other than the Sandbar. They need parking for their own guests.  You will be towed at your own expense.

🦺 Lifejackets: Provided (infant to XXL); required for infant (Infant is up to 12 months old)

🥤Refreshments: Drinks and snacks allowed onboard

🧜‍♀️Merchandise: Available onboard Frisky Mermaid behind Shaggy’s

Related Activities

• Most Popular
• User All Ages
• Hour Glass 1.5 - 2 Hours

Pensacola Beach Dolphin Cruises Ticketed Up to 49 People

Journey into the beautiful waters around Pensacola and create lifetime memories looking for dolphins and other marine and wildlife .  This family friendly tour operates multiple dolphin cruises year round throughout the day where every day is a great day on the water.

• Hour Glass 6 hours
• Cruise Ship Tritoon

Pensacola Beach Pontoon Boat Rentals – Six Hour

Our most popular boat rental! Six hours is the perfect amount of time needed on the water to see all the sites and/or dock & dine at a local waterfront Pensacola Beach restaurants.

• Female Captains Available
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Snorkeling in Pensacola + Snorkel Tours Pensacola Beach

Come dip your toes (and snorkel mask!) in our Pensacola Beach waters and view life under the surface. Kid friendly and perfect for all ages, you’ll experience a whole new world under the sea.

*Inventory consists of adult snorkel sets

Secluded Beach Stop + Dolphin Cruise + Equipment

Hop onboard this 3 hour Scenic Bay Sightseeing Tour with a stop to snorkel or swim . On this dolphin cruise, you will be guided by your local Captain while searching for and learning about dolphins, marine and wildlife on an adventure you don’t want to miss.

• Hour Glass 4 & 8 hour

Half & Full Day Pontoon Boat Rentals on the beaches of Pensacola

Rent a pontoon boat and explore our waters on your own schedule. We have four hour pontoon boat rentals, six hour pontoon boat rentals , eight hour pontoon boat rentals and Multi-day pontoon boat rentals . Captain your own adventure and search for dolphins, local birds & other marine life.

• Hour Glass 4 hours

Seas the Half Day: Snorkel + Dolphin cruise + Secluded Beach

Welcome to the ultimate Pensacola Beach water attraction !

Picture this: exploring the Pensacola area, looking for marine and wildlife or diving in for some snorkeling or swimming and why not take a dip at a hidden, secluded beach along the way? It’s a super fun thing to do on the beach.

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Premier Dolphin Cruises

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure with Pensacola Beach's Premier Dolphin Cruise. Cruise aboard Premier 1, a double-decker catamaran, and marvel at the beauty of Northwest Florida's Gulf Coast. Spot playful dolphins, vibrant birds, and other marine life along the protected Gulf Islands National Seashore.

With amenities like restrooms, music, and onboard refreshments and snacks, Premier 1 ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all. Join us for your next family outing and create lasting memories on the water!

Dolphin cruise guests can board at the dock located directly behind Felix's Restaurant & Oyster Bar on Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. Please arrive within 30 minutes before the cruise time to allow yourself time to park and walk out to the dock. Portofino Island Resort guests board on the property at the resort.

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​​12 Best Things To Do In Pensacola, Florida

Discover the best of Pensacola, Florida, any time of year.

Things to Do

Where to eat (and drink), where to stay.

Getty Images

Pensacola is a seaside city on the western tip of the Florida peninsula that offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and Southern hospitality. Although it's known for its stunning white-sand beaches , Pensacola's wealth of historical sites and dynamic food scene show it's more than a beachfront enclave.

Here's why you should visit Pensacola, Florida, including the best things to do on your trip, where to stay, and places to eat.

Tykesha Burton

Hit the Beaches

Once settled into your room, slip on your flip-flops and head straight to the beach. Pensacola boasts more than 50 miles of coastline, and the beaches are famed for their stunning alabaster-colored sand. The sand’s color is not its only stunning feature, it’s also so fine that it squeaks underfoot as you walk. The beaches are great for any type of vacationer, whether you plan to kayak, build sandcastles, or simply sunbathe.

Enjoy a Dolphin Cruise

Spend a morning searching for one of the ocean's most beloved inhabitants—dolphins. Cruise along the Santa Rosa Sound while watching dolphin pods swim and play in their natural habitat. In addition to the thrill of spotting dolphins, there is also the joy of seeing the city from the water.  

pensacoladolphincruise.com , 400 Quietwater Beach Rd, Pensacola, FL 32561

Stroll Through the Historic Pensacola Village

As one of America's oldest cities, Pensacola abounds in rich history. History comes alive in the Historic Pensacola Village. This area has 30 restored 18th and 19th-century buildings. Twelve of these historic sites are open to the public. Interpreters dressed as British colonists and American pioneers captivate visitors, sharing stories about the daily lives of the early settlers.

historicpensacola.org, 205 E Zaragoza Street, Pensacola, FL 32502

Watch the U.S. Navy Blue Angels Take Flight

Pensacola is also the home of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. From March through November, the pilots practice gravity-defying maneuvers weekly for spectators at the Forrest Sherman Field. But even if you aren't on the Naval base, these skilled airmen can be seen and heard for miles.

blueangels.navy.mil/show , Naval Air Station: 150 Hase Rd., Pensacola, FL 32508

Visit Santa Rosa Island

On the eastern tip of Santa Rosa Island is a section of the Gulf Islands National Seashore encompassing nearly 6,000 acres of preserved land; along 52 miles of Gulf and Bay shoreline, you will find sandy trails perfect for biking and hiking, shaded areas for picnics as well as ample swimming along the beach. In addition to its natural beauty, this area is home to Fort Pickens, a pre-Civil War fortress later used by Union troops. Enhance your visit by taking a guided tour of the caves and tunnels with a National Park Ranger for a rich historical experience. 

nps.gov/guis/index.htm , Gulf Islands National Seashore, FL

Climb the Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

Climb 177 steps up the historic Pensacola Lighthouse for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Gulf Coast. As you ascend, there are informative placards that provide a fascinating glimpse into the lighthouse’s operational history.

pensacolalighthouse.org , 2081 Radford Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32508

Courtesy Pearl Horn

Get Comfortable at Union Public House

If you're hungry for delicious Southern comfort food reimagined, head over to the Union Public House. This restaurant serves up high-quality fare in a laid-back and friendly atmosphere. Try their inventive Pimento cheese pups (their spin on hush puppies), crispy pork shanks, and wild boar Sloppy Joe sandwiches. The Pub also has an impressive list of craft beers and cocktails.

unionpensacola.com, 36 E Garden St., Pensacola, FL 32502

Savor Fresh Fare at Pearl & Horn

At the Pearl & Horn, surf and turf enthusiasts will find plenty to savor. Newly opened in January 2024, the restaurant features a seafood and raw bar with fresh and locally sourced options. Indulge in seared scallops, crispy red snapper, or a Bison kabob. Meals can be complimented with a selection from their creative cocktail list, which includes playful names like Saved by the Bell and One in a Melon Martini , to ensure a memorable dining experience.  

pearlandhorn.com , 1504 W Intendencia St., Pensacola, FL 32502

Dine by the Beach at Flounder's Chowder House

Flounder's Chowder House is an excellent choice for tasting fresh seafood right by the beach. With indoor and outdoor dining options, patrons can savor dishes like beer-boiled shrimp, hearty chowder, and fresh oysters.

flounderschowderhouse.com , 800 Quietwater Beach Rd, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561

Check Out a Trendy Boutique Hotel

The Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel is a trendy hotel located close to the downtown area. If you're interested in enjoying views of Pensacola Bay from your room, book one of the Balcony Suites for your stay.

stayoysterbay.com , 400 Bayfront Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32502

Stay on the Gulf  

The Pensacola Beach Resort is a gulf-front property with views that extend over Pensacola Bay. Guests can enjoy rented lounge chairs for relaxation by the water and take advantage of various tailored vacation packages.

thepensacolabeachresort.com , 165 Fort Pickens Rd., Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Enjoy a Family-Friendly Resort

Portofino Island Resort is an excellent choice for a family-friendly stay steps from the beach. Its private section of the beach offers rented chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas.

portofinoisland.com , 10 Portofino Drive, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Related Articles

FULL 2024 PENSACOLA BEACH DOLPHIN CRUISE, SNORKELING, AND SAILING SCHEDULE AVAILABLE! BOOK ONLINE!

Private or Semi-Private Dolphin Cruise in Pensacola Beach with Remote Beach Stop

Quick details.

• User Ages: All ages
• Clock Duration: 3 hours
• Info Note: Cruise times are subject to change based on weather conditions and schedule. We will notify you in the event we need to move the trip.

Private Trip

Up to 6 passengers, semi private, see wild dolphins and visit a pristine pensacola beach accessible only by boat.

Enhance your dolphin cruise experience, choose our most popular three-hour dolphin cruise, including a beach stop accessible only by boat. We offer this cruise by powerboat, which follows the same approximate route as the two-hour dolphin cruise, adding an hour stop at a beautiful secluded beach accessible only by boat. Here you can take a stroll along a short path that leads to the Gulf, where you can look for shells or take a swim.

This dolphin tour takes place on one of our 26′ powerboats. On the private tour, you have your own boat just for your group, with the captain included. A semi-private shared trip may also be available, with a maximum of 6 guests.

Pensacola Bay, Santa Rosa Sound, and the Gulf of Mexico are home to many pods of bottlenose dolphins. These wild dolphins are naturally curious and inclined to investigate boats traveling the waters of their home. Though swimming with dolphins in the wild is illegal, viewing them by boat in their natural habitat is an amazing encounter. On this trip, you’re likely to see other marine life and shorebirds, including sea turtles, stingrays, ospreys, pelicans, cormorants, and schools of fish.

This is a scenic sightseeing tour of Pensacola by water. On a typical route, we cruise along the National Seashore and may pass by landmarks such as Fort Pickens, NAS Pensacola — home of the Blue Angels — the Naval Aviation Museum, and the Pensacola Lighthouse.

Cruise faster, go further, and get closer with Jolly Sailing!

Related Cruises

• MOST POPULAR
• User All ages
• Clock 1.5 - 2 hours

Pensacola Beach Dolphin Cruise & Scenic Bay Tour

Take a scenic sightseeing tour of Pensacola by water. View dolphins and marine life by boat and iconic Pensacola sights along the way!