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DOLPHIN CRUISES TO SHELL KEY FROM ST PETERSBURG, FL
SMALL GROUP DOLPHIN WATCHING AND SNORKELING TOURS THROUGH THE CALM WATERS OF TAMPA BAY AND SHELL KEY PRESERVE
⭐ Top-rated dolphin cruise • Small groups • Snorkeling included • BYOB welcome
Join one of the best dolphin cruises in St. Pete and experience Florida’s marine life up close. Island Ferry’s dolphin cruises take you through shallow, protected waters where wild dolphins are seen year-round, followed by time to snorkel and explore the pristine beaches of Shell Key Preserve. With small groups, local captains, and a relaxed pace, this is a dolphin tour designed for unforgettable moments—not crowds.
See Wild Dolphins on a St. Pete Dolphin Cruise
Our St. Petersburg dolphin cruises travel through calm coastal waters where dolphins are frequently seen swimming, feeding, and riding alongside the boat. Because these waters are protected and shallow, dolphins often stay close, offering incredible viewing and photo opportunities.
In addition to dolphins, guests regularly spot manatees (seasonal), rays, pelicans, ospreys, and other coastal wildlife, making every cruise a unique experience.
Snorkel and Explore Shell Key Preserve
Your dolphin cruise includes time at Shell Key Preserve, a protected barrier island known for clear water, abundant marine life, and unspoiled beaches. Guests can snorkel, swim, or walk the shoreline looking for shells and sand dollars.
We provide snorkel gear and floating noodles, and our crew stays with you the entire time—this is not a drop-off tour. You can relax on the boat whenever you like while still enjoying everything Shell Key has to offer.
Small-Group Dolphin Cruises with Local Captains
Island Ferry specializes in small-group dolphin cruises, with a maximum of six passengers per boat. This allows for a more personal, comfortable, and flexible experience compared to large commercial tour boats.
Our experienced local captains know where dolphins are most commonly found and provide light narration about the area’s wildlife and waterways while keeping the atmosphere relaxed and enjoyable.
A Safe, Comfortable, and Relaxed Experience
Safety and comfort are a top priority on every dolphin cruise. While guests snorkel or swim, the Island Ferry crew remains onboard keeping watch. Our boats offer shaded seating, calm rides, and plenty of space to relax between activities.
Food and drinks are welcome onboard—BYOB is encouraged. We provide coolers with ice so you can enjoy your favorite snacks and beverages throughout the tour.
Perfect for Families, Couples, and Visitors
Our St. Pete dolphin cruises are ideal for families, couples, and visitors looking for a laid-back, memorable way to experience Florida’s coast. Whether you’re traveling with kids, celebrating a special occasion, or simply want to see dolphins in their natural habitat, this tour offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
PLEASE NOTE: We have 4 vessels. If you are travelling with another group, please be sure to book your reservation under the same name if you expect to travel on the same boat with another group who as also booked this tour. Otherwise we cannot guarantee that you will travel together on the same boat.
Book Your St. Pete Dolphin Cruise Today
Availability is limited due to our small-group format. Book in advance to secure your spot on one of the most popular dolphin cruises in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Dolphin Cruise Details
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Tour Type: Dolphin watching & Shell Key snorkeling cruise
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Price: $64 per person
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Tickets: Available online or by phone.
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Duration: 2 hours
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Group Size: Small groups (up to 6 passengers)
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Departs From: Tierra Verde Marina Resort in St. Pete
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Snorkel Gear: Included
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Availability: Year-round dolphin sightings, 7 days a week.
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Parking: Free parking at the Tierra Verde Marina
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Cancellations: No refunds for cancellations less than 48 hours before your scheduled departure. No refunds for "no shows". We give FULL refunds if Island Ferry cancels for inclement weather.
Visit our main site Island Ferry of St Pete
Visit our Shell Key Tours site
TOUR CALENDAR
Frequently Asked Questions – Dolphin Cruises in St. Pete
Do you really see dolphins on the cruise?
Yes. Bottlenose dolphins live year-round in the St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay area. While dolphins are wild animals and sightings can never be guaranteed, they are seen on the vast majority of our cruises. Dolphins often swim alongside the boat, surface nearby, and display natural behaviors such as feeding and traveling.
Are the dolphins wild or trained?
All dolphins seen on our cruises are completely wild. We do not interact with, feed, or train dolphins in any way. Our tours focus on respectful observation in their natural environment.
How long is the dolphin cruise?
Most dolphin cruises last approximately 90 minutes. This allows ample time to explore multiple dolphin habitats, observe wildlife, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
What time of year is best to see dolphins in St. Pete?
Dolphins are present year-round in St. Pete. Sightings occur in every season, including winter. Dolphin activity is influenced more by tides, fish movement, and water conditions than by time of year.
How many passengers are on each dolphin cruise?
Our dolphin cruises are intentionally kept small, with a limited number of passengers per vessel. Small group sizes allow for a quieter, more personal experience, better visibility, and less disturbance to wildlife compared to large commercial tour boats.
Why choose a small-group dolphin cruise?
Small-group cruises provide a more relaxed and immersive experience. With fewer passengers, guests have more space, easier movement around the boat, clearer views of dolphins, and more opportunities to ask questions and interact with the captain.
Is the dolphin cruise safe for children?
Yes. Dolphin cruises are family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages. Life jackets are provided, and our captains prioritize safety, comfort, and smooth navigation throughout the tour.
Will we see other wildlife besides dolphins?
Often, yes. In addition to dolphins, guests may see manatees (seasonally), rays, fish, pelicans, ospreys, herons, and other shorebirds. Wildlife sightings vary depending on conditions and season.
What should I bring on a dolphin cruise?
We recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a camera or phone for photos. Drinks and snacks are welcome onboard. Comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather is advised.
Do dolphin cruises run in cooler or winter weather?
Yes. Dolphin cruises operate year-round, including during cooler months. Dolphins remain active in colder water, and winter often brings calmer waterways and fewer boats, which can create excellent wildlife viewing conditions.
Where does the dolphin cruise depart from?
Dolphin cruises typically depart from the Tierra Verde and St. Pete Beach area. Exact departure details, including directions and parking information, are provided after booking.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety is our top priority. If weather or water conditions are unsafe, tours may be delayed, rescheduled, or canceled. Guests are notified in advance whenever possible and given flexible options.