FAQs | Passage Key Dolphin Tours

What happens if the weather is bad?
We want you to have the best experience possible. If the weather isn’t safe or ideal, we offer flexible rescheduling or a full refund. Our captain monitors conditions daily to ensure you’re on the water at the perfect time for a smooth adventure.
What does “private tour” mean?
This means your group will have the entire boat to yourselves—no sharing with strangers! Your experience is completely customized to your interests, whether you want to focus on wildlife watching, sightseeing, or simply relaxing on the water.
I have a child under 3—do they count toward the 6-person limit?
Yes. Every passenger, regardless of age, counts toward the 6-person limit. Even an infant is considered a passenger under Coast Guard regulations.
I have a group of 7. Can we just pay for an extra person?
Due to Coast Guard regulations, our boat is strictly limited to 6 passengers per trip. If you have a larger group, please contact us to discuss possible accommodations.
Is this tour safe for kids and older adults?
Absolutely! Our boat is stable, comfortable, and designed for all ages—from toddlers to grandparents. We provide life jackets in all sizes, and our experienced captain ensures a smooth, enjoyable ride with no rough waters.
Can you handle large groups?
Yes, we can add a second boat to accommodate groups up to 12. Contact us for details.
What if we don’t see dolphins or manatees?
While nature is unpredictable, we have an over 95% success rate in spotting dolphins and manatees. Our expert captain knows exactly where to go for the best chance of encounters, and we’ll do everything we can to ensure an unforgettable experience!
I get seasick easily—will this be a problem?
Unlike large tour boats, our private charter glides smoothly over calm waters, minimizing motion sickness. If you're prone to seasickness, we recommend booking a morning tour when the waters are calmest and sitting in the open-air shaded area for fresh air. Many guests report no issues at all.
Can we bring our own cooler and adult beverages?
Absolutely! You’re welcome to bring your own snacks, drinks, and adult beverages to enjoy during the trip. We just ask that you avoid red wine or anything that may stain the boat’s carpet or seats.
What should we bring?
We recommend bringing:

Polarized sunglasses (for better wildlife spotting)
Non-spray sunscreen (to keep the boat safe)
Water shoes & towels (especially if you plan to explore)
Food & drinks (or a small cooler)
A hat & light jacket (for sun protection or cooler weather)
A camera or phone (for capturing incredible moments!)
Your excitement!
Can we visit multiple islands and sandbars?
Yes! If you book a 6- or 8-hour tour, you’ll have plenty of time to explore Egmont Key, Passage Key, and Jewfish Key—each offering something unique. From snorkeling historic ruins to collecting shells on pristine beaches or swimming in crystal-clear sandbars, you get to choose your own adventure!
What’s the difference between the 4, 6, and 8-hour tours?
The main difference in the customizable tours is how much time you have to explore!

4 hours: A great half-day option! You’ll have time to see dolphins & manatees, visit a sandbar (like Passage Key), and enjoy some snorkeling or shell hunting. Or if Egmont Key is the only place you'd liek to visit, you can do this in 4 hours!

6 hours: A bit more time means you can visit Egmont Key & Passage Key, spend longer at each stop, and explore multiple sandbars or snorkeling spots.

8 hours: The ultimate adventure! You’ll have time to island-hop between Egmont, Passage, and Jewfish Key, snorkel at multiple locations, and enjoy a full day of wildlife, sightseeing, and relaxation.

No matter which option you choose, your trip is completely customized to what you want to do!