A black and white image of a wave on a white background.

Private Dolphin & Sunset Cruise

A black and white drawing of a wave on a white background.
People relaxing on a boat at sunset
The sun setting over the ocean
People relaxing on a boat at sunset
People relaxing on a boat at sunset

Overview

Picture this: a gentle ocean breeze, the warm glow of the setting sun reflecting off the water, and the laughter of your loved ones as dolphins leap playfully alongside your boat. Our private 2-hour sunset cruise is more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to slow down, reconnect, and experience the magic of Anna Maria Island like never before.


Whether you're a family looking to create lifelong memories or a couple in search of a romantic escape, this tour is designed with comfort, exclusivity, and breathtaking beauty in mind. With a spacious, private boat, you’ll have the freedom to soak in the scenery without crowds or distractions—just your group, the water, and an awe-inspiring sunset.


Limited Availability – Book Your Sunset Adventure Today

Our sunset cruises book up fast, especially during peak season. Arrive one hour early to ensure a smooth departure, and let us handle the rest!


Pick-Up Location:

Coquina South Boat Ramp

1465 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Highlights

Up-Close Dolphin Encounters: Watch playful dolphins swim alongside your boat, often leaping in the wake as if putting on a private show just for you. These magical moments happen often, making for unforgettable photos and even better memories.


Breathtaking Sunset Views: Experience the Gulf’s most stunning show as the sky transforms into shades of gold, pink, and deep orange. With an unobstructed view from the water, every sunset feels like a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.


Private & Relaxing Experience: No crowds, no rush—just you and your group enjoying a peaceful evening on the water. With plenty of space to unwind, complimentary bottled water, and an onboard restroom, all you have to do is sit back and take it all in.


Local Wildlife & Island Stories: Your captain isn’t just a guide—he’s a storyteller, sharing fascinating insights about the area’s marine life, history, and hidden gems. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this beautiful part of Florida.

★★★★★

"My family and I had a lovely Dolphin & Sunset Cruise with Captain Bruce. We witnessed how mother dolphins teach their little ones how to fish, viewed an eagle feeding in a nest (on a private, pretty cove), and then the sunset did not disappoint! Don’t hesitate to book this tour. I plan to try some of his other offerings!"

★★★★★

"We made a last-minute decision to charter a boat for a dolphin sunset tour. We could not have made a better decision! Not only did we see dozens of dolphins up close, but we also had an amazing, unobstructed view of a breathtaking sunset. We highly recommend it and intend to take the kids with us next time and go snorkeling!"

★★★★★

"We booked the cruise and ‘Bruce’ was the ultimate guide! We were able to see dolphins, key landmarks, got out of the boat on a sandbar, and saw more marine life than we thought we would! Beautiful sunset too! Packed everything in on our tour! I would definitely recommend!"

★★★★★

"Captain Bruce was amazing... and we had the best 2-hour dolphin sunset cruise! He took us all over and made sure my 5-year-old daughter saw the dolphins. He also educated us about the island and the history... wonderful experience! We will come back to see Captain Bruce again when we visit Anna Maria next year!"

★★★★★

"My husband and I celebrated our 15-year wedding anniversary with some friends and took a sunset cruise with Captain Bruce, and it was an amazing time. He’s knowledgeable about the island and the areas he took us to. The boat is beautiful, and best of all, I didn’t get seasick as I usually do. It’s a must-cruise, people!!"

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What does “private tour” mean?

    A private tour means your group has the entire boat to yourselves—no sharing with strangers! Captain Bruce tailors the experience to your interests, whether that’s more time watching dolphins, exploring hidden sandbars, or simply relaxing on the water at your own pace.

  • ill we definitely see dolphins or manatees?

    While nature is unpredictable, we have an over 95% success rate in spotting dolphins, and manatees are frequently seen as well. Captain Bruce knows exactly where to go for the best chance of encounters, so while we can’t guarantee it, we’ll do everything we can to create an unforgettable wildlife experience.

  • Can we bring our own cooler and adult beverages?

    Yes! You’re welcome to bring snacks, drinks, and even adult beverages to enjoy during your cruise. We just ask that you avoid red wine or anything that could stain the boat’s carpet or seats.

  • What should we bring?

    To make the most of your tour, we recommend bringing:

    ✔️ Polarized sunglasses (to reduce glare and spot wildlife more easily)

    ✔️ Non-spray sunscreen (to keep the boat clean and safe)

    ✔️ Water shoes & towels (especially if you plan to get in the water)

    ✔️ Food & drinks (a small cooler is fine!)

    ✔️ A hat & light jacket (for sun protection or cooler evening breezes)

    ✔️ A camera or phone (you won’t want to miss the photo-worthy moments!)

    ✔️ Your sense of adventure!

  • 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—no exceptions. If you have a larger group, please contact us to explore alternative options.

  • 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 under Coast Guard regulations—even infants.

  • Is this tour safe for kids and older adults?

    Absolutely! Our boat is stable, comfortable, and designed for all ages—from toddlers to grandparents. There’s plenty of shaded seating, an onboard restroom, and life jackets in all sizes to keep everyone safe and at ease. We also visit beautiful sandbars with shallow, clear water, perfect for those who want to experience the magic of the ocean without snorkeling. Whether you’re wading in the water, spotting marine life from the boat, or just enjoying the view, there’s something for everyone to love!

  • What happens if the weather is bad?

    Let’s be honest—Captain Bruce isn’t a fan of bad weather either! If the conditions aren’t safe or enjoyable, we won’t head out. In the event of an operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you’ll receive a full refund or credit—no hassle, no worries. We’ll do our best to reschedule if you’d like, but if Mother Nature isn’t cooperating, we’ve got you covered!

  • I get seasick easily—will this be a problem?

    We totally get it—no one wants to spend their dolphin adventure feeling queasy! The good news? We don’t head out into the open ocean. Our route stays within the calm, protected waters of the intercoastal waterway, where the ride is smooth and easy. Plus, if the waves are acting up, we’re not heading out either—our captain prefers a relaxing cruise over a bumpy ride! If you’re still a little unsure, the shaded open-air seating and fresh sea breeze help most guests feel completely comfortable. Many of our visitors who worry about seasickness end up having no issues at all!

Price: $375 per private charter

Ages:  All ages welcome. Up to 6 passengers.

Duration:  2 hours