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Two-Hour Dolphin & Manatee Adventure: A Private, Unforgettable Experience

A black and white drawing of a wave on a white background.
A group of people are sitting on a boat in the ocean.
A family is sitting on a boat in the water.

Overview

Escape the crowds and embark on a private, two-hour adventure where you’ll encounter wild dolphins and gentle manatees up close in their natural habitat. Departing from the scenic shores of Anna Maria Island, this exclusive tour takes you through hidden waterways and pristine coastal ecosystems, far from the tourist rush, offering a rare, intimate wildlife experience that few ever get to see.


Guided by your expert local captain, you’ll explore Palma Sola Bay, the Intracoastal Waterway, and other secluded wildlife hotspots, where dolphins leap beside the boat and manatees glide gracefully through crystal-clear waters. Along the way, you’ll spot soaring bald eagles, ospreys, and vibrant roseate spoonbills, making every moment a breathtaking photo opportunity.


Designed for families, couples, and small groups, this tour is fully customizable—whether you want to focus on wildlife spotting, photography, or simply soaking in the tranquility of the open water. Unlike crowded tour boats, this experience is all about you, your loved ones, and nature at its most magical.


Limited spots available—book now and experience Florida’s marine life like never before!

Highlights

Your Own Private Dolphin & Manatee Experience:  No crowds, no strangers—just your family, your friends, and a personal, VIP adventure. With space for up to six guests, you’ll have the entire boat to yourself, ensuring a stress-free, personalized tour designed around what you want to see and do.  


Dolphins & Manatees—Closer Than You Ever Imagined:  If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing wild dolphins leap beside your boat or gentle manatees glide through crystal-clear waters, this is your chance. No cages, no tanks—just real, breathtaking wildlife encounters in their natural habitat. 


A Scenic Escape From the Crowds: Leave the tourist-packed beaches behind and explore hidden waterways, pristine bays, and the untouched beauty of Florida’s coast. Glide through Palma Sola Bay, the Intracoastal Waterway, and secret wildlife hotspots, where nature feels untouched and every view is postcard-perfect. 


Your Own Wildlife Expert at the Helm: With a local captain who knows these waters inside and out, you’ll always be in the best spots at the best times. Learn fascinating facts about dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds, all while enjoying a smooth, effortless ride through paradise.

★★★★★

"We had some bad weather the morning of our tour, and I thought we’d have to cancel. But the company reached out ahead of time and offered us the option to reschedule for the next day. I really appreciated how flexible and accommodating they were. The next day was absolutely perfect—sunny, calm, and full of dolphins. A lot of tour companies don’t communicate well, but this one truly goes above and beyond to make sure you have the best experience." – David T.

★★★★★

"We have three kids (ages 3, 6, and 9), and I was nervous about whether this would be safe and keep them entertained. Not only was the boat incredibly stable and comfortable, but the captain made the whole experience fun and engaging for the kids. My youngest got to ‘drive’ the boat, and the older two were obsessed with watching dolphins jump in the wake. They’re still talking about it! This is 100% family-friendly and so much better than a crowded group tour." – Jessica R.  

★★★★★

"I was worried this would be like other tours where they say you might see dolphins, but you don’t actually see much. Not here! Within minutes, we saw a pod of dolphins swimming right next to the boat, and later we found manatees just chilling in the shallows. The captain knew exactly where to go, and it was hands down the most amazing experience of our trip!" – Lisa M.  

★★★★★

"Honestly, I debated whether this was worth the cost, but after going, I can confidently say it was the best money we spent on our vacation. It’s a private experience, completely tailored to your group—no strangers, no crowds. We saw tons of dolphins and manatees, got incredible photos, and learned so much from our guide. If you’re on the fence, do it. You won’t regret it!" – Brian C.

★★★★★

"I get motion sick really easily, so I was a little nervous about doing this. But the ride was so smooth—not once did I feel queasy! The captain made sure we stayed in calm waters, and sitting in the shaded area with fresh air made a huge difference. I’ve been on other boats where I felt miserable, but this was totally different. If you’re worried about seasickness, don’t be—this was one of the easiest, most relaxing boat rides I’ve ever taken." – Sarah D. 

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.

  • 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!  

  • 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!

  • 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.  

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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: $350 per private charter

Ages:  All ages welcome. Up to 6 passengers.

Duration:  2 hours