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DOLPHIN CRUISE FROM ST PETE
SEMI-PRIVATE DOLPHIN CRUISES TO SHELL KEY
⭐ Top-rated Shell Key dolphin cruise • Small groups • Snorkel gear included • Boat stays with you the entire time
Join Island Ferry for a top-rated dolphin cruise in St. Pete, where wild dolphins are commonly seen swimming, playing, and riding alongside the boat in the calm waters of St Pete Beach. This small-group dolphin cruise to Shell Key also includes snorkeling and island time at one of Florida’s most pristine nature preserves, making it the perfect mix of wildlife, relaxation, and adventure.
See Wild Dolphins on a St. Pete Dolphin Cruise
Island Ferry’s dolphin cruise in St. Petersburg, Florida takes you through protected, shallow waters where dolphins are frequently active. These resident pods are seen year-round, often swimming close to the boat and putting on playful displays that delight guests of all ages.
In addition to dolphins, guests regularly spot manatees, stingrays, pelicans, ospreys, and other Florida marine wildlife, making this one of the most rewarding wildlife boat tours in Tampa Bay.
Dolphin Cruise to Shell Key Preserve
Every Island Ferry dolphin cruise includes time at Shell Key Preserve, an undeveloped and protected barrier island accessible only by boat. After dolphin watching, you’ll have time to snorkel, shell, and explore the island’s pristine shoreline, surrounded by clear water and thriving marine life.
Snorkelers often encounter small fish, rays, hermit crabs, conchs, and horseshoe crabs, while dolphins are frequently seen just offshore. This combination of dolphin watching and Shell Key snorkeling makes the tour a guest favorite.
A Small-Group Dolphin Cruise for Comfort and Safety
Island Ferry specializes in small-group, semi-private dolphin cruises, offering a more personal and relaxed experience than large commercial tour boats. Unlike drop-off services, our boat stays with you at Shell Key for the entire tour, allowing you to move between the island and the boat at your own pace.
Our boats feature shaded seating, and while guests are in the water, the Island Ferry crew remains on board providing constant supervision, giving families extra peace of mind.
What You’ll See on a Dolphin and Snorkeling Cruise
Each Shell Key dolphin cruise offers something different, but common highlights include:
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Wild bottlenose dolphins swimming and playing nearby
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Manatees during warmer months
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Rays gliding along the sandy bottom
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Pelicans, ospreys, and shore birds
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Seagrass beds and healthy marine ecosystems
Because dolphins live in Tampa Bay year-round, sightings are common in every season.
Perfect for Families, Couples, and Wildlife Lovers
Island Ferry’s St. Pete dolphin cruise is ideal for families with children, couples seeking a unique experience, and anyone who loves wildlife and the outdoors. Calm waters, small groups, and attentive crew members create a safe, enjoyable environment for all ages.
Whether you’re visiting St. Petersburg for the first time or returning to explore Shell Key again, this dolphin cruise is a must-do Gulf Coast experience.
Book Your Dolphin Cruise in St. Petersburg Today
Spots on our Shell Key dolphin cruises are limited due to small group sizes. Reserve your tour in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
Tour Details, Pricing, and Duration
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Duration: Approximately 2 hours
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Price: $64 per person (all ages)
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Group Size: Maximum of 6 passengers
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Departure Location: Tierra Verde Marina in St Pete
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Schedule: Daily departures (weather permitting)
What’s Included on Your Dolphin Cruise
Included with Your Tour
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Snorkel gear and floating noodles
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Shaded boat seating
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Ice-filled cooler onboard
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Free bottled water
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Free parking at the marina
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BYOB welcome
Guests are welcome to bring food and drinks to enjoy during the cruise.