St Pete Boat Tours and Kayak Adventures

What makes Island Ferry of St Pete different from other boat tours in Florida?

We focus on smaller groups, in spacious 25ft pontoon boats. Besides providing a more personal and upscale experience, we create a more intimate, comfortable, and wildlife-focused experience compared to many other boat tours in Florida.

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What other wildlife might we see besides dolphins?

In addition to dolphins, guests may see manatees, rays, sea turtles, pelicans, and a variety of shorebirds depending on the season. The winter time we see the American white pelicans that migrate down from the Great Lakes region of North America. We also occasionally see Bald Eagles as well.  

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What is the refund policy if I need to cancel my boat reservation?

We require 48 hours notice for a full refund of your cancellation. But we know that things happen, and we can make exceptions for certain extenuating circumstances. 

 

What is the policy for weather cancellations?

Decisions on cancelling for weather is the sole discretion of Island Ferry. If we do cancel for weather, you are entitled to a full refund, or an option to rebook for a later date or time.

 

What time should I arrive for my boat tour?

It is *imperative* that you arrive 30 minutes before departure time for check-in, just as you would for air travel.

 

What if I am running late for my boat tour?

Please understand that our scheduled tours run back to back, and so we are unable to delay our boat departures. Please make every effort to arrive for the check-in 30min prior to departure. 

 

Is there a bathroom on the boat?

We have full facilities at our marina, but there are none on the vessels themselves and none at the islands.

 

Will I see dolphins on my boat tour?

Although dolphins are in our waters all year round, we can never make guarantees. Like the weather, dolphins can be unpredictable. Rest assured our captains will make every effort to find them. 

 

Will I see manatees on my boat tour?

Manatees are warm water creatures, so we will see them from April to November in general. 

 

Will I be required to wear a life jacket on the boat?

Only children ages 7 and under are required to wear a USCG Type II life jacket while the vessel is underway. We provide those at no charge.

 

Can I bring food and drinks?

Yes. The more the merrier. Adult beverages are also welcome and we provide a cooler with ice.

 

Can I bring a cooler?

We have a cooler with ice on all our boats, and those are at your disposal. Still, if you would like to bring your own modest sized cooler that is just fine. 

 

Is there a possibility I will get sea sick?

The possibility is very remote, as we are not a high-seas experience. 

 

Can I smoke on the boat?

Please don't ask.

 

Where do the departures leave from?

All tours depart from the Tierra Verde Marina Resort near St Pete Beach, offering quick access to Shell Key and the sandbars on the Gulf.

 

Are there any other amenities at the marina?

Absolutely! The Tierra Verde Marina also offers The Island Grille restaurant which has a great menu and a pool ($7 wrist band). Also at our marina the Marriott Hotel has a rooftop bar open to the general public, called Vista At The Top, also offering a great menu and spectacular views.

 

Is free parking available?

Yes, our marina offers free parking and there is plenty of parking. 

 

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, especially for weekends, holidays, and private charters — spots are limited per boat and popular dates fill early.

Booking a few days in advance is recommended, though same-day availability sometimes exists — call or text to check.

 

What should I wear for the tour?

Swimwear, sun-safe clothing, and reef-safe sunscreen are recommended for all tours. A hat and light coverup are worth bringing for time in the sun between stops.

 

Do you pick up from hotels?

No — all tours depart directly from Tierra Verde Marina Resort at 198 Madonna Blvd, Tierra Verde, FL. Free parking is available on-site.

 

Do you offer group rates?

We only accommodate small groups. For groups of 7 to 10, our Premium Demise Charter (Bareboat) accommodates groups up to 10ppl on one vessel. For other tour types, multiple boats can run together for bigger groups — call or text to arrange pricing and availability.

 

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs aren't permitted on Shell Key Preserve due to county regulations — **legitimate assistance** dogs are the only exception. Emotional support animals do not qualify. On private charters, small dogs may be allowed onboard the boat itself, but are never permitted on any island, no exceptions.

 

Can I pay with cash?

Cash payment can be arranged, but every reservation must be secured with a valid credit card at the time of booking.

 

Are the tours wheelchair accessible?

The marina itself is wheelchair-friendly, but our boats are not, particularly when it comes to boarding. If you're not able to board with some mobility on your own, our tours unfortunately aren't a good fit.

 

Can I reschedule my tour once I book?

Yes — rescheduling is subject to the same 48-hour notice as is our cancellation policy. Requests made within 48 hours of departure can't be guaranteed a new date.