Dolphin Snorkeling Cruise

Half-day excursions among dolphins and Egmont Key

Dolphin Snorkeling Cruise operates half-day boat excursions departing from Gulfport, Florida, serving the entire Tampa Bay area. The company presents itself as the oldest and largest snorkeling and dolphin watching tour company at Egmont Key, a claim that comes from its own description. Its vessels sail seven days a week and, according to the site, reservations are required due to demand.

Four activities in a single trip

The tour combines dolphin watching, snorkeling, shelling, and island exploration. The company emphasizes that its boats are single-hull, since, according to its explanation, dolphins only jump and play with this type of vessel. During the cruise, the boat's wake is actively sought so the animals come close to swim and jump.

Snorkeling in the waters of Egmont Key

The dive takes place in waters described as clear, calm, and shallow, conditions the company considers suitable for beginners and for people of all ages and experience levels. The vessels have water-level entry and submerged ladders for returning to the deck. All snorkelers are supervised in the water and may come and go from the boat freely while at the dive site. The company provides masks and snorkels at no additional cost, although it also allows bringing your own equipment.

Exploring Egmont Key State Park

Disembarkation takes place at Egmont Key State Park, an island accessible only by boat. The program includes touring a lighthouse over 150 years old, remains of fortifications, gun batteries, jails, and armories linked to Spanish-American history, as well as trails that cross wildlife refuge areas and palm-lined beaches. On the shore, you can collect prehistoric shark teeth and shells of shapes and sizes typical of Florida's Gulf coast.

Fleet, crew, and service conditions

The company has four single-hull vessels that make two daily departures with a capacity of 35 people each. The captains and crew are Coast Guard certified and remain at the landing site throughout the visit to the island. The boats include a bathroom on board, which the company describes as the only one available on the island. The service is presented as family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages. No pets, including service animals, are allowed on the island.

Rates and reservations

The site's catalog shows a rate of $60 for adults, $45 for children ages 2 to 12, and free admission for children under 1, with taxes included. Parking is free at all locations and tips for the captain and mate are accepted. Private charters are priced upon request. Departure is from 4630 29th Ave S, Gulfport, FL 33711, and the company indicates you can call to inquire about other dock locations.

Surroundings and nearby points of interest

The Gulfport location allows, according to the company, the cruise to include views of Egmont Key, Fort Dade, Tropicana Field, The Don Cesar, The Tradewinds Resort, and The Bilmar Beach Resort, among other points. Nearby are John's Pass Village and its boardwalk, the historic Fort Desoto Park, and the Clearwater Aquarium, as well as the Gulf beaches and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Location and contact

4630 29th Ave S, Gulfport, FL 33711 · Phone: 727-345-4500 · Email: dolphinsnorkelingcruise@gmail.com · Hours: Cruises seven days a week; reservations required.