local watersports
Swim with the Dolphins Experience Shell Island wildlife and unforgettable adventures with Blue Dolphin Tours by Tess Farmer F or those seeking an unforgettable aquatic adventure, Blue Dolphin Tours offers a unique opportunity ages, with children encouraged to participate and explore.
"Whether you’re looking to introduce young ones to the wonders of the sea or enjoy a fun day on the water with loved ones, we take pride in creating an environment that’s welcoming and inclusive," added Captain Guy. Blue Dolphin Tours also offers additional options for guests who want to extend their water adventures. They provide pontoon and Boston Whaler boat rentals, allowing guests to explore the waters at their own pace. For those looking to experience the Gulf's famous sunsets, a chartered sunset tour is the perfect way to unwind and take in the breathtaking views as the sun dips
to swim and snorkel with Panama City’s resident pod of wild bottlenose dolphins and other marine life in their natural habitat. These wild dolphins are known for their playful nature and curious demeanor and Blue Dolphin Tours provides an intimate, environmentally-respectful way to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. With over 40 years in business, Blue Dolphin has become the area’s premier tour provider, offering an exclusive, personalized experience that allows you to explore the waters of Shell Island, St. Andrews Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
Blue Dolphin Tours has several size boats in its fleet to accommodate various size groups.
spotted while snorkeling through the shallow waters around Shell Island, where the tour takes visitors to discover some of the area’s most beautiful and pristine spots. For those who enjoy beachcombing, Shell Island is a treasure trove of natural wonders, including an abundance of shells, sand dollars and other marine debris washed ashore by the gentle waves. The experience is perfect for families, as kids and adults can enjoy searching for these beautiful ocean treasures.
below the horizon.
Unlike larger tour companies that carry as many as 150 passengers on their boats, Blue Dolphin keeps it small and personal. Their boats carry only six passengers (children welcome), ensuring an intimate, private experience on the water. This smaller group size allows Blue Dolphin's knowledgeable captains to focus on providing guests with a more meaningful connection to nature. As Captain Guy, one of the experienced guides, explains, “We can have you in the water with your
snorkel gear on quickly and without all the splashing and disruptions that large groups create, often frightening the dolphins away.” This careful attention to the dolphins' comfort means guests have a better chance of interacting with them in a calm and respectful environment, creating a once-in- a-lifetime experience for everyone aboard. For larger parties, Blue Dolphin has
Whether you're part of an intimate family outing or a larger group, the team at Blue Dolphin ensures every guest can enjoy the magic of swimming with dolphins in a way that respects the animals’ natural behaviors and environment.
Blue Dolphin Tours brings guests out to Shell Island, a treasure trove of natural wonders and an abundance of shells, sand dollars and more.
At the helm of Blue Dolphin Tours is a local resident who is not only passionate about the ocean and its wildlife, but also dedicated to giving back to the community at home and abroad. The owner of Blue Dolphin is an active participant in the non-profit organization Global Effect, which aims to bring sustainable transformation to impoverished communities around the world. From swimming with wild dolphins in their natural habitat to exploring the marine life of Shell Island, this small, family-owned company provides an unforgettable way to connect with the Gulf’s wildlife while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
five identical boats for group tours, as well as two new large family cruisers that can accommodate up to 17 passengers per boat. Whether you're part of an intimate family outing or a larger group, the team at Blue Dolphin ensures every guest can enjoy the magic of swimming with dolphins in a way that respects the animals’ natural behaviors and environment. Blue Dolphin Tours isn’t just about dolphins— though they certainly take center stage. The tours also provide ample opportunities to explore the underwater world of Panama City Beach's coastal waters, home to sea turtles, stingrays, seahorses and starfish. These captivating marine creatures can often be
The relaxed atmosphere of the smaller boat size and the expertise of Blue Dolphin’s captains makes this an ideal family activity. The captains are not only experts in finding the dolphins, but are also well-versed in keeping the whole family engaged with educational tidbits about the local wildlife. The opportunity to get in the water and snorkel with the dolphins is a safe, accessible experience for all
Blue Dolphin Boat Tours Call 850-236-FINS for same day reservations Book online at bluedolphintour.com and shellislandboatrentals.com
20 | THE THIRTY-A REVIEW | MAY/JUNE 2025
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