Last Updated on August 16, 2024
Welcome to Clearwater Beach, a coastal paradise on the Gulf of Mexico, where you’ll find pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters teeming with wildlife, including the beloved bottlenose dolphins.
So, it’s really no surprise that among the most beloved attractions are the Clearwater Dolphin Tours, where visitors can witness the playful bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top-rated dolphin exploration tours and private tours in Clearwater, Florida, that offer a great time for the whole family.
Don’t Have Time To Read The Full Article? Book The Little Toot Dolphin Adventure At Clearwater Beach with a 5⭐️rating
5 Best Clearwater Dolphin Tours!
Photo Credit- Little Toot Dolphin Adventures
Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Length: 1 Hr & 15 Mins Check Rates Here
Step aboard the Little Toot, a charming tugboat-style boat that creates a large wake—the perfect playground for dolphins to jump and play.
As Clearwater Beach’s best outdoor activity, you can get an up-close look at abundant wildlife, wild bottlenose dolphins, and even sea turtles around Clearwater Harbor.
The wild dolphins love to interact with the boat’s wake, showcasing their acrobatic skills and leaving spectators in awe.
Once aboard, settle into your preferred seat, whether it’s in the shade or sun, and enjoy the lively commentary provided by your captain.
They will share fascinating information and interesting facts about the dolphins and the Gulf Coast, making the journey not just entertaining but also educational.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“The best day ever the dolphins jumping behind the boat was amazing I have awesome videos. The captain and his crew were funny. I highly recommend any who visits Clearwater Beach to take a ride on the Little Toot.“
Linda B ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Encounters with Dolphins
Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Length: 1.5 Hours Check Rates Here
The Gulf of Mexico is teeming with dolphin encounters, but the Clearwater Encounters with Dolphins Tour takes your experience to a whole new level.
Throughout the tour guide, your knowledgeable captain will provide engaging commentary about the surrounding area, enhancing your understanding of marine life and their habitat.
Every trip includes a stop at Compass Island, a hidden gem in the Gulf.
Here, you can indulge in a variety of activities.
Collect beautiful seashells scattered along the shore, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, or use the snorkeling gear provided and delve into the underwater world, marveling at the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.
One of the best Clearwater dolphin tours, this Encounters with Dolphins adventure is a family-friendly excursion that offers something for everyone!
The Gulf of Mexico is teeming with dolphin encounters, but the Clearwater Encounters with Dolphins Tour takes your experience to a whole new level.
Throughout the tour guide, your knowledgeable captain will provide engaging commentary about the surrounding area, enhancing your understanding of marine life and their habitat.
Every trip includes a stop at Compass Island, a hidden gem in the Gulf.
Here, you can indulge in a variety of activities.
Collect beautiful seashells scattered along the shore, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, or use the snorkeling gear provided and delve into the underwater world, marveling at the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.
One of the best Clearwater dolphin tours, this Encounters with Dolphins adventure is a family-friendly excursion that offers something for everyone!
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“Not only was the trip beautiful and fun, the crew was amazing. Jessica was engaging and funny, and they went out of their way to make sure we had an amazing time. 10 out of 10, definitely recommend!!!”
Britanny S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Schooner Clearwater
Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Length: 2 Hours Check Rates Here
Hop on board the Schooner Clearwater for a 2-hour cruise in Clearwater Beach and the Tampa Bay area!
One of the highlights of the experience is the chance to see Clearwater Beach from the beautiful emerald water.
As the schooner navigates through Clearwater Pass, situated between the barrier islands of Sand Key and Clearwater Beach, you’ll get a breathtaking offshore view of the picturesque coastline.
With the engine shut down once outside the pass, the schooner operates solely under sail power, allowing for a truly authentic sailing experience.
Throughout the cruise, keep your eyes peeled for fascinating wildlife sightings.
Dolphins and manatees often make appearances, adding to the excitement and natural wonders of the boat ride.
And to keep you refreshed, the tour includes complimentary chilled sparkling water, ensuring a cool and pleasant sailing experience.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“Was a wonderful experience. Captain Mark and crew were so nice and make it a special day. Can’t wait to visit again and take our whole family.”
Liudmila L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Real Florida Adventures
Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Length: 12 Hours Check Rates Here
This Clearwater Beach Dolphin Tour is a Speedboat Adventure with Lunch and transport from Orlando and offers an exciting and enchanting experience on the Sea Screamer, the world’s largest speedboat!
Departing from the Clearwater Beach Marina, this one-hour tour takes you on a thrilling ride through the waves, with dolphins often playing in the boat’s wake.
After the great fun adventure, you can spend the rest of the day at Clearwater Beach, known as “America’s Beach,” consistently voted the number one beach in the country.
Families love the gentle slope and mild waves, perfect for children of all ages.
The Beach Walk promenade offers an array of shops, restaurants, and bars, and Pier 60 is a popular spot for iconic Clearwater Beach photographs.
Lunch is included at one of the beachfront eateries, allowing you to refuel and relax after an exciting day on the water.
This tour promises a memorable experience with dolphins, beautiful coastal scenery, and the charm of Clearwater Beach.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“The dolphins, the sea screamer, the lunch at Crabby’s and Dave was so informative and fun! My family loved the clear water beach!”
Sylvia B ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- A Boat Day
Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Length: 4 Hours Check Rates Here
Experience the best of Florida’s coast with a Half-Day Private Boating on Tahoe Funship at Clearwater Beach.
This private dolphin exploration tour offers the perfect opportunity to explore the best attractions of Florida’s Clearwater Bay on your own private boat, charted for a few hours or a full day, with a captain ready to cater to your interests.
As you sail on the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, especially playful dolphins, who often make appearances along the way.
The captain will take you north of Clearwater Beach to visit beautiful barrier islands such as Caladesi Island, Honeymoon Island, and Three Rooker Island.
Caladesi Island State Park, accessible only by boat, will enchant you with its untouched beauty and pristine beaches.
Honeymoon Island State Park offers over four miles of stunning coastline and a three-mile trail through a virgin slash pine forest, making it a nature lover’s paradise.
Throughout your boat day, you can make stops to swim, snorkel, explore, or simply bask in the scenic beauty of the islands.
For afternoon and evening tours, don’t miss the chance to catch a breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
Your boat day includes complimentary bottled water, water floats, and mesh shell bags.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“Captain Marcos was fabulous! He shared lots of interesting boating, Clearwater and sea facts. He was a wealth of knowledge and very accommodating… He shared his favorite spots which were great! Highly highly recommend this tour company and captain!!”
Jami P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Clearwater Florida Dolphin Tours- FAQs
What Is The Best Time To See Dolphins In Clearwater Florida?
The best and safest time of day to see dolphins in Clearwater, Florida, is typically during the early morning or late afternoon.
Dolphins are more active during these times, and the lighting conditions are ideal for spotting them in the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
What Time Of Day Is Best For A Clearwater Dolphin Tour?
The best time of day for a dolphin cruise is typically in the early morning or late afternoon.
Dolphins are more active during these times, and the water is often calmer, providing a better environment for spotting and observing them.
What Time Of The Year Is Best For Dolphin Watching?
The best time to see dolphins in Clearwater, Florida, is typically during the warmer months, from spring to early fall.
Dolphins are more active in the waters when the weather is warmer, and they are often seen playing and feeding in the Gulf of Mexico during this time.
Specifically, the months of April through October tend to offer higher chances of dolphin sightings.
The Wrap-Up: Dolphin Tours In Clearwater, Florida
Come aboard these Clearwater Dolphin Tours for a fun-filled dolphin exploration cruise in the beautiful Gulf of Mexico.
See wild dolphins, enjoy fascinating facts, and witness breathtaking sunsets.
It’s a perfect family-friendly activity for a birthday party or a bachelorette party, with guaranteed dolphin sightings at great value.
Book now for a great experience on the water in search of bottlenose dolphins!
Additional Clearwater Beach Travel Blogs
Me on a recent trip to Clearwater Beach having lunch at Jimmy Hula’s, a block from the beach.
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