Last Updated on March 31, 2024
Planning a summer vacation to the Sunshine State and looking for the best dolphin tours in Naples FL? You’re in luck!
The upscale beach town is one of the best places to spot the playful and intelligent Atlantic bottlenose dolphin!
In fact, Naples and the nearby Marco Island are home to some of the largest concentrations of dolphins in Southwest Florida.
The convergence of the rivers of Marco Island and the Gulf of Mexico brings in schools of dolphins, allowing them to thrive.
Whether you’re just passing through on a day trip from Miami, or you’re planning a longer-term beach vacation, experiencing a Naples dolphin tour is a must.
Below are some of the best dolphin tours you can take while visiting Naples, FL. Enjoy these unforgettable wildlife tours featuring one of the world’s favorite mammals: bottlenose dolphins!
Best Dolphin Tours In Naples FL!
Photo Credit- Pure Florida – Naples
This tour is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with over 570 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 1.5 Hours
During this relaxing 1.5-hour sightseeing sail, you’ll discover the best of Naples’ diverse marine life.
Just off the town’s famous 5th Ave South, you’ll board the iconic Double Sunshine boat to cruise down the Gordon River before heading out to sea.
You’ll pass stunning mansions, take a glimpse of Keewaydin Island, and likely spot diverse wildlife including birds, fish, manatees (if you’re lucky), and of course, the bottlenose dolphin!
Your knowledgeable tour guide will share commentary about local celebrity real estate in Port Royal, as well as historical buildings, wildlife, and the city’s natural surroundings.
During the tour, snacks and refreshments are available for purchase, and after the tour, you will have plenty of time to shop or eat at more than three dozen shops and restaurants at Tin City Waterfront Shops.
It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy Naples from a unique perspective!
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“We are so glad we decided to do this boat tour. From beginning to end, it was very professional, clean, well attended, and the crew very personable. We of course had a beautiful day out on the water which made it perfect. The information shared was fun and informative. We would definitely recommend others do it as well.”
Rose_G ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Pure Florida – Naples
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 285 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 1.5 Hours
This stunning cruise also includes a sail on the iconic Double Sunshine ship but at golden hour!
You’ll board your boat at Tin City Shops on 5th Avenue South, and take off on the Gordon River towards the Gulf of Mexico.
Along the way, you’ll see Port Royal’s millionaire row where some of Florida’s wealthiest “snowbirds” live.
You’ll also take in Naple’s stunning coastline and natural surroundings as you listen to expert commentary from your guide.
After the light sightseeing, you’ll head to Keewaydin Island to take in the amazing beauty of a southwest Florida sunset from the Gulf of Mexico.
Species of wildlife prevalent in this area include sea birds, fish, manatees, and of course, dolphins!
This cruise is a laid-back and unique way to explore the region’s wildlife as well as take in views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Southwest Florida coastline.
Restrooms are available on board, as well as snacks and refreshments for purchase.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“We booked this for our friend’s 71st birthday during our girls trip. Would highly recommend it. The tour and sunset were amazing! All of the crew were amazing“
Tricia_S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Native Sun Charters
This company is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 23 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 4 Hours
This sail takes you through the waterways of Naples, and allows you to choose your destination: Port Royal, the Gulf of Mexico, or Keewaydin Island!
Along the way, you’ll have plenty of time to swim, shell, observe local wildlife, or simply soak up the sun from the boat.
After the cruise, you can indulge in an array of food and desserts from award-winning food boats that sell cocktails, local cuisine, and even ice cream.
Sailing itineraries can be customized to meet your interests and needs. This private tour is a great way to enjoy Naples’ wildlife and soft sand beaches away from the crowds and hassle of big group tours.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“Words describe our experience; awesome, wonderful, fabulous, and we highly recommend it. We saw lots of dolphins and the sunset was breathtaking!”
Joanne_D ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Get Up And Go Kayaking – Naples
This company is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 239 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 2.5 Hours
Did you know that one of the best Naples dolphin tours involves clear kayaking? Well, now you do!
Beginning in the scenic area of Wiggins Pass in Naples, you’ll head out to the Gulf of Mexico on this small group tour.
From the boat, you’ll take in amazing views of Barefoot Beach Preserve and Delnor-Wiggins State Park.
Here, you’ll kayak through mangroves, searching for local wildlife such as manatees, fish, birds, and dolphins.
Along the way, you’ll listen to expert commentary from your guide about the area’s ecosystem, and take photos to remember your experience. All necessary kayaking equipment is provided.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“The guided kayak tour was a wonderful experience. Rodney, our tour guide, was knowledgeable about the area and extremely helpful. It was a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon in Naples. Thank you for a fantastic time!”
Jennifer_C ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Thre Brothers Boards
This company is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 7 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 2 Hours
Paddle boarding is a must when visiting Naples, Florida. After all, it’s considered one of the most beautiful places in the U.S. to do it!
The striking blue and turquoise waters off the coast are brimming with numerous species of sea life and wildlife not found anywhere else!
On this relaxing tour, you will paddle through the pristine waters in search of dolphins, sea turtles, bald eagles, pelicans, osprey, conchs, fish, and even manatees in certain seasons.
In fact, Naples is one of the only places in the world where you can catch a glimpse of the West Indian Manatee!
This award-winning tour is one of the best Naples dolphin tours in the area, as it was recently featured on the Travel Channel.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“Mike was our tour guide, very knowledgeable and friendly. We booked our experience through Three Brothers and went to Fort Meyer. Love the experience.”
Cynthia_H ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dolphin Tours In Naples FL: Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Time For Dolphin Tours?
Your best chance of seeing the most playful, active dolphins are early in the morning during sunrise, and from 4 pm to sunset.
These times are when fewer boats are out on the water (early morning before people wake up and during the dinner hour).
During these times, many dolphins search for food in pods, meaning they are more active and communicative.
Dolphins are prevalent in the Southwest Florida region year-round due to warm water off the coast. However, the best time to see the highest concentration of dolphins is from late May to late August.
During this period of time, many female dolphins migrate to the waters off the coast of Florida for mating season.
Can You See Dolphins In Naples, Florida?
Absolutely! In fact, Naples and nearby Marco Island are known for having some of the best opportunities to view dolphins in all of Southwest Florida.
One of the many reasons for this is the convergence of the Marco Island rivers and the Gulf of Mexico.
Fish – specifically mullet – are prevalent in these waters, making for a safe and predator-free environment for dolphins to thrive.
What Time Of Day Is Best To See Dolphins In The Gulf?
It’s best to book a Naples dolphin tour when the waters are at their calmest and there are fewer boats out on the water.
Dolphins are very friendly and sociable creatures, so they are known to curiously scope out boats and seadoos from time to time.
However, when they feed in the morning and later in the afternoon, they prefer quieter, calmer waters.
Dolphin pods are most prevalent in the Gulf of Mexico from late spring to late summer, although they live in the waters off the coast year-round.
Regardless of when you take your Naples dolphin tour, be sure to bring your binoculars and a sense of adventure!
Dolphin Tours In Naples FL- Final Thoughts
Overall, dolphin tours in Naples, FL offer an enchanting combination of entertainment, education, and natural beauty.
Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, these tours provide a unique opportunity to connect with the captivating world of dolphins and immerse yourself in the wonders of the sea!
Have a great time on the water!
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Booking a last-minute trip to Naples?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended hotels and accommodations!
Top Hotels In Naples
Inn at Pelican Bay – (Top Rated Beach Nearby Hotel in Naples)
Drury Inn & Suites – (Budget Hotel In Fort Myers)
GreenLinks Golf Villas At Lely Resort– (A highly-rated resort in Naples)
Charter Club Resort Of Naples Bay– (Located In Historic Downtown)
Looking To Get Around In Naples?
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