Panama City Beach Boat Tours with Flippin’ Awesome Adventures are all about unforgettable time on the water, up-close wildlife encounters, and learning something cool along the way. Our boat tours in Panama City Beach include dolphin cruises, snorkeling trips, shelling adventures, and laid-back wildlife excursions through the beautiful waters of St. Andrews Bay and Shell Island. Flippin’ Awesome Adventures is owned by a local marine biologist who brings the perfect mix of fun, education, and local knowledge to each trip. These Panama City boat tours are designed for families, couples, adventure travelers, and curious explorers who want more than just a boat ride. You get hands-on experiences, real marine science, and memories that last long after the boat docks.
At Flippin’ Awesome Adventures, we’re a locally owned and operated business dedicated to providing the best Panama City Beach dolphin tour experience. Our dolphin tours are family-friendly, fun, and perfect for kids of all ages. With Coast Guard-certified safety, a 5-star rating on Google and TripAdvisor, and an easy reservation process, we make booking your unforgettable dolphin adventure stress-free. Let us help you create memories that last a lifetime!
Dolphins, snorkeling, shelling, and wildlife encounters all in one unforgettable cruise.
Relax and enjoy the ride while we handle everything on the water.
Your trip, your vibe, your perfect day on the water.
Once we’re out on the water, the real fun begins. With Captain Chris at the helm, you’ll hook into local shark species and get hands-on with the tagging process. After safely bringing a shark alongside the boat, you’ll help identify its species, measure it, determine its sex, and record an estimated age—all key data points that support ongoing research in the Gulf of Mexico.
Every trip is a little different depending on the conditions and the sharks we encounter, but each one adds valuable insight to long-term conservation projects. And yes—every group gets the honor of naming their shark before it’s released back into the wild (bonus points for creativity). You’ll also walk away with brag-worthy photos, some serious marine science cred, and a pretty great story to tell.
No. Dolphins are wild animals protected by federal law. While dolphins frequently swim near the boat and often put on an incredible show, swimming with or touching dolphins is not allowed. Our Panama City Beach boat tours focus on respectful wildlife observation that keeps both guests and dolphins safe.
The 3 hour boat tour is our most popular option and offers the best value among our Panama City Beach boat tours. This trip provides more time for dolphin watching, wildlife sightings, snorkeling, and exploring Shell Island without feeling rushed. The extra time allows flexibility based on conditions, which often means better dolphin encounters and more time in the water. If you want to see and do more, the 3 hour tour is the top choice.
All boat tours in Panama City Beach include a licensed captain, life jackets for adults and children, masks, and snorkeling gear. You will also receive guidance and marine education throughout the tour from an experienced local captain.
Dolphin sightings often begin shortly after leaving the dock. Depending on the day, guests may also see rays, sharks, sea turtles, tropical fish, birds, and other marine life native to the area. Wildlife sightings vary, but dolphins live here year round and are commonly seen on our tours.
We recommend bringing sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, a camera, snacks and drinks, any medications you may need, and a valid ID if consuming alcohol.
Yes. Guests are welcome to bring drinks and snacks. Anyone consuming alcohol must have a valid ID.
Absolutely. Our boat tours in Panama City Beach are family friendly and great for kids. Please use discretion with children under four years old and feel free to call with any age related questions.
Our boat holds up to six passengers plus the captain, for a total of seven people onboard.
Yes, life jackets are provided in both adult and child sizes. Wearing a life jacket is optional but always encouraged if it makes you more comfortable.
Most tours take place in calm, protected waters, which helps reduce motion sickness. Everyone is different. Guests prone to motion sickness may want to take preventative measures.
Yes. The boat has shaded seating under a bimini top.
There is always a chance of light ocean spray while on the water. If staying dry is important, ask the captain where to sit. Items that need to stay dry can be stored in secured, covered areas onboard.
Private restrooms are available at the dock. There are no bathrooms onboard the boat.
Cancellations made 72 hours or more in advance will be refunded. Cancellations made less than 72 hours before the trip are non refundable.
All trips are weather dependent and safety comes first. If conditions are unsafe, your trip may be rescheduled or fully refunded. The captain makes this decision and communicates it as early as possible.
Yes. Free and ample parking is available near the dock for vehicles of all sizes.
We are located in Panama City and are approximately a 20 minute drive from most Panama City Beach locations, depending on traffic.
Please arrive 15 to 30 minutes early to ensure an on time departure.
Yes. We are within walking distance of popular restaurants, local breweries, and downtown Panama City shops.
Yes. Bags and soft coolers are welcome. Please limit hard coolers as ice and cooler space are already provided onboard.
Snorkel time depends on water conditions, guest preference, and tour length. Most snorkel sessions last around 45 minutes.
Water temperatures range from 68 to 75 degrees in spring and can reach up to 90 degrees in summer.
Neither is required. Guests wanting extra warmth may bring their own.
No. Dolphins are wild animals. That said, sightings are extremely common since dolphins live here year round.
Anytime. Dolphins are present in the area year round.
Wildlife sightings may include dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, rays, tropical fish, birds, and other marine life.
Capt. Chris, a local marine biologist with over 20 years of experience, world traveler, and certified scuba instructor, is the perfect guide for an unforgettable Panama City Beach dolphin tour and snorkeling adventure. With his vibrant energy, love for mermaid tails, and a good dose of dad jokes, Chris ensures every trip with Flippin’ Awesome Adventures is truly memorable.
