pensacola fl dolphin tour

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Chase-N-Fins

Aquatic charters & dolphin cruises pensacola beach, florida.

• Most Popular!

Dolphin Cruises in Florida

Chase-n-Fins offers two-hour dolphin cruises in Pensacola Bay and the surrounding Florida waters. Relax and enjoy natural entertainment as we watch the dolphins splash about on this family-friendly Pensacola Beach activity!

• Clock 2 Hours
• Clock 2.5 Hours

Blue Angels Cruise

A rare opportunity to see the famous U.S. Navy Blue Angels acrobatic flying team practice their thrilling aerial maneuvers. This cruise includes both an air show and dolphin watching!

Fireworks Cruise

Join us for a 4th of July Fireworks Cruise!

Private Events

Looking for some privacy for your Pensacola Beach, FL cruise or private event? Book a private charter with Chase-n-Fins for a reunion, wedding, school group event, or any other special occasion!

Pensacola Beach’s Dolphin Cruise boat “Chase-n-Fins!”

Aquatic Charters offers two-hour dolphin cruises in Pensacola Bay and the surrounding waters. Chase-n-Fins is a 50-ft. twin diesel converted Navy Launch certified for 49 passengers. With plenty of open deck space, passengers can move about to position for the perfect photo or take advantage of the shaded area. The crew of Chase-n-Fins is very knowledgeable about dolphins and the area marine life as well as the local and historic landmarks. The playful dolphins are willing to entertain you in their natural environment. So bring the whole family on a dolphin cruise you will remember long after the vacation is over. We also have private charters for reunions, weddings, school groups, etc. Plan your adventure on Chase-n-Fins!

Dolphins guaranteed or your next cruise is free!

The #1 Tour Company in Pensacola

"This was such a fun trip. Charlie the captain was entertaining and even recommended other places nearby to visit! We will definitely do this again when we're visiting Pensacola!"

"This was our second time to go with Chase-N-Fins. Both have been great experiences. We took our 9 and 11 year old grandsons this time and they had a blast! We saw a pod of dolphins complete with babies and the crew did a great job getting close up and following them. I highly recommend them!"

"Charlie was fun, knowledgeable, and friendly to everyone on the boat. He told us fun facts and corny jokes that entertained us. Obviously he knew where to find the Dolphins, and he gave the curiosity seekers of all ages photo opportunities and time to watch and experience the Dolphins playing and showing off their personalities. It was incredible! I'd say it is The Best!"

"The evening cruise with Capt. Mike and Charlie was a great way to kick off our vacation. Charlie was entertaining and informative, providing many educational facts about dolphins as well as about the area."

THE 10 BEST Dolphin & Whale Watching in Pensacola Beach, FL

Dolphin & whale watching in pensacola beach.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Gear Rentals
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Jolly Sailing & Dolphin Cruise

2. Frisky Mermaid Dolphin Tours & Boat Rentals

3. Condor Sailing Adventures

4. Chase-N-Fins

5. Wave Cutter Charters

6. Key Sailing

7. Next Generation Fishing Charters

8. Ahoy Boat Tours

9. Pensacola Beach Boat Charters

10. Pontoon Cruises Pensacola

What travelers are saying.

• Jolly Sailing & Dolphin Cruise
• Condor Sailing Adventures
• Chase-N-Fins
• Frisky Mermaid Dolphin Tours & Boat Rentals
• Key Sailing
• Wave Cutter Charters

💙💛✈️ Watch the Blue Angels Practice from the water - Select Tues. & Thurs. during Air Show Season

Dolphin & Scenic Bay Sightseeing Tour

Quick Details

• User Ages: All Ages 🎟️ Every human requires a ticket. One day - 100+ years old.
• Hour Glass Duration: ⌛️2 hours
• Cruise Ship Boat Type: Tritoon

Explore the Beauty of Pensacola Bay with Us!

Discover the magic of Pensacola waters with our private/semi-private dolphin and scenic bay tours. From playful dolphins to breathtaking sceneries and historic sights, our tours offer an immersive experience.

Why Choose Our Tours?

• Daily Availability : Tours are available every day, including holidays, weather permitting.
• Flexible Group Size : Our tours can accommodate up to six (6) passengers. Larger groups? Give us a call to discuss options.
• USCG Licensed Local Captain : Navigate the waters with experienced hands and local knowledge.
• Comfort and Convenience : Our covered pontoon is designed for your comfort with onboard restroom facilities.
• Complimentary Refreshments : Stay hydrated with our provided sodas and bottled water.
• Safety First : Life jackets for infants, children, and adults are available for your safety.

Types of Tours:

• Semi-Private Tour : Share a memorable trip with other adventurers. Ideal for up to six (6) passengers, including infants and children.
• Private Tour : Experience an exclusive adventure just for your group, pets included! Suitable for up to six (6) passengers.

Special Early Riser Tour:

If you love the serenity of early mornings, this one’s for you! Enjoy the calm waters and witness the local dolphins at their playful best. Bonus: It’s the most economical option and lets you escape the midday heat.

Weather Policy:

Florida weather can be a handful, but don’t fret! Decisions regarding weather are made at the gate by our seasoned Captain & Crew. In case of unsafe water conditions, rest assured, you can either reschedule or receive a refund.

Safety Regulations:

• Infant Life Jackets (up to 12 months old) : Provided and mandatory throughout the trip.
• Child & Adult Life Jackets : Available upon request. Not mandatory, but safety is our priority!

Embark on a journey of fun, adventure, and discovery. Whether you’re here to explore, relax, or both, Frisky Boat Tours promises a day you’ll cherish forever. Join us for a dose of vitamin sea and create memories that last a lifetime. Book now and dive into adventure!

If this leaves you wanting a little more, check out our three hour Dolphin & Scenic Sightseeing Tour which allows time to disembark, shell and swim at the secluded beach spot.  Check out some unobstructed breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico from the sound side.

• Chevron down Things to know before you go (FAQ's):

❄️ In cooler months, it’s always cooler on the water. We suggest some or all of the following: layers, gloves, hats, scarves, blankets & battery operated hand warmers.

🚫 COOLERS: Not allowed

✅ IN: @the boat on the dock BEHIND SHAGGY’S RESTAURANT with Mermaid Crew at boarding, not before. You will hear an announcement. Mermaid may be on a tour when you arrive. Please have a seat at the picnic tables and enjoy the view. Look for the mermaids.

❌ CANCELLATION: No cancellation within 24 hours. Must have 15 passengers for a trip to be confirmed. If minimum is not met you will be rescheduled to the next available time slot or refunded. Once a trip is confirmed, booking is allowed until departure. You will be notified approximately two (2) hours in advance (at a minimum) if we are not able to run via text/email.

❓WILL YOU GET WET? It’s possible, you are in a boat on the water. Feel free to bring a towel along for comfort.

⚓️ ACCESSIBILITY: Passengers must be physically able to climb up, over and down stairs at the stern to board and disembark the vessel.

👨🏼‍✈️ GRATUITY: Not required, but graciously accepted and appreciated by our Mermaid Crew.

⛈ WEATHER POLICY: Captain makes the decision at the time of departure, NO EXCEPTIONS! You will receive information via text and/or email if the weather prevents us from cruising.

🅿️ PARKING: There is NO parking on premise. Paved public parking is available across the street (sound side). USE CROSSWALK, 735 Pensacola Beach Blvd. or at 3 Casino Beach Boardwalk, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 (Casino Beach @ The Beach Ball). DO NOT PARK IN ANY BEACH RESTAURANT OR MARINA PARKING LOTS, you will be towed at your own expense.

🎉 PARTIES OF 6 OR MORE PASSENGERS: Parking is limited on the beach, you are encouraged to carpool. Your entire group must be present in order for your passengers to board.

🛥 DEPARTURE TIME: Boat leaves on time, EVERY TIME, so give yourself enough time to park (SUGGESTED 30 minutes). No need to call and let us know you are running late…if you are late, you will have missed the boat. There are ABSOLUTELY NO REFUNDS if you miss the boat. Don’t miss the boat!

🦺 LIFEJACKETS: Provided (infant to XXL); required for infant (Infant is up to 12 months old)

🥤REFRESHMENTS: Drinks and snacks available for sale onboard in The Snack Shack

🧜‍♀️MERCHANDISE: Available onboard in The Snack Shack

Weather cancellations are made at the marina gate at boarding, not before, no need to 📞, if we know before then, you will hear from us via text/phone.

Related Activities

• Hour Glass ⌛️ 1.5 - 2 Hours
• User All Ages 🎟️ Every human requires a ticket. One day - 100+ years old.

Public Dolphin & Scenic Bay Sightseeing Tour

The Frisky Mermaid, our 52 ft. vessel accommodates up to 49 passengers and operates 1.5 2-hour dolphin tours year round throughout the day. Catch some MER-MAZING views and have some family friendly fun watching for frisky dolphins.

• Cruise Ship Tritoon
• Hour Glass ⌛️4 & 8 hour

Half & Full Day Pontoon Boat Rentals

Rent a pontoon boat and explore our waters on your own schedule. We have four hour pontoon boat rentals , six hour pontoon boat rentals , eight hour pontoon boat rentals and Multi-day pontoon boat rentals . Captain your own adventure and search for dolphins, local birds and other marine life.

• Hour Glass ⌛️2 hours , Up to 6 passengers

Scenic Bay Cruise + Snorkel Stop + Equipment

Come dip your toes (and snorkel mask!) in our Pensacola waters and view life under the surface. Kid friendly and perfect for all ages, you’ll experience a whole new world under the sea.

*Inventory consists of adult snorkel sets

• Dolphin Cruise with Secluded Beach Stop *up to 6 ppl*
• Hour Glass ⌛️3 hours

Dolphin Tour + Secluded Beach Stop + Equipment

Make memories on this 3 hour Scenic Bay/Dolphin Boat Tour with a quiet isolated beach stop to swim, snorkel, chill or shell. On Blue Angels scheduled practice days, you can experience a rare opportunity to watch the famous pilots practice their thrilling aerial maneuvers on your beach stop.

2024 Blue Angels Practice Schedule

• Hour Glass 4 hours

Seas the 1/2 Day Pensacola Beach Excursion

Welcome to the ultimate Pensacola Beach water attraction!

Picture this: exploring the Pensacola Bay area, looking for marine and wildlife or diving in for some snorkeling or swimming and why not take a dip at a hidden, secluded beach along the way? It’s the most fun thing to do on the beach.

• PERDIDO KEY, FL
• PENSACOLA, FL
• ORANGE BEACH, AL
• GULF SHORES, AL
• TESTIMONIALS
• RESERVATIONS
• PRIVATE TOURS

PRIVATE CHARTERS TO EXPLORE THE FOLEY, PENSACOLA & GULF SHORES, AL AREAS

1.5 - 2 hr Private Dolphin Tour

1.5 - 2 hr Blue Angels Tour

3 Hour Private Dolphin Tour

Customizable Tours

Private Tour Boats

Our private tour boats combined can accommodate large group of up to 64 people!

Please call ahead for info on our private tours.

ABOUT CAPTAIN BUDDY POWERS 

My name is Capt. Buddy Powers. I was born and raised fishing the waters of Pensacola, Florida. I am a 4th generation fisherman with over 30 years of experience in inshore and near shore fishing. I pride myself in being a family man. I am a married man of 23 years with an 18-year-old boy and 14-year-old triplet girls. To me there is nothing better than to take a family fishing, watching them having fun catching fish.

My license allows me to carry customers (where a fee is paid directly or indirectly) for the purpose of catching, attempting to catch, or possessing saltwater fish. All saltwater fishing guides in Florida must comply with U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requirements. The U.S. Coast Guard (USGC) requires all operators of for-hire vessels to have a Captain license. Charter and saltwater fishing guide operations with Captain Buddy have an FWC charter captain or boat license to cover their passengers, so customers authorized to fish under the vessel license are not required to hold a recreational saltwater fishing license.

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5 Places to See Dolphins in Pensacola

Spotting dolphins in the wild are on the top of the sand-bucket lists of many Pensacola Bay Area visitors.

Get outside and see how you can meet our friendly neighbors here.

These captivating marine mammals are so adored, even the locals are always on the lookout for them. With more than 10,000 of these playful and intelligent bottlenose dolphins living in the coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico, there are plenty of chances to see them. I’ve lived on the Gulf Coast most of my life, and I’ve been lucky enough to see hundreds of dolphins in the wild. Believe me, the thrill of seeing them never wanes. Yes, I’m one of those who become downright giddy when I see a dolphin surfing through a wave or rocketing into the air and flipping or spinning just offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. My biggest thrill was having one swim near enough to my ocean kayak that I could look into its eye as it looked into mine. What a phenomenal experience that was. Seeing a baby dolphin? Now, that’s a special treat. With the abundance of bays and waterways such as the Intracoastal Waterway, around here, you just have to be in the right place at the right time to see dolphins. That’s not as hard as it may seem because there are plenty of spots to capture a glimpse of them surfing the bow wave of a boat or hunting for breakfast in the vast seagrass beds surrounding Santa Rosa Island.

While at the beach, I’m constantly scanning the outer sandbar in the Gulf. Dolphins, who live in pods, often cruise up and down the coast along that outer sandbar or in the deep trench in between sandbars when they’re hunting fish. Sometimes when they’re following schools of fish, dolphins will venture closer to shore inside the sandbars where beachgoers are swimming.

So, how’s the best way to encounter a dolphin in the wild? Here’s my pick for the top five best ways:

1. Take A Dolphin Tour

Chart a course for a dolphin encounter out of Pensacola Beach or Perdido Key on one of the many Dolphin Cruises offered. A variety of cruises are available to customize your experience from more intimate private sailing adventures, to jet ski dolphin excursions and cruises for larger groups. Ready to explore more? Here's a list of dolphin excursion companies in the Pensacola area.

Frisky Mermaid Dolphin Tours and Pontoon Boat Rentals

701 Pensacola Beach Blvd, Behind Shaggy’s Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 (850) 910-0635

Jolly Sailing and Dolphin Cruise

655 Pensacola Beach Blvd., 715 Pensacola Beach Blvd. Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 (850) 723-6142

Laguna’s Adventure Park at Laguna’s Beach Bar and Grill

460 Pensacola Beach Blvd Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 (850) 677-3905

Premier Dolphin Cruises

400 Quietwater Beach Road Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 (850) 898-9002

Chase-N-Fins |Aquatic Charters

655 Pensacola Beach Blvd. Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 (850) 492-6337

Condor Sailing Adventures

Pier One Marina, 655 Pensacola Beach Blvd. Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 (850) 637-7245

Gulf Breeze Sailing

715 Pensacola Beach Blvd Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 (850) 293-1434

2. Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier

an “observers” ticket to stroll out on the pier that spans 1,470 feet into the Gulf of Mexico where you can get a front-row seat to a wild dolphin show. Much to the angst of the anglers, dolphins are attracted to the pier by the fish they are catching. If the water conditions are good, you could see dolphins swimming under and around the pier, along with all sorts of our amazing marine life, including sea turtles. Learn more about the Pensacola Beach Pier .

3. Viewing From The Shore

Pensacola Pass is where many of the dolphin cruises head to, but if you’re not up for a boat ride, the crystal white sandy tip of Santa Rosa Island along the pass offers a great viewing spot for dolphins. In fact, the island’s tip is in Gulf Islands National Seashore’s Fort Pickens Area and features long stretches of beach along the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay from which you can relax and watch the water for dolphins.

Of course, dolphins can be seen from any of our beaches and we have miles of open beach to pick from. Here's a map of our public beach areas for you to select your perfect beach.

4. On A Paddle Adventure

Swimming, kayaking, paddle-boarding in the Gulf places you in the dolphin’s neighborhood, and it’s definitely one of the best ways to enjoy these creatures doing what they do best, being free and wild. Dolphins are wild, so keep your distance and avoid approaching them, especially if they have babies. If one smacks its tail on the water, it’s a warning to stay away. Otherwise, enjoy this amazing experience that’s like no other.

Horizon Beach Service

na Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 (850) 565-7808

Gulf Coast Surf School

649 Pensacola Beach Blvd Pensacola, FL 32561 (850) 324-7416

Innerlight Surf Shop

114 Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502

Innerlight Surf Camp and Lessons

45 FORT PICKENS ROAD Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 (850) 549-4011

380 N. 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32502 (850) 433-2929

Outdoor Gulf Coast

(850) 466-8477

Pensacola Surfing School

6521 oakcliff rd Pensacola, FL 32526 (850) 417-6416

5. Rent A Boat

Want to captain of your dolphin cruise? Renting a boat gives you the freedom to explore on your own, and with miles and miles of bayfront coastline, you'll be able to pull up to the beach to enjoy swimming and picnicking. Take a look at the local outfitters offering Pontoon boat rentals.

Flora-Bama Marina and Watersports

29603 Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, AL 36561 (251) 980-5222

Gulf Coast Pontoon Rental LLC

1521 portside drive Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 (850) 860-9129

Key Sailing

400 Quietwater Beach Rd. Pensacola Beach, FL 32561 (850) 932-5520

Pensacola Sailing Academy

600 S Barracks St Pensacola, FL 32502 (850) 432-3199

Big Lagoon Jet Ski Rental LLC

10605 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL 32507 (850) 800-8711

Blackwater River State Park

7720 Deaton Bridge Road Holt, FL 32564 (850) 983-5363

Kimberly Blair

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FULL 2024 PENSACOLA BEACH DOLPHIN CRUISE, SNORKELING, AND SAILING SCHEDULE AVAILABLE! BOOK ONLINE!

Pensacola Dolphin Cruise

Explore pensacola bay and santa rosa sound on a pensacola beach dolphin cruise, sailing tour, or snorkeling adventure, dolphin cruises.

Learn More »

Snorkeling Tours

Sailing tours, private cruises.

We offer complimentary bottled water. Guests are allowed to bring adult beverages, and coolers are welcomed. Cans are requested as opposed to bottles, (bottle of wine and plastic cups ok). Our boats feature full shade, comfort cushioned seating, relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere, and all vessels have a restroom aboard. Licensed, experienced, friendly and informative Captains and crew at your service!

• MOST POPULAR
• Clock 1.5 - 2 hours
• User All ages

Pensacola Beach Dolphin Cruise & Scenic Bay Tour

Take a scenic sightseeing tour of Pensacola by water. View dolphins and marine life by boat and iconic Pensacola sights along the way!

• Clock 2 hours

Go Snorkeling in Pensacola!

Visit one of our great snorkel spots in Pensacola Bay and Santa Rosa Sound. Snorkel in shallow water, about 3 – 4 feet deep. The trip includes snorkel gear and instruction. Trip may take place on our sailboat or powerboat, and lasts about 2 to 2 1/2 hours.

• Clock 3 hours

Blue Angels & Dolphin Cruise

The Blue Angels fly over the waters of Pensacola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, offering amazing views to boaters. The original Pensacola Beach Blue Angels & Dolphin Cruise stops at Sand Island for the best experience!

• Clock 2-4 hours

Jolly Mon Sailing Tours

A day or sunset sail is the best way to relax on Pensacola Bay. Treat yourself to a unique sailing experience at Pensacola Beach, featuring steady afternoon sea-breezes, smooth sailing, no worries, and Jollification!

Private or Semi-Private Dolphin Cruise in Pensacola Beach with Remote Beach Stop

Add an hour stop at a beautiful, secluded beach to your dolphin cruise. Choose our three-hour dolphin cruise with beach stop. We offer this cruise by powerboat!

Private OR Semi-Private 3 Hour Dolphin Cruise and Snorkeling Excursion

Combine two of our most popular activities! On this cruise, we will have time to explore the waters of Pensacola Bay by powerboat in search of dolphins and other wildlife and stop for snorkeling. Private or Semi-Private, up to 6 guests.

• Clock 4 hours

Private Dolphin Cruise, Snorkel Excursion & Beach Stop Package

Combine three of our most popular activities for your private fun family adventure! On this cruise, we will have time to explore the waters of Pensacola Bay.

Smooth sailing ahead! Book early and enjoy your uncrowded private or shared adventure with us. We offer complimentary refreshments on all trips (water and soda). Come see dolphins play on Pensacola Beach and Santa Rosa Sound. We strive to provide a safe, relaxing, and entertaining excursion for our guests. It’s not just a job; it’s a lifestyle that we enjoy sharing with visitors to Pensacola Beach and residents of the Pensacola Bay Area.

Take a look at the new Sandbar Bar & Grill that just opened in Pensacola Beach | PHOTOS