dolphin boat tours sarasota fl

Dolphin & Manatee Watch Cruise

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours
• User Ages: All ages
• Clock Time of Day: Morning , 11:00am
• Info Info: No outside food or beverages allowed on board. We do not allow any smoking of any kind on board. All schedules are subject to change. , A minimum number of passengers is needed for our trips. If the minimum is not reached, you will be notified to be rescheduled or receive a refund.
• Cruise Ship Note: No reserved seating, first come first serve. Check in begins 1 hour prior to departure, everyone in your party must be onsite in order to check in.
• Hour Glass Arrival: Please arrive no later than 30 minutes prior to departure

JOIN US FOR A SARASOTA DOLPHIN TOUR

Join LeBarge and a Sarasota Bay Explorers-trained marine biologist on this two-hour cruise and learn about the lifestyle and behavior of our local population of over 160 bottlenose dolphins, as well as manatees (in season). The guide explains their hunting techniques, physical adaptations, and social hierarchy, plus you learn of the effects brought on by humankind and what is being done to protect this magnificent mammal.

Sarasota Bay is the ideal location to observe these intelligent marine mammals. All of our marine biologists are guides with our sister company, Sarasota Bay Explorers, located at Mote Marine Laboratory, to ensure that you receive the latest, most accurate information regarding these marine mammals.

We must meet a minimum passenger count to run the cruise. Reservations are highly recommended. We take reservations for regularly scheduled cruises no more than 3 weeks in advance. All scheduled cruises are subject to change.

Know Before You Go

• Bayfront parking lots and garages are owned, operated, and monitored by the City of Sarasota. Please pay attention to all posted signs and ordinances and allow time for parking upon arrival.
• Times to remember: CHECK-IN begins 1 hour prior to departure time and BOARDING begins 30 minutes prior to departure.
• To ensure we leave on time and keep on schedule all passengers must be on board 5 minutes prior to scheduled departure time OR YOU WILL MISS THE BOAT.
• Please be advised that our boarding procedures have changed. We board by order of check-in time and will call your name when it is your turn to board. If you have multiple parties arriving separately, and would like to board consecutively, please take this into account and check in at the same time.
• No outside food or beverages, and smoking or vaping of any kind on board.
• All scheduled cruises are subject to change.
• A minimum number of passengers are needed for our trips. If the minimum is not reached, you will be notified to be rescheduled or receive a refund.

Related Cruises

• Most Popular
• Hour Glass Please arrive no later than 30 minutes prior to departure
• Clock Evening
• User All ages
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Tropical Sunset Cruise

End your day with a breathtaking sunset aboard our floating tropical island. This cruise sails most nights and features drinks and live music!

• Clock Afternoon , 2:00pm

Sightseeing & Nature Cruise

Relax on this narrated cruise along the shoreline, offering beautiful views of Sarasota Bay and its marine life. Food and drinks are available!

Reservations Open Four Weeks in Advance

SARASOTA BAY EXPLORERS

Eco boat tours & bay cruises in sarasota.

LOCATED AT MOTE AQUARIUM

A HANDS-ON, EDUCATIONAL & FUN EXPERIENCE!

• most popular!
• Clock Arrive 30 min before departure
• Hour Glass Approx. 2 hours
• Users All ages

Sea Life Encounter Eco Tour

Observe our Florida manatees and resident population of bottlenose dolphins on this approximately 2 hour sea life cruise while learning about the ecology, history, and folklore of the area.

• Users Maximum of 6 people
• Hour Glass Custom

Miss Explorer Private Charter - Small Groups

Looking for an unforgettable day? Let our captain help you create your own custom cruise that is perfect for special events. Choose one activity or combine activities to make a full day of fun!

• Family Friendly
• Users Max of 40 people
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Sarasota Sunset Cruise

Join us on a relaxed trip to BIG PASS where we will observe a breathtaking Sarasota sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

SEA LIFE ENCOUNTER ECO TOUR

About sarasota bay explorers.

Embark on an fun and educational journey through the clear waters of Sarasota, Florida, and discover the wonders of marine science and eco-conservation on one of our unforgettable boat tours.

Our expert guides will take you on a thrilling adventure, showcasing the breathtaking natural beauty of Sarasota Bay while teaching you about the local marine life and the efforts to preserve it.

We are located in beautiful Sarasota, Florida and work in conjunction with Mote Marine Laboratory to provide interactive marine science boat trips for both public and private use.

We offer several types of eco-tours including our renowned  Sea Life Encounter Cruise  and private charters aboard the Miss Explorer.

In addition to our regular cruises, you may charter a trip on one of our 40-foot pontoon boats for a private group. Private charters are available for anything from school field trips to company outings to birthday parties.

GUESTS LOVE OUR FAMILY-FRIENDLY CRUISES!

We enjoyed a wonderful multi-generational Sea Encounter trip on a HOT July Sunday...It’s hard to imagine how much everyone can learn, while having so much fun, in less than 2 hours. I wish I had taken one of these tours in the past and will definitely take one again. Well done!

This was the 6th or 7th trip I’ve done with these guys and it’s always great. An absolute blast and relatively inexpensive. If you like the ocean, sea life and are in the area it’s a ‘must experience’. Bring a camera.

This was an amazing experience and the next time my great nieces and nephews come down from Michigan we our going on this extremely well done educational and interactive boat ride!!! The marine biologist that was onboard did such an amazing job explaining things and the kids that were on the boat absolutely loved it also!!!

I love being out on the water, so this seemed like a natural fit. Our guides were very informative as we toured Sarasota bay. I loved seeing the fish and also the birds. It was a great way to spend the morning.

My mom and I really enjoyed this boat ride! The captain and biologist were professional and informative. It was the perfect amount of time spent on the water, and we got to see lots of wildlife.

Just moved to Sarasota and friends came to visit. Wanted to show them the beauty of the area and friend recommended this tour. We all had a fabulous experience with Martha. The trip was fun and educational. Loved learning about the different birds on bird island (saw my first spoonbill) and all the sea creatures. Definite must for any age. My husband and I bought membership to the Mote Marine and Laboratory so we can bring guests that visit. We will also be doing the tour again.

Sarasota Magazine

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Let's Go for a Dolphin-Watching Tour in Sarasota Bay

By Allison Forsyth August 12, 2020

Image: Shutterstock

Sarasota Bay is home to many dolphins, and if you're wanting to spot some swimming and playing around, try a dolphin tour with Siesta Key Aqua Adventures . Among several tours to choose from, the most exciting and family-friendly is the tour to "Koko Island," a mysterious little island where kids can become pirates and embark on their own scavenger hunt. While your kids are having fun, you can enjoy a relaxing day on the water and spot some beautiful marine wildlife—and if you're lucky, a family of dolphins.

5253 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

This two-hour tour departs at 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. Tours can be booked online, or you can call ahead if you don't see a time slot you prefer. Tour prices are listed on the  website . Because you're on the water, the sea breeze will keep you from getting overheated, so any time of day on the water is the best time. Be sure to check the weather before heading out, though. Rainy season is still upon us.

What to Bring

Since you will be in the sun, be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Wear clothes you have no problem getting wet, and water-friendly shoes. And if you're wanting to capture a dolphin-spotting moment, bring your phones and cameras along, but beware of potential splash zones.

What to Expect

Once you arrive at the boat, the captain and tour guide will give kids an explorer's map and a scavenger hunt checklist of things to look out for while on the water, along with an explanation of what you'll see and the stops you'll make. The journey begins with birdwatching along Philippi Creek, and then continues into the Intercostal Waterway to a secret dolphin-watching spot the tour calls "The Cove."

From there, you will cruise under historic Siesta Drive Bridge, where an abundance of wildlife can be found, from pelicans soaring overheard to fish jumping in the water below. Other destinations include Little Sarasota Bay and "Sea Urchin Island Sand bar," where kids will stop off to explore urchins, barnacles and crabs living below the water's surface.

Finally, you'll land at "Koko Island," a small island in the bay where passengers are able to hop off the boat and explore. This is the ultimate dolphin-viewing spot along the tour, and kids may find a pirate treasure surprise waiting for them.

To book a tour with Siesta Key Aqua Adventures, click here or call (941) 359-2782.  

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• (305) 904 -7750

SpeedBoat Tours

Dolphin & Sightseeing Tours in Sarasota

Are you a local resident who hasn’t gone on a dolphin cruise recently (or ever)? What if you’re from out of town and want to add the final cherry on top of your visit?

Our Dolphin & Sightseeing Tour is a guaranteed great time for folks of all ages. Here’s the basics of how it works at SpeedBoat Tours in Sarasota .

Come Spot Dolphins with Us!

We offer two-hour dolphin-watching tours for children or adult passengers on one of our sizable and comfortable boats. Best of all, you get a tour guide who knows precisely where the dolphins roam, along with several other novelties during the trip. It’s not only a fantastic way to relax, but you’ll also get to learn a lot about Floridian marine biology as we show you plenty of the area’s history and ecology.

So, contact us soon to inquire about reservations and charter options. For a dolphin-sighting trip, all you have to do is arrive about a half hour early, wear water-appropriate attire, and get ready for a blast.

Reasons this is a “Must Do” Vacation Item

• Dolphins are the most majestic sea life anywhere, and the Gulf of Mexico is their preferred habitat.
• Children have a great time, and don’t lose interest, like with other activities
• It’s a crash course in local marine biology (not just dolphins)
• You’ll get a glimpse of dolphins, manatees, seagulls, colorful fish, and more

We’re confident that a sightseeing tour with us, covering all the sweet spots around western Florida, will become a permanent splendid memory for your crew. Don’t forget that we also offer other terrific boat rides such as our popular sunset tours , available for small or large evening groups.

If you’re ready for a novel sea trip, then come check out SpeedBoat Tours to learn more. You can also contact us to schedule any type of tour by calling 305-904-7750 .

TOUR DETAILS $399

• Duration: 2 hours
• Ages:  All ages welcome
• Occupancy:  1-6 people
• Check-in time:  Arrive at least 15 minutes before your tour time
• Private Charter for $399
• Start times:  Call for times

SpeedBoat Tours Reviews

Feel the adrenaline surge as our TripAdvisor reviews take you on a high-speed adventure, navigating the exhilarating world of speed boat tours through the eyes of fellow thrill-seekers. 

Whether you’re a local or a tourist

Make Your Day Memorable with SpeedBoat Tours

Sarasota Saltwater Adventures

Siesta Key Dolphin Tours

Dolphin, wildlife & sandbar.

$400  (4 Hours) 1-6 people $600 (6 Hours) 1-6 people $800 (8 Hours) 1-6 people 20 % gratuity is customary

Embark on an extraordinary Siesta Key dolphin tour that promises an immersive and thrilling experience with these playful marine wonders. Cruise through the pristine waters surrounding Siesta Key as we search for the enchanting dolphins that call this area home. Our expertly guided tour maximizes your chances of spotting these lively creatures, along with a glimpse of diverse marine life, including gentle manatees, graceful stingrays, and a variety of seabirds.

During this captivating journey, make the most of your time by choosing how you'd like to spend it. Customize your dolphin tour by deciding on a longer dolphin-searching expedition, spending more time cruising, or opting for a leisurely stop at a scenic sandbar or private beach along the way. Whether you're interested in a Siesta Key boat rental, Siesta Key dolphin tours, or exploring the waters of Sarasota and Sarasota fl, our tailored offerings cater to your preferences.

Experience the added touch of glamour as we share insights about the impressive and luxurious homes of celebrities lining the coastal areas. This unique blend of wildlife exploration and celebrity spotting adds a distinctive flair to your Siesta Key dolphin tour. Capture the magic of your adventure with your camera, ensuring you don't miss a moment of the natural wonders and glamour that this tour offers.

While encounters with dolphins are never guaranteed, our local expertise ensures that we navigate to the areas frequented by these delightful creatures, maximizing your chances of an unforgettable encounter in their natural habitat.

$100 Deposit Required

3% credit card fee, we love cash, “no bad days” 22.6’ hurricane fundeck with a 115hp yamaha, pickup location, 1780 phillippi shores dr, sarasota, fl 34231, what is provided, insured uscg certified captain, safety gear, cooler with ice, bottled waters, beautiful scenery, what to bring, sunglasses (polarized if possible), snacks & drinks, sunscreen (no spray or bronzing please), your loved ones .

Dolphin Sightseeing Tikibar Hopping Boat Tour

• Restroom on board
• Private transportation
• It is BYOB, meaning you are allowed to bring alcohol onboard. I just don't provide any.
• 7700 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231, USA It's a big yellow building. The boats are located in the back that are in the water. I will text you what slip I'm in that day.
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• lifejackets for kids 6 years old and under are provided
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll start at 7700 S Tamiami Trail 7700 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231, USA It's a big yellow building. The boats are located in the back that are in the water. I will text you what slip I'm in that day. See address & details
• Pass by Marina Jack O'Leary's Tiki Bar & Grill The Old Salty Dog Bird Key Park
• You'll return to the starting point

• tarein 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Experience Awesome sightseeing tour! Rachael was a great guide - we loved seeing the cool houses on Casey Key, watching dolphins and just enjoying the water. We did a 2 hour sightseeing tour I the morning and it was the perfect length. Highly recommend. Read more Written August 1, 2022
• 599michaelu 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Memorable trip on the Shellabration. Want to do it again. Loved entire trip. Lots of dolphins, beautiful houses, natural beauty and a knowledgeable captain who went out of the way to make it a memorable trip. I highly recommend the Shellabration and Captain Rachel. Read more Written February 9, 2021

More to explore in Sarasota

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Dolphin Sightseeing Tikibar Hopping Boat Tour provided by Shellebrate Boat Tours LLC

Get Wet and Go Bananas! Book Our Most Popular Banana Boat Adventure Today!

Dolphin Tour to KoKō Island with Treasure Hunt Gem Mining

Dolphin Sightseeing • Tiki Boat Cruise to Kokō Island • FREE Treasure Hunt Gem Mining

Quick Details

• User Ages: All ages
• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours

Experience Siesta Key Dolphin Tour to KoKō Island with Treasure Hunt Gem Mining at Sarasota, FL!

Embark on a two hour fun filled sight seeing adventure through the back waters of Siesta Key. Our Tiki Boats are all unique and comfortable. Some are equipped with twin Surfboard bars designed by local artists and others are designed specifically for sandbar adventures. Children on our tours are given an explorers map and a scavenger hunt checklist of the area’s exotic wildlife. The journey begins with exotic birdwatching along the banks of the winding Phillippi Creek. From there we enter the Intercostal Waterway bound for our secret dolphin watching spot we call “The Cove”. Along the way we will travel around beautiful wildlife sanctuaries and under the historic Siesta Dr. Bridge. There’s always a lot to see once we enter the waters of Little Sarasota Bay. About half way through our tour we hop off at “Sea Urchin Island Sand Bar” where you’ll be amazed in all the sea life found under waters surface. Last but not least we arrive to “KoKō Island” An uninhabited mysterious place of great imagination and wonder. Here families can explore the island and get a real sense of what the barrier islands were like 300 years ago. Explorers beware; local legend has it that Pirates may still be lurking about….Upon returning your reservation group is given a complimentary bag of Treasure Hunt Gem Mining rough in our Adventure center.

➥ PRIVATE PARTY CHARTERS AVAILABLE call for pricing.

Related Activities

• Hour Glass 2.5 hours
• User All ages

Sunset Wine Tasting Tiki Tour to Siesta Key Sandbar (Heated for winter season)

Join us on a captivating sightseeing sunset tour in Siesta Key, Florida – a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine white sand beaches and azure waters.

Treasure Hunt Gem Mining

Located in our beautiful arcade and adventure center you can sift for real treasures including precious gems, crystals, amethyst, stones, rocks, fossils, and sharks teeth. The Treasure Mine activities pair perfectly with our pirate themed tiki tours and bumper boat adventures.

• Hour Glass 2 to 6 hours

Private Tiki Boat Charters

Private Tiki Boat charters for up to 49 passengers. Ideal for any occasion. Whether you need a relaxing dolphin watching cruise or a wild sand bar party we’ve got you covered.

Dolphin Tours

Ready to see Dolphins and Manatees in the beautiful bays of Manatee and Sarasota county? Welcome on board our 90-minute Dolphin Eco Tour and enjoy the ride!

This tour is for anyone who would like to see the dolphins of Anna Maria Island, enjoy a beautiful boat ride on our 40-foot smooth-riding power catamaran, and breath in the sea and the sun! Our local dolphins are one of only two groups of non-migratory Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins in the world.  That means they are year-round Florida residents, and can be found frolicking in our waters any time of year.  Seasonally, we also find manatees, sea turtles, and an assortment of native sea birds.

Fun for all ages, everyone from couples and friends to the kids and grandparents will love this dolphin eco tour. You will see awesome bay views of beautiful blue/green quartz waters, learn about our special Anna Maria Island and the historic Cortez Fishing village, and have a great time!

Sit back and enjoy the ride on our flagship vessel  The Anna Maria Explorer ! This brand-new boat has everything you need for an enjoyable and fun day of wildlife and dolphin watching!

Dolphin Eco Tour Times: 10:00 AM – Morning Trip 3:00 PM – Afternoon Trip

Dolphin Eco Tour Pricing $40 for adults, $35 for seniors/military, and $30 for kids under 10. Tax not included.

• Any size party from 1 to 49 is available to book a dolphin tour, so come on board and enjoy!
• Corporate Gatherings and Private Parties are welcome!  To reserve the boat for your next event, please call (941) 778-2288.
• Beach cruises to the sandbar and Egmont Key are also available. Please call (941) 778-2288 for more information.

Call Us Now! 941-926-3131

• mORNING Tours
• Sandbar Tours
• Sunset Cruises

SIESTA KEY | MORNING, MIMOSAS & DOLPHINS

Dolphin Tours Pricing:   $45 Adults / $30 Children 10 and under. 

Cancellation Policy

24 hour concellation policy -.

Any of our dolphin tours or sunset trip services that are reserved with a credit card are subject to be charged the full amount of the cost of the reserved item if not properly cancelled 24 hours prior to the reservation date and time.

Phone: 941-926-3131

Address: 1536 Stickney Point Rd. Sarasota, FL 34231 Siesta Key, Fl

• Dolphin Tours
• Boat Charters

©Siesta Key  Dolphin Tours    Sunset tours and dolphin excursions located in Siesta Key  and Sarasota, Fl.

24 HOUR CONCELLATION POLICY- Any of our dolphin tours or sunset trip services that are reserved with a credit card are subject to be charged the full amount of the cost of the reserved item if not properly cancelled 24 hours prior to the reservation date and time.

Sarasota FL and Siesta Key Florida dolphin trips for sightseeing and sunsets views on the water. Site design by Zucker and Zucker

Siesta Key Nature Tours On The Sies ta Key Sea Turtle Pontoon & The Phat Katt II  Guided Nature Tours ~  ADA Friendly ~ Search For Wildlife

Sarasota Nature Tours & Sandbar Shelling

Guided nature tour.

We are blessed with many Mangrove Islands 

that hold a vast assortment of Wild Seabirds,

Local Manatees and playful Dolphin. Dolphin Tours 

Cruise the local waters,

lay back and enjoy

the natural sounds and sights.

Beverages & Healthy Snacks Provided

Low Stress and Minimal Activity Required 

Shelling & Nature Tours

Sit back and relax as you witness an array of intriguing and curious species including  Dolphin, Manatee, Sea Turtles, Various Sea Birds and Birds of Prey. The surrounding waters and sandbars provide us with an assortment of shells, starfish, sand dollars, sea urchins, sea horses and many many more. 

Lil Pirate/Manatee Treasure Hunt

We go on an adventure,

"A 3 Hour Tour", looking for wildlife, then we find a bottle with a note in it and then the hunt ensues. Lots of fun and prizes for kids and adults alike.

Pirate Hats, Eye Patches, CANDY,

Check out this cool video

Cooler with Assorted

Drinks and  Healthy Snacks Provided

Nature Tour Adventures & Sandbar Shelling

We are a full service Nature Tour and Sandbar Shelling Excursion

Located in Siesta Key & Sarasota, Florida.

We specialize in entertaining families, especially with kids!        

Explore Siesta Key’s backwaters where the wildlife and natural sights abound.

Sit back and relax on our comfortable and stylish boats, as you cruise the beautiful inshore waters of Sarasota Bay searching for playful Dolphin, Sleepy Manatee, Elusive Sea Turtles and Birds of Prey such as Osprey and Bald Eagles, as well as multiple species of seabirds like Roseate Spoonbills, Great Blue Heron, Snowy Egrets and many more. The captain will supply everything you’ll need for a relaxing and educational day on the water. Healthy Snacks and a cooler with ice and assorted beverages are provided. Come on down and get ready for a natural experience you’ll remember for a long time!

Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor!

Let the customers speak for themselves.

We offer Dolphin Tours, Sandbar Shelling, Lil Pirate Treasure Hunt  

Call Cap'n Doug Today to reserve your family memory!

We're ADA  Friendly 

RESERVATIONS

(941)587-6150

Pick Up Location

The Siesta Key Sea Turtle

Sarasota Florida 34234

941-587-615 0

[email protected]

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Siesta Key Watersports Offers A Wide Selection Of Cruises

Enjoy one of our many cruises below offering dolphin encounters or create your own custom cruise for your special occasion.

Siesta Key’s only tour with complimentary adult beverages!

SUNSET/DOLPHIN CRUISES

Toast the setting sun in the most beautiful light of the day with complementary beer, seltzers and wine with family, friends and loved ones. Witness the world famous Siesta Key sunset melt into calm Gulf waters while the sky explodes with a dazzling display of colors. Dolphins are very active during the evening hours so make sure you are on the lookout.

$65 per adult / $50 for children 10 and under (all ages welcome) SPECIAL PRICING TIL DEC 17th.

DOLPHINS, DRINKS & SANDBAR

Tour calm and beautiful waterways while spotting dolphin, manatees and the endless amount of scenery that makes Siesta Key the #1 beach in the USA. Hop off at a sandbar to explore, swim and look for shells and sand dollars. Bathing suits are recommended. 2.5 Hour tour.  We provide complimentary beer, seltzers, wine, soda and water for your enjoyment.

$60 per adult / $40 for children 10 and under(all ages welcome)

MORNING, MIMOSAS & DOLPHINS

What better way to start your day than a mimosa in one hand and the other hand pointing out dolphins to family and friends? This tour will satisfy passengers of all ages as the morning is prime time for sightseeing in Siesta Key. Mimosas, seltzers, beer, soda and water are all complimentary on board.

$45 per adult / $30 for children 10 and under(all ages welcome)

PRIVATE CHARTERS

Customize your tour with a private charter at Siesta Key Watersports. Stop at a sandbar or local restaurant, splash around in a swim area, or just cruise along the waterways and sight see. It’s all up to you with our one of a kind private trip.

1-12 ppl $300 per hour, 13-20ppl $550 per hour, 21-30 ppl $800 per hour(all ages welcome)

PARASAIL SPECIAL

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Dolphin Tours, Sunset Tours, Snorkeling And Private Boat Tours

Dolphin tours.

Our guided dolphin watching tour is one of our most popular tours. Come see why we are the #1 rated dolphin tour in the area! All of our boat tours are private for parties of 6 or fewer. 

Sunset Cruises

There’s nothing like a Suncoast Sunset.  Our scenic sunset boat tours travel through the intracoastal waterways to Big Pass and Sarasota Bay. 

Shelling & Snorkeling

Looking for that perfect vacation day? Guided snorkeling and shelling adventures are a great way to spend the day. 

Dolphin Tours, Sunset and Sightseeing Tours and Private Charters

Your adventure starts here.

All of our boat tours and charters are private and we will accommodate parties of 6 or fewer.  There are no age restrictions aboard our boat and we offer a unique boating experience for about the same price as renting a boat. We offer a variety of private boat tours and charters and are happy to help you plan your Adventure! We offer dolphin tours, sunset tours, sightseeing boat tours, private charters as well as special event services. It’s your Adventure, your Captain and your boat so relax and let us take you there.  

No matter what you decide, you will have a great time as you cruise aboard our clean, new and comfortable new 24′ 2022 Hurricane Sundeck 240 OBX. Our boat is equipped with comfortable lounges at the bow for stretching out and catching some sun, a bimini top aft that provides plenty of shade, Bluetooth if you like your tunes and ice chest. At Suncoast Adventure Tours you will be cruising in style! We promise you’ll see tons of wild life and enjoy breathtaking views of the inland waterways, Siesta Key and Sarasota. We operate all of our tours and charters 7 days a week.  Serving all of Sarasota County, Siesta Key and Venice.

Tours and Charters

Our dolphin tours, sunset cruises and charters are exclusive and private to you and your guests. the boat and captain are all yours, up to 6 passengers.

 Our 2 hour dolphin tour is our most popular tour. Want to stay longer? Half Day and Full Day Charters are the way to go! Let us take you to a fantastic tropical sandbar, pack a lunch and enjoy the crystal clear waters that surround Siesta Key! The boat is all yours, up to 6 passengers. Ice, Ice chest and bottled water included. Prices below are for a party of 6 or fewer. There are no age restrictions. 

• 2 Hour Dolphin Tour - $299.00 +tax
• 2 Hour Sunset Tour - $325 +tax
• Half Day - 4 Hours - $525.00 +tax
• Full Day - 6 Hours - $749.00 +tax
• To Purchase a Gift Certificate - Click Book Now and select Gift Certificate.

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE NOW

Select a dolphin tour, sunset tour or any of our private charters to get started.

Come see why we are Rated  the #1 Boat Tour in the area! Over 600 Reviews on TripAdvisor and Google. 

What Our Customers Say

Tripadvisor travelers choice award 2023.

We are very proud to be the recipient of the Tripadvisors Travelers Choice Award for the last 4 years! We love and are great at what we do everyday and our customers see it. Captain Karie Daniel

-Fabulous Outing!! Lee Anne G.

Girls day on the water! The boat was pristine and beautiful! Captain Karie greeted us with a smile and was very friendly! He had water for us and and even a towel for an unexpected spray! We toured Sarasota bay, Siesta key and saw Sandollar island! Got to view beautiful homes and foliage as well as dolphins playing! Loved the dolphins chasing the wake of the boat! I totally recommend this ride! Captain Karie is funny, genuine and knowledgeable! Great FUN!

-Best Day Ever! - jasonrL2762BJ

100% recommended!! What an absolutely amazing experience and Captain. Captain Karie not only knew how to make the dolphins ride and jump in his wake he was also super helpful and friendly catering to all our needs for the best day ever. We will be back next year Captain Karie! Thanks for the amazing memories!

SIESTA KEY DOLPHIN TOURS

941.400.2763.

We support our military; please call for pricing.

We offer two very unique dolphin tours, each complete with a special treat. Try our morning cruise with coffee and donuts, or join us in the afternoon for complimentary beverages! We are Siesta Key’s only tour boat located at the historic Siesta Key Marina, and yes, our Siesta Key boat has a bathroom! The dolphin tours take around two hours and are a must do while you are on vacation here in Siesta Key and the greater Sarasota area.

Dolphins & Donuts

Fun Boat Tours morning Dolphin and Donuts tour is a great way to start the day. It features donuts and coffee from a locally owned and operated business. This tour heads north from Siesta Key Marina and focuses on finding dolphin, manatee (seasonal), and a wide array of aquatic birds. Cruising along the Intercoastal Waterway, you will step back in time to see mangrove islands packed with pelicans, herons, spoonbills, ibis, osprey, and even bald eagles. The beauty of little Sarasota bay and the ecosystem around it is a landscape that takes you back in time to historic Florida.

$49.99 / Adult

$29.99/ child 10 and under.

Book online now!

Dolphins & Drinks

Fun Boat Tours midday Dolphins and Drinks tour departs from Siesta Key Marina and travels north through the ICW and around the mangrove islands of Roberts Bay. With a stop by the bird rookery to visit our local pelicans, cormorants, anhingas, herons, ibis, osprey, and other aquatic birds. Our tours always focus on searching for wild dolphin and manatee (seasonal) in the waterways around Siesta Key. Learn the history of the islands in the bay and their importance to the thriving ecosystem. Fun Boat Tours includes complimentary water and soda on this dolphin tour.

Fun Boat Tours offers morning and afternoon dolphin tours.

All of our tours depart Siesta Key Marina daily. For departure times or more information, please call us at 941.400.2763.

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School districts work to change future start times to comply with new Florida law by 2026

by: Kevin Accettulla , Linnie Supall

Posted: Apr 22, 2024 / 09:04 PM EDT

Updated: Apr 23, 2024 / 11:23 AM EDT

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — School districts across Florida are working to change their future start times in order to comply with a new Florida law in time for the 2026 academic year.

By July 1, 2026, school districts must start middle school classes after 8 a.m. and high school classes must not start before 8:30 a.m.

The change in start times for high school and middle school students will likely impact start times for elementary schools.

Polk County held a town hall Monday night to discuss potential changes due to the law. While the law doesn’t go into effect for two more years, school leaders are using this time to collect input from parents, teachers, and students.

“We’re definitely concerned about making sure all the angles are covered,” said Ryan DelliVeniri, chairman of the district advisory council for Polk County Public Schools. “I think that the worst thing to do would be to pump out a solution that only works for a group of people and not most of the people.”

State leaders hope starting school later would help students get more sleep and lead to better mental and physical health.

“We know that there’s a strong correlation between sleep and depression,” said Jennifer Tomko, a clinical psychotherapist for Clarity Health Solutions. “For every hour less than what a child needs, there’s a 38% increase in the chances of depression or sad thoughts. Irritability definitely goes up.”

Similar conversations about shifting school start times are also taking place in Pinellas, Pasco, and Sarasota counties.

“I don’t think it’s going to be successful,” said Norma Tutt, the mother of a Davenport student. “I don’t think it’s going to change anything.”

Tutt said the changes aren’t going to prepare students for adult life.

“It’s not going to do anything but give them more time to stay awake,” she said.

The statewide mandate stems from medical research conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics, which includes the following recommendation:

“ The American Academy of Pediatrics recognizes insufficient sleep in adolescents as an important public health issue that significantly affects the health and safety, as well as the academic success, of our nation’s middle and high school students. Although a number of factors, including biological changes in sleep associated with puberty, lifestyle choices, and academic demands, negatively affect middle and high school students’ ability to obtain sufficient sleep, the evidence strongly implicates earlier school start times (ie, before 8:30 am) as a key modifiable contributor to insufficient sleep, as well as circadian rhythm disruption, in this population. Furthermore, a substantial body of research has now demonstrated that delaying school start times is an effective countermeasure to chronic sleep loss and has a wide range of potential benefits to students with regard to physical and mental health, safety, and academic achievement. “

Polk County

Current start times:

• Elementary: 7:45 a.m. — 8:15 a.m.
• Middle: 9 a.m. — 9:15 a.m.
• High: 7 a.m.

Hillsborough County

Already implemented changes in the 2018-19 school year that comply with the law.

• Elementary: 7:40 a.m.
• Middle: 9:30 a.m.
• High: 8:30 a.m.

Pinellas County

The school board has already began having discussions about the new law, but has not made a decision on new start times. Current times:

• Elementary: 9:40 a.m.
• Middle: 8:30 a.m. — 9:15 a.m.
• High: 7:10 a.m. — 7:35 a.m.
• Exceptional education centers: 10 a.m.

Pasco County

Start times currently vary greatly depending on the school. Current times:

• Elementary (academy): 7:10 a.m.
• Elementary: 8:10 a.m.
• Middle: Starting at 7:10 a.m.
• High: Starting at 7:06 a.m.

Sarasota County

The school district doesn’t plan to implement any schedule changes until the 2026 school year. Discussions have not yet been held, but are expected to take place in 2025. Current times vary by school and are posted on each school’s website.

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