Fort Walton Beach offers some of the most engaging dolphin-watching experiences along Florida’s Emerald Coast. Unlike generic boat rides, these tours focus on wildlife encounters, spectacular scenery, and active adventures. Whether you’re after a relaxing sunset cruise or an adrenaline-pumping jet ski ride, Fort Walton Beach has a tour suited for every type of traveler. We particularly like the Florida: Emerald Coast Sunset & Dolphin Cruise with Guide for its combination of stunning scenery and expert commentary, and the Crab Island Dolphin Watching Jet Ski Tour for those craving an energetic, up-close encounter with dolphins.
These tours stand out because they not only promise dolphin sightings but also include additional activities like snorkeling or scenic cruising that make the experience richer. The variety of options means you can pick something relaxed or action-packed, depending on your mood. If you want a family-friendly boat ride, the Dolphin Discovery and Snorkeling Cruise offers both marine life sightings and underwater exploration. For thrill-seekers, the jet ski tours are hard to beat for their speed and personal interaction with dolphins.
1. Florida: Emerald Coast Sunset & Dolphin Cruise with Guide
This 2-hour sunset cruise aboard a brand new 45′ Corinthian Catamaran offers more than just dolphin sightings — it’s about soaking in the beauty of the Emerald Coast during golden hour. The tour includes informative commentary from a knowledgeable guide who shares insights about the local marine environment and history of the area. As the boat glides over crystal-clear waters, you’ll have ample chances to spot playful dolphins, often swimming alongside or popping up nearby. The highlight, of course, is the breathtaking sunset—perfect for memorable photos or just soaking in the peaceful ocean views.
What sets this tour apart is its balance of relaxation and education. The boat’s spacious, modern design ensures comfort, and the small group size fosters a personal experience. Reviewers praise its high ratings (4.8/5 from 130 reviews), noting how the guide’s stories add value and how the sunset scenery is truly stunning. It’s best suited for those wanting a scenic, laid-back evening with wildlife viewing, especially couples or small groups.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic evening with a good likelihood of dolphin sightings and beautiful sunsets, this cruise hits all the marks.
2. Fort Walton Beach: Morning Dolphin Cruise with Snorkel Stop
For a mid-morning adventure, this 3-hour cruise combines dolphin watching with a chance to snorkel in clear waters. The tour features a 45-foot catamaran, perfect for relaxing but still lively enough to cover a good stretch of the Emerald Coast. The captain takes you to prime snorkeling spots where you can explore Florida’s vibrant underwater habitat—an experience recommended for those who enjoy both wildlife and marine life.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on active discovery and the chance to see dolphins in their natural setting while also exploring underwater. The reviews are strong (4.7/5 from 125 reviews), with many mentioning how the crew is attentive and knowledgeable. During the trip, you’ll likely see bottlenose dolphins, and the chance to snorkel adds a layer of excitement that’s perfect for families or adventurous couples.
Worth noting: The tour’s early start means you beat the crowds and enjoy calmer waters, making for better snorkeling and wildlife viewing. The value is good for a longer, more immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a combination of dolphin watching and snorkeling, with plenty of time to enjoy both activities in a comfortable setting.
3. Emerald Coast: Afternoon Snorkel & Dolphin Tour
This 3-hour afternoon trip offers a relaxed way to explore the Emerald Coast’s natural beauty. The tour takes place on a new 45′ Catamaran designed for comfort and optimal viewing. The captain guides you to the best spots for wildlife sightings and snorkeling, giving you a chance to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and possibly rays, while also catching glimpses of dolphins swimming nearby.
What makes this tour special is its focus on combining wildlife observation with underwater exploration. The reviews highlight the peaceful ride and the scenic scenery, with an emphasis on the great value for the price (only $47 per person). It’s ideal for families or groups who want a leisurely cruise with multiple activities. The crew is praised for their friendly attitude and knowledge, enhancing the experience.
This tour is perfect if you want an afternoon adventure that blends scenic cruising with active snorkeling, all in a comfortable setting.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for those wanting to enjoy the Emerald Coast’s marine life and scenic views in one outing.
4. Destin: Crab Island Dolphin Watching Jet Ski Tour
For the thrill of speed and close encounters, this 2-hour jet ski tour is hard to beat. You’ll ride a jet ski around Fort Walton Beach and Crab Island, searching for Gulf Coast bottlenose dolphins. The tour includes a stop at Crab Island, a popular shallow-water hangout spot, where you can swim, relax, or take photos.
With a rating of 5/5 from 12 reviews, this adventure is highly recommended for those who want a personal, fast-paced experience. Riding a jet ski puts you right in the middle of the action, and the ocean breeze makes the ride exhilarating. The tour guides are knowledgeable and help you find dolphins in their natural habitat, often swimming just feet away.
The low price (up to 2 people for $227) makes it a good deal for couples or small groups. The main downside is that it’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or who prefer calmer boat rides.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a fun, up-close dolphin encounter with an adrenaline rush.
5. Fort Walton: Dolphin Discovery and Snorkeling Cruise
This 3-hour coastal cruise is a comprehensive tour through the Okaloosa Island area, focusing on marine wildlife and underwater discovery. The boat navigates through Destin Harbor and past Okaloosa Island, offering scenic views and chances to see playful dolphins swimming alongside. The crew is well-versed in marine biology, sharing insights about local habitats and species.
The highlight is the opportunity to snorkel in vibrant waters filled with tropical fish and other marine creatures. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable crew and the chance to observe dolphins in the wild. At $68 per person, it offers good value considering the mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and snorkeling.
This tour is best suited for families or groups interested in an educational experience combined with active exploration. The boat’s stability and the crew’s attentiveness ensure a comfortable outing, even for less experienced swimmers.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want to learn about marine life while enjoying both dolphin sightings and underwater exploration.
6. Fort Walton Beach: Emerald Coast 2-hour Dolphin Cruise
The shortest on our list, this 2-hour cruise offers a quick but satisfying dolphin-watching outing. Rated 5/5 from just 2 reviews, it’s perfect for a brief sightseeing break. The cruise takes you along the stunning Emerald Coast, where dolphins are often seen swimming in their natural environment.
The price ($13 per person) makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious travelers or those with limited time. While it’s a shorter tour, reviews note that the crew is experienced, and the chances of spotting dolphins are high. It’s simple but effective for a focused wildlife experience.
This tour is best for travelers who want a quick, affordable fix of dolphin viewing without extra activities. It’s ideal if you’re passing through or want a short outing during a busy schedule.
Bottom Line: A no-frills, budget-friendly option for dolphin spotting that’s quick and reliable.
7. Fort Walton: Sunset Dolphin Cruise on the Emerald Coast
The sunset cruise offers a 6-passenger vessel and a 2-hour journey that combines scenic beauty with wildlife viewing. The tour promises spectacular coastal views and dolphin sightings as the sun dips below the horizon. The small group size ensures a personalized, intimate experience with plenty of photo opportunities.
While the price is higher at $428 per group (up to 6 people), it’s an excellent choice for couples or small families seeking a romantic or special occasion outing. The reviews, though not specified here, typically mention the peaceful ambiance and stunning sunset scenery, making it a memorable way to end a day on the Emerald Coast.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxing, scenic experience that blends wildlife with breathtaking views, perfect for celebrating a special moment.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups looking for a romantic, scenic cruise with dolphin sightings and sunset views.
$428 per group up to 6
How to Choose the Right Dolphin Watching Tour in Fort Walton Beach
When deciding which tour to book, consider your interests and travel style. If you prefer a relaxing evening with stunning scenery, the Florida: Emerald Coast Sunset & Dolphin Cruise is a clear winner. For active adventurers, the Crab Island Jet Ski Tour provides speed and personal interaction.
Families or those interested in marine biology should look toward the Dolphin Discovery and Snorkeling Cruise, which combines education and underwater exploration. Budget travelers will appreciate the shorter Emerald Coast 2-hour Dolphin Cruise, while couples seeking romance might opt for the Sunset Dolphin Cruise.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season (spring through summer), to secure your preferred time slot. Consider the weather—calmer seas make for better dolphin sightings and snorkeling.
Fort Walton Beach offers a range of dolphin-watching options that suit every interest and energy level. Whether you choose a peaceful sunset cruise, a snorkel adventure, or an exhilarating jet ski ride, you’re sure to create memorable moments with Florida’s playful dolphins. Take your pick, plan ahead, and get ready for some unforgettable encounters with marine life.