Panama City Beach isn’t just about sugary beaches and lively nightlife—it’s also a fantastic spot for sailing adventures. With its calm Gulf waters, frequent dolphin sightings, and stunning sunsets, it’s easy to see why sailing is a top activity here. We especially love the Sunset Catamaran Sail on The Privateer for its relaxed vibe and dolphin-spotting opportunities, and the Footloose Catamaran Snorkel and Dolphin Watch Tour for a lively day on the water. Whether you prefer a romantic evening or a family-friendly snorkeling trip, Panama City Beach offers a diverse range of sailing experiences suited to every taste and budget.
Quick Overview
Our list includes sunset sails, dolphin-spotting cruises, snorkeling adventures, and private charters—each offering a unique perspective of Panama City Beach’s waters. For a romantic sunset, the Daydreams Sunset Sail is hard to beat. Families or groups seeking active fun will enjoy the Shell Island tours, with options for swimming, kayaking, and waterpark fun. Budget travelers can find great options starting as low as $38 per person, while those wanting exclusivity might consider private charters like the Private 3 Hour Swim, Snorkel & Sail. Read on for detailed reviews of each.
1. Panama City Beach Sunset Catamaran Sail on The Privateer
At number one, the Sunset Catamaran Sail on The Privateer offers one of the most romantic ways to enjoy Panama City Beach’s waters. This 2-hour cruise on a spacious 78-passenger catamaran includes tropical music, a complimentary beverage, and a chance to see dolphins as the sun dips below the Gulf of Mexico. The crew, led by Captain Mike, gets rave reviews, often highlighted for their engaging and friendly service. Guests love the chance to relax, sip drinks, and enjoy the stunning sunset, with many noting dolphins swimming alongside the boat. The onboard bar sells snacks and drinks, making it a perfect pre-dinner outing.
The trip’s excellent reviews mention dolphins, sea turtles, and lively music, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. Priced at $45 per person, it offers great value for a memorable sunset experience. Perfect for couples, romantic groups, or anyone looking to unwind with a scenic view.
Bottom Line: A top choice for a romantic, easygoing evening on the water that combines wildlife sightings, great music, and spectacular sunsets.
2. Footloose Catamaran Snorkel and Dolphin Watch Tour
At number two, the Footloose Catamaran Snorkel and Dolphin Watch Tour is a lively 3-hour adventure perfect for active travelers. It offers a mix of dolphin watching, snorkeling, and relaxing on a full-service bar with snacks for purchase. This trip takes you through the historic Grand Lagoon, where dolphins often swim right alongside the boat, and then to Shell Island for snorkeling to see marine life up close.
Guests repeatedly praise the crew’s friendliness and knowledge, especially for their ability to find playful dolphins. Many mention how the rum punch and cheerful atmosphere make the trip even more enjoyable. The trip costs $50 per person, providing a great balance of fun, wildlife viewing, and water activities. It appeals to families and groups looking for a day full of ocean fun.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a combination of dolphin sightings, snorkeling, and a lively social environment.
3. Panama City Beach Sunset Sail on The Footloose Catamaran
Next, the Sunset Sail on The Footloose Catamaran offers a more intimate experience. This 1.5-hour cruise on a smaller 38-passenger vessel features tropical music and a complimentary glass of wine, Sangria, or beer. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a relaxing evening. The trip takes you past Shell Island into the Gulf to watch the sunset and look for dolphins.
Rated highly for its stunning scenery and friendly crew, guests say it’s a romantic and peaceful way to enjoy Panama City Beach. The shorter duration makes it a good option for those with busy schedules or looking for a quick yet memorable outing. The price is $45 per person, reflecting excellent value for a private, sunset experience.
Bottom Line: For a quiet, romantic sunset with a small-group vibe and drinks included, this tour is a perfect pick.
4. Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran
At number four, the Dolphin Sightseeing Tour is a 1.5-hour cruise that’s all about dolphin encounters. This trip along the Gulf Coastline offers prime opportunities to photograph dolphins swimming in their natural habitat. The spacious deck makes for comfortable viewing, and the crew often reports seeing over 50 dolphins during trips.
Rated 5 stars, many reviewers highlight the friendly crew, the abundant dolphin sightings, and the fun atmosphere. The bar offers snacks and drinks for purchase, with one reviewer mentioning how the drinks and scenery combined for a memorable trip. Priced at just $40, it’s an affordable way to see dolphins without sacrificing comfort or fun.
Bottom Line: A top choice for dolphin lovers and wildlife photographers wanting a relaxed cruise with excellent sightings.
5. Adventure Tour to Shell Island on the Privateer Catamaran
Coming in at number five, the Adventure Tour to Shell Island combines sailing, wildlife, and active fun. This 3-hour trip starts with a sail through the Grand Lagoon to a private area off Shell Island. Once there, you can kayak, paddleboard, snorkel, or enjoy the inflatable water park with trampolines and slides. All activities are included, and the crew is praised for their attentiveness and cleanliness.
Guests love the variety of options—whether relaxing on the boat or splashing around on land. Many reviewers recommend bringing snacks and drinks, as you can bring your own. The trip costs $55 per person, which is good value considering the range of activities.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families and active travelers who want a mix of sailing, water activities, and wildlife viewing in one trip.
6. Private 3 Hour Swim, Snorkel & Sail on Daydreams Sailboat
Number six is a luxury private experience with the Private 3 Hour Swim, Snorkel & Sail. This up to 12 guests trip on a 46-ft sailboat offers a personalized experience with a bow for sunbathing, a luxury salon, and cabins. The trip includes dolphin watching, snorkeling, and relaxing in the Gulf, with the crew sharing info about marine life along the way.
Guests rave about the attentiveness of guides and the smooth, comfortable ride. For $899 per group, it’s a premium experience that’s worth the cost if privacy and comfort are priorities. Many reviewers mention how the crew’s support made snorkeling and dolphin spotting effortless.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a private, upscale sailing day with snorkeling and dolphin watching.
7. Panama City Beach: Dolphin Sightseeing Trip by Catamaran
Number seven offers a quick 1.5-hour trip aboard the Dolphin Sightseeing Trip. This is a straightforward, budget-friendly option to see dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico. Guests enjoy the comfortable catamaran, watching bottlenose dolphins, and listening to fun facts from the crew.
Rated 4.8 stars, it’s a good choice for travelers short on time or budget-conscious, yet still wanting a quality wildlife experience. The trip includes opportunities to photograph dolphins and the coast scenery, making it a quick but memorable outing.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a brief, inexpensive dolphin cruise with a comfortable boat.
8. Sunset Sail Aboard the 47 ft Daydreams Sailboat
At number eight, the Sunset Sail on the Daydreams Sailboat provides a scenic 2-hour cruise with a VIP feel. Only six guests or fewer share this elegant voyage, which takes you past Shell Island and into the Gulf for sunset and dolphin viewing. The boat offers a relaxing sail with complimentary beverages and soothing tropical music.
Guests rave about the staff’s professionalism and the quality of the experience. It’s a favorite for romantic couples and small groups wanting a more exclusive feel. The $99 price tag reflects a premium, intimate experience with high reviews for scenery and service.
Bottom Line: For a luxurious, intimate sunset with dolphin sightings, this cruise is a top-tier choice.
9. Shell Island: Adventure Tour on the Privateer Catamaran
Number nine, the Shell Island Adventure Tour offers a fun-packed 3-hour trip aimed at active explorers. It features water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and an inflatable water park, all included. The boat sails to Shell Island’s private area, where you can swim, relax, or look for dolphins in the Gulf.
Guests appreciate the friendly crew and the fact that they can bring their own snacks. The trip is priced at $71 per person, making it a good value for a full day of water-based fun.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families and groups wanting an energetic day with plenty of water play and wildlife watching.
10. Shell Island Snorkel and Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time
Number ten is the Shell Island Snorkel and Dolphin Cruise. It’s the most popular, with over 3,400 reviews, and offers a 3-hour trip with a broad, stable deck perfect for relaxing. The cruise emphasizes dolphin watching and snorkeling, with gear provided and plenty of room to spread out.
Many reviewers highlight the crew’s friendliness, the abundance of dolphins, and the convenience of multiple departure times. For $52.43 per person, it’s a highly rated tour that balances wildlife viewing with fun water activities like paddle boarding and sliding down the waterslide.
Bottom Line: The best all-around dolphin and snorkeling trip, especially for families and water lovers seeking comfort and variety.
11. Private 2 Hour Sailboat Sunset Charter
Number eleven offers an exclusive experience with the Private 2 Hour Sunset Charter. Up to 12 guests can enjoy a luxury private sail around Shell Island and into the Gulf, with dolphin sightings and breathtaking sunsets. The flexibility of this trip makes it ideal for special celebrations or just a quiet evening on the water.
Guests love the personalized service and flexibility, with many calling it “a memorable, peaceful experience.” The price is $699 per group, reflecting its exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a private, customizable sail with dolphin sightings and sunset views.
$699.00 per group (up to 12)
12. Sunset & Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time
Number twelve, the Sunset & Dolphin Catamaran Cruise, is a favorite for its lively atmosphere and over 1,560 reviews. This 2-hour cruise combines dolphin watching, sunset views, music, games, and dancing, making it a lively evening outing for families and friends.
Rated consistently high for fun and friendliness, many mention the quality of the staff and the scenic sunset. At $52.43 per ticket, it’s a reasonably priced, energetic way to end the day on the water.
Bottom Line: A lively, social sunset cruise ideal for groups wanting fun, games, and wildlife sightings.
$52.43 per person
13. Panama City Beach: Sunset Sail on the Daydreams Sailboat
Number thirteen, the Sunset Sail on the Daydreams Sailboat, offers a tranquil, luxurious experience. With only six passengers, it’s an intimate 2-hour trip that features dolphin sightings, scenic views, and complimentary beverages. It’s ideal for couples or small groups seeking a quiet, elegant end to the day.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable staff and the beauty of the experience. The $107 price reflects its upscale, personal touch, making it perfect for those who want a peaceful, exclusive sunset.
Bottom Line: For a serene, intimate sunset with a focus on wildlife and scenery, this cruise is a superb choice.
$107 per person
14. Private Sailboat Charter with Snorkeling
Finally, the Private Sailboat Charter with Snorkeling is a personalized 3-hour trip for up to 12 guests, offering a flexible itinerary around Shell Island and the Gulf. It includes snorkeling, dolphin watching, and complimentary wine and beer. This trip is great for those wanting a private, tailored experience on a comfortable vessel.
Guests appreciate the crew’s attentiveness and the chance to customize the trip. It’s a premium option at $963 per group, best suited for special occasions or small groups who value privacy and flexibility.
Bottom Line: The ultimate private, customizable sailing day for those who want a luxurious and exclusive experience.
$963 per group up to 12
How to Choose Your Panama City Beach Sailing Experience
When selecting your ideal sailing adventure, consider your budget, trip length, and interests. For a romantic sunset, skip the crowds and try the Sunset Sail on the Daydreams Sailboat. If wildlife is your main goal, the Dolphin Sightseeing Tour on The Footloose Catamaran or the Shell Island tours are excellent choices. Budget travelers can opt for the shorter, affordable cruises, while families and groups looking for active fun will enjoy the waterpark and snorkeling options.
Booking early is advisable, especially for private charters or popular sunset cruises, and always check the weather forecast since sailing trips are weather-dependent.
Final Thoughts
Panama City Beach offers a well-rounded slate of sailing experiences that cater to different tastes—whether you’re after a peaceful sunset, an active dolphin watch, or a private luxury cruise. The Sunset Catamaran Sail on The Privateer is a standout for its balance of affordability and scenic beauty. For those who want a lively, family-friendly day, the Shell Island adventure offers a full range of water activities. And for couples or private groups, the private sailboat experiences provide intimacy and customization.
Whichever experience you choose, Panama City Beach’s waters promise unforgettable memories—so don’t wait too long to book, especially during peak seasons. Happy sailing!