If you’re heading to St. Pete Beach and craving a personalized outdoor adventure, a private boat tour with Allens Aquatic Adventures offers an engaging way to explore the Gulf of Mexico. For $365, up to six people can spend anywhere from 2 to 6 hours on the water, customizing their experience with activities like waterskiing, snorkeling, island hopping, shelling, and dolphin watching. Imagine gliding over the waves, snorkeling among historic ruins, or catching a breathtaking sunset — all tailored to your group’s interests.
What we love about this experience are two key details: first, the flexibility of the itinerary means you can prioritize what excites you most, whether it’s thrills on waterskis or serene shelling at Shell Island. Second, the comprehensive gear included (snorkel, wakeboard, water skis, kneeboard, and tubes) means you don’t have to worry about bringing your own equipment or paying extra for rentals.
One potential consideration is the fuel surcharge—ranging from $20 to $100—which could affect your overall budget, especially on longer trips. Also, since the trip is private, it’s best suited for groups wanting a customized, intimate experience rather than a large, shared tour. This tour is perfect for families, couples, or friends who want to enjoy the Gulf’s waters without the crowds, and who appreciate a mix of active fun and relaxing scenery.
Key Points
- Customizable experience: Choose from watersports, snorkeling, shelling, dolphin tours, and sunset cruises.
- All gear included: Snorkeling equipment and watersports gear are provided, making it easy to just show up and enjoy.
- Flexible duration: Tours range from 2 to 6 hours, letting you pick how much time you want on the water.
- Private setting: Ideal for groups up to 6 seeking a personalized adventure.
- Historic snorkeling: Snorkel around old forts on Egmont Key, dating back to the late 1800s.
- Stunning views: Expect picturesque sunsets and illuminated bridges during evening cruises.
Exploring the Private Boat Tour Experience
Imagine stepping onto a sleek boat with your friends or family, the sun already warming your skin, with the Gulf of Mexico stretching in every direction. This private tour from St. Pete Beach offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, tailored just for your group. The experience begins at a marina where your crew, guided by friendly and knowledgeable Captain, ensures everything is ready for your day on the water.
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The Itinerary Breakdown
The most popular option is a 4-hour tour combining snorkeling and watersports, which is perfect for those who want a taste of both. The morning might start with wakeboarding or kneeboarding — activities that get your adrenaline pumping. Wakeboarding, in particular, is a favorite because of the thrill of gliding behind the boat, with the Gulf’s calm waters providing a safety net for beginners and pros alike.
Later, the tour shifts to snorkeling around Egmont Key, where you’ll explore the ruins of old forts from the late 1800s. The clear waters make for excellent visibility, and the historical wrecks add an intriguing element. As one reviewer mentioned, “Snorkeling around those old forts was like stepping back in time, with the added bonus of spotting some local dolphins.”
If your group prefers a more laid-back activity, shelling at Shell Island offers a peaceful break. Here, you can hunt for shells, relax on the sandy shores, or just enjoy the scenery. This stretch of pristine shoreline is known for its quiet beauty and diverse shells, making it a favorite for those looking to unwind.
Dolphins, Sunsets, and Night Views
A highlight that often excites travelers is the dolphin tour. Captain might take you close to pods of dolphins, with many guests commenting on how playful and curious these creatures are. It’s a genuinely memorable experience, especially for kids or wildlife enthusiasts.
As the day winds down, you can opt for a sunset cruise. The Gulf of Mexico offers some of the most spectacular twilight views, with the sky changing from bright blue to shades of orange and pink. Weather permitting, the cruise continues to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, where the illuminated span creates a stunning backdrop. Guests often mention how peaceful and breathtaking it is to watch the sun dip below the horizon, with the lit-up bridges adding a magical touch.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Allens Aquatic Adventures provides snorkeling gear, wakeboards, water skis, kneeboards, and tubes — so you’re ready to go without needing to bring your own equipment. This makes the experience more accessible, especially if you’re new to watersports.
However, there’s a fuel surcharge ranging from $20 to $100, which is not included in the base price. This is a common practice for boat tours, and it’s worth budgeting for, especially if you plan a longer trip. The meeting point is conveniently located near restroom facilities, and the operator recommends arriving a bit early to apply sunscreen and get ready for your adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat Travelers Say
Many guests appreciate the personalized nature of the tour, describing it as a “more intimate experience” compared to larger group tours. One reviewer noted, “Our guide was very attentive, making sure we got the activities we wanted, and the scenery was stunning.” Others highlighted the combination of activities, with one saying, “Doing snorkeling and watersports in one trip was perfect — we felt like we got a full day’s worth of fun in just a few hours.”
Those who opted for the sunset cruise raved about the visuals: “The sunset was incredible, with the sky blazing in oranges and pinks. It’s definitely a highlight that I’d do again.” Some also appreciated the flexibility, as the tour can be tailored to shorter or longer durations based on what your group prefers.
Final Thoughts
This private boat tour from St. Pete Beach combines adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. The ability to customize your day makes it especially appealing for small groups seeking a tailored experience, whether you’re after high-energy waterskiing or a peaceful shell hunt. The included gear, scenic stops, and dolphin sightings add layers of value you won’t find on larger, cookie-cutter tours.
The experience is well-suited for families, couples, or friends who want to make the most of their time on the water while enjoying the freedom to choose their activities. The stunning views, especially during sunset, are a definite highlight, making this tour a memorable way to see the Gulf’s best.
While the fuel surcharge is something to keep in mind, it’s a small extra for the chance to explore at your own pace with a knowledgeable guide. If you love watersports, enjoy snorkeling, or simply want a peaceful cruise with gorgeous scenery, this private boat trip offers a great blend of everything.
FAQ
What is the maximum group size for this tour?
Up to 6 passengers can join per booking, making it perfect for small groups or families.
Can I choose the activities I want?
Yes, the tour is customizable. You can prioritize watersports, snorkeling, shelling, dolphin watching, or sunset cruising based on your preferences.
What gear is included?
Snorkeling gear, wakeboards, water skis, kneeboards, and tubes are all provided, so you don’t need to bring your own equipment.
How long does the tour last?
Tours are available from 2 to 6 hours, with the most popular choice being 4 hours that combine snorkeling and watersports.
Is there a weather dependence for the sunset cruise?
Yes, weather conditions influence sunset cruises. If skies are cloudy or storms threaten, the cruise might be rescheduled or canceled.
What should I bring or prepare before the tour?
Arrive early to use the restrooms and apply sunscreen. Remember that fuel surcharge ($20-$100) is not included in the price, so budget accordingly.
This private boat tour around St. Pete Beach offers a wonderfully flexible way to explore the Gulf. It’s a balanced mix of active fun, scenic beauty, and relaxing downtime — perfect for travelers who want a personalized marine adventure.
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