Private Charter Boat with Slide from Panama City

A Private Day on the Water: Exploring Panama City’s Coastline and Shell Island

Thinking about spending a few hours on the water in Panama City? This private charter boat with slide offers a flexible, family-friendly option that combines relaxation, adventure, and the chance to see local marine life. For $589 per group—up to six people—you get four hours of cruising aboard a double-decker boat, complete with a friendly captain who’s eager to help you make the most of your time on the water.

What we appreciate most about this tour is its versatility. You can spend the whole time soaking up the sun and enjoying the scenic views, or you can jump into activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, or zooming down the slide on the boat’s top deck. Plus, the chance to spot dolphins and other marine creatures during the cruise makes it feel like a genuine wildlife encounter rather than just a boat ride.

One potential consideration is the price point—for some travelers, $589 might seem steep for just four hours, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a couple. But if you’re with family or friends, the cost tends to divide out well, especially given the personalized experience and the flexibility of the itinerary.

This adventure suits anyone looking for a relaxed yet lively day out. It’s especially well-loved by families and groups of friends who want a combination of fun, nature, and the chance to create lasting memories on the water.

Key Points

• Private experience: Only your group participates, providing a personalized feel.
• Versatile activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, a water slide, and dolphin spotting are all available.
• Scenic cruise: Enjoy the views en route to Shell Island with music and wildlife sightings.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children and adults alike, with plenty of engaging options.
• Skilled captain: Guides like Captain Matthew are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge.
• Great value for a tailored outing: The price covers four hours of private fun for up to six people.

When you book this private boat trip in Panama City, you’re signing up for what many reviews call an “unforgettable” experience. The journey begins at 111 W Beach Dr, where your captain and boat await. From there, it’s a roughly four-hour adventure that whisks you away to Shell Island, a popular destination known for its pristine beaches and shallow waters.

Cruising to Shell Island is part of the fun. As the boat gently moves through the water, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the coastline, often accompanied by music, creating a relaxed, party-like atmosphere. Keep an eye out for dolphins—many guests mention dolphin sightings as a highlight—an experience that never gets old when you’re out on the water.

Once you arrive at Shell Island, the day’s activities are entirely up to you. Guests have the freedom to explore the island, snorkel in the clear waters, paddleboard, or simply lounge on the deck with a drink in hand. The water slide on the boat’s top deck is a crowd favorite, giving everyone a chance to zoom down into the sea.

Marine life sightings are frequently reported, including dolphins, sea turtles, starfish, and sand dollars. One reviewer raved about Captain Matthew’s local knowledge: “He checked all our boxes,” including dolphins, starfish, paddleboards, and even ice cream delivery. Such personalized touches help make this trip feel special and memorable.

The boat itself is described as clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with a friendly captain (many reviewers mention Matthew by name). The double-decker design provides ample space for lounging, sunbathing, or enjoying the thrill of the slide.

Departure and cruising: Starting at the meeting point, the boat’s relaxed atmosphere sets the tone. Guests often mention how enjoyable it is to listen to music and take in the stunning scenery as they cruise towards Shell Island.

Dolphin spotting: Many guests describe cruising along with dolphins swimming alongside or just ahead of the boat. This natural show often becomes a highlight, and it’s a bonus that the captain is adept at spotting and pointing out marine life.

Shell Island exploration: Once there, the island offers shallow, safe waters perfect for paddleboarding, snorkeling, or just wading in the surf. Guests can explore at leisure, often finding starfish and sand dollars washed up on the shore.

Onboard fun: The boat’s slide is a unique feature that provides lots of laughs and excitement, especially for kids. As one reviewer said, “Our kids loved this experience… cruising for dolphins and sea turtles,” indicating how well this tour caters to families.

Return cruise: After a few hours of exploration and fun, the boat heads back to the starting point. Many guests mention how the relaxed pace and friendly captain make the return just as enjoyable as the outbound trip.

From joyful comments like “High recommend!” to detailed praise for Captain Matthew’s local knowledge, reviews reveal that what makes this tour stand out is the personal touch. Guests love not just the activities but also the intentional focus on creating a safe, relaxing environment.

One guest fondly recalled a “safe & relaxing time with family,” emphasizing the ease of the experience. Another appreciated the ice cream delivery, showing how the captain goes above and beyond to make the day special. This combination of fun activities and considerate service is what seems to keep guests coming back.

For $589 a group—up to six people—this private boat offers a customized, intimate experience. When you consider the costs of similar group tours, this price might seem high at first glance. However, the private nature means no strangers sharing the space, and the flexibility to choose your activities makes it a solid value for those who prioritize personalization.

Compared to group dolphin cruises or snorkeling tours, this private charter allows you to set your own pace and focus on what interests you most. Plus, the 4-hour duration strikes a balance—long enough to enjoy multiple activities and wildlife encounters without feeling rushed.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or small groups of friends** who want a personalized adventure on the water. Its flexibility makes it suitable for children and adults alike, especially if your group enjoys a mix of relaxing and active pursuits.

If you value authentic marine encounters and the ability to tailor your day, you’ll find this experience appealing. It’s especially recommended for those who want to combine sightseeing with fun and aren’t hesitant to pay a bit extra for a private, well-guided outing.

How many people can fit on the boat?
Up to six people are allowed per booking, making it a cozy and exclusive experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the private four-hour boat rental, the services of a captain, and access to the boat’s amenities, including the slide.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellation is free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. The experience may be canceled due to poor weather, with options for rescheduling or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention kids enjoying the slide, dolphin spotting, and exploring on the island.

Are there options for snorkeling and paddleboarding?
Yes, these activities are available, and guests often mention how much they enjoyed them.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 111 W Beach Dr, Panama City, FL.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, the tour is booked about 18 days ahead, so planning early is recommended.

Is the boat comfortable and well-maintained?
Guests say yes, describing it as clean, comfortable, and perfect for a day on the water.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

To sum it up, this private boat charter offers a well-rounded, intimate experience perfect for those who want to explore Shell Island with the freedom to choose their activities. Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters, water slides, or just a relaxing day under the sun, this tour delivers a memorable outing with a friendly captain at your side. It’s especially suited for families and small groups eager for a personalized adventure in Panama City.