Skip to main content

About this Experience

What you'll do:

You'll cruise out of Destin Harbor on a 36-foot deck boat, searching for wild dolphins in the emerald waters of the Gulf Coast before dropping anchor at one of Florida's most famous sandbars.

  • Board the Guardian – Step onto a spacious 36-foot deck boat with shaded and open-air seating, an onboard restroom, and a captain who knows these waters cold.

  • Hunt for dolphins – Cruise through Choctawhatchee Bay, Destin Harbor, and the inlet as your captain and crew guide you toward dolphin hotspots (98% sighting success rate).

  • Hear the story of the coast – Your crew includes a marine biologist narration, so you'll actually learn what you're looking at out on the water.

  • Wade into Crab Island – Hop into the shallow, crystal-clear water at the world-famous Crab Island sandbar, grab a float, and spend time in one of Destin's most iconic spots.

  • Soak it all in – Whether you're chasing photos, cold drinks, or just a few hours completely off dry land, the stop at Crab Island is yours to enjoy however you like.

It's three hours on the water with a crew that genuinely enjoys what they do, a sandbar that lives up to the hype, and dolphins that almost always show up. Great for families, groups, and anyone who wants to actually get in the water.

Why we love it for your party:

  • 98% dolphin sighting rate – That's not marketing copy, that's a track record built over thousands of trips in these exact waters.

  • In-water sandbar time – You're not just cruising past Crab Island, you're actually in it, which is exactly what makes this different from a standard sightseeing tour.

  • Marine biologist narration – Turns a fun boat ride into something you'll actually talk about, because you leave knowing more than when you boarded.

  • BYOB-friendly with complimentary water – Bring your own drinks and snacks, or grab something on the water; either way, you're set.

  • Private deck boat experience – Your group gets the full boat, so this works just as well for a bachelorette group as it does for a family trip.

About this experience partner:

Destin Expeditions is a locally owned boat tour company based in Destin, FL, specializing in Crab Island sandbar tours and dolphin watching excursions along the Emerald Coast. Their captains are Destin locals with deep knowledge of the harbor, the wildlife patterns, and the best spots the area has to offer. Guests consistently point to the crew as the reason they'd book again.

Additional information:

  • What's included – Guided dolphin watching tour, Crab Island sandbar stop, marine biologist narration, complimentary bottled water, onboard restroom, and water floats at the sandbar.

  • What to bring – Sunscreen, a hat, a camera, snacks, and any beverages you want (BYOB is welcome; alcohol permitted for guests 21+).

  • Arrival – Check in at least 30 minutes before departure; start times are firm, and late arrivals may not be accommodated.

  • Waivers – All guests, including children, must complete a waiver before check-in; these can be completed in advance.

  • Good to know – No experience required, all ages welcome, and while dolphin sightings are highly likely, they are wildlife and cannot be guaranteed; routes may vary based on weather and water conditions.

Book This Experience

Visit the experience booking site to check availability and book your experience.

Location

Destin, FL

169 Brooks St SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, USA

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you only offer "by the seat" or private charters?

We do both. For Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, we will typically reserve the entire boat for you as a private experience (23 passenger maximum). Please reach out to us to plan a customized trip!

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?

While dolphin sightings cannot be guaranteed because they are wild animals, Destin Expeditions has a 98% dolphin sighting success rate thanks to their experienced captains and knowledge of local dolphin habitats. Most guests see dolphins during the tour.

What should I bring on the tour?

We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, a camera, snacks, and any beverages you'd like to enjoy during the trip. Since you'll have the opportunity to get in the water at Crab Island, swimwear and a cover-up are also a good idea.

Can I bring alcohol on board?

Yes. The tour is BYOB-friendly, and guests 21 and older are welcome to bring alcoholic beverages. Complimentary bottled water is also provided onboard.

How much time do we spend at Crab Island?

The tour includes dedicated time at Crab Island, allowing guests to get off the boat, float, wade in the shallow water, relax with friends, and enjoy one of Destin's most popular attractions. Exact timing may vary depending on weather and water conditions.

+ View 1 More

Is this tour suitable for children and non-swimmers?

Yes. This experience is family-friendly and welcomes guests of all ages. Guests can choose to stay onboard and enjoy the scenery or enter the shallow waters at Crab Island. Life jackets and safety guidance are available, making it a great option for both swimmers and non-swimmers.