Skip to main content
The Ultimate Dolphin Spotting Cruise in Destin image 1
The Ultimate Dolphin Spotting Cruise in Destin image 2
The Ultimate Dolphin Spotting Cruise in Destin image 3
The Ultimate Dolphin Spotting Cruise in Destin image 4
The Ultimate Dolphin Spotting Cruise in Destin image 5

The Ultimate Dolphin Spotting Cruise in Destin

About this Experience

What you'll do:

Search for wild dolphins, cruise past celebrity homes, and soak up the Emerald Coast sunshine on this top-rated dolphin watching cruise from Destin. With over 20 years of experience, Sunshine Watersports offers a smooth, scenic ride along the Gulf’s iconic turquoise waters — and one of the best chances to see playful dolphins swimming right alongside your boat.

You’ll start your journey from Destin Harbor, passing by spectacular waterfront mansions and hearing stories of the area’s famous residents. Then it's off to open waters, where your experienced captain will guide you through dolphin hotspots. These curious, energetic animals often swim close to the boat — jumping, spinning, or cruising just below the surface.

Whether you're snapping photos, enjoying the sea breeze, or just hoping to make eye contact with a dolphin (yes, it happens!), this is a can’t-miss Florida experience for visitors of all ages.

Why we love it for your group:

  • Spacious 45’ tour boat – Open-air with shaded areas and room to walk

  • Incredible dolphin photo ops – Dolphins often swim just feet from the boat

  • Scenic Destin Harbor cruise – View waterfront homes of the rich & famous

  • Veteran captain & crew – Over 20 years of dolphin-spotting experience

  • Sun or shade, your choice – Relax comfortably while enjoying the view

  • Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will love spotting dolphins in the wild

About this experience partner:

Sunshine Watersports Destin is one of the area’s most trusted names in coastal adventure. With thousands of 5-star reviews, a knowledgeable crew, and one of the most comfortable dolphin tour boats in Florida, they offer the perfect balance of education, entertainment, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a local showing guests around, this cruise delivers big-time on memories, photos, and dolphin fun.

Additional Information:

  • Duration: ~1.5 to 2 hours

  • Price: Varies seasonally; group rates available

  • Boat capacity: Up to 49 passengers

  • Included:

    • Dolphin sightseeing cruise

    • US Coast Guard-certified captain & crew

    • Onboard bathroom

    • Shade & sun seating

  • Not included: Food & drinks

  • Not allowed: Coolers

  • What to bring:

    • Sunscreen

    • Hat & sunglasses

  • Meeting Point: 500 Harbor Blvd, Destin FL — South side of Hwy 98, across from Taco Bell. Parking is available.

Note: Dolphins are frequently spotted, but as wild animals, they occasionally keep a low profile. The captain and crew use years of local knowledge to find the best spots for close-up views.

Provided by Sunshine Watersports

Joined June 2025

Book This Experience

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

Reviews

See All

5 (10 Ratings)

N

Nilou

December 2025 • Other Party

Did a sunset Dolphin cruise. We saw hundreds of dolphins. The crew was so sweet and professional. Highly recommend.

DK

Dustin K.

December 2025 • Other Party

Great time, basic boat rental and perfect for what we needed to cruise around for 4 hours. Very friendly and nice staff and the best price around.

CH

Christine H.

December 2025 • Other Party

We had a great time on our sunset dolphin cruise!! Would definitely recommend Sunshine!

KK

Karthik K.

December 2025 • Other Party

I had a very pleasant experience with Sunshine Water Sports. They truly focus on customer satisfaction. I booked a sunset cruise with them, and it was wonderful. The crew patiently waited for the actual sunset, no matter how long it took, which made the experience even more special. We were also delighted to see many dolphins in the evening as they came out to play in the cooler water. Overall, it was a memorable and enjoyable ride!

KL

Krissy L.

December 2025 • Other Party

We absolutely loved the Dolphin Cruise with Josh and Hannah last week. It was our very first time ever going on one. Im so glad I booked. It was fun and very informative. Josh did a great job at not only finding the Dolphins, but telling us about stuff happening around Destin. Pointing out the good food places out on the water. We will definitely be back to do more fun things. Heads up on parking. If I was you, I'd back into the parking spot. It took us a good long while to get out of that small packed parking lot. Back in and try parking close to the exit side. Thank me later😂

ID

Ingrid D.

December 2025 • Other Party

We took the dolphin sunset cruise. It was the highlight of our trip. We saw so many dolphins jumping and playing. The crew did a great job to make this an unforgettable experience. Highly recommended!

LW

Lauren W.

December 2025 • Other Party

Went on a sunset cruise with Josh and Wesley. Awesome guides with great music! Would definitely book again!!

DH

David H.

December 2025 • Group-Trip Party

We searched Destin for a family-friendly dolphin cruise. We were NOT interested in loud music, booze, and excessive speeds because we had young children in tow. Sunshine Watersports was the perfect choice! The crew (Owen and Hannah) were super friendly, courteous, and professional. It was a great tour as we saw numbers of dolphins, even one pod with a baby. Overall, it was a wonderful tour. We couldn’t have imagined a better experience. Thank you so much, Owen and Hannah of Sunshine Watersports! Highly recommended!

TC

Tanna C.

December 2025 • Other Party

Great cruise with friendly staff! So pleasant and low key. Thank you for a great evening!

TP

Terri P.

December 2025 • Group-Trip Party

We went on the dolphin sunset cruise last night, and thoroughly enjoyed it! Kyle and Josh were the best captain/hosts, making sure we all saw the dolphins and had an enjoyable time. Highly recommend this cruise, we’ll be back next year! For some reason I can’t download photos of the dolphins, but we saw a lot of them, they put on a good show for us!