Destin: Snorkeling Cruise with 2 Stops and Dolphin Watching

This review offers a detailed look at the Destin snorkeling cruise operated by Flippers Adventures / Sunshine Watersports. It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to combine marine exploration with dolphin sightings—all within a compact, well-priced package. While we haven’t taken this trip ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what to expect.

What truly stands out about this tour are the knowledgeable guides who make the trip both fun and educational, and the stunning views of Destin’s coastline that make every moment memorable. The relatively short duration—just 2.5 hours—means you get a concentrated dose of marine adventure without feeling overcommitted.

However, a potential consideration is that snorkeling gear is included, but the quality of masks wasn’t specifically praised, with some reviews suggesting an upgrade could enhance the experience. Also, since it’s a boat-based trip, weather conditions can influence dolphin sightings and the overall vibe.

This cruise is best suited for families with kids aged 4 and up, couples, or solo travelers looking for an active, scenic outing. If you’re someone who loves wildlife, crystal-clear waters, and a chance to see dolphins, this tour offers good value and an authentic taste of Destin’s marine life.

Key Points

• Marine Encounters: Opportunities to see dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, and even manatees.
• Snorkeling Highlights: Two stops to explore vibrant underwater ecosystems with provided gear.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable crew that ensures everyone gets a good view and safety.
• Comfort & Convenience: Modern, well-maintained boats with a reliable safety record.
• Value for Money: At $45 per person, the experience is generally considered a worthwhile investment.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later adds peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Logistics

You’ll meet at Flippers Snorkel Adventure in Destin Harbor, conveniently located on the south side of US Hwy 98, directly across from Taco Bell. Parking is available, and check-in is straightforward. The trip usually departs in the morning, making it easy to fit into a day of exploring Destin.

The Boat & Crew

The vessel used for this tour is described as modern and comfortable, with enough space for groups to spread out and enjoy. The crew is US Coast Guard licensed, well-trained, and attentive, which helps set a relaxed but safe tone. From the reviews, guides like Kyle, Wesley, Josh, and Owen seem particularly good at making sure everyone has the best experience—taking time to point out wildlife, ensuring everyone gets a chance to see dolphins, and providing helpful snorkeling instructions.

The Itinerary in Detail

First Stop: Bay Cruise & Dolphin Watching
The trip begins with a scenic ride along Destin’s bay. Here, you can enjoy the salty breeze and look out for dolphins. Most reviews mention dolphin sightings as a highlight, with some describing spectacular moments like dolphins surfing or swimming close to the boat. The guides often go out of their way to ensure everyone glimpses these playful animals, which are often seen on the way to the first snorkeling site.

First Snorkeling Stop
Once at the first underwater spot, a brief lesson on snorkeling and equipment use sets the tone. The waters are generally clear, offering good conditions to spot an array of marine life including colorful fish, stingrays, and sea turtles. The provided gear allows even beginners to feel confident, though some reviews suggest that better masks could improve comfort. This stop is often the favorite part for families and first-time snorkelers—feeding the fish, watching crabs, and simply floating among vibrant marine creatures.

Second Stop: At the East Jetties or Similar Site
On the way to the second snorkeling site, more dolphin watching opportunities arise. The boat’s route often takes you near well-known Destin landmarks like the East Jetties, where underwater life is additionally abundant. The reviews highlight how guides are eager to ensure everyone spots the dolphins, even if they are shy or the weather isn’t perfect.

Final Snorkeling & Feeding
The last stop usually involves another round of snorkeling, with the chance to feed fish and see crabs in action. While fish feeding adds an interactive element, the reviews note that overall marine life can vary depending on conditions like tide and weather.

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What You’ll Love

Many reviewers comment on the stunning views of the coast—waves crashing, seagulls circling overhead, and dolphins surfacing nearby. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge are clearly a big part of the appeal—they often share interesting facts about the local ecosystem, which adds depth to the experience.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: At just 2.5 hours, it’s a perfect morning activity—long enough to enjoy multiple snorkeling spots but short enough to leave time for other activities.
• Price: At $45 per person, the tour offers great value, especially considering the inclusion of all snorkeling gear and the chance to see dolphins and other wildlife.
• Weather & Wildlife: The tours are weather-dependent, and sightings of dolphins are not guaranteed, as they are wild animals. But the reviews consistently mention successful dolphin encounters.

Authentic Marine Encounters and Family Friendly Fun

From families with young kids to solo travelers, this trip appeals broadly. The guides’ ability to involve children (most are 4 years and older) and make the snorkeling accessible is a point often praised in reviews. The experience of watching dolphins surf behind the boat or seeing a leatherback turtle is a memory that sticks with many travelers.

Reviewers frequently mention how friendly and helpful the crew is, eager to share their knowledge and ensure everyone sees the wildlife. Even in less-than-ideal weather, many comment on how much fun they still had.

Snorkeling & Marine Life

While the marine life’s diversity can depend on conditions, in general, you’ll see schools of fish, crabs, and sometimes even manatees. The opportunity to feed fish during the final stop adds an interactive layer that many find delightful, especially children.

The Guides & Safety

All guides are trained in swimming, snorkeling, boat handling, first aid, and CPR. This attention to safety is reassuring, especially for families with younger kids. Guides like Kyle, Josh, Wesley, and Owen are repeatedly praised for their friendliness and professionalism, making sure everyone gets to enjoy the wildlife and the experience without feeling rushed or unsure.

Analyzing the Value

At $45, this tour is considered affordable given all that’s included—snorkeling gear, two stops, and wildlife viewing. The reviews consistently mention good value for money, especially considering the quality of guides and the scenic beauty.

Some reviews note preferences for better masks, but overall, the equipment suffices for most. The full experience, combined with the chance to see dolphins and sea turtles, makes it an appealing way to spend a morning in Destin without breaking the bank.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snorkeling cruise is a fit for families with children aged 4 and above who want a safe, fun introduction to the underwater world. It also suits anyone interested in dolphin watching and marine wildlife. The tour is well-suited to travelers looking for a short, scenic, and engaging activity that combines nature and adventure.

It’s less ideal for those who prefer longer or more remote diving adventures or have specific gear preferences, but for a well-rounded taste of Destin’s marine life, it hits the spot.

For those seeking a balanced, engaging, and well-priced marine experience, this Destin snorkeling cruise checks all the boxes. It offers the thrill of dolphin sightings, colorful underwater scenery, and friendly guides who go the extra mile to ensure everyone has a good time. The short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy travel schedule, and the flexible booking options provide peace of mind.

This trip is perfect for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a taste of Destin’s natural beauty without a hefty price tag. It’s a straightforward adventure with authentic moments, stunning views, and plenty of opportunities for fun and learning.

If your idea of a great day involves crystal waters, lively marine animals, and a lively crew, then this snorkel cruise is worth considering. It’s a dependable, rewarding way to connect with the Gulf Coast’s vibrant ocean life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Yes, children aged 4 and older are welcome to join. The guides are experienced at making the experience accessible and fun for young kids.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes snorkeling gear (mask, fins, snorkel), two snorkeling stops, and a scenic cruise. Food and drinks are not provided and must be brought along if desired.

How likely am I to see dolphins?
While dolphins are common and often seen during the cruise, they are wild animals, so sightings are not guaranteed. Most reviews mention dolphin encounters, sometimes spectacular.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Note that coolers are not allowed onboard.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 2.5 hours, mostly in the morning, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight how guides like Kyle, Wesley, Josh, and Owen are friendly, informative, and dedicated to ensuring everyone sees marine life and enjoys the trip.

In essence, this Destin snorkeling cruise offers a fun, educational, and scenic way to explore the Gulf Coast’s marine environment. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Florida’s underwater world, packaged in a friendly, approachable outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: