Panama City Beach Tours
Shell Island Snorkel and Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time
5
LIKELY TO SELL OUT*

Shell Island Snorkel and Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time

By Island Time Sailing
Recommended by 96% of travelers
96% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
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About
Optimize your chances of spotting native marine life on this catamaran sailing cruise to Shell Island from Panama City Beach. Take advantage of provided diving equipment and paddle boards for a more intimate glimpse of life below the waves and benefit from the insider knowledge of your driver/guide as you search for wild dolphins and more.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 0-99, max of 65 per group
Duration: 3h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: English
More

Highlights
  • Get an intimate glimpse of marine life on a sailing tour to Shell Island
  • Soak up views of the coastline and Mexican Gulf from on board a catamaran
  • Benefit from the sea knowledge of your driver/guide
  • Avoid hidden costs with all equipment rental included in the price

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Captain / deckhands
  • Use of Snorkelling equipment
  • Use of paddle boards
  • Use of life jackets
What's not included
  • Gratuities
  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Snacks & Drinks (available for purchase)


Start:
  • 5201 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408, USA
    Turn onto North Lagoon as if you were headed to Captain Anderson's. After the turn you will continue past their parking lot AND past the Lighthouse Marina. We will then be on the right hand side down a paved road. There will be tall signs out front with our company name.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Infants must sit on laps
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 64698P2

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • CHECK-IN: You must arrive 30 minutes prior to departure time.
    • Minimum drinking age is 21 years old
    • Weight restrictions for slide is 250lbs, for paddleboards 200lbs
    • Bottled water is the only outside food/drink permitted. NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL PERMITTED.
    • No smoking allowed
    • No chewing gum
    • Please wear your swimsuits under your clothes. Also pack a beach bag with towels, sunscreen (no aerosol sprays), sunglasses, hats, cameras, etc. You may also want to bring water shoes.
    • Snorkel gear is provided but you may bring your own if you'd like. Young kids may prefer to bring their own goggles instead of the masks we provide.
    • Most travelers can participate
    • Dress code is casual - wear swim suits under casual clothes. • Bring a beach bag with towels, sunscreen (no aerosol sprays), hats, sunglasses, and cameras. • You are not allowed to bring drinks or coolers. • No smoking allowed • Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund. • Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions especially during hot summer weather • Inclement weather may cancel a cruise, but is up to the cruise company and is generally a last minute decision. Plan to arrive as scheduled unless otherwise notified.
    • 18% gratuity will be added for parties of 15 or more.
    • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
    • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 65 travelers

    • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

    The tour operator has provided the following answers to customers’ questions.
    Can I participate if I am over the weight limit?
    Absolutely! The weight limit only applies to the slide and paddleboards. All guests are welcome onboard the catamaran to enjoy the day!
    Answered May 2023

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 64698P2

    From
    $52.43
    per adult
    Select date and travelers

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    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • Island Time Sailing
      3,645
      United States
      Joined in July 2008
    • 598margotb
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Awesome experience
      Excellent cruise! Ots of dolphins to watch and a beautiful sunset. The staff - Sean, Carter, and Sarah - were the best. We made some new friends and had a really relaxing time. Will definitely do this one again.
      Written October 9, 2024
    • jjbeckman
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Take this tour!
      The sunset cruise was so much fun and beautiful. The captain and first mate were awesome and fun. We were able to see many dolphins and loved hearing about the history of shell island and St. Andrews. We will definitely take another cruise next time we're in town!
      Written October 6, 2024
    • WadeR599
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Nice trip
      We had a great time here and highly recommend. Carter. Emma, and the Captain were great! We saw lots of dolphins, nice easy sail, and drinks were very reasonable. Some of the other boats were aggressive in trying to get close to the dolphins. I feel that actually got closer and had a more peaceful trip. Plenty of parking, nice area to wait, and boat was not too crowded. Not sure what else one would want in an afternoon cruise.
      Written October 5, 2024
    • susanmE3934LR
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Excellent adventure!
      Christian, Emma and Captain were great. We had a wonderful time!! Loved that the commentary was just enough but not too much. Many dolphin sightings and we were perfectly positioned for the gorgeous sunset. The Crew were friendly, attentive and moved around the boat to chat and take pictures, except the captain, of course! The rum punch was excellent also!! Highly recommended
      Written September 25, 2024
    • Cruiser55672208397
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Sunset tour
      Crew was exceptional , had a wonderful time. Well worth the ticket time. They do give military discount. An absolute must while visiting PCB
      Written September 24, 2024
    • davidrA8505UW
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great crew, wonderful experience
      We’ve been on Island Time twice now. Once for the snorkeling cruise, this time for the sunset cruise. Both were wonderful experiences. The crew is very personable. I would highly recommend.
      Written September 24, 2024
    • Journey685904
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Worth every penny!!
      We had the best experience! This was our favorite adventure we went on for our honey moon. The staff were so inviting! Luke Carter & Clay were all amazing, attentive, funny and made the entire boat ride a blast! There was also a surprise proposal on the boat. The staff & other riders were so included and many congratulations!
      Written September 21, 2024
    • Kinjybinjy
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Awesome-lots of dolphins!
      Great ride! Saw lots of dolphins.... and a beautiful sunset! Would recommend! The crew was friendly and attentive and kept everyone entertained and brought out drinks and took pictures for people! Emma, Sara and Mike... (I think were their names) you did great!
      Written September 20, 2024
    • N1503OLcarlk
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Delightful!!
      Great experience! The captain was informative, gave a swell ride! Got to see many dolphins and deer. Emma and Sara were a delight! Great service, friendly pleasant hostesses! Would definitely recommend this to other family members and friends!😁👍
      Written September 20, 2024
    • laurajD4574WV
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Loved
      The view was amazing.... I'm glad we went. You won't be disappointed. 10 out of 10 must try. We went for a anniversary. It was so romantic.
      Written September 20, 2024
    • bryane908
      0 contributions
      1.0 of 5 bubbles
      Island Time Hustle
      Emma/mate, Clay/captain: The cruise turned out to be a hustle. They keep your credit card for your tab for drinks. You can’t close your tab when you want to. They make you wait until the very end. We had three rum punches. Before giving me the total Emma asked for a tip. I told her sure- 20%. She said that’s not enough, you have to leave additional for the captain. I said I’m Happy to leave a 20% tip, it was nice. She said no you have to leave more for the captain. I told Emma again no, I’d like to leave a 20% tip. She said you don’t understand, you have to leave more for the captain. I said how much is the tab. She said $40. I said ok. Close it out for $40, no tip. She told me to go talk to the captain. I insisted she close out my tab for $40 and give me a receipt. She sent an email receipt. It was for four drinks, we had three. She over charged me and tried to hustle me for a tip more than I wanted to pay and wouldn’t accept no. I told the captain on the way off the boat. He was rude, no offer to refund my $10 for the extra drink. Totally ruined the experience. Don’t give them your credit card. The cruise was nice. Getting out of there was a nightmare. Never doing that again. Pics of Emma and clay attached.
      Written September 19, 2024
    • AlphaRN67
      0 contributions
      2.0 of 5 bubbles
      Beautiful sunset cruise aboard Island Time, spoiled by crew member overcharging our bar tap then arguing over tip
      This was our second time aboard Island Time, and will be our last. We were fortunate with a beautiful evening for our cruise, check in and boarding was very organized and well executed by the staff. The catamaran was very clean with plenty of seating for all. We highly enjoyed being out on the water, we were thrilled to see many dolphins along the way. My husband ordered us a few drinks and when we requested to close out our tab, Emma stated we had to wait until later into the cruise to pay. Okay fine, no problem waiting was not an issue. At the conclusion, Clay our captain thanked us all for sailing with them and mentioned gratuities being appreciated. Venmo, cash and tip jars being all the ways you can tip the crew were mentioned. I always tip for excellent service and fully planned on leaving a tip. However, when my husband closed out our bar tap, the amount he told Emma to add to our tab was not acceptable to her. She became argumentative with my husband then after receiving the emailed receipt it showed that he has been overcharged. This interaction completely ruined our experience with Island Time. It’s very unfortunate way to end what could have been a lovely evening.
      Written September 19, 2024
    • D3388XPbenjamink
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great to experience!
      The staff did a wonderful job and the entire experience was great. My wife is pregnant and Emma went out of her way to help her when she was feeling seasick. 10/10 highly recommend.
      Written September 19, 2024
    • sherrybN4992XR
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great night! 10/10 recommend island Time #1
      Cristo, Emma and Sarah were AMAZING! They were friendly and energetic. We saw dolphins like crazy. My daughter is pregnant and got slightly sea sick and they were on it! She got over it and enjoyed the night. The sunset was beautiful and the cruise was very relaxing.
      Written September 19, 2024
    • parrimichele
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Worth it!
      Can’t say enough good things about the crew and vessel. We had so much fun, spotted dolphins, the drinks were top tier, the sunset vibes and music were all so perfect. Definitely worth the time and money to book with Island Time.
      Written September 16, 2024
    See all 3,645 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

    Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

    Popular mentions

    5.0
    5.0 of 5 bubbles1,970 reviews
    Excellent
    1,779
    Very good
    119
    Average
    46
    Poor
    13
    Terrible
    13

    Joe B
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Aug 2020 • Couples
    We loved our 8AM snorkel/shell island cruise that we took on August 6th. The location, parking, and check in made getting on the boat a very easy process! The boat was very modern and safe (and included restrooms), and the crew running the boat were very professional and made sure everyone had a great time! We saw dolphins, eagle rays and others while heading out to shell Island. Once we reached Shell Island, we were able to do some snorkeling and look for sea shells. The water was incredibly beautiful in August when we went. Heading back to the Marina, we were shown ship wrecks and other details of St. Andrew's State Park. Sailing with this company was an unforgettable experience, and was a great way to finish off an outstanding trip to Panama City Beach. The music and the snack/drink bar on the boat amplified the sailing vibes even further. If you're of age, I highly recommend ordering a delicious rum punch on the way back from Shell Island. Reward yourself for choosing such a great way to spend part of your day! Its impossible to not be wearing a smile when you're sailing with Island Time. We'll gladly sail with them again next time we're in the area!
    Written August 9, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Anon Emous
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jun 2020 • Family
    We booked the 8am tour because that was the only one not filled on the day we wanted. I'm so glad we went at that time! The mid morning sun is absolutely perfect for snorkeling! It wasn't blazing hot yet which made the boat ride very comfortable. The captain and his crew were superb! Very friendly people who were focused on making sure we all had a great time! This is our fondest memory of our vacation this year! Be sure to bring a little extra cash for drinks, the bartender makes great ones and it's the perfect touch after a few hours of snorkeling! You won't regret a moment of this wonderful tour!
    Written June 17, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Happy to hear that this was the highlight of your vacation. Agreed, our crew is superb, and they truly love what they do and making memories for customers like you! Hope you come and sail with us again soon.
    Written June 18, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Anita B
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jun 2020 • Family
    Listen to me, I will book this little excursion EVERY TIME. Lol The captain was involved and his assistant/bartender was very attentive. I enjoyed every bit of it!!!!!! The water was soooo beautiful. The 8am rarely has alot of people sooo my advice would be to get up early if you dont want a crowd.
    Written June 20, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Happy to hear that we were your favorite here at Island Time. Come and sail/snorkel with us again soon! P.S, You should try our sunset sail as well. Look forward to seeing you again soon.
    Written July 3, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Joseph L
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jul 2022 • Family
    Wow is all I can say captain heath and crew did an amazing job. It was sons first time on a boat and he absolutely loved it. The crew made sure you were well taken care of with snacks and drinks. Captain heath made sure he point out many dolphins along with taking his time to explain snorkeling spots and island areas overall I would recommend this will more then likely turn into a family tradition.
    Written July 14, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us this generous review! We are very fortunate to have Captain Heath as a part of our team. Hope to have you and your family again in the future!
    Written July 15, 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    TonyaB
    New Albany, IN10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Oct 2021 • Family
    Everyone had so much fun, and we even had older teens with us! We seen several pods of dolphins on our way out to Shell Island. Grace was very kind and helpful she even took a group picture with us. Captain Brian is very friendly and knowledgeable. Everyone played a local facts trivia game on the way out to the island. They had clean sanitized snorkels and life jackets for you to use. Snack and drink bar for all ages, with extremely affordable prices. The boat also had very clean restrooms on board. We did the 2 hour Sunset Dolphin Cruise first and had so much fun that we went back the next day and did the 3 hour Shell Island Snorkeling Cruise. We have definitely added Island Time Sailing on our yearly to do list whenever we visit the Gulf. This was the best on the water experiences we have had with touring & snorkeling cruises from Destin all the way to Panama City. I wish we would have found Island Time Sailing sooner! Thank you for the memories!
    Written October 11, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank You for the review!! We take pride in being able to provide a great experience for all ages. We are so glad we were able to provide your party with a safe, clean and fun trip. Forming lasting memories and building bonds with returning customers is something we love to do. We are looking forward to having you for years to come.
    Written October 12, 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Jody H
    Birmingham, AL12 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I spent many years in the hospitality industry and have always had a keen eye for folks who genuinely care and want you to have a great experience. Tristan, Shane, and Sarah exuded every single positive customer service quality you want to see—kindness, hustle, proactively seeking out needs with genuineness.

    We were blown away that an excursion with three mid-20s young adults managed a boat full of folks so professionally. Kids had a great time and we did too—can’t recommend this excursion highly enough based on our experience.
    Written June 1, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Tara
    5 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had 12 total, 7 adults and 5 kids age range 7-14 years. Everyone had a blast! Weather was perfect, we seen quite a few dolphins and our families loved snorkeling at Shell Island. The atmosphere of the catamaran and the sail back was fantastic. We will definitely do this again next time we visit PCB!
    Written June 17, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Hi Tara, happy to hear that you will come and sail with us again. We look forward to seeing you again soon!
    Written June 18, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Matt H
    4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I don’t typically leave reviews but when it’s warranted I felt obligated to do it for other travelers. I planned a number of our excursions on this family trip and relied heavily on reviews to make sure we booked the right places.

    We were supposed to be there 30 minutes early but typical fashion we were running late. Boat didn’t load until 5 minutes before an on time departure.

    Capt Chris was fantastic at what he does. Very much so a people person. He even arranged for some military flyovers over the cruise (wink, wink there is an AFB nearby) He pointed out several points of interest along the cruise. Obviously, we are at the hands of nature and Capt Chris can only do so much but he did put us on a couple of dolphin sightings.

    He got us to our snorkeling area. He gave of us the lay of the land and gave us different areas of the beach/water to hit up depending if you wanted to see turtles, aquatic life, or shells/shark teeth.

    The trip broke up to roughly give/take 45 min sailing, 1.5 hour of snorkeling followed by 45 minutes sailing.

    The assistants with Capt Chris were awesome too and should not be left out of this comment. They had reasonably priced snacks and drinks being served (my family had five island time signature drinks, three gatorades, two packs snack crackers and three mini slim Jim’s for about $40. They helped get people set up for snorkeling and everything else that was needed during our adventure. We would defiantly book this again.
    Written July 27, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you so much for the positive rating. We're happy that you're happy, and we're looking forward to your next visit to Island Time.
    Written November 21, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Elena G
    Matthews, NC6 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had a good exp despite the weather. The weather was a bummer, overcast with a chance of rain... so everyone seem to be bummed about this.

    We saw tons of dolphins and the crew made a lot of effort for everyone on the boat to see them. Very much appreciated. The dolphins loved jumping in the waves.

    The snorkeling gear was good and we saw a lot of fish, some liked to play with our toes. It was fun! Did not see any crabs or starfish.

    Did not see much of the shell island as we enjoyed snorkeling... plus the weather looked ominous.

    We got back to the boat as the thunder erupted signaling the afternoon rain storm.

    The crew had a great sense of humor and played Purple Rain and some other Rain songs as we were getting soaked from all the rain on our way back.

    So despite the weather we still had a good and relaxing time. Thank you.

    I recommend the crew getting a bowl with venmo tipping instructions for the guests. Tried doing it after the trip but could not...

    Written August 25, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you for taking the time to leave us this detailed review! So sorry that the weather wasn't ideal but happy to hear that our crew and the dolphins could make up for that. We hope that we can have you sail with us again in the near future.
    Written September 1, 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Ken S
    6 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nov 2021 • Couples
    The sunset trip was really nice... Relaxing and the views were great. The crew is first rate as well so the whole experience was well worth the expense and highly recommend you include this during your visit. You won't be disappointed!
    Written November 4, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you for the generous review! We hope that you can come sailing with us again in the near future.
    Written November 22, 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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    Shell Island Snorkel and Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time provided by Island Time Sailing

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