90-Minute Destin Pontoon Cruise: Dolphins, Sea Turtles & Harbor Views
Spend 90 minutes aboard a USCG‑inspected pontoon cruising Destin Harbor and Choctawhatchee Bay. Expect close dolphin sightings, sea turtles, and calm canal scenery with a licensed captain and cooler onboard.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
The bimini provides shade but sun reflects off water — apply reef‑safe sunscreen and reapply during the trip.
Pack light snacks and a small cooler
A cooler with ice is provided, but bring food you want to enjoy — adult beverages allowed where legal.
Time your cruise for wildlife
Early morning or late afternoon increases chances of dolphin activity and avoids the hottest sun and busiest docks.
Prepare for light motion
If you’re prone to seasickness bring medication or ginger; the bay is generally calm but chop can occur.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Cruise through the quieter canals on the west side of the harbor for waterfront architecture and calm waters
- •Pull alongside the sandbars near the bay’s shallow flats at low tide to see shorebirds and spotting schools of baitfish
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphin
- •Loggerhead sea turtle
Conservation Note
Respect wildlife viewing distances, use reef‑safe sunscreen, and avoid feeding marine animals to reduce stress and maintain natural behaviors.
Destin evolved from a 19th‑century fishing village into a sportfishing hub; the harbor and canals reflect both commercial and recreational maritime heritage.
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the local marine environment during sun‑exposed cruising.
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare and makes it easier to spot dolphins, birds and turtles.
Light windbreaker or hoodie
Evenings and unexpected breezes off the bay can be cool; the bimini blocks sun but not wind.
Motion‑sickness remedy
Pills or wristbands help if you’re sensitive to boat motion on choppier days.
Common Questions
Are food and drinks allowed onboard?
Yes — the operator provides bottled water and a cooler with ice; you may bring snacks and adult beverages where permitted by law.
Will we definitely see dolphins or sea turtles?
Wildlife sightings are common but not guaranteed; dolphins and turtles are frequent in the bay and canals, especially at dawn or dusk.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The vessel requires stepping up from the dock; infants in strollers are allowed but full wheelchair access may be limited—contact the operator for details.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours prior; trips may be canceled for bad weather or insufficient travelers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1.5 hours (90 minutes)
Location
Destin, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Low; passengers should be able to step aboard and remain seated for the duration. Moderate mobility required for boarding.
Ready to Explore Destin?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now