The Complete Guide to Dolphin Watching in Pensacola Florida

Dolphin watching in Pensacola Florida is a favorite pastime of locals and vacation-goers alike.  If you are ready to take a break from the amazing beaches, then you must see one of the most elegant, graceful and smart creatures on the planet!  This article is the one-stop-shop that showcases all of your available options too see these amazing animals.  Included is a directory of local businesses that offer tours, along with tips for going on a dolphin cruise.  We even share tips with how to get discounts on excursions too!

Why Should I Want to Experience Dolphins Up Close?

While they inhabit oceans worldwide, Pensacola is home to one of the biggest populations of Atlantic Bottle-nosed variety.  Weighing around 660 pounds, they can be over 13 feet long.  Did you know they have been known to jump 20 feet into the air?!  They can use tools (such as sea sponges to look for food) and even pass down knowledge from one generation to the next.  The oldest known living one lived to the ripe old age of 61!

Table of Contents

Pensacola Beach Dolphin Excursions
Who Can Go on a Dolphin Excursion?
How Will Weather Impact the Experience?
Dolphin Cruise Pensacola Beach Facts
What Should I Bring to a Pensacola Beach Dolphin Cruise?
How Can I Get a Discount on a Pensacola Beach Dolphin Excursion?
Pensacola Dolphin Excursion Directory

Dolphin Excursions

If you’re interested in dolphin watching, Pensacola Florida offers both all-day excursions and short cruises.  This experience is one of the most memorable for visitors to the Gulf Of Mexico.  Families make fond memories they can share together for decades.  Mom and Dad may look forward to relaxing on the beach, but they’ll never regret making these family memories that will last a lifetime!

Who Can Go on Dolphin Excursions?

Infants to retirees, and all ages in-between, can enjoy these experiences.  Many of the boats can accommodate wheel chairs and strollers.  However, you should call ahead and make an appointment for any special requirements you may have.  Most local companies that conduct these tours guarantee sightings as part of the experience. They often are able to make this guarantee by providing the perfect wake for them to play in by running two boats side-by-side.  Some boats are equipped with a glass-bottoms.  These boats allow patrons to view the marine life directly under the boat! Prices typically range from $12 to $25 per person.  We advise looking out for summer specials, which can drive prices even lower.

How Will Weather Impact the Experience?

Millions of visitors flock to our beautiful beaches year round.  However, inclement weather can strike in a short notice in Florida.  There’s no reason to be concerned.  Most boat captains are professionals and take your safety very seriously.  If the captain believes the weather will cause a safety issue, then they will cancel or reschedule the trip.  If they just expect light rain, many boats are equipped with covering that will shield you from significant rainfall.  However, if you get wet, it’s probably 104 degrees anyways so enjoy the Florida air-conditioning!

Facts about Dolphin Cruises

Cruises typically last about 2 hours and run during scheduled intervals during peak season.  Whether you’re looking for a personalized experience on a smaller craft, or you want to board a larger boat with all the frills, your expectations will surely be surpassed.  There are some options when scheduling your cruise, so when researching local companies, be sure to select the right options.  A no-frills day time cruise is still an amazing experience, but you may want to consider if you’d prefer a smaller boat or a larger boat.  Find out what size boats are offered and the capacity of those boats.  If you’re with a large party or want a small, intimate gathering, find the best boat size for your party.  Some of the larger boats include restrooms, music, bar, food and souvenirs.  Smaller boats include expert local guides and a more personalized experience.

Another option are sunset cruises.  Sunset cruises are popular during the summer since the heat of the day has passed.  Dolphin watching at Pensacola Florida during sunset cruises can be stunning, even magical.  Another popular option are glass bottom boats.  The waters surrounding Pensacola Beach can be crystal clear for most of the summer season, so you should take advantage to view the deep emerald-green ocean of Pensacola Beach.  They often swim under the boats, and Osprey Fish Eagles or Great Blue Heron can often be viewed as well.

What Should I Bring to a Dolphin Cruise?

To experience dolphin watching in Pensacola Florida, there is no need to bring a life jacket, as those are always provided.  However, If you want to maximize your enjoyment of a cruise, below is a short list of items to bring along.

Sunscreen

Nobody likes putting on sunscreen, but you know what’s worse?  Screaming in the shower for the next three days due to a sunburn, or worse, missing out on that valuable beach time during your vacation! Lather up with SPF 50 so that you can enjoy the rest of your vacation (and a hot shower at the end of the day).

Sunglasses

Do you want to see these majestic sea creatures or just see them through the squint into the sun?  I’m guessing you want to see them, bring some sunglasses – preferably ones that offer protection from the UV sunlight.

Hat

A sunhat will shield your face from the sun, preventing issues associated with long-term exposure to the sun (over many years).  You’ll notice a lot of locals wear hats to shield from the potentially harmful UV rays of the sun.

Comfortable Attire

Since you’ll be on a boat, there’s a good chance you will get wet, so plan accordingly and wear comfortable clothes.  They call Florida the Sunshine State, so plan for it to be very hot Spring through Fall. 

Snacks/Non-Alcoholic Beverages

You may want to check the website or call ahead to verify you’re allowed to bring drinks and snacks.

Camera

If your camera or phone isn’t waterproof, you can typically find waterproof phone cases to keep them in so you can enjoy your trip worry free.

How Can I Get a Discount on a Dolphin Excursion?

Most local companies offer discounts.  If you fall into any of the categories below, be prepared to show proof of identification.

1. Military (active duty or veteran)
2. Police and Firemen (active and retired)
3. Senior (65 and over)
4. Small Children (children 3 and under are often free)
5. Discounts offered through your hotel, condo, or travel agency

Pensacola Dolphin Excursion Directory