Private Charter: Shell Island Snorkeling & Dolphin Adventure

4.8 (32 reviews) Panama City Beach, USA
Duration3h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

What makes this experience truly special is that it is a private charter designed entirely around your group. Unlike crowded tours with fixed schedules, this trip offers a relaxed and flexible experience where the day can be tailored to what you enjoy most.

Guests have the opportunity to explore some of the area’s most beautiful natural surroundings, including the pristine waters and beaches of Shell Island. Along the way, it’s common to encounter local dolphins in their natural habitat, creating memorable moments that feel personal and authentic rather than rushed.

The trip also combines several experiences into one outing—dolphin watching, snorkeling, exploring the island, and simply relaxing on the water. You’re not limited to a strict itinerary, which allows you to spend more time doing what you love, whether that’s snorkeling, searching for wildlife, or enjoying the peaceful scenery.

Options

4 Hour Private Charter

Max 49 Passengers: Private Charter includes Captain & Crew.

2.5 Hour Private Charter

Max 49 passengers: You are renting an entire boat that holds 49 people. It comes with a Captain and Crew.

What's included

  • Use of life jackets
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Use of Snorkelling equipment
  • Use of paddle boards
  • (available to purchase)
  • (available to purchase)

What to expect

Enjoy a personalized boating experience on a private charter designed to showcase the natural beauty of the area. This excursion can be customized to match your group’s preferences, but a typical trip includes several highlights.

We generally begin by cruising through the bay while searching for local dolphins in their natural habitat. Guests often have the opportunity to observe these incredible animals swimming and playing alongside the boat.

From there, we make our way to Shell Island, a pristine barrier island known for its clear waters, marine life, and beautiful beaches. Here, guests can snorkel in the shallow waters to explore fish, shells, and other coastal wildlife.

After snorkeling, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the surroundings—whether that means swimming, walking along the beach, collecting shells, or simply unwinding on the boat and taking in the scenery.

Because this is a private charter, the experience is flexible and can be tailored to your group. Whether you prefer more snorkeling, more dolphin searching, or simply relaxing and enjoying the water, the captain will help create a trip that fits your ideal day on the water.

  1. Shell Island

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

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 underneath the trees/down a gravel road. There will be signs out front with our company name.

End point

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 underneath the trees/down a gravel road. There will be signs out front with our company name.

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • CHECK-IN: You must arrive 30 minutes prior to departure time.
  • Minimum drinking age is 21 years old.
  • Snorkel gear provided but you may bring your own if you'd like.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.8 (32)
From
$640.93 per group
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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