St. Augustine: Dolphin Watching Harbor Tour with Drinks

If you’re considering a boat trip that combines wildlife viewing, scenic vistas, and a relaxed atmosphere, the Dolphin Watching Harbor Tour in St. Augustine might just be your perfect choice. This 1.5-hour cruise on a sizable 65-foot catamaran offers a chance to see playful dolphins while enjoying complimentary drinks and stunning views of the oldest city in the U.S.

What we like most about this tour is its intimate connection to nature—you’re likely to see dolphins in their natural habitat, and the unobstructed water views of St. Augustine’s historic coastline are hard to beat. Plus, the open-air deck and spacious interior make for a comfortable experience, whether you’re soaking up the sun or relaxing in the shade. It’s also a great value at just $43 per person, especially considering the drinks and snacks included.

However, a possible consideration is that dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, which means patience and a bit of luck are part of the experience. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy wildlife, scenic watercraft, and a laid-back social vibe—families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing afternoon on the water.

Key Points

• Wildlife focus: Chance to see bottlenose dolphins playing near Vilano Beach
• Comfortable vessel: Spacious 65-foot sailing catamaran with open-air deck
• Unobstructed views: Perfect water-level perspective of St. Augustine’s historic scenery
• All-inclusive drinks: Sodas, water, beer, wine, and snacks included
• Flexible cancellation: Free if canceled 24 hours in advance
• Ideal for: Nature lovers, history buffs, casual boaters

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Dolphin Watching Harbor Tour

This cruise is designed as a laid-back, enjoyable experience that balances wildlife viewing with scenic relaxation. Once you check in behind Beaches Restaurant at Vilano Beach, you’ll board Fury, a sleek, 65-foot catamaran built for comfort and stability. The vessel’s open-air deck provides panoramic views, making it easy to spot dolphins and marvel at the coastline.

The route typically takes you through the historic harbors adjacent to Vilano Beach, with the captain targeting areas where dolphins are known to feed, frolic, and exhibit natural behaviors. As you glide across the water, you’ll be able to keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins—these intelligent, playful creatures often come quite close to the boat, especially during feeding times.

Many reviews highlight how quickly sightings can happen: “We saw dolphins within a minute of leaving the dock,” shares a guest, emphasizing how accessible this experience can be. Other travelers talked about the joy of seeing the dolphins entertain themselves and feed—moments that are as spontaneous as they are magical.

Throughout the cruise, you’re encouraged to relax and take in the scenery. You can sip on complimentary sodas, water, beer, or wine, which are served throughout the cruise. The snacks are an added bonus, making the trip feel more like a leisurely social event than just a wildlife tour. The open deck allows for unobstructed views of the historic city skyline and the surrounding waters, which many visitors find photo-worthy.

The crew, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often share tidbits about the local environment and wildlife, enriching the experience. As one reviewer put it, “The employees were friendly and engaging. They loved to talk and invited questions.” This personal touch creates a welcoming vibe, perfect for families or couples wanting a stress-free outing.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

While the tour’s main goal is wildlife viewing, the route offers plenty of scenic highlights. The ship often cruises near Vilano Beach, an area famed for its natural beauty and relatively quiet waters. The captain may adjust the route based on weather, wildlife activity, and sea conditions—so flexibility is built into every trip.

Expect to spend about 1.5 hours on the water, which is enough time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the environment without feeling rushed. The boat’s spacious layout ensures everyone has enough room to move around or settle into a cozy spot.

You might find that the highlight is the dolphin sightings, but many guests point out that the journey itself is worth it for the scenery and the chance to see St. Augustine from a different perspective. The views of the historic city, with its Spanish colonial architecture and charming waterfront, are particularly striking when seen from the water.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

For just $43, this cruise provides a lot of bang for your buck. It includes unlimited drinks, snacks, and a memorable wildlife encounter—all on a comfortable vessel. Compared to other water-based activities, it is quite affordable, especially considering the high-quality experience and the chance to create personal wildlife memories.

The review highlights that many guests felt it was a relaxing day on the water: “Very relaxing day on the water. Well do it again next year,” says one satisfied traveler. The tour’s casual pace, friendly crew, and the opportunity to unwind make it a good choice for those seeking a stress-free adventure.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Bring sunscreen and comfortable clothes: The open deck means lots of sun exposure, so protect yourself accordingly.
• Arrive early: The check-in is at the Fury vessel behind Beaches Restaurant, and there’s no dedicated parking—allow some extra time for parking and walking to the dock.
• No snorkel gear or drones allowed: The tour emphasizes wildlife viewing from the boat, so plan accordingly.
• Age considerations: Minors need to be accompanied by an adult with a valid ID, and children under 14 must be supervised at all times. This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to transportation limitations.
• Weather matters: Route and wildlife sightings depend on weather conditions, and there’s no guarantee of dolphin sightings, so patience is key.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts

The St. Augustine Dolphin Watching Harbor Tour combines the thrill of spotting playful dolphins with the serenity of cruising through historic waters. Its spacious boat design, friendly crew, and inclusive drinks make it a hit for those wanting a relaxing, nature-filled experience without breaking the bank.

If you’re interested in a refreshing afternoon activity that offers a good chance of sightings and stunning views, this tour is a wise pick. It’s especially appealing for animal lovers, families, or anyone wanting a break from more structured sightseeing.

For travelers who value authentic wildlife encounters, a laid-back vibe, and scenic water views in a historic setting, this cruise hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, usually available in the afternoon.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you can enjoy complimentary sodas, water, beer, wine, and snacks during the cruise.

Can I guarantee dolphin sightings?
No, dolphin sightings are not guaranteed. The route depends on weather, wildlife activity, and sea conditions.

Where do I meet the boat?
Check in at the Fury vessel located behind Beaches Restaurant at Vilano Beach at Beaches Marina, on the pier.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Minors must be accompanied by an adult with a valid ID. Children under 14 need supervision, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and comfortable shoes. No pets, drones, or glass objects allowed onboard.

This cruise offers a great mix of wildlife, scenery, and a relaxed social atmosphere— appealing for travelers looking to connect with nature and history in a leisurely setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby