Clearwater Beach: Dolphin & Island Sandbar Cruise

Planning a trip to Clearwater Beach and looking for a fun, wildlife-packed excursion? This Dolphin & Island Sandbar Cruise by Fins Up Clearwater promises a lively two hours of ocean adventure. It’s the type of outing that’s suitable for almost everyone—from families with kids to solo travelers wanting a taste of the Gulf’s best wildlife moments.

What really catches our eye are the guaranteed dolphin sightings, the chance to swim at a secluded sandbar, and the relaxed vibe of BYOB drinks. On the flip side, the tour is only two hours, which is perfect for a quick escape but might leave some craving a bit more time on the water. Still, if you’re after a friendly, fun-filled trip that offers stunning views and a good dose of wildlife, this cruise hits the mark.

Ideal for those who want a budget-friendly adventure, wildlife enthusiasts, families, or anyone eager to see dolphins in their natural habitat while enjoying some sun and sea.

This experience made our article of 17 Best Dolphin Watching Tours In Clearwater.

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Key Points

Guaranteed dolphin sightings with a free return trip if not seen initially
Swim stop at the sandbar for a refreshing break and exploration
Family-friendly experience with free ice cream for kids and onboard restroom
BYOB policy allows you to bring your favorite drinks and snacks
Scenic views along Clearwater’s coastline and celebrity homes
Professional guides with a wealth of wildlife knowledge

You can check availability for your dates here:

An honest look at the Clearwater Dolphin & Sandbar Cruise

Getting onto the water in Clearwater Beach doesn’t get much easier or more laid-back than with this two-hour cruise. Starting at 25 Causeway Blvd, the meeting process is straightforward — just arrive 15 minutes early, check in at the mobile ticket booth, and you’re set. The boat itself is described as comfortable and spacious, giving you plenty of room to relax, chat, or just soak up the scenery.

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Scheduling and Duration

With a flexible booking system that allows reserve now and pay later, this tour caters to travelers who value flexibility. You can select your preferred time slot based on availability, which is handy if you’re juggling other activities. The cruise lasts about two hours, which strikes a good balance between a quick escape and enough time to experience the sights and wildlife without feeling rushed.

What’s Included in the Price?

At $28 per person, this tour offers solid value. Included are the cruise itself, a swim stop at the sandbar, and the services of a knowledgeable USCG-licensed captain. You also get live narration, which means you’ll learn interesting tidbits about the local wildlife and celebrity homes along the coast. Onboard amenities include restrooms, large coolers with ice, and ice cream for kids — a thoughtful touch that keeps the little ones (and adults) happy.

What to Bring?

Packing is straightforward: sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, drinks, biodegradable sunscreen, and water shoes will make your trip more comfortable. Thanks to the BYOB policy, you can bring your own beverages — whether it’s a cold soda or a bottle of wine — and enjoy responsibly. The boat has two large coolers with ice so your drinks stay chilled.

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The Itinerary and Highlights

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Start Point

The adventure begins at 25 Causeway Blvd, where check-in is quick and easy. Once onboard, the boat departs into Clearwater’s scenic waters, offering a chance to settle into your seat and get ready for a fun two hours.

Scenic Cruising & Wildlife Spotting

As you cruise through the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often sharing stories about local celebrity homes and notable landmarks.

Guaranteed Dolphin Sightings

One of the biggest draws? The guaranteed dolphin sightings. Multiple reviews mention that guides, like Captain Mark and Zack, are experts at spotting dolphins and other marine life. They seem to have a sixth sense for where to look, and if dolphins aren’t seen on the first trip, guests are offered a free return trip — an excellent commitment for wildlife sightings.

Reviews consistently highlight how friendly and professional the crew is, with guides like Steven, Mark, and Aubrey going above and beyond to find dolphins and share fun facts. One reviewer noted that the guides were very informative about dolphins, birds, and the local homes, making the trip both fun and educational.

Stop at One-Tree Island

The highlight for many is the sandbar stop at One-Tree Island. Here, guests can swim, explore shells, and relax on the tiny, picturesque island. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving enough time to dip in the water, walk around, or collect shells. Several reviews mention how much kids and adults enjoy this break, with some calling it a “spectacular” and “cool” experience**. The shallow waters and white sand create a perfect, postcard-worthy scene.

Wildlife and Extra Sightings

Beyond dolphins, guides often point out sea turtles, manatees, and various bird species, including Roseate Spoonbills and Osprey nests. One review mentions that the crew even rescued an injured sea turtle, demonstrating their care for wildlife — an added bonus for wildlife lovers.

Return and End

The tour concludes back at 25 Causeway Blvd, with many guests feeling satisfied by the experience. The entire trip stays within the two-hour window, making it an easy addition to a busy Florida itinerary.

The Experience in Practice

What truly matters is how the tour feels day-to-day. Guests often mention the relaxed atmosphere and friendly guides, which make it easy to unwind. The boat’s Bluetooth stereo system allows for personalized music, adding to the fun.

Many reviewers appreciate how the guides are eager to answer questions and share stories about the area, celebrity homes, and the wildlife they encounter. This personal touch elevates the trip from a simple boat ride to a mini adventure with a knowledgeable crew.

Value for Money

At just $28, this cruise is hard to beat. It offers a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and fun, with the added assurance of dolphin sighting guarantees. The free ice cream is a thoughtful touch for kids, and the ability to bring your own drinks makes the trip customizable and budget-friendly.

Practical Tips

Arrive early, especially during busy seasons, to ensure smooth check-in.
Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment.
Pack water shoes if you plan to swim at the sandbar.
Use the onboard restroom — very convenient after a quick splash or snack.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for families with children, thanks to the kid-friendly amenities and the fun of spotting dolphins. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the guaranteed sightings and the guides’ expertise. Sun lovers will appreciate the scenic views and outdoor activity, while budget-conscious travelers find great value in the price and inclusions.

If you’re short on time but want a taste of Clearwater’s marine life, this two-hour trip provides a quick but satisfying adventure. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere and don’t mind BYOB.

FAQ

Is there a guaranteed dolphin sighting?
Yes, the tour guarantees dolphin sightings, and if dolphins aren’t seen on your trip, you’re entitled to a free return trip.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about two hours, including the stop at the sandbar.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Absolutely. The tour is BYOB, so you can bring your favorite beverages and snacks to enjoy on the boat.

Is there a restroom onboard?
Yes, there are restrooms onboard, making it convenient for guests.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, drinks, biodegradable sunscreen, and water shoes are recommended for comfort and safety.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s very family-friendly, with free ice cream for kids and a relaxed atmosphere appreciated by travelers of all ages.

Final Thoughts

The Clearwater Beach Dolphin & Sandbar Cruise offers a well-rounded and affordable way to experience the Gulf’s marine life and scenic beauty. The friendly guides, guaranteed dolphin sightings, and the fun stop at the sandbar make it a must-do for those wanting a quick, memorable adventure.

It’s particularly good for families, wildlife lovers, and anyone seeking a laid-back outdoor activity that combines nature, sightseeing, and a bit of water fun. While the two-hour format might leave some wishing for more, the overall experience packs enough highlights and value to satisfy most travelers.

If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and wildlife-rich boat ride with friendly guides and stunning scenery, this trip is definitely worth considering on your Clearwater Beach itinerary.