The 14 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Destin
Destin, Florida, is famous for its sparkling waters, white sandy beaches, and abundant marine life. Whether you’re interested in spotting dolphins on a short cruise, enjoying a sunset from a private boat, or joining a pirate-themed adventure, Destin offers a range of water-based experiences. Some tours highlight the local wildlife, like dolphin cruises and eco-tours, while others focus on fun, such as floating tiki bar cruises or banana boat rides. For those wanting a personalized experience, private charters and luxury pontoon rentals give you the freedom to customize your day.
In this guide, we’ll walk through 14 of the top boat tours and cruises in Destin. You’ll find detailed descriptions of each experience, including what’s included, how much it costs, and who it’s best suited for. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, there’s a trip here that will fit your style, from family-friendly dolphin adventures to lively sunset cruises.
1. Original Cruisin’ Tikis 3hr Crab Island Sandbar Adventure
The Original Cruisin’ Tikis offers a lively 3-hour Crab Island Sandbar Adventure that stands out with its tiki bar-shaped vessel and festive vibe. You’ll join dozens of other boats at Crab Island, a popular hangout spot between Destin Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico. The crew provides coolers with ice, so you can bring your own drinks and snacks, while you swim, snorkel, or just lounge on floating devices. Kids and adults alike love the relaxed, party-atmosphere on this circular tiki boat.
What makes this tour special is the social atmosphere and the unique vessel design. It’s family- and group-friendly, making it ideal for celebrating birthdays or just a fun day on the water. $95 per person gets you a lively, half-day experience with friendly crew members like Captain Josh and Captain Kirk, who share local stories and keep the good times rolling.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers a memorable, upbeat way to enjoy Crab Island with friends or family, especially if you like a party vibe and tropical decor.
2. Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL
The Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL by Hydrojet is a quick, 1-hour adventure to see dolphins and marine life in their natural habitat. This tour explores Destin’s coastline, passing by Crab Island, beaches, and out into the Gulf of Mexico. The boat is fast, so you’ll have plenty of chances to see dolphins, stingrays, and turtles, and you might even get splashed if the waves pick up.
This experience is perfect if you want a brief but exciting water outing. The boat stops for photo opportunities, and the crew is friendly and knowledgeable. $35 per person makes it an affordable way to enjoy the coast and get some great wildlife photos.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a quick, fun dolphin hunt with chances for photos and wildlife sightings without taking up your whole day.
3. Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise
A 1.5-hour sunset cruise aboard a Catamaran-style boat, the Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise provides a peaceful way to end your day. Departing from Destin Harbour, the crew is expert at spotting dolphins, and the boat’s water-level design makes for perfect viewing. As the sun dips, the sky turns orange, providing a stunning backdrop to playful dolphins jumping nearby.
This tour is well-suited for families and couples who want a relaxed, educational experience. The crew shares insights about local dolphin species and the bay’s ecosystem. $34.50 per person offers excellent value for the chance to combine wildlife viewing with sunset scenery.
Bottom Line: A calm, educational, and beautiful sunset experience, perfect for small groups and those who want a memorable nature encounter.
4. Destin: Dolphin Watching Cruise
The Dolphin Watching Cruise from Destin by GetYourGuide is an 1.5-hour trip that combines scenic scenery and wildlife spotting. Sail through Destin’s harbor and along the Gulf, keeping an eye out for dolphins swimming and leaping alongside the boat. You’ll also pass luxurious waterfront homes, adding a touch of the local lifestyle to your trip.
This tour is praised for its friendly crew and the opportunity to see dolphins up close. It’s a nice choice if you want a short, casual cruise with good chances of seeing wildlife and beautiful coastal views. $37 per person makes it a good deal for a relaxing, scenic outing.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, enjoyable dolphin cruise with excellent wildlife sightings and views of Destin’s waterfront mansions.
5. Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Cruise in Destin Harbor
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Cruise offers a 1-hour high-speed tour. Small, nimble, and spirited, this boat zips through Destin’s waters in search of dolphins, stingrays, and other marine life—guaranteed to get your heart pounding.
The small boat limits the number of passengers, creating a more personalized experience. The crew is lively and helpful, making sure you’re in the right spot to spot wildlife. $58.85 per person reflects the thrill and intimacy of the ride, great for adventure lovers or families with kids over six.
Bottom Line: For active travelers craving speed and wildlife, this tour offers a blast in a small-group setting.
6. Destin- Private Chartered Slide Pontoon Boat-Up to 6 Guests
This private, 2-4 hour pontoon experience delivers personalized fun on Destin’s waters. You’ll board a captained vessel from Heron Harbor, with the flexibility to explore Crab Island, snorkel, or just relax. The boat is equipped with paddle boards, snorkel gear, and floats, so you can easily customize your day.
It’s perfect for families or groups wanting a tailored adventure. Your captain can take you to the most popular spots or cruise along the coast. $299 per group offers a good price for a private experience that can be as active or laid-back as you want.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for privacy, flexibility, and maximum customization in a small group.
7. Destin’s Floating Tiki Bar Cruise: 360° Harbor Views
The Floating Tiki Bar Cruise offers a 1.5-hour sightseeing trip with a twist: you’re floating around Destin Harbor on a circular tiki vessel. You can BYOB, and the boat provides coolers and ice, making it perfect for relaxing with drinks while enjoying 360° views of the harbor lights and scenery.
Ideal for small groups or celebrating, this cruise combines a festive party atmosphere with impressive sights. The friendly crew shares local history as you cruise. $60 provides a lively, convivial experience, great for those who want a fun, social outing.
Bottom Line: A lively, scenic cruise that doubles as a party, best suited for groups wanting to socialize and enjoy harbor views.
8. Small-Group Banana Boat Ride at Miramar Beach Destin
If you’re craving pure fun, this 15-minute banana boat ride at Miramar Beach is hard to beat. Towed by a Jet Ski, the banana boat zips along the coast, providing plenty of splashy action and chances to see dolphins or turtles along the way. The small group setting ensures plenty of space and personalized attention.
This experience is perfect for families, groups of friends, or kids over six who want a quick burst of excitement. $39 per person makes it a fantastic, affordable thrill. The captain keeps things lively and safe, making it suitable for first-timers.
Bottom Line: A quick, energetic ride packed with fun, great for families and anyone needing a high-energy water adventure.
9. Sunset / Harbor & Bay Cruise in Destin with Complimentary Wine
For a more intimate experience, the Sunset / Harbor & Bay Cruise offers 1.5 hours of relaxation, with complimentary wine and snacks. The small group of six makes it ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a quiet, scenic cruise. As the sun sets, the captain takes you to the most picturesque spots, with chances to see dolphins and other wildlife.
The boat’s water-level design enhances dolphin sightings, and the crew shares local insights. $69 per person is a reasonable price for this premium, personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, scenic, and wine-infused sunset cruise.
10. Private Guided Sunset and Dolphin Cruise up to 6 Passengers
This private, 1.5-hour sunset and dolphin cruise is designed for small groups seeking exclusivity. Departing from Destin, the captain Wendi guides you past scenic spots and Crab Island, with opportunities to spot dolphins en route. You can bring your own drinks and enjoy Bluetooth speakers to set the mood.
This trip is well-suited for special occasions and those who cherish privacy. $249.99 per group makes it a worthwhile investment for a memorable, tailored experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for romantic or special-group outings, offering flexibility, privacy, and personalized service.
11. Buccaneer Pirate Cruise in Destin
A 2-hour pirate-themed adventure, the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise captures imaginations with its treasure hunts, sword fights, and cannon fire. Kids and adults alike enjoy the interactive games, dancing, and entertainment aboard this lively vessel. Adults can purchase drinks for a more adult-friendly experience.
The crew creates a lively, fun atmosphere with pirate stories and activities designed to entertain everyone. $55 per person makes it a great value for family fun.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families and kids at heart, this lively pirate adventure mixes entertainment with scenic cruising.
12. Private Chartered Luxury Pontoon Boat in Destin-Up to 6 Guests
The luxury pontoon charter provides a flexible, up to 8-hour private day on Destin’s waters. You can cruise to Crab Island, snorkel, or simply relax on the boat’s deck. The boat is equipped with paddle boards, snorkeling gear, and floats, allowing plenty of fun options.
Ideal for groups wanting privacy and control, it’s a great way to customize your day. $250 per group makes it an excellent value for a full day tailored to your preferences.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking full-day freedom and privacy with all the water toys you need.
13. Destin Private Catamaran and Snorkeling Tour 3 or 4hrs
This 3- or 4-hour private catamaran tour offers a relaxing yet active day on the water. You sail out with a local captain to Crab Island, enjoying snorkeling, swimming, and lounging. The boat’s bean bag chairs and cooler add comfort, making it easy to unwind after splashing around or searching for shells.
It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a personalized, comfortable experience with plenty of time at Crab Island. $455 per group includes all the fun but may be pricier than shared tours.
Bottom Line: Perfect for privacy, comfort, and a flexible schedule to enjoy snorkeling and relaxing at Crab Island.
14. Sandestin Sunset Eco-Dolphin Cruise Aboard Sol y Luna
Lastly, the Sandestin Sunset Eco-Dolphin Cruise offers 1.5 hours of serene scenery and wildlife viewing from the Sol y Luna. Glide into the sunset, watch dolphins frolic nearby, and enjoy the calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay. This cruise is narrated and educational, making it an enriching experience.
Great for families and couples, this tour combines scenic beauty with wildlife encounters. The $34.50 price point makes it an affordable way to end your day on a high note.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, educational, and scenic cruise perfect for those seeking a relaxed, intimate experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your group’s size, budget, and interests. For party atmospheres and social vibes, the tiki bar or pirate cruise are excellent choices. If wildlife is your priority, opt for dolphin cruises or eco-tours. Private charters suit travelers seeking flexibility and privacy, while shorter trips like the dolphin speedboat or sunset cruises are ideal if time is limited. Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Destin’s diverse boat tour scene covers everything from lively group outings to intimate, private adventures. If you want a lively, social experience amid young families or friends, the Tikis or pirate cruise deliver fun and energy. For quieter, scenic moments, the sunset dolphin cruises and eco-tours offer tranquility and wildlife watching. Those seeking personalized luxury can’t go wrong with private charters, which let you tailor your day fully.
No matter your style, Destin’s waters beckon. With so many options, you’re bound to find an outing that will give you memories to cherish—just remember to book early, especially for popular sunset and private trips, so you don’t miss out on your perfect water adventure.