Fort Walton Beach is a prime spot for exploring Florida’s Emerald Coast from the water. Its clear, warm waters and abundant marine life make boat tours especially appealing. Whether you’re looking to spot dolphins, enjoy a sunset, or rent a boat to explore at your own pace, this area offers a range of options that showcase its famous coastline. The convenience of launching from Brooks Street and the variety of tours—from shared cruises to private charters—means you can tailor your aquatic adventure to your interests and budget.
If you prefer a guided experience packed with wildlife viewing, snorkeling, or sunset vistas, you’ll find something here. For those seeking more independence, renting a pontoon boat to explore Crab Island or the surrounding waters can be a highlight. And if you’re celebrating a special occasion, private sunset and fireworks cruises provide a memorable setting. Below, we’ll explore the best options available, so you can choose the perfect boat trip in Fort Walton Beach.
1. Florida: Emerald Coast Sunset & Dolphin Cruise with Guide
At number 1 on our list is the Emerald Coast Sunset & Dolphin Cruise with Guide, which offers a relaxing two-hour sail along the coast’s calm waters. This tour takes place on a brand new 45′ Corinthian Catamaran, providing both comfort and style. You’ll cruise past shimmering waters and, with luck, spot playful dolphins. The highlight is witnessing a breathtaking sunset, with plenty of opportunities for photos and memorable moments.
This tour stands out because it combines scenic beauty with informative narration about the area. The guide shares insights about the local marine environment, making it a good pick for those interested in learning more while relaxing. What makes this tour particularly appealing are the positive reviews praising the crew’s personable approach and the quality of the experience—many guests say they booked multiple cruises because of how much they enjoyed it. With a price of $41 per person and a focus on both wildlife and sunset views, it offers excellent value.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a laid-back, scenic sunset with dolphin sightings. The friendly crew and beautiful setting make it a memorable way to end a day.
2. Fort Walton Beach: Morning Dolphin Cruise with Snorkel Stop
Coming in at number 2 is the Morning Dolphin Cruise with Snorkel Stop. This three-hour adventure specializes in combining dolphin watching with underwater exploration. Departing from 189 Brooks St SE, the tour includes a snorkeling stop off the coast, allowing you to see Florida’s marine life up close. During the cruise, you’ll likely spot bottlenose dolphins that swim alongside the boat, and the crew often points out other wildlife like sea turtles.
What makes this trip unique is its emphasis on snorkeling—not just viewing dolphins from the boat but also jumping into the water to explore the underwater world. The tour’s reviews highlight how friendly and knowledgeable the crew are, with guests mentioning that they enjoyed seeing dolphins, jellyfish, and hermit crabs. For $42, the price is competitive considering the combination of wildlife viewing and snorkeling.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a mix of dolphin watching and underwater discovery, suited for families and water lovers alike. The small group size and attentive crew enhance the experience.
3. Fort Walton: Dolphin Discovery and Snorkeling Cruise
At number 3, the Dolphin Discovery and Snorkeling Cruise offers an immersive three-hour trip through the Gulf of Mexico. This cruise takes you along Okaloosa Island, with stops at Destin Harbor and beyond, giving excellent views of the coast and opportunities to observe dolphins swimming alongside the boat. The crew is well-versed in marine life, sharing stories about the local ecosystem as you cruise.
The key highlight is the combination of wildlife viewing and snorkeling. Guests often see sharks, fish, and dolphins during the trip, and the snorkeling is described as “great,” with many colorful fish and hermit crabs encountered. The trip has received high praise, including a review stating, “The experience was definitely worth it. The captain and Baylee were so nice and interacted with the whole group.” At $50, it offers a good balance of price and memorable experiences.
Bottom Line: A top choice for those who want a full marine experience—dolphin sightings, snorkeling, and an engaging crew make this a well-rounded outing.
4. Fort Walton Beach: Crab Island Pontoon Boat Rental
If independence and flexibility are what you seek, then Crab Island Pontoon Boat Rental is a fantastic choice. For $187, you can rent a pontoon boat for up to 12 people, enjoying 2 to 8 hours exploring the waters at your own pace. This tour doesn’t include a set itinerary but offers the chance to visit Crab Island, a popular gathering spot with shallow waters perfect for swimming, floating, and relaxing.
What makes this rental appealing is the free parking, fuel, and cooler included—making it easy to pack snacks and drinks. You can cruise along the Emerald Coast, look out for dolphins, and discover secluded spots that are less crowded. The company boasts the highest reviews on the coast, emphasizing its reliability and ease of use.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups wanting control over their day, families, or friends wanting to explore the coast at their own pace. Keep in mind that you’ll need to manage the boat yourself.
5. Destin and Fort Walton Beach: Private Sunset Cruise
Number 5 on our list is the Private Sunset Cruise. For $298 per group, up to 12 people can enjoy a 2-hour cruise aboard a luxury 24′ pontoon. Departing from Fort Walton Beach, this trip offers a more intimate experience. You’ll cruise through Santa Rosa Sound, taking in panoramic views of Destin’s beaches and hoping to spot dolphins along the way.
The highlight, naturally, is watching the sunset paint the sky with colors, making it perfect for romantic evenings or small celebrations. The boat is equipped with comfortable seating, and the crew takes care of the navigation so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Reviews note the calm, private atmosphere and the opportunity to admire miles of beachfront while soaking in the sunset.
Bottom Line: Excellent for couples or small groups celebrating a special occasion. The private setting and scenic views provide a peaceful, memorable experience.
6. Destin-Fort Walton Beach: Private Cruise with Fireworks
Our final pick is the Private Cruise with Fireworks, perfect for those wanting an extraordinary night on the water. At $358 for up to 12 people, this three-hour luxury cruise offers a front-row seat to Destin’s fireworks displays. Departing from Fort Walton Beach, you’ll cruise through Destin Harbor while the sky explodes with color.
What makes this tour exceptional is the unobstructed view of the fireworks reflected on the water, combined with the privacy and comfort of your own boat. Guests comment on how relaxed and stylish the experience feels, turning a typical night into a special memory. It’s best suited for celebrations, romantic evenings, or anyone wanting a truly unique view of the coast’s fireworks.
Bottom Line: A fantastic option for those wanting a luxurious, private experience on a special night, especially during fireworks season.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Fort Walton Beach
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your group size, interests, and how much independence you want. For a guided wildlife experience, options like the Florida: Emerald Coast Sunset & Dolphin Cruise or the Fort Walton: Dolphin Discovery and Snorkeling Cruise offer great value. If you’re eager for a self-guided adventure, the Crab Island Pontoon Boat Rental allows maximum flexibility.
Budget-conscious travelers should compare prices like the $41 and $42 options to see which fits their plans best, while those seeking a more private or celebratory experience might opt for the Private Sunset Cruise or the fireworks cruise for higher-end, memorable moments. Remember to check availability and book early, especially for popular sunset and fireworks cruises during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Fort Walton Beach offers a variety of boat tours tailored to different interests—whether you want to relax on a sunset sail, actively snorkel, or explore at your own pace. The Emerald Coast Sunset & Dolphin Cruise and the Dolphin Discovery and Snorkeling Cruise stand out for their combination of wildlife and scenic beauty, while private options like the Sunset Cruise are perfect for a special night or celebration.
If you’re flexible, renting a pontoon to explore Crab Island offers an independent way to enjoy the coast. Planning ahead and understanding what kind of experience suits your group will help you make the most of your water time in Fort Walton Beach. With so many options, you’ll find a boat tour that turns your visit into a memorable adventure—so go ahead, book early and get ready for a day on the water.