Panama City Beach is famous for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, but what truly makes it stand out are the cruise and boat tour options available. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing sunset sail, an energetic tiki party, or an up-close dolphin encounter, the area offers a variety of experiences. Many tours provide opportunities to see playful dolphins, explore Shell Island, or enjoy scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico—sometimes all in one trip. With boats ranging from small, intimate tiki vessels to large catamarans, there’s something for every taste and budget. Just remember, these tours tend to fill up fast during peak season, so booking early is a smart move.
For those who prefer a lively party atmosphere, the Original CRUISIN TIKIS 3 Hour Cruise is a standout, combining snorkeling, swimming, and floating on a small-group tiki boat. If sunsets are your thing, the Sunset Cruise with Good Jibez offers an hour-and-a-half of relaxing views and music. For wildlife lovers, the Shell Island Dolphin Sightseeing Boat Tour delivers a chance to see dolphins and explore one of the area’s most iconic islands. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each top tour to help you choose the perfect match.
1. Original CRUISIN TIKIS 3 Hour Cruise, Snorkel, Swim/float Sandbar
At number one, this 3-hour tiki boat cruise offers a flexible, fun-filled day on the water. It’s perfect for couples, families, or bachelor and bachelorette parties who want to swim, snorkel, or just soak up the sun. The boat is small, holding up to 12 guests, which creates a more intimate atmosphere. Your captain parks in shallow waters near Sandy Point, making it easy to swim, float, or lounge on the floating deck. Dolphins are often spotted, adding to the excitement. Bring your own drinks, as the boat is BYOB, and the captain is happy to help take photos to capture your memories.
Guests consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the laid-back vibe. One reviewer calls it the “best tour of the week,” highlighting the snorkeling at the sandbar and the attentive captain. This tour offers great value for its price, with plenty of options to relax or party on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for a customizable, small-group experience with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and maybe even make dolphin friends.
2. Original CRUISIN TIKIS Sunset Cruise 1.5 Hour
For a more romantic, scenic experience, the Sunset Cruise takes you on a 1.5-hour voyage to enjoy the vibrant colors of the evening sky. This tour also uses a tiki vessel, providing a fun, bar-like atmosphere on the water. You can bring your favorite beverages, and the captain will steer you toward scenic spots, offering views of waterfront homes and the lively activity in Lower Grand Lagoon. Dolphins are sometimes visible, and the soft twilight creates a memorable backdrop for photos.
Guests love how this cruise combines a laid-back party vibe with breathtaking sunset views. One reviewer called the captain “welcoming and fun,” emphasizing the relaxed, friendly environment. It’s an excellent choice for pre-dinner drinks or a romantic night out.
Bottom Line: Ideal for sunset lovers who want a casual, party-style cruise with great photo opportunities.
3. Shell Island Dolphin Sightseeing Boat Tour in Panama City Beach
This dolphin sightseeing tour is an affordable way to combine wildlife viewing with scenic cruising. Departing from Panama City, it’s designed to maximize your chances of seeing bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. The spacious pontoon boat is comfortable, accommodating up to 18 passengers, and offers ample seating for relaxing or snapping photos of Shell Island, St. Andrews Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico.
Reviewers frequently mention how many dolphins they saw, with one noting, “We saw a lot of dolphins, and the crew was very nice and safety-conscious.” It’s a family-friendly tour that balances wildlife encounters with laid-back scenery. The crew’s knowledgeable nature and friendly attitude add to the experience.
Bottom Line: A great choice for wildlife fans who want an accessible, comfortable boat with a high likelihood of dolphin sightings.
4. Sunset Cruise with Good Jibez Only in Panama City Beach
This sunset cruise offers a 1.5-hour escape aboard a new 32-foot fiberglass pontoon, blending comfort with a lively vibe. Your licensed captain takes you across Grand Lagoon and past Shell Island, with plenty of chances to spot dolphins and wildlife. The boat is spacious enough for small groups—up to 18—and offers unobstructed views of the sunset, making it perfect for families or small groups celebrating special occasions. Bring your own drinks, and enjoy a relaxed, fun atmosphere with good music.
Guests frequently mention how smooth the ride is, even in choppier waters, and how engaging the crew is. One reviewer said, “The captain was fantastic, and we saw dolphins and a beautiful sunset.” It’s a top pick for those who want a casual, social experience on the water.
Bottom Line: Best suited for small groups seeking a relaxed, scenic cruise with wildlife viewing and sunset photos.
5. Original CRUISIN TIKIS 90 min Cruise – Grand Lagoon
At number five, the 90-minute cruise is a budget-friendly, flexible option. It’s ideal for those wanting a quick, fun outing without sacrificing scenic views or wildlife sightings. The tiki boat can host up to 12 guests, and you can bring your own drinks and snacks. Many guests appreciate the lively music and the chance to see dolphins while cruising around PCB’s harbor.
One reviewer notes, “It’s a cute experience, and I loved the BYOB option,” though some mentioned the boat felt a bit small. Still, the friendly crew and the chance to relax on a unique vessel make it a worthwhile option for a half-day cruise.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a quick, affordable boat trip with a lively atmosphere.
6. Panama City Beach’s – Dolphin Sunset Cruise
This dolphin sunset cruise offers a 1-hour ride focusing on the magic of sunset and dolphin sightings. The boat departs from Panama City and cruises over Choctawhatchee Bay, where you’ll enjoy great photo ops of the sunset. Dolphins often appear during the cruise, adding to the scenic experience. The boat is run by a skilled captain, and even a friendly sea dog, Greta, joins the ride.
Guests comment on the knowledgeable captain and the enjoyable time on the water, with several noting the memorable dolphin sightings and sunset views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, scenic cruise with the chance to see dolphins and enjoy stunning sunset vistas.
7. Sunset Sail Aboard the 47 ft Daydreams Sailboat
For those looking for a more refined experience, the sunset sail on a 47-foot sailboat offers a two-hour escape with a small group (six or fewer). The crew takes you through Grand Lagoon and along Shell Island, with chances of dolphin sightings along the way. The relaxed, VIP vibe makes it perfect for couples or anyone wanting to unwind in style.
Reviewers mention the knowledgeable crew and the chance to see dolphins in an intimate setting. One said, “The crew made everything fun, and we saw dolphins and the sunset.” It’s a quieter, more elegant alternative to motorized tours.
Bottom Line: Great for couples or small groups seeking a peaceful, scenic sunset sail in a luxurious setting.
8. Shell Island Snorkel and Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time
This 3-hour catamaran trip is a favorite for families and water lovers. The wide, stable deck and onboard paddle boards, snorkeling gear, and waterslide make it stand out. It departs from Panama City Beach and heads toward Shell Island, with plenty of stops for snorkeling and playing in the water. Dolphin sightings are common, and the crew is well-versed in making the experience fun and safe.
One review states, “We saw plenty of dolphins, and the crew was amazing,” highlighting the trip’s lively, family-oriented nature. The boat’s capacity of 3,478 reviews underscores its popularity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active families who want a combination of snorkeling, dolphin watching, and waterslides in a comfortable setting.
9. Sunset & Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time
This 2-hour sunset and dolphin cruise offers a lively mix of scenery, dolphins, and music. Cruising through Grand Lagoon, you can expect to see pods leaping in the water while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. The crew keeps the vibe upbeat with games, music, and friendly service. The reviews praise the staff and the perfect sunset views.
It’s especially popular with families, couples, and groups looking for a fun, social evening on the water.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting an energetic, scenic cruise with opportunities to dance and take photos of dolphins and sunsets.
10. Private Sunset Cruise in Panama City Beach
Looking for exclusivity? This private sunset cruise offers up to 18 guests a tranquil, personalized experience. The vessel is a luxury boat, allowing you to bring your own drinks and enjoy the sunset in peace. The cruise often features dolphin sightings and offers a quiet, scenic way to celebrate special occasions or just unwind.
No reviews are available yet, but the private setting guarantees an intimate, tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best for groups wanting privacy, comfort, and a flexible schedule to celebrate or relax in style.
11. Private Dolphin Cruise in Panama City Beach
This private dolphin cruise emphasizes a personalized adventure. It’s perfect for families or groups wanting an exclusive, flexible tour targeting dolphin encounters. The 2-hour cruise covers the Gulf of Mexico, providing plenty of opportunity to see these playful animals in their natural environment.
The reviews are sparse but optimistic, emphasizing the private, intimate nature of the trip.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups seeking a tailored, private experience focused on dolphin watching.
12. Panama City Beach: Private Dolphin Cruise
This private cruise accommodates up to 18 passengers with a focus on dolphin viewing and scenic cruising. It’s a straightforward, relaxing experience, perfect for families or friends who want to enjoy the water without the crowds. The cruise highlights include wildlife watching and scenic views of the Gulf.
Reviewers mention the “relaxing atmosphere” and the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
Bottom Line: A good choice for those who want a private, easygoing cruise with wildlife viewing.
13. Panama City Beach: Private Sunset Cruise
Finally, the private sunset cruise allows up to 4 people to enjoy a tailored trip during the sunset hours. Expect gorgeous views, potential dolphin sightings, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s perfect for intimate celebrations or just escaping the crowds.
Reviews are not available yet, but the exclusivity and flexibility make it a top pick for quiet, personalized outings.
Bottom Line: Best suited for small groups or couples wanting a private, scenic, and relaxing sunset experience.
How to Choose the Best Cruise or Boat Tour
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time available, and activity preferences. Want a lively party? The tiki boat cruises and sunset cruises offer energetic atmospheres. Prefer wildlife? The Dolphin Sightseeing Boat Tour is hard to beat for dolphin sightings and comfort. For a romantic escape, the sunset sail or private sunset cruises provide intimacy and spectacular views.
Booking early during peak season ensures you get your preferred date and avoid disappointment. Some tours, especially private options, fill quickly.
In summary, Panama City Beach offers an impressive variety of cruises and boat tours. If you want high-energy fun with drinks and snorkeling, the tiki boat may be your best fit. For a peaceful, scenic sunset, consider the sunset sail. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the dolphin and Shell Island tours. Whatever your style, early booking is the key to securing your perfect trip—so plan ahead and enjoy your time on these beautiful waters.