Destin: Dolphin Cruise Aboard a Glass-Bottom Boat

Destin’s dolphin cruise aboard the glass-bottom boat, Southern Star, offers an exhilarating way to explore the Emerald Coast’s pristine waters. With a remarkable 98% success rate for dolphin sightings, this 1.5-hour adventure provides panoramic views from the upper deck and unique glass-bottom viewing area. Led by a knowledgeable captain, the family-friendly cruise invites guests to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and captivating marine life. As the boat glides across the stunning coastline, visitors can’t help but wonder what other wonders await them on this unforgettable journey.

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Dolphin Watching Tours In Destin? Our Top 16 Picks.

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Key Points

A 1.5-hour cruise aboard the glass-bottom boat, Southern Star, with a 98% success rate for dolphin sightings year-round.
Opportunities to feed sea birds and enjoy panoramic views from the upper deck or glass-bottom viewing area on the main deck.
Live commentary by a knowledgeable captain providing insights into the scenic route through Destin Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico or Choctawhatchee Bay.
Family-friendly atmosphere with onboard purchases available and an impressive rating of 4.9/5 based on 32 customer reviews.
Flexible booking and cancellation policy, allowing guests to plan their Emerald Coast experience without worrying about changes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Dolphin Cruise in Destin offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe dolphins in their natural habitat.

Priced from $42.82 per person, the 1.5-hour cruise aboard the glass-bottom boat, Southern Star, provides a memorable experience.

Passengers can choose the upper deck for panoramic views or the air-conditioned main deck with a glass-bottom viewing area.

The cruise boasts a 98% success rate for dolphin sightings year-round.

A staggering 98% success rate for dolphin sightings throughout the year on the Dolphin Cruise in Destin.

Travelers can also enjoy the opportunity to feed sea birds during the scenic tour.

With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, the Dolphin Cruise is a must-try activity in Destin.

Want to see more dolphins? We've reviewed these other marine encounters in Destin

Experience Highlights

Cruise aboard the Southern Star, a U.S. Coast Guard-certified double-deck boat for up to 149 passengers.

Choose the upper deck for panoramic views or the air-conditioned main deck with a glass-bottom viewing area.

Observe dolphins in their natural habitat with a 98% success rate for sightings year-round. During the cruise, you’ll also have the opportunity to feed sea birds.

The knowledgeable captain provides live commentary in English, guiding you through the scenic cruise of Destin Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico or Choctawhatchee Bay.

Admire the Emerald Coast’s pristine waters and white sandy beaches along the way.

Tour Details

Knowledgeable captains provide live commentary in English throughout the scenic cruise.

The tour takes guests through the picturesque Destin Harbor and into the Gulf of Mexico or Choctawhatchee Bay, offering breathtaking views of Florida’s Emerald Coast.

The tour offers breathtaking views of Florida’s Emerald Coast as it takes guests through the picturesque Destin Harbor and into the Gulf of Mexico or Choctawhatchee Bay.

Passengers can admire the pristine, turquoise waters and the white sandy beaches that make this region so visually stunning.

Those on the upper deck will enjoy panoramic vistas, while the glass-bottom viewing area on the main deck provides a unique perspective.

Onboard, guests can purchase souvenirs, snacks, and drinks to enhance their dolphin cruise experience.

Customer Reviews

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Dolphin Cruise in Destin, awarding it an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 32 reviews.

Positive feedback highlights the frequent dolphin sightings, informative captain, and family-friendly atmosphere.

However, some customers expressed disappointment with the limited glass-bottom viewing area, which is confined to only 8 panels with no surrounding seating.

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Important Information

To embark on the Dolphin Cruise in Destin, guests should head to the boarding dock to the left of the Margaritaville restaurant.

Recommendations include bringing a camera, cash, and weather-appropriate clothing.

While dolphin sightings are highly likely, with a 98% success rate year-round, it’s important to note that the animals are wild and their appearances can’t be guaranteed.

The cruise offers a glass-bottom viewing area, but seating is limited to 8 panels.

Souvenirs, snacks, and drinks are available for purchase on board the U.S. Coast Guard-certified Southern Star vessel.

Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Destin

Booking and Cancellation

Although the Dolphin Cruise in Destin has a 98% success rate for dolphin sightings year-round, bookings can be made without any upfront payment.

Customers can reserve their spot and pay later, taking advantage of the cruise’s flexible cancellation policy. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can plan their trip without worrying about unexpected changes.

The 1.5-hour cruise aboard the Southern Star costs $42.82 per person and offers the opportunity to observe dolphins in their natural habitat, as well as admire the stunning Emerald Coast scenery.

What to Expect on the Cruise

Passengers aboard the Dolphin Cruise in Destin can expect a memorable journey aboard the Southern Star, a U.S. Coast Guard-certified double-deck boat.

Passengers can choose the upper deck for panoramic views or the air-conditioned main deck with a glass-bottom viewing area. The cruise offers a 98% success rate for dolphin sightings year-round, allowing guests to observe the marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Plus, passengers can feed the sea birds during the cruise. The knowledgeable captain provides live commentary throughout the 1.5-hour scenic tour of Destin Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico or Choctawhatchee Bay.

Why Choose the Dolphin Cruise

The Dolphin Cruise in Destin offers a captivating experience that sets it apart from other tours. With a 98% success rate for dolphin sightings year-round, the cruise provides an unparalleled opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

The double-deck boat, certified by the U.S. Coast Guard, allows visitors to choose between the upper deck for panoramic views or the air-conditioned main deck with a glass-bottom viewing area.

Plus, the cruise includes the chance to feed sea birds, making it a truly interactive and memorable experience for all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for the Cruise?

The tour can accommodate up to 149 passengers on the double-deck boat. With no specific information provided, the average group size is likely variable and dependent on customer demand.

Do the Boats Have Restrooms Available?

The boats have restrooms available for passengers to use during the cruise. This allows guests to comfortably enjoy the 1.5-hour experience without having to leave the vessel.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cruise?

There are no age restrictions for the cruise. The tour is suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly activity. Children under 4 years old can ride for free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on board. However, the company also offers a selection of snacks and beverages for purchase during the cruise. Bringing outside alcoholic beverages is generally not permitted.

Is the Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, with the main deck featuring a glass-bottom viewing area and air conditioning. Passengers can board the boat with their wheelchairs and enjoy the dolphin-watching experience comfortably.

The Sum Up

The Destin dolphin cruise aboard the glass-bottom boat, Southern Star, offers an unforgettable experience for visitors to the Emerald Coast. With a high success rate for dolphin sightings, panoramic views, and knowledgeable commentary, it’s an excellent way to explore the area’s pristine waters and beaches. The affordable pricing and flexible cancellation policy make it an attractive option for families and adventure-seekers alike.