The 6 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Fort Walton Beach
Fort Walton Beach is a prime spot for boat-loving travelers, thanks to its proximity to clear waters, abundant marine life, and stunning sunsets. Whether you want to spot dolphins on a relaxing sunset cruise, snorkel with the fish in the morning, or enjoy a private evening with a view, this area offers a variety of options. You can sail along the Emerald Coast, explore Crab Island at your own pace, or even catch a fireworks show from the water—there’s a trip for every mood and budget.
In this guide, we’ll walk through six top boat tours, highlighting what makes each one special. From the crowd-pleasing Sunset & Dolphin Cruises to the exclusive Fireworks Private Cruise, you’ll find detailed descriptions, honest assessments of value, and tips to help you choose the best experience for your trip. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, these tours showcase the best of Fort Walton Beach’s waters.
1. Florida: Emerald Coast Sunset & Dolphin Cruise with Guide
This sunset cruise offers a mellow two hours aboard a brand new 45′ Corinthian Catamaran. The tour takes you along the shimmering waters of the Emerald Coast, with your guide pointing out local wildlife and interesting facts about the area. The star of the show is the spectacular sunset, which you’ll photograph from the water with the Gulf’s gentle waves as a backdrop. Dolphins are a common sight here, often swimming alongside the boat during the cruise.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of relaxation and wildlife viewing. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a peaceful evening with a chance to see dolphins and capture stunning photos. The price of $41 per person offers excellent value, considering the small-group feel and personalized commentary. The reviews reflect its popularity, with one traveler calling it “the best possible dolphin cruise,” thanks to frequent dolphin sightings and lively crew.
The main drawback? The cruise duration is just two hours, so if you’re after a longer experience or nighttime fun, you might want a different option. Bottom line: This cruise is ideal for those looking for a scenic, affordable way to enjoy a sunset and dolphins on a calm sea.
2. Fort Walton Beach: Morning Dolphin Cruise with Snorkel Stop
This morning cruise combines dolphin watching with a snorkel adventure, making it a great choice for active travelers. The tour lasts about 3 hours, sailing aboard a spacious 45-foot catamaran. The itinerary includes a snorkel stop, where you can explore underwater life like hermit crabs and colorful fish, followed by dolphin sightings on the way back to shore.
What makes it special is the combination of wildlife and underwater discovery. The natural beauty of the Emerald Coast is on full display, and the crew does a good job of instructing first-timers on snorkeling gear and safety. The price of $42 per person makes it an accessible option with plenty of value for those wanting a mix of active fun and wildlife.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable crew—one mentioned, “Nate & Addy were great,” and they appreciated the chance to see dolphins and jellyfish. The main consideration? Snorkeling requires a bit of physical activity, so it may not suit those with mobility concerns. Bottom line: This tour is perfect for active families or couples eager to combine dolphin spotting with underwater exploration.
3. Fort Walton: Dolphin Discovery and Snorkeling Cruise
This 3-hour cruise offers a well-rounded experience cruising through Destin Harbor, Okaloosa Island, and beyond. The highlight is watching playful dolphins swim past, complemented by a snorkeling stop. The crew guides you through the marine habitats, sharing knowledge about the Gulf’s vibrant aquatic life.
What makes this trip stand out is its focus on both wildlife observation and underwater adventure. It’s suitable for travelers interested in marine ecology, as the crew is very knowledgeable. The $50 per person price includes plenty of time on the water, with the potential for a good dolphin show—a favorite among reviews.
While the experience is excellent value, keep in mind that dolphin sightings are not guaranteed—they depend on the day’s wildlife activity. Some reviewers mention they didn’t see much of the dolphins but still enjoyed the boat ride and snorkeling. This tour is best suited for those who want a balanced mix of marine life and underwater exploration in a shorter time frame.
4. Fort Walton Beach: Crab Island Pontoon Boat Rental
If you prefer independence and a flexible schedule, this pontoon boat rental gives you the freedom to explore Crab Island and nearby spots at your own pace. Starting at $187 per group, up to 12 people, for 2 to 8 hours, it’s a flexible way to see the area without a guided tour. The rental includes free parking, fuel, and a cooler, making it easy to pack snacks and drinks.
What makes this option appealing is the self-guided freedom. You can cruise the waterways, stop for a swim, and look for dolphins without a strict schedule. Crab Island is famous for its shallow, clear waters and lively atmosphere, perfect for families or groups wanting a relaxed day. Many reviewers praise the company’s reliable service and ease of use.
Potential downsides? You’ll need to operate the boat yourself, so some boating experience is helpful. Also, rental prices are higher than guided tours, but the flexibility and the ability to customize your day add value. Bottom line: This is best for confident boaters seeking a private, laid-back day on the water.
5. Destin and Fort Walton Beach: Private Sunset Cruise
For a romantic evening, this private sunset cruise offers an intimate experience. For $298 per group, up to 12 people, you get 2 hours aboard a luxury 24′ pontoon. The cruise takes you through Santa Rosa Sound or along Destin’s coastline, with plenty of opportunities to spot dolphins and enjoy the panoramic views of sunset.
This tour shines for its personalized service and exclusivity. You can relax in comfortable seating while the captain navigates the calm waters, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds. Many reviews highlight the serenity and picturesque scenery, making it ideal for couples or small groups celebrating special occasions.
The main consideration is the price, which reflects the private, luxury experience. It’s less about adventure and more about comfort and stunning scenery. Bottom line: This tour is perfect for couples or small groups seeking a memorable, private sunset experience.
6. Destin-Fort Walton Beach: Private Cruise with Fireworks
This 3-hour private cruise is a showstopper, especially if you visit during a fireworks night. For $358 per group up to 12, you’ll sail aboard a luxurious vessel, taking in unobstructed views of fireworks over Destin. The boat offers a comfortable lounge setting, perfect for relaxing as the night sky lights up above.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of privacy and the spectacle of fireworks reflected on the water. It’s an elegant way to enjoy the holiday or special event from a different vantage point. Many travelers mention how magical it is to see the fireworks from the water, with the shimmering reflections creating a picture-perfect scene.
The trade-off? The higher cost and the need to book during specific dates. This experience appeals most to couples or small families celebrating milestones or special occasions. Bottom line: It’s a superb option for a once-in-a-lifetime night with a view of dazzling fireworks.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour
When picking a boat tour in Fort Walton Beach, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend on the water, and what kind of experience appeals most. If you want a quick, scenic sunset and dolphin cruise, the Florida Sunset & Dolphin Cruise offers excellent value. For active underwater fun, the Morning Dolphin & Snorkel Tour delivers a balanced mix.
Those seeking independence should look into the Crab Island pontoon rental, especially if you’re comfortable boating on your own. For romantic or special occasions, the Private Sunset or Fireworks Cruises provide intimacy and spectacular scenery, but at a premium price.
Booking early, particularly for guided tours during peak season, is advisable to secure your preferred time slot. Also, check availability if you’re planning for specific dates, especially for private cruises or fireworks nights.
Final Thoughts
Fort Walton Beach’s boat tours cover a wide range of tastes—from lively dolphin cruises and snorkeling adventures to private sunset experiences and self-guided island explorations. For those new to boating, the guided tours offer engaging commentary and the chance to relax without stress. Meanwhile, the private options are perfect for couples or small groups wanting a personalized memory.
If you’re after a classic, affordable dolphin cruise, the Sunset & Dolphin Cruise is hard to beat. For a more active day with underwater exploration, look at the Morning Snorkel Tour. Want to explore at your own pace? The Crab Island pontoon rental offers the freedom to craft your own adventure. And for a truly special night, the Fireworks Cruise is hard to top.
No matter which you choose, booking early is wise. Fort Walton Beach’s waters promise memorable moments—so set your course and enjoy the view.