Half-Day Private Boating On Avalon Funship – Clearwater Beach

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed, personalized day on the water, this Half-Day Private Boating tour in Clearwater offers an enticing mix of sun, wildlife, and scenic islands. With consistently glowing reviews and a reputation for excellent guides, it’s clear this experience hits the mark for many travelers.

What caught our attention are three things: the customized nature of the trip, the up-close wildlife encounters—especially dolphins—and the chance to explore some stunning, mostly untouched islands. The value for money is also notable, given the private, intimate setting with a knowledgeable captain.

That said, one potential consideration is the price point—at $950 for up to 10 people, it’s an investment, though many guests agree it’s worth it for the exclusivity and tailored experience.

This tour is perfect for families, small groups celebrating special occasions, romantic getaways, or even those simply seeking a peaceful day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming, shelling, and wildlife watching.

Key Points

• Private and Customizable: Focused on your group, with personalized stops and activities.
• Wildlife Highlights: Expect dolphin sightings and potential encounters with manatees, sea turtles, and native birds.
• Island Hopping: Visit Caladesi Island, Honeymoon Island, and Three Rooker Island, each offering unique scenery and activities.
• Relaxing & Fun: Opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, shelling, and enjoying Gulf sunset views.
• Comfort & Safety: Double-decker boat with a slide, safety gear, and a professional guide.
• Value for Money: Private, personalized experience with all essentials covered, including drinks and safety equipment.

Overall Impressions and What to Expect

This tour promises a relaxed yet engaging day out on the water, perfectly suited to small groups wanting a bespoke experience. You won’t be part of a crowded cruise but instead will enjoy the freedom to explore, swim, and enjoy island life at your own pace.

The boat itself, a comfortable 27-foot double-decker Funship equipped with a slide, ensures a fun, family-friendly vibe. The boat’s size makes it manageable and intimate, fostering a sense of closeness among your group while still providing enough space to relax and enjoy the ride.

The itinerary is flexible but typically begins at the Seminole Boat Ramp in Clearwater, where a safety briefing kicks things off. From there, your captain—who is both friendly and knowledgeable—guides you northward through some of Florida’s most beautiful barrier islands. The trip includes multiple stops, each offering a different experience and scenic backdrop.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Right Choice Marine

The tour kicks off here. After a brief safety overview, you’re ready to set sail. From this point, the captain will steer the boat toward the islands, giving commentary and spotting wildlife along the way. The initial stretch along Clearwater’s waterways often features dolphins, which guests find particularly exciting—one review noted that “seeing dolphins was very likely” and a highlight of the trip.

Barrier Islands: Caladesi Island & Honeymoon Island

Caladesi Island State Park is the standout for many reasons. It’s one of the few untouched islands on the Gulf Coast and only accessible by boat. Visitors love the chance to step onto pristine beaches, enjoy shelling, or explore the natural beauty of the island. One guest remarked, “Caladesi is worth the extra effort to get there,” highlighting its untouched appeal and peaceful ambiance.

Honeymoon Island is another favorite, offering more than four miles of sandy beaches plus a trail through old-growth pine forests. Guests often spend about 30 minutes at each of these spots, giving enough time to relax, take photos, or dip into the calm waters.

Three Rooker Island: A Newly Formed Gem

This small, semicircular island has only emerged within the last decade, which makes it an impressive example of coastal change. It has quickly become vegetated and stabilized, providing a unique opportunity to see a relatively new island environment. Guests typically spend around two hours here, enjoying swimming, shelling, or simply basking in the natural beauty. A reviewer noted that “sand has been accumulating here, making it more stable and inviting,” which adds to its appeal.

Clearwater Beach: Classic and Relaxed

The tour concludes at Clearwater Beach, famous for its soft, white sands and calm, shallow waters. The 50-minute stop offers a perfect chance to unwind, take a walk along the shore, or indulge in water activities like paddleboarding or jet-skiing. Guests frequently mention how this stop is ideal for unwinding after island hopping, with one review stating, “the beach is perfect for relaxing and soaking in the sun”.

Optional Sunset Views

Some tours extend into the evening, allowing guests to watch the sunset over the Gulf—an unforgettable finale to a day full of adventure. The calm waters and stunning colors make for a memorable photo opportunity.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• The private, customized boat tour ensures you’re not part of a large, impersonal group.
• Wildlife watching is a highlight, especially dolphin sightings which guests say are very likely.
• Island hopping and anchoring at sandbars allow for swimming, shelling, and exploring.
• A cooler with ice and bottled water keeps you refreshed.
• All safety gear, life jackets, and the guiding expertise are included.
• The tour also features local taxes and fuel—no hidden costs here.
• Pickup and drop-off at the designated meeting point make logistics straightforward.

Not included:

• Captain gratuity is optional but not included, so keep that in mind depending on your experience.

Practical Details That Matter

Timing-wise, the tour lasts roughly 4 hours—a perfect length for a relaxed yet fulfilling experience. Booking is typically done about 41 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The price of $950 per group (up to 10 guests) is reasonable considering it’s a private experience. It’s a significant investment but offers a level of exclusivity and personalized attention hard to find on larger, group tours.

For those concerned about accessibility, the tour is near public transportation, making it easier to reach the meeting point at Seminole Boat Ramp. It’s suitable for most travelers, but with a maximum of 10 guests, the small group setting ensures everyone gets attention and space to enjoy the ride.

Authentic Feedback from Guests

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the fun, friendly atmosphere onboard. One reviewer mentioned Captain Matt as “engaging and easy-going,” which made the experience even more enjoyable. Others appreciated the opportunity to see dolphins, with one guest citing it as the highlight: “We really enjoyed his easy-going personality and the wildlife sightings.”

The scenic stops at islands like Caladesi and Honeymoon Island are frequently described as peaceful and untouched, a stark contrast to busy beaches. The opportunity to swim and shell on these islands is especially popular, with many guests noting it made the trip feel like a true escape.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private boat tour offers a high-quality, personalized experience that’s especially appealing for small groups seeking a combination of wildlife, scenic beauty, and relaxed fun. If you love the idea of dolphin sightings, island exploration, and swimming in calm Gulf waters, this trip will meet your expectations.

It’s a fantastic choice for families, couples, or friends celebrating a special occasion, thanks to the intimate setting and flexible itinerary. The boat’s amenities, including a slide, enhance the fun factor, especially for kids or the young at heart.

While the price might seem steep at first glance, most guests feel it’s justified given the exclusivity, guide expertise, and the chance to visit multiple islands in just a few hours. It’s a memorable way to spend half a day on the water and see some of Florida’s best natural sights without the crowds.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the price?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at the designated meeting point are included, making it easier to start your adventure.

How many people can join the tour?
The tour is private for your group, with a maximum of 10 guests, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. All safety equipment, including life jackets, are provided.

Can I see dolphins?
Dolphin sightings are very likely and a common highlight, with many guests mentioning they saw dolphins during their trip.

What activities are included?
Expect opportunities for swimming, shelling, snorkeling, and relaxing on the islands or boat. You can also enjoy watching the sunset if you extend into the evening.

Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, with the slide and safety gear, the boat is family-friendly, and children often love the fun slide and wildlife encounters.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 41 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure their preferred date and time.

This private boat tour in Clearwater provides a well-rounded, authentic, and enjoyable escape on the water. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a peaceful day exploring Gulf Coast islands, it’s a worthwhile, memorable experience.