Do dolphin cruises see dolphins year-round in St Petersburg, Florida?
Yes. Bottlenose dolphins live in the waters of Tampa Bay year-round, and though we cannot guarantee sightings, we do see them on almost every dolphin cruises in St Petersburg and St Pete Beach.

Are dolphin tours safe for children?
Yes. Dolphin tours are family-friendly and include required safety equipment such as life jackets for children. We even provide life jackets for infants. Calm bay waters make these tours suitable for all ages.

How long is a dolphin cruise to Shell Key?
Our dolphin cruises to Shell Key last approximately two hours and include time for wildlife viewing and exploring Shell Key Preserve. You'll get upwards of an hour to explore and snorkel Shell Key, depending on how much time is spent seeing dolphins. 

What other wildlife might we see besides dolphins?
In addition to dolphins, guests may see manatees, rays, sea turtles, pelicans, and a variety of shorebirds depending on the season.

Where do dolphin cruises depart from?
Dolphin cruises depart from the Tierra Verde Marina Resort near St Pete Beach, offering quick access to Shell Key and Tampa Bay waters.

Are dolphin cruises eco-friendly?
Yes. Dolphin tours follow responsible wildlife viewing guidelines and are designed to minimize environmental impact while educating guests about local marine life.

What makes Island Ferry of St Pete different from other boat tours in Florida?
We focus on smaller groups, in spacious 25ft pontoon boats. Besides providing a more personal and upscale experience, we create a more intimate, comfortable, and wildlife-focused experience compared to many other boat tours in Florida.

What is the refund policy if I need to cancel my boat reservation?
We require 48 hours notice for a full refund of your cancellation. But we know that things happen, and we can make exceptions for certain extenuating circumstances.

What is the policy for weather cancellations?
Decisions on cancelling for weather is the sole discretion of Island Ferry. If we do cancel for weather, you are entitled to a full refund, or an option to rebook for a later date or time.

What time should I arrive for my boat tour?
It is imperative that you arrive 30 minutes before departure time for check-in, just as you would for air travel.

What if I am running late for my boat tour?
Please understand that our scheduled tours run back to back, and so we are unable to delay our boat departures. Please make every effort to arrive for the check-in 30min prior to departure. 

Is there a bathroom on the boat?
We have full facilities at our marina, but there are none on the vessels themselves.

Will I see dolphins on my boat tour?
Although dolphins are in our waters all year round, we can never make guarantees. Like the weather, dolphins can be unpredictable. Rest assured our captains will make every effort to find them. 

Will I see manatees on my boat tour?
Manatees are warm water creatures, so we will see them from April to November in general. 

Will I be required to wear a life jacket on the boat?
Only children ages 7 and under are required to wear a USCG Type II life jacket while the vessel is underway. We provide those at no charge.

Can I bring food and drinks?
Yes. The more the merrier. Adult beverages are also welcome.

Can I bring a cooler?
We have a cooler with ice on all our boats, and those are at your disposal. Still, if you would like to bring your own modest sized cooler that is just fine. 

Is there a possibility I will get sea sick?
The possibility is very remote, as we are not a high-seas experience. 

Can I smoke on the boat?
Please don't ask.