Heading to the Florida Panhandle and looking for fun things to do? If so, look no further!
In this post, we look at the highest-rated snorkeling tours in Panama City Beach Florida!
I love Panama City Beach and visiting the attractions such as Pier Park and Dog Beach.
Even the piers are great spots for taking a stroll and fishing.
But if you’re looking to get on the water, then these snorkeling tours in Panama City Beach are just for you!
Let’s dive in!
Don’t Have Time To Read The Full Article? Book The Shell Island Snorkel And Dolphin Catamaran Cruise With Island Time with a 5⭐️rating
Best Snorkel Tours Panama City Beach Florida!
Photo Credit- Paradise Adventures Catamaran
Tour Rating: 4.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Length: 3 Hours Check Rates Here
The Catamaran Snorkel and Dolphin Watch Tour in Panama City Beach offers an unforgettable adventure on the calm waters of the historic Grand Lagoon in the Gulf of Mexico.
This 3-hour tour promises an adventure that will leave visitors with lasting memories of beautiful sea life and natural environment.
The sleek catamaran sets sail from the dock down from the Sheraton PCB Golf and Spa Resort.
This snorkel tour offers guests the opportunity to swim with vibrant coral reefs and discover a mesmerizing glimpse of the underwater world of colorful tropical fish, hermit crabs, graceful sea turtles, and other stunning marine life.
But the excitement doesn’t end there. The snorkel tour also includes a captivating dolphin sightseeing experience, where guests can witness these intelligent creatures playfully leaping and swimming alongside the vessel.
It’s a heartwarming encounter with nature’s most charismatic inhabitants.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“It was a great way to spend an afternoon. Captain Justine was great! The boat ride was super chill and relaxing. Plenty of drinks and snacks if that’s your thing. We were able to see a bunch of dolphins close by. All in all, a fun excursion. 🙂“
Liz_N ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✅ What’s Included with this tour?
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Complimentary beverage
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Snorkel gear
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Boat captain
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Snorkeling tour guide
Photo Credit- Paradise Adventures Catamaran
Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Length: 3 Hours Check Rates Here
Experience the ultimate water activity adventure with the Panama City Beach Water Activity Adventure Catamaran Sail tour.
This action-packed excursion offers an exhilarating blend of fun and relaxation on the sparkling, calm waters of Panama City Beach near Mexico Beach.
The Privateer charter sailing catamaran sets sail along the scenic coastline and transports you to the small island of Shell Island where an array of thrilling water activities await you.
These include kayaking, paddleboarding, and even ride a jet ski, for an adrenaline-fueled adventure, especially for larger groups like an entire family vacationing together.
There is also a climbing wall, a see-saw ball, a water slide, and a giant water trampoline on this 2 hours of fun tour, best suitable for children of all ages!
After a jam-packed adventure, you get the chance to sip on refreshing drinks from the onboard bar and laze on the deck as you take in the breathtaking surroundings.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills or serene relaxation, this snorkeling tour offers an unforgettable experience that caters to every water lover’s dream.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“We had so much fun on the inflatables, paddle boarding and on the banana boat! … After you’re out on the water for 1.5hr you’ll sail out to see plenty of dolphins. The crew was absolutely amazing! Very friendly, funny and overall wonderful to be around! I definitely recommend, seen all ages out there having fun.”
Savannah_S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✅ What’s Included with this tour?
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All activities
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Alcoholic beverages
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Bottled water
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Restroom on board
Photo Credit- Island Time Sailing
Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Length: 3 Hours Check Rates Here
This Ultimate Shell Island Adventure by Island Time Sailing takes you on a spacious catamaran that makes for the perfect, sturdy base to explore the waters of the breathtaking Shell Island, a pristine barrier island known for its abundant wildlife and its beautiful white sand beaches home to sand dollars.
Upon arrival at Shell Island, grab your snorkel gear and dive into the crystal-clear waters to explore the breathtaking underwater world.
Discover vibrant marine life from tropical fish, sea urchins, sea turtles, and beautiful coral reefs, immersing yourself in nature’s splendor.
Apart from the snorkel gear, the catamaran is also stocked with paddleboards and a waterslide for some fun time out at sea!
This 2-hour tour is a great place to observe the curious and intelligent wild dolphins in their natural habitat.
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“Me and my kids, mother-in-law went on this cruise and absolutely loved it. I most definitely recommend this cruise to go on, the crew was very entertaining and mingled with the guest. Would most definitely be going back on this cruise next time we are on vacation. Thanks to the captain and his crew!”
Ashley_P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✅ What’s Included with this tour?
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Snorkel gear
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Paddleboard
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Boat crew
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Life jackets
Photo Credit- B By The Sea Adventures
Tour Rating: 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Length: 2 Hours Check Rates Here
This snorkeling, local wildlife, and dolphin sightseeing tour to St. Andrews Bay is a great place to see the underwater world of the St. Andrews State Park area.
As you sail through the scenic St. Andrews Bay, keep your eyes peeled for playful wild dolphins swimming alongside the boat.
Witness their acrobatic displays and marvel at their intelligence and grace.
You then get to dive into the warm, shallow waters and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs teeming with a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.
St. Andrew Bay is also a sanctuary for various wildlife species.
You may also spot majestic seabirds, sea urchins, graceful sea turtles, and even the occasional manatee while you snorkel grass flats, making this one of the best snorkel tours in Panama City Beach!
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
“Britanny really took the time to play with the kids. She was very knowledgeable about the area. She is an overall sweetheart and the best tour we did! Thanks Britanny for the wonderful memories!!”
Rebecca_M ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✅ What’s Included with this tour?
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Snorkel gear
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Ice cooler
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Bottled water
Panama City, Florida Snorkeling – Frequently Asked Questions
Is Panama City Good For Snorkeling?
The shallow water of Panama City Beach is a popular spot in Florida that offers good snorkeling opportunities, particularly around areas like Shell Island along the St. Andrews State Park.
Where you may encounter vibrant fish, occasional sea turtles, and other sea life like manatees and also experience wild dolphin sightseeing!
Is Shell Island Worth The Trip?
Yes, Shell Island is definitely worth the trip! Shell Island is a pristine barrier island known for its sugar-sand beaches, crystal-clear calm waters, and appreciation of wildlife.
You can enjoy sunbathing, beachcombing, swimming, and picnicking on the beautiful beaches, and maybe even spot some sand dollars!
The island also has the best spots for snorkeling and offers opportunities for dolphin encounters, watch sea turtles, and a variety of bird species.
How Much Does It Cost To Go To Shell Island?
The cost to visit Shell Island can vary depending on the group size and the mode of transportation.
Guided boat tours to Shell Island typically range from $20 to $50 per person.
There are some ferry and boat tour company offering transportation to Shell Island from specific locations, with prices generally ranging from $20 to $30 per person for a round trip, except only on bad weather and dangerous water conditions.
Lastly, if you prefer to rent a private charter, the cost can range from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the duration of the rental and the size and type of the boat.
Where Is The Best Place To Snorkel On Shell Island?
West End, St. Andrews State Park Jetties, and Shell Beds are three of the best places to snorkel on Shell Island.
To swim in the shelly ocean beds, and unique rock formations and snorkel the grass flats off sugar-sand beaches is a truly enriching and educational experiences because these perfect spots attract a host of wonderful marine wildlife!
Snorkeling Tours In Panama City Beach- Final Thoughts
As you can see, whether you’re a beginner or have experience in the water, these snorkeling tours in Panama City Beach is the best way to see manatees, fish, and other marine life! With several different affordable and private tours to choose from, you’re sure to find one that will suit your needs. Safe travels!
Still Undecided? I Recommend You Book The Shell Island Snorkel And Dolphin Catamaran Cruise With Island Time with a 5⭐️rating
Additional Panama City Beach Travel Posts
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Top Tours in Panama City Beach – Viator
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