Shell Island Snorkel and Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
The 3-Hr Shell Island Snorkel & Dolphin Cruise aboard the Island Time Sailing Catamaran is a great way to have fun in the sun and enjoy the best of what Panama City Beach has to offer! Cruise over to Shell Island where you and the whole family can snorkel to find exciting shells and sea life, swim up to the island to explore or paddle board around the boat. After about an hour you will depart the island to head out to the Gulf for sightseeing and dolphin watching and sailing! The cruise ends with contests and dancing. We offer 2 different catamarans for this trip. They are very similar, but have a few differences. The "Island Time" is equipped with a water slide and no over the water nets. While the "Island Time II" has over the water nets located in the front of the boat and no water slide. (Please note: This tour departs from Panama City Beach, FL, which is about 3 hours East of Pensacola.)
Additional Info
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
CHECK-IN: You must arrive 30 minutes prior to departure time.
Minimum drinking age is 21 years old
Weight restrictions for slide is 250lbs, for paddleboards 200lbs
Bottled water is the only outside food/drink permitted. NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL PERMITTED.
No smoking allowed
No chewing gum
Please wear your swimsuits under your clothes. Also pack a beach bag with towels, sunscreen (no aerosol sprays), sunglasses, hats, cameras, etc. You may also want to bring water shoes.
Snorkel gear is provided but you may bring your own if you'd like. Young kids may prefer to bring their own goggles instead of the masks we provide.
Dress code is casual - wear swim suits under casual clothes. • Bring a beach bag with towels, sunscreen (no aerosol sprays), hats, sunglasses, and cameras. • You are not allowed to bring drinks or coolers. • No smoking allowed • Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund. • Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions especially during hot summer weather • Inclement weather may cancel a cruise, but is up to the cruise company and is generally a last minute decision. Plan to arrive as scheduled unless otherwise notified.
18% gratuity will be added for parties of 15 or more.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Sail, snorkel & watch dolphins in the beautiful waters surrounding Shell Island aboard "Island Time" a 50 ft sailing catamaran tour boat. You will enjoy snorkeling the shallow grass flats of St. Andrews Bay in search of sand dollars, starfish, tropical fish & other sea creatures. You will then sail the Gulf of Mexico, the crew will hoist the sails while you enjoy the laid back music and your favorite beverage or our famous "Island Smash" rum punch. Friendly dolphins are frequently spotted. The whole family will have a blast on the Island Time Sailing Cruise. 3 hours of fun in the sun, which consists of about 1 hour at Shell Island and the other 2 sailing and sightseeing!
What‘s Included
Use of life jackets
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Use of paddle boards
Captain / deckhands
Gratuities
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Snacks & Drinks (available for purchase)
Options
Shell Island Snorkel Cruise
Arrive 30 min early! : Trip includes- 1 hour of snorkeling at Shell Island and 2 hours of dolphins, sightseeing and sailing!
Reviews
4,456 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Excellent time!
Gina Z,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Just book it! It was a very laid back vibe. The boat ride was wonderful. You won't regret the experience.
Saw dolphins, nice clean boat, great for kids of all ages, amazing value, friendly staff
H4203CQrandyh,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The boat was full but didn't feel crowded and there was a lot of room to sit or move around. We saw dolphins both to and from the island and the length of time on the island was perfect for exploring and snorkeling. The boat had kids of all ages that were finding something to enjoy at every point. We had 3 young teens and 2 young adults plus adult parents who thoroughly enjoyed. it. The beverage/bar/snack prices were surprisingly low! The excursion cost was well worth it for the experience. The staff was great! I can't think of one negative thing to say!
Great experience with kids!
Cristina S,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.0010/10 experience. Had two small children along for the adventure and would do it again! The team was friendly, attentive, and super sweet.
Spring Break PCB
kerryo332,Apr 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Highly recommend! It was awesome! Great value for 3 hours of entertainment. Crew was superb. Would definitely do it again.
Dolphins and snorkel!
Jessica H,Apr 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fun and exciting experience full of adventure for all ages. This was packed with finding marine life and creatures and sharing with others on board. My kids loved it!
LOVED!!! Highly Recommend!!
Karrigan S,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Absolutely loved our experience at Island Time!!! The crew (Emma, Christo, and Avery) were so genuine and fun to be around. They definitely brought our experience to the next level! They came around and spoke with families and got to know them. It felt like I was sailing with my family, so fun!! Definitely recommend and would come back. I’ve done dolphin cruises in the past and this is the most enjoyable one thus far!! You will enjoy every second of your sail. <3
Emerald shell island waters
D4675WMkevind,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great day. very friendly crew enjoyed snorkeling and paddle boarding. Saw a few dolphins..
Would do it again!
jweb2021,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We thought the experience was great! Crew members were great, seeing dolphins was great and the boat ride was awesome!
You need to book this!
M1330NXlisaw,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience. Captain Clay and the crew were amazing. Shoutout to the bartender, Sarah as well - highly recommend!
Wonderful
jenniferzE1687QS,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Staff was great. Plenty of room on the boat. Shelling, snorkeling, dolphins. Wonderful and relaxing.
From US$57.59
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