How long is the dolphin tour?

Our guided dolphin tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours from start to finish. This includes a brief safety orientation and jet ski instruction before departure, followed by a scenic guided ride through the Destin Harbor and surrounding waterways where we search for dolphins. The 1.5-hour duration gives us plenty of time to explore multiple dolphin habitats.

Is this good for families?

Absolutely! Our dolphin tours are one of the most popular family activities in Destin. Children can ride as passengers with an adult driver on the jet ski, making it a safe and exciting adventure for all ages. Kids especially love seeing dolphins up close in their natural habitat, and our guides are great at making the experience fun and educational for younger guests.

Do I need jet ski experience?

No prior jet ski experience is needed at all. Before every tour, we provide a comprehensive safety briefing and hands-on instruction covering how to operate the jet ski, hand signals used during the tour, and basic water safety. Our experienced guide leads the way throughout the entire tour at a comfortable pace, so you can relax and enjoy the ride while we navigate to the best dolphin spots.

Destin Dolphin Tours & Cruises | Crab Island Runner

Book Dolphin Tour

Discover the Thrill of Our Crab Island Dolphin Cruise

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Gulf’s dolphins. Our Crab Island dolphin cruise offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of these majestic creatures, combining the thrill of discovery with the joy of connecting with nature. Led by expert Crab Island Dolphin Tour guides, you’ll venture to the dolphins’ favorite playgrounds, witnessing their grace and playfulness up close.

Dive Into Our Crab Island Dolphin Cruise

Ready to make a splash with the dolphins of Crab Island? Then let’s go! Crab Island Dolphin cruises with Crab Island Runner are the perfect blend of adventure, education, and unforgettable moments. Book your dolphin cruise now and prepare to be captivated by the magic of these gentle sea creatures. Your dolphin adventure starts here!

$150

Dolphin Tours in Destin, FL — Where We Go

Our dolphin tours run the water the dolphins actually use: out of Destin Harbor, along the East Pass jetties, past Norriego Point and around the edge of Crab Island. Atlantic bottlenose dolphins live in these waters year-round, so this isn’t a seasonal trip — pods work the pass on the moving tide most days of the year. Trips run about 90 minutes with a captain who knows where the pods have been feeding that week, and the boat stays small enough that everyone has a rail to watch from.

Why Crab Island Dolphin Tours Are Unmissable

Personalized Experience: Small group sizes ensure a personal encounter with the dolphins, making every moment special.
Educational Insight: Learn fascinating facts about dolphin behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts from our knowledgeable guides.
Memorable Moments: Our Crab Island Dolphin tours are designed to create lasting memories, from the thrill of a dolphin surfacing nearby to the serene beauty of the Gulf’s waters.
You MUST be at least 18 years of age to drive a Wave Runner/Jet Ski.

      
 Excellent5.0914 reviews
 5.0
 Excellent914 reviews
 
 
 
    
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Shamika Ransom 
 8 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We enjoyed our sunset/dolphin tour with Caiden and Ryan. They were great! We would definitely be back and hopefully sail with them.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Beverly Schmitt 
 8 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A wonderful cruise and great dolphins. Ryan and Cayden were great
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   James Boyle 
 8 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +1
Ryan and Caden did a great job, went full throttle (or so it seemed). The dolphins were almost jumping the waves.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Angelene Christina 
 12 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +3
Ryan and Bean were awesome! They kept a look out for dolphins, played great music, and drove the boat. I really enjoyed our boat excursion.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Frank Poolheco 
 13 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We originally booked the Tipsy Tiki, ended up on the Crab Island Runner. Saw lots of dolphins, wish we saw less jellyfish. Sorry, I forgot the crew names. 9/24 1045 cruise. Will do this again. We had fun
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sarah Yount 
 19 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic time with Ryan and Kaylee! Saw lots of dolphins, had great music and good drinks!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jessica Harmon 
 19 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an amazing time at Crab Island with Capt. Ryan and Bean! We were able to see quite a few dolphins and just had an all around great time! We will definitely be coming back!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Steve Miller 
 24 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
Madi and Jake were awedome for our evening Dolphin Tour! We have fun. Lots of laughs and lots of information.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Collinda Simmons 
 39 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This cruise was amazing. Saw nothing less than nine dolphins. Cruise captains were super friendly and fun. Loved the hospitality! Thanks B and Ryan!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Eric Vieira - USA 
 54 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
We had the privilege of enjoying a sailing with Emma and Ryan to meet Dolphins and watch the sunset! Sensational experience! They are attentive and very friendly! We definitely love it and we will come back more often!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lara Vieira 
 54 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Me and my family had a great time, we got to see dolphins on their sunset cruise. Emma and Ryan were really nice always providing us with the best thank you guys so much for an unforgettable day!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Seth McCrudden 
 66 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ryan and Ethan gave a great sunset and dolphin tour. Would recommend for couples or families.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Trevor Martin 
 68 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +4
Had an amazing time with Captain Shawn and Bean out on the ocean and at Crab Island! If you are in Destin, Florida you have to take their boat out!! The Crab Island Runner!!! Perfect for families with young kids as well! We saw dolphins, crabs and more!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Raquel Lazo 
 68 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing experience! Would recommend. Came with family. Shawn and Bean were very attentive and kind. We were lucky to catch sighting of the dolphins! Amazing experience. Then heading to the sandbar and enjoyed a few hours snorkeling and enjoying the view. They provided some water floats and water to drink. There was also areas in the sand bar were able to purchase additional drinks and food or floats if wanted. Will be coming back.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Amanda Garner 
 70 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Capt Ryan, Bean, and crab island were a highlight of the trip! $60 pp to see dolphins,  enjoy crab island and to have amazing conversation was unforgettable. Thank you!!!

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Crab Island Dolphin Cruise FAQs

Will we see dolphins on the Crab Island Dolphin Cruise?

While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, our dolphin tours have an extremely high success rate thanks to our experienced captains who know the best spots around Destin and Crab Island. Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins are abundant in these waters year-round, and our crew is skilled at locating pods for unforgettable close encounters.

How long is the Crab Island dolphin tour?

Our Crab Island dolphin tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, which includes a thorough safety orientation before departure. This gives you plenty of time to cruise through the scenic Destin Harbor, explore the waters around Crab Island, and enjoy multiple dolphin sightings along the way without feeling rushed.

Is this tour good for families?

Absolutely! Our dolphin tours are one of the most popular family-friendly activities in Destin. Children of all ages are welcome to ride as passengers, making this a perfect adventure for the whole family. Kids especially love the thrill of spotting dolphins up close in their natural habitat around the beautiful Crab Island area.

What kind of dolphins will we see?

The waters around Destin and Crab Island are home to Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, one of the most playful and interactive dolphin species in the world. These intelligent creatures are known for approaching boats and jet skis, riding bow waves, and putting on impressive acrobatic displays that make for incredible photos and memories.

Dolphin Tour Launch Docks in Destin — Parking & Check-In

Drive your own jet ski out to meet the dolphins — tours leave from three Destin docks.

Pick Your Launch Point

The dock you launch from is decided by the tour you book — checkout shows it up front, with a repeat in your confirmation email.

Xtreme H2O of Crab Island: 7 Calhoun Ave, Destin, FL 32541 · (850) 978-3060
The bridge-side dock puts you closest to the action. Get directions

Destin X on the Harbor: 214 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 · (850) 898-1204
Tours also go out from the harbor at 214. Get directions

Gilligan’s Watersports: 530 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 · (850) 650-9000
Or launch from 530 Harbor Blvd. Get directions

Parking

Xtreme H2O dock (7 Calhoun Ave): use the public parking at the Destin Marina next to the launch. Spots go quickly on busy summer days — pile the crew into one car when you can.

Destin X (214 Harbor Blvd): one vehicle per booking parks on site, first come, first served. Additional cars go free to 310 Mountain Drive or $15 at 285 US-98 W; RVs and trailers use the paid public lot across the street.

Gilligan’s Watersports (530 Harbor Blvd): park free right on the property, first come, first served; overflow lives at 531 Mountain Drive.

Check-In

Behind the wheel? Clear the paperwork before you get here: drivers born on or after January 1, 1988 need a Florida boater safety certificate, and taking the Florida temporary boater test online ahead of time makes check-in easier and faster. There’s a $3 NASBLA test at the dock too — just plan for extra time. Be at your launch point 45 minutes before your start with a photo ID for every driver, and the crew squares away life jackets and the safety talk.

Don’t forget: swimsuits and towels, reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof pouch for your phone, and a small soft-sided cooler with drinks — glass stays on shore.

Destin Dolphin Tours