Private Tour
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
PRIVATE BOAT 1-6 PASSENGERS
NOTE IMPORTANT: This booking is for 1 boat that can bring 1-6 passengers. Please only select 1 "traveler" on Viator.
The Private Historical Wildlife & Dolphin Cruise is fun and informative for the whole family! Our small group cruise, no more than 6 passengers ensures excellent wildlife encounters. This adventure is 1.5 hr long.
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A maximum of 6 people per booking
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
SPI Excursions
NOTE IMPORTANT: This booking is for 1 boat that can bring 1-6 passengers. Please only select 1 "traveler" on Viator. Climb aboard our shaded 40-ft pontoon boat and explore the pristine waters of Laguna Madre, home to some of the Gulf’s most playful residents. Spot large pods of bottlenose dolphins year-round – they love to ride our bow wave! Watch for endangered sea turtles, graceful jellyfish, osprey diving for fish, brown pelicans, and the striking roseate spoonbills. Learn the fascinating history of South Padre Island: legendary shipwrecks and lost treasure, major storms that shaped the island, and the story of the Queen Isabella Causeway. End with an unbeatable water view of SpaceX Starbase – the best seat in South Texas for launch spectators! Comfort & Convenience Covered seating for shade On-board restroom Small groups for a personal experience Perfect for families, photographers, and SpaceX fans Book your dolphin adventure today – the wildlife is waiting!
Bottled water
Local professional guide
All taxes, fees
Food and drinks (available to purchase at departure location)
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase at departure location)
Gratuities
Boat
PRIVATE BOAT 1-6 PASSENGERS
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
PRIVATE BOAT 1-6 PASSENGERS
68 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
urahna p,,Nov 21, 2025
- Review from Viator
It was amazing! The driver made the experience. Lots of dolphins to see and great information about everything.
sherrilewicker,,Sep 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Such a great experience. Private, comfy, knowledgeable and friendly captain. It was just what we wanted!!! I would highly recommend.
Lauren M,,Jul 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Our dolphin tour was a blast! Captain Brady was knowledgeable and made the trip so enjoyable! We will definitely be doing this again, it would also be a great experience for kids. Seeing the dolphins up close was so wonderful!!!!
Kristin R,,Jul 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
Very easy experience with multiple kids including an 11 month old. Friendly captain and very relaxing

kelseycA2166KH,,May 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Our guide was very kind and knowledgeable. We got to see lots of dolphins. My kids loved it and really want to go back! We also got to learn a little bit about the area, too.

178margarital,,May 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Captain and boat ride were perfect. We saw a lot of dolphins! We had two small children with us and they had a great time as well.


kristyl8817,,Mar 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
2 adults and 4 kids ages 6, 11x2, and 14 traveling Our Captain, Brady, was so friendly and knowledgeable about the local area. We saw numerous dolphin playing and a few sea turtles. We would absolutely go back to SPI Excursions for any of their trips.
kzg1183,,Feb 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The captain of the boat Brady was wonderful! Very knowledgeable about the area and being on a smaller vessel we could get closer to the dolphins and other wildlife. I can't recommend this tour highly enough! No crowds to fight to see and a perfect 360 degree view. He also provided information on island history. Amazing experience!





Mike Z,,Feb 17, 2025
- Review from Viator
Great experience. We saw a lot of dolphins. A few even decided to perform for us. Little cooler today however a great family experience. Our captain was great and provided some interesting facts about the area. Thank you
alexanderkW5967WG,,Feb 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Very enjoyable and informative on the local recent history of the island and wildlife. The captain made sure we were comfortable and answered all our questions.
Operated by SPI Excursions