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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.)
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.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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)
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!
Arrive 30 min early! : Trip includes- 1 hour of snorkeling at Shell Island and 2 hours of dolphins, sightseeing and sailing!
3,768 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Barbara P,
Jun 25, 2025
- Viator
We had so much fun! Saw lots of fish while snorkeling and also a nice dolphin party. Clay, Emma and Emma took great care of us.
Chastity H,
Jun 25, 2025
- Viator
Oh gosh! We had the best time! The crew was so friendly, knowledgeable and helpful! Captain Heath, Carter and Sarah were the best crew ever! We would totally do this again!
Alex H,
Jun 25, 2025
- Viator
Amazing experience, worth every bit of money me and my partner enjoyed every single minute. Very nice crew all the staff was incredibly nice and informative.
Elizabeth H,
Jun 25, 2025
- Viator
Our trip to Shell Island was absolutely amazing! We went on a 3-hour Catamaran cruise, and it was one of the highlights of our entire vacation. From the moment we stepped onto the boat, the experience was fun, relaxing, and full of adventure. The ride over to the island was beautiful—calm waters, great music, and friendly staff who made sure everyone was having a great time. We even spotted dolphins along the way, which made it extra special for the kids (and the adults too!). Once we arrived at Shell Island, the fun really began. The beach was stunning with soft white sand and crystal-clear water. We spent time swimming, exploring, and collecting some of the most beautiful seashells we’ve ever seen. It felt like a peaceful paradise away from everything. This was a fantastic experience from start to finish, and we’ll definitely be doing it again. If you’re visiting the area, we highly recommend the Catamaran cruise to Shell Island—it’s the perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty and make lasting family memories!
Jessica M,
Jun 25, 2025
- Viator
We had a great time! Captain Heath, Carter and Sara created a fun atmosphere for their guests. We saw plenty of dolphins!
Operated by Island Time Sailing