The Florida city of Destin is renowned for its beautiful beaches and exceptional golf courses – but it is the magnificent creatures that reside off the coastline that draw so many visitors.
(Photo: Viator.com)
This magnificent stretch of the US coast is home to hundreds of amazing bottlenose dolphins and is one of the best places in Florida to view them up-close. For those keen to experience one of life’s most magical interactions between man and beast, we’ve picked out some of the best dolphin tours available here.
Large Jet Ski Boat Ride and Dolphin Watch in Destin
Hit the waters of Destin on a “Hydrojet” while looking out for diverse local marine life during this exhilarating 1-hour boat tour. As you cruise around the harbor, East Pass, and the Gulf of Mexico, keep your eyes open for dolphins, stingrays, turtles, and more in their native environment. If the waters are choppy, passengers will even be able to enjoy the thrills and spills of wave jumping and fast turns. Be sure to bring a camera, as your boat will stop for plenty of photo opportunities along the way. From $33 per person.
Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise
(Viator.com)
Avoid overcrowded excursions while marvelling at dolphins in the wild on this small-group 30-minute sunset cruise. After boarding the 14-passenger Screaming Eagle speed boat at Destin Harbor Boardwalk, you’ll head out onto the waters from the Destin shore in the company of an experienced captain, who will regale you with stories as you cruise. Over the next half-an-hour you’ll look out for dolphins playing in the wake before enjoying unobstructed views of the magical sunset to bring your tour to a memorable close. From $44 per person.
Evening Fireworks Cruise in Destin
Departing mid-evening, this after-dark dolphin-watching tour will see you search the waters off the coast of Destin for its native marine inhabitants. Accompanied on your small vessel by friendly and experienced staff, you and your group of up to 14 passengers will pass through Destin Harbor, and as the sun sets the tour will culminate with a jaw-dropping fireworks display back on land that you can enjoy from your water-based vantage point aboard your boat. From $44 per person.