My friend and I truly enjoyed this Dolphin and Sandbar Tour! The captain and first mate made us feel comfortable with a brief overview of safety equipment and Coat Guard guidelines. Then we headed off with some great tunes coming out of the speakers. The tour included some amazing history factoids and highlighted many of the beautiful homes and buildings of Clearwater. Our attention was brought to many of the wildlife that live in and frequent the beach and ocean waters surrounding this beautiful city. Once we arrived at the sandbar of "One Tree Island" we were allowed to get out of the boat to explore the tiny beach and surrounding waters for shell souvenirs- with a warning to make sure the shells were uninhabited. One of the shells I had removed from the water and set aside to take home had a beautiful surprise- a tiny octopus! It came out of the shell and rested on my sandal that was waiting for me on the shore! Everyone got a good look at it and the first mate gave some more info on this adorable creature before placing him- with his shell accessory- back into his home environment. This tour has some of the best island vibes and music with the coolest crew who were not only kind to people and animals but were also entertaining with jokes and history details about my new favorite vacation destination! If I could give them higher marks, I would! Definitely recommended for ALL folks, including families with children...
Read moreThis was a great trip! We had a 12/21/24 reservation for 5 people leaving marina at 1:45-3:45pm. If there was a day for the worst weather this was it- Sunny, but very windy and a cold 51 degrees! Areas we were able to go in the boat were limited to the bay area.
We cruised out to gulf but water was very choppy so we turned around. Captain and guide very knowledgeable about the area. Its not only a dolphin cruise but a tour of area and celebrity homes if you're into that !!
Arrive early to ensure you have no problem with Parking which can be a challenge in Clearwater. Also get your parking code from Fins for cheaper rate before feeding meter!
I don't think alcoholic beverages are permitted from outside, but you might inquire beforehand. There was no beer on boat. We arrived about an early and went up to the Mexican Restaurant and sat on the balcony (in the warm sun!) and had some Margaritas before going out on boat! Visit Emma up there behind bar! She was great!
Finally, we only saw one dolphin that day which I blame on the weather. Like fishing, you have bad days and awesome days. These are natures creatures and I'm sure people can respect that! Fins complimented everyone a free trip. Granted they didn't have to because we did see a dolphin, but not up to their standards, and did!
Highly recommend them! Have fun!! You...
Read moreTrevor and Matt were fantastic! Trevor has been boating his entire life and is from the area. We had the BEST time! Matt was so kind and funny and full of history and info and we learned so much info about dolphins and the sea and florida in general! We saw soooo many dolphins! There were a few that were even playing together! They know of a few sweet spots for dolphin sightings, and will stop and wait while you watch the dolphins play. Saw some celebrity houses, visited a small sand bar, Matt offered to take photos for families and the kids got ice cream, which was so kind. You can save anything you find on the island, such as sea shells. There are 2 large ice coolers on deck, so you can bring your own drinks (alcohal or not) and can also bring your own snacks on board. There are also soda and snacks for purchase in the boat. When you park, you need to go to the marina cantina, go behind the marina cantina, and the meeting port will be for both the Fins Up and the Tiki Boats, this is where you meet and then they will walk you down to the boat. Would do this again and again and again! The trip was a full 2 hours for us. We'll...
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