Encounters With Dolphins — Local services in Clearwater

We came all the way from Houston and were staying in Orlando, excited to finally bring our two toddlers to Clearwater for the Encounters With Dolphins ride. It was supposed to be a highlight of our trip — but instead, it turned into a frustrating and disappointing experience.

I had booked the dolphin ride in advance and arrived at the marina on time. Unfortunately, the parking situation was a nightmare. It took us extra time just to find a spot to park, and by the time we made it to the dock, the boat had already left — just minutes before. I immediately called the number provided to explain our situation and ask for help, maybe even a reschedule. But I was told flatly that the reservation could not be switched or rescheduled, even though we were right there and had made every effort to be on time.

No empathy. No flexibility. Just a cold “no.”

This was especially hard on us because we were traveling with two small children who were excited for the boat and dolphin experience. Having to explain to toddlers that the ride they were looking forward to is canceled — and there’s nothing we can do — was heartbreaking.

I understand there are policies, but when you’re running a family-oriented tour, a little compassion and customer service goes a long way. Sadly, we didn’t receive either.

We came a long way, made the effort, and spent time and money to make this happen — only to walk away with disappointed kids and a wasted day. I hope they consider offering more flexible solutions in the future, especially for families traveling from far away

I would not...

Embarking on the Clearwater Encounters with Dolphins Tour was an absolute delight from start to finish. We were eager to learn more about dolphins, and this tour exceeded our expectations in every aspect.

From the moment we set foot on the boat, the knowledgeable and passionate crew made us feel welcome and excited for the adventure ahead. Throughout the journey, they provided insightful commentary on dolphin behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts, enriching our understanding of these magnificent creatures.

The highlight of the tour was undoubtedly the close encounters we had with dolphins in their natural habitat. Witnessing these intelligent animals frolic and play in the crystal-clear waters of Clearwater was a truly unforgettable experience. The crew ensured that we maintained a respectful distance, prioritizing the well-being of the dolphins above all else.

Additionally, the stop at a small island added a delightful touch to the tour. Not only did we have the opportunity to collect shells and explore the pristine shores, but it also allowed for a moment of tranquility amidst the excitement of the day.

Overall, the Clearwater Encounters with Dolphins Tour surpassed all our expectations. It not only provided us with an intimate glimpse into the lives of dolphins but also instilled in us a deeper appreciation for marine conservation efforts. We left the tour feeling inspired, enlightened, and immensely grateful for the experience. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone seeking an educational and enriching encounter with these...

We had an amazing experience with the Encounters With Dolphins tour and staff! Our tour was on a very busy weekend and we had to reschedule due to weather. We called a day a head to reschedule and they were super accommodating and friendly. They gave us great recommendation on other local place in the area we could check out while we were in town too. Then the day of our trip, they were expecting very busy traffic, due to a festival and holiday weekend, and spring break. They called us the morning of our tour, giving us recommendations on where to park, and to make sure we left early enough to make it to our tour in time. We arrived early and the gentleman at the counter was super friendly and helpful and offered to store our bags until our trip so we could walk around and enjoy the festival. When we boarded the boat they made sure each guest boarded safely and that we were all seated before we departed for our cruise. They were very knowledgeable in their dolphin habits and where we might be able to find them. It was a busy day out on the water, but they still ensured that we got a chance to experience seeing some dolphins in their natural habitats. It was truly a wonderful experience and I would definitnely recommend to family...