Clearwater Encounters with Dolphins Tour

Clearwater , United States

Clearwater Encounters with Dolphins Tour

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(2173 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Established in 1999, Encounters With Dolphins has been safely providing guests the opportunity to view dolphins, learn about Clearwater and enjoy the sand and sun on Compass Island and maybe even take a dip on the island! We are a small business founded on the principal of wanting our guests to have the same experiences we would want to have on our own vacation. We’re also proud of the fact that almost all of our staff are either marine biologist, conservationist or experts in marine wildlife. All of us work tirelessly to ensure that all of our customers have an enjoyable and relaxing time with us!

Available options

Encounters With Dolphins

Encounters With Dolphins Tour

What's included

Dolphin Sighting

Detailed itinerary

Come join us on a fun filled, narrated sightseeing tour of Clearwater’s harbor. Enjoy a relaxing ride while you learn about our abundant wildlife, and view the area’s dolphins in their natural environment. Every trip stops at Compass Island where you can collect shells, swim and the kids can even hunt for treasure!

Excursions depart from the Clearwater Beach Marina multiple times every day. Spend an hour and a half to an hour and forty five minutes with our highly trained crew in the Clearwater Harbor on board our brand new 40 foot Coast Guard inspected excursion boat. For twenty to thirty minutes during your trip, the boat will stop at Compass Island where you will have the opportunity to shell hunt through thousands of shells, swim and enjoy the island.

What's not included

Snacks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

559 reviews

5★

471

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

1,614 reviews

5★

1487

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We are at the Clearwater Beach Marina. The check in location is near slip 52, we have a lime green and teal booth with a metal roof.

Important notes

Please look for our mobile booth near slip 52. Please check in with our ticket associate 1 hour prior to receive your boarding passes. Due to construction parking spots are limited so please arrive early to ensure you have time to find parking.

About Clearwater

Clearwater, Florida, is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning white-sand beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a popular destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Top Attractions

Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is renowned for its soft, white sand and clear, turquoise waters. It offers a variety of water sports, beachfront dining, and stunning sunsets.

Beach Half day to full day Free (parking fees may apply)

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing marine animals. It is home to Winter, the famous dolphin from the movie 'Dolphin Tale'.

Educational 2-3 hours Adults: $45, Children (3-12): $35, Under 3: Free

Clearwater Beach Pier

The Clearwater Beach Pier is a historic landmark that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. It is a popular spot for fishing, sightseeing, and enjoying the local seafood.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (fishing fees may apply)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Grouper Sandwich

A popular local dish featuring fresh grouper fish on a toasted bun, often served with tartar sauce and lettuce.

Lunch Gluten-free options available

Key Lime Pie

A classic Florida dessert made with key lime juice, condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten

Popular Activities

Parasailing Jet skiing Deep-sea fishing Beachcombing Sunbathing Spa treatments Visiting museums Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

This is the best time to visit Clearwater for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The temperatures are comfortable, and the beaches are less crowded than in the summer.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Clearwater is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
• Stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially after dark.

Getting there

By air

Tampa International Airport • 25 km from Clearwater
St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport • 10 km from Clearwater

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station in Tampa

Getting around

Public transport

The PSTA bus system is affordable and convenient, with routes that connect major attractions, shopping centers, and residential areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Clearwater Clearwater Beach

Day trips

Tarpon Springs

40 km (25 miles) • Half day to full day

Tarpon Springs is a charming Greek-influenced town known for its sponge diving history, Greek cuisine, and beautiful waterfront.

St. Pete Beach

20 km (12 miles) • Half day to full day

St. Pete Beach is a beautiful beach destination with soft sand, clear water, and a variety of water sports and dining options.

Festivals

Clearwater Jazz Holiday • Annual, typically in October Clearwater Winter Fest • Annual, typically in February

Pro tips

Visit Pier 60 for the evening sunset celebration with street performers and vendors.
Explore the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to learn about marine life and conservation efforts.
Take a day trip to Tarpon Springs for a taste of Greek culture and history.
Enjoy a sunset cruise or dolphin-watching tour for a unique and memorable experience.
Try local seafood specialties, such as grouper and key lime pie.