Overview

We explore quiet bays, passes, and mangrove edges where resident bottlenose dolphins feed, travel, and play. This is a small-group, personalized trip—no “cattle boats,” no chasing. We keep a gentle tempo so the dolphins choose the encounter, not the other way around.

Group size: typically 4–5 guests (occasionally 6). Typical duration: custom charters commonly run ~4 hours minimum. Departures: flexible—picked to match your goals, wind, and tide.

Best Time

• Early mornings: lighter winds, smooth water, and active pods.
• Clean, moving tides: current concentrates bait and wildlife.
• Cooler months: clear-sky days after fronts often improve visibility.

Great year-round—we plan around wind and tide for comfort and natural encounters.

Where We Go

• Estero & San Carlos Bay
• Pine Island Sound
• Big Carlos & Blind Pass

Exact route varies by tide, wind, and recent sightings for the best experience.

Approach & Etiquette

• We don’t chase—ever. We give space, especially to moms and calves, and let dolphins set the terms.
• Let them come to us. We use quiet, stable boats whose hull/wake profile dolphins often enjoy; when conditions align, they may choose to ride our pressure waves or follow alongside.
• Local rules matter. Slow/idle zones are respected; we minimize noise and avoid tight circles.
• Photo tips: polarized lenses help; use burst mode; keep the lens above spray.

What’s Included

• USCG-licensed local captain & safe, stable, shallow-draft boat
• Cooler with ice & water, shaded seating (as available), dry storage
• Wildlife spotting, local natural history, and help with photos if you’d like

What to Bring / Essentials

• Polarized sunglasses, hat, light sun layer (reef-safe sunscreen)
• Camera/phone with wrist strap; microfiber cloth for spray
• Light snacks & refillable water bottle; comfy non-marking shoes
• If motion-sensitive: your preferred remedy before departure