boat trip spb

FUN IN THE SUN!

Pricing info & water adventure options.

Hey guys, if you are looking to get out on the water and have some fun on your very own private charter boat / boat tour in St. Pete, then you have come to the right place!! We are a small family-owned water adventure business located in the Saint Pete Beach / Saint Petersburg area.

Here at Allen's Aquatic Adventures we offer watersports like wakeboarding, water skiing, knee boarding, tubing, snorkeling, Egmont Key tours, island hopping, shelling, dolphin watching and sunset cruises.

Why deal with the stress of renting a boat, when you can have someone captain it for you and you can sit back, relax and enjoy your time on the water? Call, text, or book an Island boat adventure online today! Boat Tour Prices are for your group (up to 6) not per person. If you do not see an available time slot, still contact us, we will do what we can to get you a boat tour out on the water! Also we now have shirts for sale . 

-or- Call/Text 727.709.0088

St. Pete Beach's Longest Running Charter Boat Center

Dolphin watching • sunset sailing • island adventures • fishing, dolphin watching, sunset sailing, island adventures, fishing charters.

Available 7 Days A Week

Trip duration: 2 hours.

Sunset Trips

Fishing Trips

About dolphin landings.

Back in the early 1970’s, Captain Dan Peretz began taking guests out on his sail boat for one simple reason – so he could go sailing every day! Working directly off the beach near The Don Cesar Beach Resort… an idea was born to create a Full Service Charter Boat Center offering exceptional boating experiences on a wide range of yachts. For over five decades the loyal crews at Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center have successfully delivered on that ambitious idea. The entire staff tirelessly works to promote the bay area’s unspoiled nautical beauty and relaxed tropical lifestyle enjoyed by millions of visitors from around the world. Take a ride aboard any of our sailing, fishing, and cruising vessels and you’ll see first hand how Dolphin Landings offers our guests much more than a great boat ride in the sunshine state!

Private Charters

Our Dolphin Watching trips are sure to delight and always a different experience. This is a wonderful trip for kids of all ages and those who are kids at heart.

All aboard as your vessel will set sail about an hour before sunset to give you plenty of time to catch the full range of hues painted on Mother Nature’s canvas.

Lose yourself in what is widely considered to be the most beautiful beach and waters in Tampa Bay. We offer trips to Shell Key and Egmont Key.

Anglers from around the world trust Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center to deliver everything from simple to elaborate Florida fishing trips.

• 4737 Gulf Boulevard St. Pete Beach FL 33706 USA
• Free Parking at Dolphin Village Shopping Center
• Click Here For Directions
• (727) 360-7411
• [email protected]

Soothe Our Souls is a 501c3 non-profit organization created to provide a healing environment for those in our community that are facing a serious health challenge by providing free of charge sailing trips on the first Sunday of every month.

Dolphin landings is honored to have funded to be a Platinum sponsor since 2012

THE 10 BEST St. Pete Beach Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in st. pete beach.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Water Sports
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Boat Rentals
• Speed Boats Tours
• Parasailing & Paragliding
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Pass-a-Grille Beach, Florida
• Egmont Key State Park
• Island Ferry St. Pete Beach
• StarLite Majesty Dining Cruises
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Small Group 2 Hour Dolphin Cruise with Snorkeling to Shell Key

2. Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining

3. Sharkeys Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour St. Pete Beach

4. Semi-Private 2Hr. Sunset Cruise of St. Pete Beach

5. Calypso Breeze Tropical Party Cruise

6. Dolphin /Shelling/Snorkeling tours Private Charters

7. Dolphin Tour in St. Pete Beach

8. Premiere Private Sunset Cruise With Lights Of The Skyway Bridge

9. Small Group Kayak Tour of the Shell Key Preserve

10. Private Guided NautiKayak Adventure via Mangrove to Shell key

11. Private Snorkeling/Watersports to 3 Islands

12. Private Guided Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise in St. Petersburg

13. Private Guided Charter Boat with Watersports in Gulfport

14. 3-Hour St Pete Private Water Adventure Tour for 6 Guests

15. Gulf Barrier Island and Bottlenose Dolphin Tour

16. Dolphin Watching Sunset Cruise

17. 4 Hours Private Boat Tour To Egmont Key State Park

18. Dolphin Tour on a Private Boat

19. Private Sunset Cruise St Petersburg

20. Allens Aquatic Adventures

21. A Better Boating Experience - Coastlines Charters, St. Pete Beach

22. Daytime Yacht Dance Cruise with Optional Dining

23. St. Pete Booze Cruise

24. Private Sunset Cruise in St Pete Beach Florida for up to 6

What travelers are saying.

• Sharkey's LED Illuminated Night Tour on Glass Bottom Kayaks in St. Pete Beach
• Small Group 2 Hour Dolphin Cruise with Snorkeling to Shell Key
• Small Group Kayak Tour of the Shell Key Preserve
• Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining
• Semi-Private 2Hr. Sunset Cruise of St. Pete Beach
• Suncoast Tours
• Allens Aquatic Adventures
• Suncoast Watersports
• Salty Water Tours, LLC
• Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center
• Shell Key Shuttle
• Coastal Kayak Charters
• Captain Vinnie's Boat Tours
• Island Lure Fishing Adventures
• Offshore Hustler Fishing Charters

Cruise St. Pete Beach YACHT Cruises and Tours  

private sunset cruise ☀️ 

Private VIP cruise 3hours

sandbar party cruise

Public sunset cruise

2 hours price per person, six guests maximum on all cruises.

Formula Yacht Experience

Public and Private yacht experiences with Captain Al as he takes you to the best spots.

Visiting the beach and want to get out on the water? Here's how we can help.

Dolphin watching, party cruises, anchor in a lagoon, anchor at your resort, sandbar party, canal tours, beach pickups.

Local Destinations

St. Pete Beach Saint Petersburg ​ Tampa Dunedin The Tiki Bar

The pier  shell key egmont key terra verde o'maddies, pass-a-grille paradise grill​ sea dogs the wharf red white and booze.

Free Beach Rides

Cruises normally begin and end at the dock behind the Hotel Zamora (3701 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach). We recommend the $20 valet parking. You may customize your start and end points by request (727-390-9943). There are also several free beach shuttles such as the FreeBee (855-918-3733) .

Questions? No problem, give Captain Al a call.

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Dolphin Cruises

Come and enjoy a nice boat ride and even see some dolphins playing!

Charters / Parties

Enjoy a Private Cruise or Party for Up to 42 People – a True Adventure for You and Your Friends

Call (727) 423-4247

Rates & departures, shelling/ dolphin watch.

Cruise duration: 2 hours

Departs: 7 days a week

Rates: Adults $55.00

Children 11 and under - $45.00, children under 2 - free

Egmont Key Snorkeling Trip

Trip duration: 4 hours

Departs: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 9:00 am *due to varied water temp. this is a seasonal excursion

Rates: Adults $70.00

Children under 12 - $60.00

John's Pass Sandbar Party

Trip duration: 4.5 hours

Departs: Saturdays Only 10am - 2:30pm

Rates: Adults $65.00

NOTICE: Bring your own drinks!

Choose Your Adventure Cruise!

Our location offers plenty of free parking (a big savings compared to beach parking rates or Uber), and we are just a few minutes from the Gulf of Mexico.

NOTE: Presidential Executive Order 13998 now requires all passengers to wear masks whilst on board public maritime vessels

From our two hour expedition collecting beautiful shells on the beach and dolphin watching in their natural environment, to our four hour trip that includes a journey to historic Egmont Key for some great snorkeling or a nice leisurely swim - we have an adventure cruise that's just for you! Contact us for your comprehensive charter package.

With Adventure Cruises, you're free to roam around the boat during your pleasure trip to enjoy the sights and sounds our beautiful St. Pete Beach, St. Petersburg, and Tampa Bay waterways have to offer. Our primary goal here at Adventure Cruises is to make your trip as fun and fulfilling as possible, regardless of what activities you choose to do.

Book Online!

• Dolphin Watching

• Sightseeing

We are located on the beautiful St. Pete Beach, Florida. We are a charter boat company offering boating trips, dolphin watching tours, sightseeing excursions, snorkeling, and more. Hop aboard our catamaran, Adventure 1, and enjoy the breath-taking scenery and wildlife of St. Petersburg and surrounding areas of Tampa Bay!

Unlike single hull vessels, Adventure 1 offers a unique design that allows our passengers to board and disembark directly onto the beach without wading ashore or using ladders. Providing greater stability and safety in Tampa Bay's warm Gulf waters, catamarans offer incredible comfort to you and your family.

Book Online

From Pier to Paradise

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the most relaxing st. pete boat tours departing from the st. pete pier for sunset cruises and day trips to egmont key..

Tampa Bay’s Best Boat Trips

The pelican offers an elevated boating experience you won’t find anywhere else around the bay..

• Board at The St. Pete Pier
• Enjoy a Spacious, Comfortable Ride
• Wine & Beer Available for Purchase
• Spot Dolphins & Wildlife
• Sightsee & Snorkel
• Cool Off with Indoor A/C

St. Pete Boat Tours

Hop on The Pelican at the St. Pete Pier for a day trip to the island of Egmont Key or a romantic sunset cruise through Tampa Bay. 

Experience the pristine island paradise of Egmont Key. Take a 60-minute ride to the 1.6-mile island and enjoy two hours surrounded by crystal clear water, seashells, and white sand.

Daily - Morning and Afternoon Trips 2 hours round trip | 2 hours of island time

Person: $59 | Children 12 and under: $39

• Boarding will begin 30 min prior to sailing
• Please allow at least 30 min to park and arrive at the dock
• Getting on the island requires walking through potentially waist high water
• Tax and gratuity not included

Sunset Cruise

Cruise along the beautiful shorelines of St. Pete, view the stunning Sunshine Skyway bridge, and perhaps see a dolphin or two during this 2-hour romantic sunset boat tour. 

Evenings Approximately 2 hours

Person age 18+: $59

• Cruises can be booked any time day or night
• Sunset times will vary
• Wine and beer for purchase

Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise​

Depart from the beautiful St. Pete Pier and go on a dolphin site seeing tour directly from downtown. A great, convenient location to view the amazing wildlife Tampa Bay has to offer. You will also have great views of the pier and downtown skyline.

Daily 2 hours round trip​

Person: $45 | Children 12 and under: $39​

BE PREPARED

On the egmont key tour, depending on the tide and and any waves, you could exit into waist high water before getting onto the island., cruise in comfort along the shores of st. petersburg.

Unlike most other St. Petersburg boat tours, The Pelican isn’t just a mode of transportation. The boat is an experience in itself. Come aboard the 60-foot passenger boat and relax in comfort with:

• Spacious outdoor or indoor seating
• Shade and covered areas
• Indoor air-conditioning 
• Two full-size bathrooms
• Big screen TVs
• Friendly, helpful crew 

Come aboard The Pelican, and enjoy the ride as much as the destination. 

Book The Pelican for a Your Private Boat Party

Our 60-foot vessel holds up to 49 passengers and is available for special private charter events like weddings, corporate parties, reunions, birthdays, or sunset cruises. Gather your friends, family, or group for an unforgettable experience on the water. Talk to our team about how we can host your special event. 

What’s It Like on The Pelican? 

Take It From Our Guests

Book your st. pete boat tour today.

Enjoy a day or evening on the most comfortable boat tour in Tampa Bay. Book your sunset cruise or Egmont beach trip with The Pelican St. Pete boat tours today. 

HAVE A QUESTION OR NEED HELP?

Working hours

Mon - Sun 8 AM - 9 PM

Marina Address

400 2nd Ave NE Saint Petersburg, FL 33701 Dock Q48 - Gate 24 (behind Fresco's restaurant)

866-4EGMONT (866.434.6668)   |   [email protected]

Life is better with Sandy Toes

Private Boat Charters in St Petersburg, FL

Personalized Private Boat Charters

St Petersburg and the Tampa Bay Area offer some of the most playful wildlife, breath-taking sunsets, and world-class white sand beaches. Enjoy a day trip to a pristine barrier island accessible only by boat. Each and every charter is aimed at giving our clients the best possible experience out on the water with a unique personal touch. Come have some fun with us! We have the local knowledge and experience to make your trip unforgettable! Below are some of the awesome features of our tours and we are happy to offer customized experiences that you won’t find elsewhere. Give us a call 727-224-0164

Dolphin Tours

Dolphins are majestic creatures. Fortunately, our private boat charters take you right through their natural playground. Seeing dolphins is always an unforgettable experience.

Local Island Tours

Crave the solitude of a deserted island? Want to find the party off the coast? Take the family someplace special. Our private boat charters put you on to pristine barrier island beaches not accessible to your average beach goer.

Sunset Cruise

St Pete is home to some of the most captivating sunsets in the world. Every evening the earth makes a spectacular work of art in the sky each uniquely beautiful in its own way. Enjoy a relaxing, care-free sunset cruise in St Pete, FL.

Book a Private Boat Charter In St Pete, FL

Book a Private Boat Charter and let us know what you’re looking forward to the most!

Max Capacity: 6 Passengers

Pricing Per Charter (not per person):

Sunset Cruise: $250

2 Hr Trip -$250

3 Hr Trip – $325

4 Hr Trip – $425

6 Hr Trip – $600

Full Day Customized Adventure – Call for Pricing

Captain Randy LOVES having a great time!

Captain Randy doesn’t just like what he does, he absolutely LOVES it! Captain Randy Dunham is a United States Coast Guard Licensed Captain with a 100 Ton Masters for nearly 30 years. Randy has spent his entire life navigating the Gulf of Mexico and our local waterways. Growing up in Florida has given him an appreciation for the surrounding ecosystem and knowledge of the local wildlife. He captains a 24ft Seahunt Edge with bow and stern seating and tons of amenities.

St. Pete Boat Trips and Tours

We strive to deliver an experience to your expectations. if not, we guarantee you your money back, 4 hour half-day tour, 8 hour full-day tour, 2 hour eco tour, egmont key trip, july 4th fireworks show, testimonials, contact information.

• Phone Number 540-656-3534
• Email Address [email protected]
• Pickup Location Pickup locations may vary due to where you and your group will be coming from! Please be sure to fill out the section on the checkout to help us further make your experience easy!

Our Location

Book direct online.

© 2023 All Rights Reserved

Captain Vinnie’s Boat Tours

Location & Hours

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St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

Serving St. Pete Beach Area

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About the business.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Captain Vinnie's Boat Tours! Dive into the crystal-clear waters for exhilarating snorkeling sessions, explore pristine shores brimming with seashells, hop between enchanting islands, and witness mesmerizing dolphin encounters that will leave you in awe. Our tours accommodate up to six passengers, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience. *For more details and to reserve your spot, visit our website - Rest assured, we've got you covered with complimentary mask and snorkel gear, while our boat comes equipped with a refreshing cooler stocked with ice-cold bottled water. Prepare to explore the breathtaking beauty of Egmont Key, Outback Key, and Shell Island on an adventure you'll cherish forever! …

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20 BEST St Pete Beach boat tours and water activities

As you can imagine, most of the St Pete Beach activities are outdoors or water-related. The options for St Pete Beach boat tours are almost endless, from laidback sailboat rides, dolphin and eco tours, kayak and paddleboarding adventures, private fishing charters, and even dining and party boat experiences there are so many different ways to get out on the water!

So if you’re trying to figure out which of the boat tours in St Petersburg is right for you this guide will take you through all of the best St Pete boat tours including some of my personal favorites and what makes each of them special!

I’ll also break down the prices and some of the different pros and cons of each so you will hopefully be able to come to a decision on which of the St Pete Beach boat tours you want to book by the end of this post.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Overview of the different types of St Pete Beach boat tours:

• Private Boat Charters
• Fishing Charters
• Sailing Cruises
• Dolphin and Eco Tours
• Kayak and Paddleboarding
• Dinner and Drink Cruises
• Other types of water tours

Private St Pete Beach Boat Tours and Rentals

To me, private boat tours are some of my favorite kinds but really I don’t think that perspective is just mine, who wouldn’t want to have the whole boat all to themselves?

While ideal they can sometimes be expensive but the options I’ve included in this section are unique experiences or really good value, and in some cases are actually rather affordable if you can get together some friends or family to join, you’ll see the cost per person drop significantly. That being said, here are the best private St Pete Beach boat tours.

Private Funship Boats

Just north of St Pete Beach is A Boat Day charters, the owners have 7 different types of luxury boats and you can choose from boats that hold up to 6 or 10 people.  Definitely, one of the best boat cruises in St Pete to go for if you want to party with a group of friends and explore nearby islands! 

Tours depart from Maderia Beach (the closest, just 10 mins from St Pete Beach), Clearwater , and Dunedin . The starting cost for 6 people and 4 hours is $800, so with 6 people, it’s only around $133 per person which I think is a great deal for a private boat tour in St Petersburg!

They also own Bach Boats so if you ever need a bachelorette party idea I would definitely recommend them for a fun time! You can check out their Instagram for what your experience could look like.

I personally was able to experience the Platinum F unship Boat which had a dining table, lots of lounge seating so we could spread out, a sound system, and an upper deck with a waterslide!

This was by far the most fun boating experience I’ve ever had – can all boats have a waterslide, please?! I also loved how half of the boat was in the shade and the other half and the upper deck in the sun because anyone could cool off or soak up more rays whenever they wanted!

You can check prices and book in advance here !

Barrier Island Beach Day on the Gulf of Mexico

This 3-hour St Pete boat tour can be completely customized to your wants (ex: pick your stops and length at each stop) but the standard tour includes dolphin and marine tour, stops at the Barrier Islands to see tropical birds, look for shells, and to enjoy the white sand beaches, along with a celebrity mansion tour and passing under the different bridges in the area. 

Pricing per person starts at $149 and the boat holds up to 6 people. If you are coming in a group of less than 4 you’ll need to call them directly. Honestly, this option is great for duos or smaller groups of 4 that can’t often make flat-rate choices from other companies worth it. 

Mini Self-Drive Speed Boats

Out of all the St Pete boat tours, this option is a bit unique because you get the chance to drive an F-13 mini speedboat yourself at high speeds past several gulf coast landmarks. There is also a high probability of getting close to dolphins! You’ll follow behind your guide who will provide instructions through the intercom. 

If you choose the double seater option only one of you will be the driver, however, if you both want a chance to drive you can also choose to go with the single-seater boats which are definitely going to be a bit pricier. 

Keep in mind that since the boat is so small there is a chance the ride could be a bit rough depending on the weather, so if that is a concern this might not be the tour for you. However, if you want a high adrenaline activity and a unique way to see the Tampa Bay sights it’s a great choice.

Fishing Charters in St Pete Beach

I would be the first to admit that I am not a fan of fishing but I know a lot of people really enjoy it so I wanted to include some options here even though I don’t know much about what makes a fishing charter so bear with me!

If you aren’t from the area or are but don’t own a boat booking a fishing charter is the best way to try your luck at catching some local fish. There’s a 5-hour half-day tour or the full day 10-hour tour.

If you want more assurance that you’ll catch more than a fish or two definitely go with the 10-hour tour. Especially considering the fact that the journey out to the best spots is a roundtrip minimum of 2 hours. 

Grey Snapper, Porgies, Black Seabass, Hogfish, and Mangrove Snapper are the most likely to be caught, however, even Mackerel or Kingfish are possibilities! If you end the day with some fish in your bucket you can bring em’ home for dinner or take them next door to the Friendly Fisherman Seafood Restaurant and they will prepare it for you!

Nature and Eco St Pete Beach Boat Tours 

Visitors and locals alike have a fondness for the local sea life and nature that can be found all across St Petersburg. Of course, the best way to really uncover the beauty is on a dolphin or eco St Pete Beach boat tour.

They will give you the best chance to get up close and personal with not only dolphins but manatees, jellyfish, sting rays, sea and land birds, and other elements of the ecosystem.

Not to mention, some of these tours even take you out to sandbars, uninhabited islands, under bridges, and through mangroves. The Tampa Bay gulf coast is truly so beautiful from out on the water!

Ferries to Shell Key Island Nature Preserve

Just look at the color of this water on Shell Key!

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of being right on St. Pete Beach then in my opinion a visit to Shell Key is one of the most budget-friendly St Petersburg boat tours you can take. 

For me personally, I am not always a big fan of mass tours, I usually prefer small group settings or just getting transported to a destination so I can go off and explore on my own, which is just what these ferries do!

They will transport you out to a tranquil island setting with white sand beaches and some of the brightest blue water you’ll find in St. Pete! It will seriously blow you away as it did to me!  It’s also a great place to go shelling and spot local seabirds and wildlife such as manatees, dolphins, and if you’re lucky sea turtles. 

When I went, my friend and I saw a few dolphins on the ride and once on the island were able to swim right next to a manatee! Keep in mind if you ever come close enough to touch a manatee it is illegal to do so according to the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act .

Two different ferries go to Shell Key, the Shell Key Shuttle and the Shell Key Ferry . It’s only a 10-minute ride to the island from either choice they just drop you off in separate areas of the island. I think the best thing about this activity is that you get to choose which time slot you want to ride back on making it very accommodating to each individual’s preference.

I chose to take the Shell Key Shuttle based near Pass-a-grille Beach just a short drive south of St Pete Beach. Unfortunately, you can only purchase your tickets in person at the booth so if you come on a weekend or over a holiday come early or on a weekday to assure your spot. It costs $25 for adults and ½ price for kids. Parking passes are $5 and are valid for the whole day! Each ticket includes snorkel gear, a bag for shells, and a beach umbrella which was nice!

Shell Key Shuttle Schedule:

• Departure Times :10:00 AM, 12:00 Noon, 2:00 PM
• Pick-up Times : 12:15 PM, 2:15 PM, 4:15 PM

The other option, the Shell Key Ferry, is located at the Fort DeSoto boat ramp. It is practically the same thing except you do have the option to book in advance online which is highly recommended. The ticket cost is $40 but it includes a parking pass and the online booking fee in the price so it’s pretty comparable to the Shell Key Shuttle but gives you some peace of mind. 

Shell Key Ferry Schedule:

• Departure Times: 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM Fri-Mon
• Pick-up Times:   1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM Fri-Mon

My Findings Tip: If you want to camp on the key underneath the stars you can actually upgrade to the Camper Ticket for a slight upcharge as long as you have a camping permit from Shell Key and your own camping gear. 

St Petersburg Sailboat Cruises 

I feel like sometimes people go into a sailboat tour with the wrong expectation, even with strong winds sailboats only go upwards of 7mph. Sailboat cruises are meant for those of you who want to take it easy and are in no rush. These types of boat tours in St Petersburg are great for couples or small groups who want to spend quality time talking with a great view of the gulf while also having the chance to spot dolphins! 

I recommend this 2.5 Hour Day Time Sailing Tour because you can choose to cruise on either the Gulf of Mexico or Boca Ciega Bay and there’s a cooler on board so bring as many drinks as you want! The tour does provide bottled water and soda and there is a bathroom on the ship. You can also book this same tour for sunset , nothing like a romantic evening on the water! If it gets a little chilly from the evening breeze there are blankets you can use.

Dolphin Boat Cruises in St Pete

As I’m sure we all know, one of the most stereotypical things to do anywhere in Florida is to go on a dolphin cruise. While they are heavily touristy, as a Michigander, I get the pull to go on a dolphin tour as I rarely ever got to see dolphins until I moved near St Pete Beach. So regardless of some tours being a little touristy and busy, there is still a good range of dolphin boat cruises in St Pete that will fit your preference for both tourists and locals! 

The Big Blue Boat Tour

This is the largest and most iconic narrated dolphin boat tour in St Petersburg which departs from Johns Pass right across from Maderia Beach. This boat, while not so private does have some nice onboard amenities like bathrooms and a snack bar!

If you’ve never been on a dolphin tour before this is a great first-time option because your guides will help point out dolphins for you and if for some reason you don’t get to see any during your tour you will be fully refunded or given a make-up date. Because of that, I can’t really disagree that this tour really your safest bet to see dolphins!  You can book it here !

Note: Make sure to bring cash for snacks and drinks. 

Dolphin Quest Cruise

The Dolphin Quest Cruise is another of the boat tours in St Petersburg that takes off from Johns Pass near Madeira Beach. What I love about this tour is the size and shape of the boat, It’s only a 40-foot that holds up to 35 people but it has bench seats that go the full length of each side giving each person a “window seat” view. Plus, the whole boat is covered so you won’t leave looking like a tomato.

Dolphin Racer Speedboat

Another similar mainstream option is the St Pete Beach Dolphin Racer Speedboat , it too has provided commentary over the speakers but the main difference is that you will go faster speeds than many of the other cruises.

The main con I have with this tour is that the boat is completely unshaded unlike the Dolphin Quest Tour so on a hot summer’s day there you won’t be able to get out of the sun so if you burn easily or don’t like the constant sun this may not be the best choice for you. But as long as you use a lot of sunscreen and bring a hat and shades you should be fine.

Small Group Dolphin Cruise to Shell Key

If you can’t afford a private tour or don’t have enough people to make the cost worth it then this Dolphin Cruise to Shell Key is the next closest option! The boat only holds 6 so you could honestly book it all for yourself if you are able to that size group together but it’s priced at $52 per person so you could also go solo or doubles affordably.

This tour leaves from Tierra Verde and once you take off your captain will head out to Boca Ciega Bay on St. Pete Beach to look for dolphins before continuing on to Shell Key Preserve where you can swim, snorkel, relax on the beach, or collect seashells. 

Keep in mind this tour is only 2 hours so by the time you get to the island it won’t really be for too long of a stop but at such a low cost I wouldn’t expect anything more.  But if your main priority is getting to relax on the island then I would definitely do the Shell Key Ferry that I mentioned earlier in this guide because you get to choose your own departure and return. Otherwise, if you don’t mind a faster-paced tour this boat tour is rather private and of great value for a dolphin boat cruise in St Pete Beach.

Kayak and Paddleboards Adventures

A fun alternative to taking a St Pete Beach boat tour is paddling a kayak or paddleboard, there is something I personally love about being that close to the water. 

Electric Standup Paddleboard Tour

One of my favorite activities I have done so far in St. Pete since moving here is an electric paddle board called an eSUP, it’s a completely new concept started by a local couple in St. Pete! At Native eSUP Adventures they essentially figured out a way to attach a motor onto the backside of the paddle board and the controls are conveniently on a wristband remote.

Their 3-mile tours depart from Tierra Verde and go out to Shell Key Island Preserve during the morning or at sunset and even go through the mangroves when the tide is high. You’ll have a chance to spot dolphins, birds, and the occasional manatee.

I had never gone paddleboarding up until this tour and I had always been a little intimidated by regular paddle boards because learning something new as an adult can be a bit uncomfortable but when I read about this new concept I was convinced to give it a go and I’m so glad I did!

Daryl and I went on the Morning eSUP Tour of Shell Key and during our tour, it was very windy, I was SO glad we had the motor! We could easily crank the speed up to 7 or 8 mph, it really helped us cut through the water without struggling to reach the island. I would recommend this activity to just about anyone!

Johns Pass Paddleboard Tour

If you are more of a traditionalist and don’t care about the flashy motor of the eSUP tour then this paddleboarding tour is the alternative for you. This excursion is around 2 hours and like the Native eSUP will have a chance to go through mangrove tunnels in the right tide conditions.

But instead of this tour going out to Shell Key this tour leaves from Treasure Island (close to St Pete Beach) and goes out to a sandbar in Johns Pass, you’ll also paddle close to a drawbridge where you’ll see lots of different types of boats pass through and spotting dolphins on this tour is likely! The other perk about this tour is that after you’re finished you’ll be within walking distance of a lot of restaurants to grab a bite after.

LED Glass Bottom Kayak Tour

If you enjoy kayaking then I would recommend this LED Glass Bottom Kayak Tour right on St Pete Beach for a twist on the conventional. The reason you go at night is to see the fish and ecosystem underneath the water with the use of an LED light attached to the sides of each kayak.

You’ll adventure in the water near the Don CeSar and head to a mangrove island to spot other creatures and birds before reaching the Pinellas Bayway Bridge which looks awesome lit up at night. You’ll be allowed to feed the fish and find other creatures like crab, conch, or starfish in Boca Ciega Bay.

Drink and Dinner Cruise St Pete

There are two main types of food and drink boat cruises in St Pete. One is more upscale on a yacht and the other is on a super relaxed triple-decker colorful boat. You can read about the differences between the two below!

StarLite Sapphire Yacht Cruise

Right before we boarded our StarLight dinner boat cruise in St Pete

You take either a lunch or dinner dining cruise out of Pasadena. I chose to book the Evening Dinner and Dance Cruise and overall it ended up being a pretty fun date night! But after my experience, I almost feel like this is a better activity for a group of friends or as a pregame before going bar hopping in downtown St Pete, keep reading below to find out why. 

What I liked most about this dinner cruise was the upper outdoor deck and we ended up hanging out up there while we waited for our food to arrive!  We caught dolphins swimming alongside the yacht, and the view of St Petersburg lit up at night was so pretty and romantic! The lower dining room was quite noisy because there was a bachelorette party, so we didn’t care to be down there anyway. 

You won’t really know what the atmosphere will be like until it gets going, so definitely something to consider with this dinner cruise in St. Pete, and it may not be as romantic as you might anticipate.

Another con is that dinner and drinks are a separate cost from the entry ticket, entrees were priced around $25-30 and I’m not going to sugarcoat it, the cocktails were BAD, way too sweet, and syrupy. So stay on the safe side and order wine or whiskey. The food however was actually pretty good for being prepared in mass quantities, and the free dessert was a nice treat. 

You can book the lunch version of this tour here which I think is the better choice if you want more of a calmer dining cruise.

Calypso Breeze Tropical Party Boat Cruises in St Pete

These party cruises are based in Maderia Beach and if you want to have a good time with family or friends, enjoy the music, tropical food buffet, and unlimited drinks (choice of wine, beer, or rum punch) then I would recommend this option! It’s way more casual and not as pricey as the StarLight Cruise because food and drinks are included!

The cons I have with this cruise are that it obviously isn’t as luxurious and there will be more tourists or families on board so it’s not as exclusive or romantic if that’s what you’re looking for. You can book the lunch party cruise here , or opt for the sunset dinner cruise here instead.

Tiki Boat Tours in St Petersburg

This Tiki Boat Tour is another one of my favorite types of experiences that I’ve had on a boat tour in St Petersburg, I mean come on there are not many other places in the U.S. where you can ride around on a tiki boat, bring your own drinks, and jam out to your own playlist over Bluetooth!

It’s definitely a must-do whether you’re on vacation or from the area. It’s also a unique way to celebrate a birthday or a bachelorette party. This cruise departs from Johns Pass in Madeira Beach and holds up to 12 people.

There’s also another company, Cruisin’ Tikis , that holds up to 6 people and departs from downtown St Pete (the one I did) and cruises around the pier and gives great sights of the skyscraper, it was super beautiful at sunset! Our captain cruised to shallow water where we could wade if we wanted and also let us take turns steering. If you get lucky on your tour you can even see nurse sharks (harmless to humans)!

Additional Water Activities to Try in St Pete Beach

The jet skis on this rental are brand-new Sea-Doo GTIs that ride smoothly and go really fast! They even have high-quality Bluetooth speakers! Honestly, going jet skiing is a perfect water activity to do when you’re short on time or want a bit of a thrill. I haven’t gone in a while and I miss it, maybe this is my sign to do it again soon!

Kiteboarding

Ever heard of kiteboarding? Well, neither had I until recently and now it’s definitely got me intrigued! Kiteboarding or kitesurfing is an extreme sport where you essentially use the wind from a large kite to move the surfboard across the water.

This tour is actually a 2-hour lesson where you’ll be taught how to kiteboard in shallow water so even when you fall over you won’t have to worry about how deep the water is. You are also strapped in and connected to the board and kite so it’s perfectly safe. Because only your group will participate in the lesson it’s quite pricey but definitely worth it for the adventurous type looking to try something new! 

Parasailing flight

A Parasailing Flight is a classic water activity you can do on Maderia Beach. See the coastal landscapes of St Pete Beach and beyond as you gently get lifted a few hundred feet into the sky. You can book solo, tandem, or triple and you’ll hang out in the sky for around 10-12 minutes with the option to let your toes dip in the water on the descent down.

Activities other than boat cruises in St Pete

There are actually a lot more fun things to do in St Pete to do other than lying out on the beach or cruising on the water so I wanted to include some other ideas for your trip to St Pete Beach!

• Head into downtown St Petersburg (20 minutes drive) and walk the St Pete Pier, shop, dine, or grab cocktails!
• Grab coffee from one of the many local coffee shops around St Pete
• Visit one of the many nature parks in St Petersburg
• Save some money and check out St Pete’s best free things to do !
• Eat! St Petersburg restaurants are a foodies’ dream come true.
• Check out some of the other best beaches in St Petersburg !

Where to Stay in St Petersburg

There are two main areas that people stay at when visiting St Pete, the downtown or the beachside. So those are the two places I have given my personal recommendations on below.

However, if you are having trouble deciding which area is best for you I have a very in-depth guide of the best hotels in St Petersburg that goes over the pros and cons of each location, gives options for all budgets, as well as provides other nearby alternative areas if you want to stay outside of the busy zones.

Downtown St Pete

• The Exchange – A newly renovated older hotel where you can grab rooms for around $100 USD a night plus $20 a night for parking if you have a car. It’s one of the cheapest places to stay right in downtown so keep in mind while it has been refreshed a bit some of the fixtures are still a bit dated and there are no fridges in the rooms. There is a fitness center and a lobby bar with cozy seating but they do not serve breakfast.
• The Hollander Hotel – The hotel I recommend the most to family and friends who come to visit. The rate per night cannot be beaten for the location, amenities, comfort, and design of the rooms. I really like the food at the on-site restaurant and there is also a coffee shop, spa, and a pool with an outside bar. The property is located close to restaurants and shopping and is under a mile from the pier.
• Avalon Hotel – The neighboring sister hotel of The Hollander which is another great and comparable choice. You will also have access to all of the amenities at the Hollander, the main difference is the art deco style of the lobby and rooms. They offer a free shuttle to Tropicana Field daily.
• Bay Street Inn – This B&B is the most home-like stay you will find right downtown. It is a bit higher priced but it is in one of my favorite safe neighborhoods that is easily walkable to the heart of downtown. It has very high reviews on booking.com. There is a continental breakfast served each morning and some rooms have a kitchen and hot tub.
• The Vinoy – This historic pink resort is right next to the bay in the center of downtown. Some of the rooms have been updated while still keeping the architecture from its past. There are all kinds of amenities, there is a spa, heated pool, hot tub, and sauna. You can eat at 4 different options, join daily fitness classes, or play at the 18-hole golf course nearby.

St Pete Beach

• Sea Jay Motel and Marina $ – One of the most affordable modern motels that is just a 5-minute walk to Treasure Island Beach. Rooms have a microwave and some have a fridge or kitchenette. There’s a shared courtyard pool and grills.
• Hilton Garden Inn $$ – This is the perfect mid-range budget hotel set on St Pete Beach and Coconut Charlie’s restaurant and beach bar is on the property. It’s within walking distance of the best restaurants, beach bars, and shops on St Pete Beach. You will have ocean views from some of the higher-floor rooms which are clean with simple modern furnishings. You can book standard rooms, suites, or the penthouse.
• Bellweather Beach Resort $$ – The rooms are located below Spinners Revolving Restaurant which I believe to have some of the best views on St Pete Beach! This resort has everything you could ask for – a beachfront pool and sun deck, complimentary beach cabanas, 24-hour help desk, evening live music, and a bar. Bellweather is sandwiched in between two great beach bars serving delicious food!
• Treasure Island Beach Resort $$$ – The place to stay on Treasure Island if you are coming with a large group or have a big family! Apartment-styled suites, choose between the standard, one, or two-bedroom suites that can accommodate up to 8 adults. Rooms have full kitchens, a desk, seating, and robes. The property has a beachfront pool, an on-site restaurant BRGR (great breakfast), and a gym.
• The Saint Hotel $$$ – A converted motel into a hip and trendy hotel with one of the highest overall ratings on booking.com! It is not beachfront but just a 5-minute walk to Upham Beach. Plus, there is a pool and bar to enjoy from. You can opt for a kitchenette when choosing a room. The on-site restaurant, 82 Degrees offers incredible dishes!
• Don CeSar $$$ – Historic exterior with a recently renovated interior that brings the rooms back into this era. “The Don” is a stay that is sure to impress, it’s super clean with comfortable beds and a great place to celebrate special occasions. Inside the resort, there are several restaurants from casual, fine dining, and a rooftop bar. You can also browse the boutique shops, take a dip in the pool, or have a spa day.

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Fun and romantic Michigan getaways for couples

Boat & Jet Ski Rentals and Tours

Blind Pass Boat and Jet Ski Rental is an outstanding water adventure company in the St Pete Beach area that offers an incredible array of water activities. Go for a sunset cruise, host a party, take a tour of the islands, or try various watersports. To schedule your activities, call our team at (727) 360-8669 or make a reservation online now .

• Boat Rentals

Dolphin Watching and Sunset Cruises

• Jet Ski Rentals

Jet Ski Island Tours

Watersports Adventures for Everyone

Bring your friends and family along for a jet ski tour , or rent a deck boat to cruise the canals and coast. Choose a destination and we’ll work with you to build a customized and guided tour. Make a day of it and create your own custom charter , from dolphin watching to nighttime cruising to hosting parties.

• Electric Vehicle Rentals
• Custom Boat Tours
• Guided Jet Ski Tours

How To Get A Temporary Boating License In State Of Florida:

• Register here and pay the course fee
• Study the material and/or take the test
• Once you’ve passed the test, complete your certificate info and create your 4-digit PIN
• Download or print your course completion document and bring it with you

Experience the Gulf of Mexico and the intra-coastal waterways as you never have before. Our instructors and guides are certified and trained, and our machines are well-maintained to ensure safety during your excursion. We even provide dockside delivery and pickup for added service and convenience. Create your own water adventure, personalized to you and your group. Reserve online now or call (727) 360-8669 .

HUGE SALES FOR ALL ACTIVITIES!!!

727-744-3218

Endless Summer Watersports

• SPEEDBOAT TOUR
• Pontoon Boat Rentals
• Pontoon Charters & Tours

ST. PETE BEACH AND TAMPA BAY’S PREMIERE WATERSPORTS LOCATION!

Limited time 15% off sunset charters and up to 20% off all other activities, gift certificates available.

Get a Gift Certificate for friends, family, or yourself for a future use!! 😎⚓️☀️

ChECK THIS OUT!

Fox's Good Day Orlando came out and did a special on our Speedboat Adventure tour!

Watch THis!

Big shout out to Katelyn and Howard Newstate, these awesome customers and professional bloggers made a sweet video of our speedboat adventure tour! 

Awesome ISLANDS/BeachES!

We love seeing our  amazing customers enjoying themselves at the beautiful islands all around St Pete Beach and Tampa Bay!!

GREAT VIDEO!

Heres a little bit about Endless Summer Watersports

PONTOON BOAT RENTALS

Check out our pontoon rentals! We have boats available for any size party! Easy to drive and guaranteed to be a great time!

SPEEDBOAT TOURS

Feel like a little speed in your life? Come experience our unique and exciting speed boat tour! Captain your own boat behind your tour guide and enjoy a 1.5 hour guided and narrated tour around the beautiful beaches of St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay!!

SIGHTSEEING/ISLAND HOPPING CHARTERS/SUNSET CHARTERS

Sit back and enjoy your time on the water with a U.S. Coast Guard Certified Captain as your tour guide on one of our Luxury Pontoon boats! Explore the beautiful waterways and islands of St. Petersburg/Tampa Bay and don't worry about a thing!

KAYAK RENTALS

Single and double passenger kayaks available for your pleasure! Explore the beautiful landscapes and marine life of breathtaking waters!

Photo Gallery

Send us a message with any comments, questions, or scheduling concerns. We will get back to you soon!

1901 Pass a Grille Way, St. Pete Beach, Florida 33706, United States

(727) 744-3218

Get in Touch!

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We look forward to meeting you!

Our dock is located on the back left side of Pass A Grille Marina, right next to The Wharf restaurant. Our parking is on the front and right side of the marina when facing it from the street.  PLEASE ARRIVE 30 MIN EARLY FOR ALL ACTIVITIES.

online waiver

This is an all inclusive waiver for all of our activities, for anyone participating (18 or Older only), and MUST be filled out prior to your activity time. We have multiple activities, so there might be certain info that will not pertain to your specific activity if you're only participating in one, but the full waiver does need to be completed. There is also a waiver link in your confirmation email. (We do not have paper waivers) Thank you!

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SHELL KEY TOURS

Kayak and boat tours to shell key.

We offer tours to Shell Key preserve by boat, clear kayak, or coastal kayak. Take a boat for snorkeling, or a kayak tour to explore mangrove tunnels and get up and close to wildlife.

Island Ferry's tours to Shell Key takes you on a fascinating tour into the 1800 acre Shell Key Preserve and its incredible wildlife! We offer these tours by boat, or on our Clear or Coastal kayaks. It's a wonderful way to see dolphins, manatees, rays, and wild shorebirds in their natural habitat (sightings are season dependent). From our boats, you get to swim and snorkel the waters of Shell Key island (we provide the snorkel gear, and floating noodles). From either the boat or kayak tours, you can also go shelling on the island, where you'll find hermit crabs, conchs, rays, horseshoe crabs, and more. ​Shell Key has so much to offer and Island Ferry has multiple options to get you there.

Boat Tours - $54 per person; Clear Kayak Tours - $59 pp; Coastal Kayak Tours - $54 pp; Paddleboards - $49 pp

Whether you choose the boat, kayak, or paddleboards, these tours take you to visit the unspoiled beaches of Shell Key. The shells there are magnificent, and include cockle and scallop shells, whelks, conchs, and many more. Even while you're on the Shell Key beach you're likely to see dolphins from shore. We make sure all boat tours and kayak tours are semi-private small groups, so we keep a high level of customer service and engagement. Our boats never carry more than 6 passengers each.  Our Clear kayaks offer a see-through experience and a fascinating way to see the wildlife and eco-system of the Shell Key Preserve and its beautiful mangrove tunnels. Our Coastal kayaks offer a traditional kayaking experience through the Shell Key preserve.

Island Ferry offers the finest boat and kayaking tours to Shell Key Preserve!

Boat Tour Includes

Snorkeling gear, and floating noodles.

FREE bottled water.

FREE parking at the Tierra Verde Marina Resort. 

Cooler with ice on board.

BYOB welcome. 

Kayak Tour Includes

Life jackets and paddles.

Instruction on kayaking and paddling.

FREE parking at the launch location.

Leaves 7 days a week, departures vary by season. 

Bring your swimsuit and towel.

Trip duration is 2 hours for boats, 2-1/2 to 3 hours for kayaks.

Boats are $54 per person (all ages including children).

Kayaks are $59 per person.

Our boat rides are semi-private, never more than 6 passengers on the boat.

You can purchase tickets online or by phone!

Cancellations: No refunds for cancellations less than 48 hours before your scheduled departure. No refunds for "no shows".  We give FULL refunds if Island Ferry cancels for inclement weather.

BOAT & KAYAK TOUR CALENDAR

Island Sunset & Skyway Bridge Light Show

Island sunset & skyway bridge light show.

6810 Gulfport Blvd. S. St. Pete, FL 33707

$65 – $80 PER PERSON

DEPARTURE TIME

1.5 HOURS BEFORE SUNSET

ISLAND SUNSET AND

Skyway bridge light show.

  Top Tourist Attraction with Top-Rated Sunset Cruise • Available Year Round

Save $10 when booking Monday – Thursday!

Join Coastal Cruises’ on our brand new 50ft Custom Catamaran for an evening like no other! A scenic trip out the Intracoastal and along Shell Key Preserve provides us ample opportunities for dolphin sightings.

Once stopped at Outback Key, feel free to take your drinks ashore, search for that perfect shell, and watch the sun kiss the horizon over the Gulf of Mexico. 

On our return trip, we’ll stop by the Skyway Bridge for a $15M light show! Truly a must-see!

Guests are more than welcome to bring their own snacks or handhelds to help hold them over. No food is offered onboard. Coolers are not permitted.

As safety is our number one priority, the dusk return trip will be aided by state of art Thermal and Night Vision Cameras, GPS Navigation, and Radar. Our Custom Boat is the only one in the area that is equipped properly to safely provide you with such a unique experience!

Recent Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What is your cancellation policy.

Customer Cancellations: Must be requested via calling or emailing no less than 48hrs before trip departure for a full refund. No shows or late arrivals will be charged the full ticket price.

Weather Cancellations : If your trip’s departure may be impacted by weather, our captains will reach out via text and email with as much advance notice as possible. Should the trip be canceled, guests are entitled to be refunded, rebooked, or receive a gift card in accordance with the cancellation policy associated with their ticket.

Is there a bathroom on board?

Yes there is a restroom on board that is cleaned and sanitized daily!

What time should we arrive?

Please plan to arrive no later than 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure for boarding.

Is there parking available?

Yes! We have designated free parking for all of our customers.

Are we allowed to bring food?

Yes! Guests are more than welcome to bring their own snacks or light fare.

Can we bring our own alcohol?

For insurance purposes, outside alcohol is not permitted and may be confiscated for the duration of your trip. Don’t worry, our bar will be fully stocked!

What is available at the bar?

Our bar features a small selection of water, soda, beer, wine, and RTD Cocktails: $1 Water; $3 Coke, Sprite, Diet Coke; $5 Bud Light, Michelob Ultra; $7 Corona, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Moscato, NUTRL Vodka Seltzer, Cutwater Mojito.

How do we get off at the beach?

For our island stops, we use a series of steps from the front of our boat to the sand. Typically, you can step right from the boat/steps to the sand. However, on occasion, it may be up to ankle deep.

What should we wear?

Comfort is key! Swimming is discouraged during the island stop due to strong tidal currents. Guests are encouraged to dress as they feel comfortable for their evening with easily removable shoes for their walk on the beach. Keep in mind, being on the water in the evening is about 10 degrees colder than is forecasted, so a windbreaker or light jacket is always safe.

Is your vessel handicap accessible?

Unfortunately we are not handicap accessible at this time. Guests with limited mobility (i.e. walkers, canes) should call our office prior to booking. A good rule of thumb is if the limited mobility passenger is able to make it up 2-3 standard stairs with assistance. Our crew is always here to help and eager to share our memorable trip with all!

Marine Max 6810 Gulfport Blvd. S. St. Pete, FL 33707

$65 - $80 PER PERSON

Duration: 3 Hours

Sunset Cruises St Pete Beach

Dolphin's landing, sunset sail departing from dolphin village.

Dolphin Landings is the only charter boat center in the Tampa Bay area offering sunset cruises aboard large ocean ketch sailing vessels. You’ll set sail about an hour before sunset to give you plenty of time to catch the full range of hues painted on Mother Nature’s canvas. We provide plenty of cozy warm blankets … in case you get a chill, or want to cuddle on deck. If you love clean air, smooth sailing, postcard beautiful sunsets, and starry night skies … this romantic sailing trip is for you!

Island Ferry

Sunset cruise.

Avoid the crowded boats with our Sunset Cruise

Take a nice leisurely ride through the Grand Canal of Tierra Verde, past the homes and the mansions. You'll see wildlife, including dolphins, and wild shorebirds. Your Captain will give you a narration of the local wildlife and the history of our area.. Don't forget to bring aboard your favorite bottle of wine! Our sunset tours are small groups of 6 people or less.

Click on the icon below to visit our website.

Charter Finders

Departing cambria hotel.

SUNSET CRUISE

Now introducing our 3 deck boats plus Bad Dog, a Luxury Tritoon powered with 250 horsepower. We depart from Cambria Hotel. Cruise through upscale neighborhoods, see famous houses, landmarks, and extraordinary wildlife. Our cruise will be partly narrated by the captain. Followed by a beautiful sunset on the Gulf of Mexico. If weather permits we cruise the beach taking in the beautiful afterglow. Dolphins are wild animals however we see them most of the time.  BYOB and we supply cooler, ice, and water. We have a fun waiting era with games and drinks!

Aqua Sol Adventures

Departs from gulfport.

Enjoy the beautiful and romantic sunsets with our Sunset Cruises. On the way back see the breathtaking lights of the Skyway Bridge!

"Had an amazing sunset cruise for our 30th Anniversary with Captain Scott! He even surprised us with a nice bottle of champagne! So unexpected and thoughtful. We had a enjoyable time and Scott is awesome, informative and fun! Don’t hesitate to book an outing with Aqua Sol Adventures.... we will be back for sure!"

Visit our website below to book your trip or for more information.  Feel free to call us also.

Shell Key Shuttle & Sunset Cruise

Departs from merry pier.

For a relaxing and enjoyable evening, make reservations for a one and a half hour Sunset Cruise sight-seeing through residential waterways and the pristine barrier islands south of Pass-a-Grille. Sunset cruises available by reservation. Please call for availability. 

This cruise is $25.00 for adults and is $12.50 for children 12 years of age and under (plus tax). Parking passes for the meters may be purchased when checking in for the shuttle.The Sunset Cruise is aboard the same 49 passenger Shell Key Shuttle catamaran. 

Reservations are required as departure times vary with the seasons - usually sunset cruises begin approximately one hour before the actual sunset.

Suncoast Sailing

Departs from kingfish pier treasure island.

The ONLY Gaff Rigged Schooner in the Tampa Bay Region!! Our famous schooner, SUNCOAST HORIZON is US Coast Guard Inspected for up to 28 passengers. Advanced reservation is required as trips sell out well in advance. All trips include complimentary soda and bottled water. BYOB is allowed as we have a cooler with ice available and restroom aboard.  We depart from Kingfish Docks east of Crabby’s on The Pass located at 12795 Kingfish Drive, Treasure Island, Florida, 33706

Risky Charters, LLC

Luxury at your leisure.

A 40ft Express Cruiser Yacht that is slipped in Tierra Verde available for private charter to cruise the ICW, a sunset cruise, or a trip to Egmont Key.

We welcome individuals, couples, families, and groups of up to 6 people.  If you have a special request, contact us and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

Levique Tours & Rentals

Cambria hotel - madeira beach.

Tiki Tour + Water Sports at The Cambria Hotel in Madeira Beach, Florida. We offer an array of experiences from tiki boat tours of John's Pass to rentals including jet skis, paddle boards + kayaks (in single and tandem), and land scooters. Experience the magic of Florida's Gulf Coast with dolphin and manatee site seeings. LET'S RIDE!

Escape to a world of relaxation and adventure with Reel-Vibes Private boat charters. We offer the perfect blend of fun and excitement for your entire family and friends.  Book a trip with us and experience the beauty of Floridas gulf coast. Reserve your trip today!

Island Hopping Charters - Sunset Cruises - Scenic Boat Tours - Couples Cruise - Inshore Fishing - Snorkeling -  Shelling - Custom Charters

• Dolphin Tours
• Eco Tours & Sightseeing
• Sunset Cruises
• Special Events
• Getting to the Boat
• Frequently Asked Questions

Se Habla Espanol

Why choose st pete tours.

We are a locally owned small business. We operate the charter business full time, and are available to our guests anytime.  Safety is our priority and we only utilize USCG Captains that hold a Master Mariner level credential. Our goal is to provide our guests a safe, fun and memorable experience. 

The trip can be customized in many different ways including:

• Wildlife Spotting (exotic birds, dolphins, manatees, fish, etc.)
• Visiting a waterfront restaurant/bar/grille for lunch
• Exploring/Shelling at barrier islands and beaches
• Swimming and lounging at a submerged sandbar for a fun and relaxing hangout
• Luxury Home tour that makes for a relaxing cruise while viewing historic homes.

Korolyov or Korolev is an industrial city in Moscow Oblast, Russia, well known as the cradle of Soviet and Russian space exploration. As of the 2010 Census, its population was 183,402, the largest as a science city. As of 2018, the population was more than 222,000 people. It was known as Kaliningrad from 1938 to 1996 and served as the leading Soviet center for production of anti-tank and air-defense guns. In 1946, in the aftermath of World War II, the artillery plant was reconstructed for production of rockets, launch vehicles, and spacecraft, under the guidance of Russian scientist and academician Sergei Korolev, who envisioned, consolidated and guided the activities of many people in the Soviet space-exploration program. The plant later became known as the RKK Energia; when the Vostok space vehicle was being developed, this research center was designated as NII-88 or POB 989.

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Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korolyov,_Moscow_Oblast

Official Website http://www.korolev.ru/

Coordinates 55°55'13.763" N 37°49'57.464" E

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Sergei Pavlovich Korolev – the Father of Practical Astronautics

Sergei Korolev (1907 – 1966), Soviet Union 1969 CPA 3731 stamp

On January 12, 1907, lead Soviet rocket engineer and spacecraft designer during the Space Race Sergei Korolev was born. Korolev is regarded by many as the “father of practical astronautics “. He was involved in the development of the R-7 Rocket , Sputnik 1 ,[ 1 ] launching Laika , Belka and Strelka  and the first human being, Yuri Gagarin ,[ 2 ] into space.

“Today we are witnesses to the fulfillment of the dream that occupied some outstanding people, among them Tsiolkovsky. He had prophesied that mankind will not stay on Earth forever. Sputnik is the first confirmation of his predictions. The opening up of space has begun.” – Sergei Korolev, on the night of October 5, 1957, after the successful launch of Sputnik 1.[8]

Sergei Korolev – Youth and Education

Korolev was born in Zhytomyr , the capital of Volhynian Governorate of the Russian Empire. His parents, Russian teachers Maria Nikolaevna Balanina (née Moskalenko),  from a wealthy merchant family with Greek and Cossack roots, and Pavel Yakovlevich Korolev, who was  of Belarusian origin, separated just three years after his birth. Korolev grew up with his grandparents in Neshin . When he was ten years old, the family moved to Odessa . There he completed an apprenticeship as a bricklayer and roofer. Korolev showed an early interest in aviation and, in addition to his job, worked at the local glider club, constructing his first glider K-5 at the age of 17. In 1925, Korolev began studying at the Kiev Polytechnic Institute . When the Kiev faculty was closed, he transferred to Moscow Technical University (MWTU) in 1926 and graduated. Before that, he completed an internship at the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (ZAGI), where he came into contact with the design of powered aircraft. In 1929, together with S. N. Lyushin, Korolev developed and built the Koktebel glider. In the same year, under the guidance of Andrei Tupolev, Korolev created his first powered aircraft SK-4 as his diploma thesis.

First Experiments with Rockets

In the 1930s, Korolev began building rockets as part of MosGIRD, a group founded in 1931 to research recoil propulsion systems. There he received essential impulses for his later work from Friedrich Zander . Together with Zander, whom he considered a mentor, he was involved in the design and construction of the first Soviet hybrid rockets GIRD-09 and GIRD-X , among others. In 1933, he moved to the Rocket Research Institute (RNII) and became head of the Rocket Missile Department in 1934. In the same year, his scientific treatise The Rocket Flight into the Stratosphere was published.

The Great Terror

While working on the RP-318-I rocket-powered glider, Korolyev was arrested by the NKVD’s secret political police during the Great Terror on June 27, 1938. After two days of torture and threats against his family, he signed a confession in which he was forced to identify himself as a member of a counterrevolutionary Trotskyist conspiracy and a participant in acts of sabotage to obstruct development work. He had been denounced under duress by Valentin Glushko ,[ 3 ] who had been arrested three months earlier and who himself spent the period until 1944 in prison. Although innocent, Korolev was sentenced without formal trial on to ten years of hard labor in the gulag and five years of loss of civil rights. After spending time in several prisons and prolonged transportation, he arrived at the notorious Maldyak labor camp in 1939, where he nearly starved to death and became so ill with scurvy that his lower jaw was severely damaged and he lost many teeth.

In the First Circle of Hell

Through interventions of his mother with the support of the well-known pilots Mikhail Gromov and Valentina Grisodubova, the USSR Supreme Court overturned the previous sentence and Korolev was recalled from Maldyak only in November 1939. After renewed interventions by his mother and Gromov with NKVD People’s Commissar Lavrenti Beria , he was sent to the special design office of aircraft designer Andrei Tupolev , who had already supervised Korolyov’s thesis and was also imprisoned. The ZKB-29 special camp for scientists and engineers was under the control of the NKVD and was described from personal experience by Alexander Solzhenitsyn in the novel The First Circle of Hell . The ZKB-29 developed the Tupolev Tu-2 dive bomber in Omsk in September 1942.

Petlyakov Pe-2, co-developed by Sergei Korolev

Korolev applied for a job at an aircraft engine plant in Kazan , where Glushko headed the OKB-16 special design bureau for rocket engines under Sharashka conditions. Korolev participated in the development of the Petlyakov Pe-2 multirole aircraft to improve takeoff performance and climb performance with a switchable rocket engine. In 1944, Korolyov and Glushko were paroled from prison early and continued their work on rocket developments as employed engineers of OKB-16. However, Korolev was not officially rehabilitated until April 18, 1957. Korolev’s six-year imprisonment in the Gulag was erased from Communist accounts of the history of technology.

Becoming Chief Designer

After World War II, Korolev rose to become the chief designer of the initially military-only Soviet missile program within the NII (Scientific Research Institute). Korolev’s identity was kept secret during his lifetime, and in public he was referred to only anonymously as the “chief designer.” Korolev’s goal was to develop a civilian rocket program. In 1945, now holding the rank of colonel in the Red Army, he was ordered to Soviet headquarters in Berlin with other engineers and technicians. He was given the task of studying the German rocket program and locating associates of rocket engineer Wernher von Braun who remained in Germany.

The first A4 rocket (from German stocks) is transported to the launch site on a truck trailer. It was launched on 18 October 1947 from the Kapustin Yar test site, Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation, CC-BY-4.0

The Soviets placed a priority on reproducing lost documentation on the A4 rocket, and studying the various parts and captured manufacturing facilities. That work continued in East Germany until late 1946, when 2,000+ German scientists and engineers were sent to the USSR through Operation Osoaviakhim . Most of the German experts, Helmut Gröttrup being an exception, were engineers and technicians involved in wartime mass-production of A4, and they had not worked directly with Wernher von Braun. Korolev returned to the Soviet Union in 1946 with plans of German designs and German rocket designers. Among others, Wernher von Braun’s assistant Helmut Gröttrup and aerodynamicist Werner Albring worked on rocket technology development under Korolev’s direction in Kaliningrad (in Moscow oblast) and on Gorodomlya Island (now Solnetchny settlement) in Lake Seliger during this period. The first design resulting from this cooperation was the R-1 rocket of 1948, a copy of the German A4 based on materials available in the Soviet Union. Unlike the U.S., which brought German scientists to the U.S. with its Operation Overcast and ensured their naturalization and retention in the U.S. as early as 1946 with Operation Paperclip, the Soviet Union merely siphoned off their knowledge and used it in the crucial steps for spaceflight.

The Soviet Space Programme

Among Korolyov’s greatest achievements were the construction of the R-7 – the world’s first intercontinental ballistic missile – and the launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957,[ 1 ] but most importantly, the first space flight by a human, Yuri Gagarin , in 1961.[ 2 ] The R-7  was a two-stage rocket with a maximum payload of 5.4 tons, sufficient to carry the Soviets’ bulky  nuclear bomb  an impressive distance of 7,000 kilometres. However, despite the Soviet R-7 initial success, it experienced later failures as it was not intended to be a practical weapon. Sputnik 1 was designed and constructed in less than a month with Korolev personally managing the assembly at a hectic pace. The satellite was a simple polished metal sphere no bigger than a beach ball, containing batteries that powered a transmitter using 4 external communication antennas. Sputnik 1 was successfully completed and launched into space on 4 October 1957 using a rocket that had successfully launched only once before. After gaining approval from the government, a modified version of Korolev’s R-7 was used to launch Yuri Gagarin into orbit on 12 April 1961, which was before the United States was able to put Alan Shepard into space.

Variants of the R-7 Rocket, (NASA)

Korolev’s group was also working on ambitious programs for missions to Mars and Venus , putting a man in orbit, launching communication, spy and weather satellites, and making a soft-landing on the Moon.

Health Problems and Early Death

In December 1960, Korolev suffered a heart attack, which was followed by others. His cardiac arrhythmias were joined by internal bleeding and intestinal problems. Korolyev was admitted to a Moscow hospital. Doctors were going to remove painful hemorrhoids in a routine operation in January 1966, but in the meantime they discovered a large tumor in his colon and put him under general anesthesia. Tracheal intubation, necessary due to circulatory weakness, failed due to scurvy-related jaw abnormality as a late consequence of Gulag imprisonment; this caused his death on January 14, 1966. The Soviet government honored him by burying his urn in the Kremlin wall. In 1996, the city of Kaliningrad in Moscow Oblast, where he headed the experimental design bureau OKB-1 as chief designer from 1950, was renamed after him.

Losing the Race to the Moon

With Korolev’s death, the Soviet space and lunar programs suffered a bitter loss. Although work on the N1 lunar rocket was continued by his collaborator Vasily Mishin , it was discontinued in 1974 after several launch failures.[ 4 ] The identity of the chief designer remained a state secret in the Soviet Union during his lifetime. While in the U.S. his adversary Wernher von Braun made a high-profile appearance in the press and on television, Korolev was not known even in his own country. When, after the successful launch of Sputnik 1, the Nobel Prize Committee asked Nikita Khrushchev for the name of the chief designer, he replied that it had been the work of the entire Soviet people and that they had thus deserved the award. Only on the occasion of the state funeral in Moscow was this secret revealed.

References and Further Reading:

• [1]  The Sputnik Shock and the Start of the Space Race , SciHi Blog
• [2]  Yuri Gagarin – the first Man in Space , SciHi Blog
• [3]  Valentin Glushko and the Space Race , SciHi Blog
• [4]  The Russian Dream to Land a Man on the Moon , SciHi Blog
• [5]  “Sergei Korolev: Father of the Soviet Union’s success in space” .  www.esa.int .
• [6]  West, John B. (1 October 2001).  “Historical aspects of the early Soviet/ Russian crewed space program” .  Journal of Applied Physiology .  91  (4): 1501–1511.
• [7]    “Sputnik Biographies–Sergei P. Korolev (1906-1966)” .   history.nasa.gov .
• [8]  Joachim Kutzner, Kurt Kobler:  Der Sputnikschock.  4. April 2004
• [9]  The 2021 John J. Rhodes Lecture: Expanded Space Exploration , A Discussion with NASA Astronaut, Dr. Shannon Walker & Ambassador Barbara Barrett, Barrett Honors College @ youtube
• [10] Sergei Korolev at Wikidata
• [11] Timeline for Sergei Korolev , via Wikidata

Harald Sack

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