Top Boat Tours in St. Augustine to See Dolphins

St. Augustine, Florida, is famous for its cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches—but one of its most unforgettable attractions is spotting wild dolphins playing in the Intracoastal Waterway. For visitors searching for the best dolphin tour St Augustine, several local companies offer unique experiences to get you up close to these playful marine mammals.

Here are the top boat tours in St. Augustine to see dolphins, with Beaches Water Tours ranked as the number one choice for families, couples, and wildlife lovers.

1. Beaches Water Tours – Best Dolphin Watching in St. Augustine

When it comes to dolphin boat tours in St. Augustine, Beaches Water Tours stands out for its scenic routes, friendly guides, and comfortable vessels. Departing daily from Vilano Beach, their 90‑minute cruises travel through prime dolphin habitats, including Matanzas Bay and Salt Run.

Why Choose Beaches Water Tours?

• Consistent dolphin sightings: Their experienced captains know the best areas to find pods of bottlenose dolphins.
  
• Spacious and family-friendly boats: Large pontoons with shaded seating make the ride comfortable for all ages.
  
• Flexible schedules: Daytime and sunset dolphin tours are available every day.
  
• Affordable pricing: Tours start at $29 for daytime cruises and $49 for sunset tours.
  
• BYOB policy: Guests can bring snacks and drinks, creating a relaxed and customizable experience.
  

With free parking, knowledgeable crew, and glowing reviews, Beaches Water Tours is often considered the best dolphin tour in St Augustine.

2. Florida Water Tours – Eco-Friendly Dolphin Cruises

Florida Water Tours offers eco-tours in St. Augustine with a strong focus on conservation and education. Guests enjoy narrated trips that highlight local wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and seabirds. Their sunset dolphin tours are especially popular for couples seeking a romantic evening on the water.

3. St. Augustine Scenic Cruise – Historic Sightseeing with Dolphins

Operating since 1900, St. Augustine Scenic Cruise provides a classic sightseeing experience. These larger vessels travel along the Matanzas River and past famous landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and the Bridge of Lions. Dolphins are frequently spotted during these narrated boat rides, making them a great option for history buffs and families.

4. Red Boat Water Tours – Small Group Dolphin Adventures

For travelers seeking an intimate experience, Red Boat Water Tours offers small group dolphin tours in St. Augustine. Their smaller boats allow access to less crowded waterways and closer encounters with dolphins. It’s a great choice for families or groups wanting a personalized outing.

5. Anastasia Watersports Private Charters – Customizable Wildlife Tours

Anastasia Watersports offers private boat charters that can be tailored to dolphin watching, fishing, or sunset cruising. This flexibility makes them ideal for special occasions or groups who want a unique St. Augustine boating experience.

Why St. Augustine Is Perfect for Dolphin Tours

The waters around St. Augustine are part of the Intracoastal Waterway, a rich habitat for bottlenose dolphins. Sightings are common year-round, and the calm inshore waters provide ideal conditions for wildlife viewing. Whether you’re cruising past the historic bayfront or exploring secluded estuaries, dolphin encounters are a highlight of any visit.

Tips for the Best Dolphin Watching in St. Augustine

• Book in advance: Popular dolphin tours fill up quickly, especially during weekends and summer months.
  
• Choose sunset tours: Evening cruises often provide cooler temperatures and stunning photo opportunities.
  
• Bring essentials: Sunscreen, hats, and cameras enhance the experience.
  
• Arrive early: Plan to check in 15 minutes before departure to secure your spot.
  
• Opt for smaller boats: They often allow closer views and a more personal experience.
  

Ready to Book Your Dolphin Tour?

St. Augustine offers some of the best dolphin boat tours in Florida, perfect for families, couples, and wildlife enthusiasts. Among them, Beaches Water Tours remains the top choice for its scenic routes, knowledgeable guides, and unbeatable value.

Reserve your tour today at Beaches Water Tours or call (904) 429‑9198. Departing daily from Vilano Beach, they make dolphin watching in St. Augustine an unforgettable adventure.