Our private wildlife tours explore the waters around Clearwater and St. Petersburg, where guests often hope to spot
dolphins, manatees, rays, seabirds, and sometimes sea turtles. Wildlife is never guaranteed, but every charter offers a unique
experience on the water.
One of the highlights of
many private charters,
dolphins are often seen in
pods around
Clearwater and St. Pete.
These gentle giants are a
special sighting in local
Florida waters, especially
during the right season
and conditions.
Sea turtles can sometimes
be seen gliding through
the water, adding even
more wonder to your day
on the boat.
From pelicans to gulls
and terns, the skies and
shorelines around us are
often full of coastal
birdlife.
Rays can sometimes be
spotted gliding through
shallow, clear water near
sandbars and
coastal areas.
Wildlife sightings vary by season, weather, and water conditions, but Captain Keith will always
take your group to the best areas for a fun, scenic, and memorable day on the water.
Wayward Key Tours offers a private dolphin and wildlife charter experience
for guests who want more than a crowded public tour. Instead of sharing
the boat with strangers, your group gets a relaxed, customizable trip built
around your pace and your interests. Whether you want to look for dolphins
, enjoy scenic cruising, search for manatees, or simply take in the beauty of
Clearwater and St. Petersburg from the water, this experience is designed
to feel personal, easy, and unforgettable.
Will we see dolphins on this tour?
Dolphins are wild animals, so sightings can’t be guaranteed — but our local waters are home to frequent bottlenose dolphin pods, and sightings are common on most trips. Your captain knows the areas and conditions that give you the best chance.
How close do we get to dolphins?
Dolphins are wild animals, so how close they come varies naturally. Sometimes dolphins swim alongside or near the boat on their own, while other times they may be seen from a short distance. We always observe dolphins respectfully and follow responsible wildlife-viewing guidelines.
Are tours suitable for kids and all ages? Yes! Our dolphin and wildlife observation tours are family-friendly and a great way for kids and adults alike to experience local marine life safely.
Can we swim with the dolphins? No. Swimming with wild dolphins is not permitted and can be harmful to both people and the animals. Our tours focus on observing dolphins in their natural environment without disturbing their behavior. That said, dolphins are naturally curious and may choose to swim near the boat during the tour.
How long is the dolphin & wildlife observation tour? Typical tours range from 2.5 to 4 hours depending on your chosen trip and what you want to explore (dolphin watching, island stop, shelling, etc.).