Aboard the Sea Hawk: Two Hours Chasing Bottlenose Along Panama City’s Coastal Edge

PANAMA CITY DOLPHIN FIELD GUIDE

Aboard the Sea Hawk: Two Hours Chasing Bottlenose Along Panama City’s Coastal Edge

A 2-hour daytime dolphin cruise from St. Andrews State Park aboard a spacious double-deck catamaran, useful for travelers who want a reliable, family-friendly window on local marine life.

Aboard the Sea Hawk: Two Hours Chasing Bottlenose Along Panama City’s Coastal Edge.

Duration
2 hours
Location
Panama City
Operator
St. Andrews Adventures
Category
Dolphin
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set out from St. Andrews State Park aboard the double-deck Corinthian catamaran Sea Hawk for a relaxed, two-hour daytime cruise that stretches across St. Andrews Bay, around Shell Island, and into Gulf waters — a short, panoramic outing focused on wild bottlenose dolphins and coastal wildlife.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE WILDLIFE

Dolphins at the Center

The tour concentrates on the region’s thriving population of wild bottlenose dolphins, with experienced captains steering to local hotspots where sightings are common; guests may also encounter sea turtles, tropical fish, diving seabirds and, seasonally, rays or manatees.

THE VESSEL

Spacious Double-Deck Comfort

The Sea Hawk is a double-deck Corinthian catamaran offering shaded seating and panoramic coastal views, making the trip comfortable for families and sightseers watching the surf line and dolphin pods.

THE SCENERY

Shell Island and Gulf Vistas

The route runs around Shell Island and through St. Andrews Bay into Gulf waters, framing wide coastal panoramas that accompany the wildlife viewing throughout the two-hour cruise.

What the day feels like

What the Two-Hour Cruise Feels Like

The outing is a relaxed, family-oriented two-hour cruise aboard the double-deck Sea Hawk, combining shaded seating and wide viewing decks as captains move the boat through St. Andrews Bay, past Shell Island and into Gulf waters in search of dolphins and other coastal species.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this cruise suits — and who should check alternatives.

1
Active FamiliesFamily-friendly seating and a two-hour duration make this a good half-day outing for families with children; the vessel’s shaded areas and panoramic decks accommodate mixed-age groups.
2
Wildlife WatchersIdeal for travelers focused on marine wildlife: experienced captains visit known dolphin hotspots and sightings are common.
3
Accessibility-Minded TravelersADA service animals are permitted; travelers who rely on service animals should coordinate with the operator in advance.
4
Groups Seeking a Relaxed OutingThe cruise’s two-hour, daytime schedule and onboard beverage service suit groups looking for an easy, scenic activity rather than a strenuous excursion.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The outing is a two-hour daytime dolphin cruise departing from St. Andrews State Park aboard the double-deck Sea Hawk.

What to Bring

Guests may bring their own refreshments; note that alcohol must be purchased onboard. The vessel offers shaded seating and panoramic viewing areas.

Food & Beverage

Beer, wine, sodas, and bottled water are available for purchase onboard; outside refreshments are permitted but onboard alcohol sales are required for alcoholic beverages.

Capacity & House Rules

The vessel carries up to 45 guests; the operator prohibits pets (ADA service animals exempt), smoking or vaping, and portable speakers.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the tour?

The daytime dolphin cruise lasts two hours.

Where do we board the boat?

The cruise departs from St. Andrews State Park.

What wildlife might we see?

Common sightings include wild bottlenose dolphins; guests may also see sea turtles, tropical fish, diving seabirds, and seasonally rays or manatees.

Can I bring my pet?

No — pets are not allowed, with the exception of ADA service animals.

Is food or drink available onboard?

Beer, wine, sodas, and bottled water are available for purchase onboard; guests may bring their own refreshments, but alcohol must be purchased onboard.

Is smoking or vaping allowed?

Smoking and vaping are not permitted on the cruise.

How many guests can the vessel carry?

The Sea Hawk has a capacity of 45 guests.