Key West's Original Dolphin Watching Charter

What Is Not Included?

Meeting Location

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

We highly recommend that you purchase tickets in advance, as sails do sell out quickly. To maximize your chances of getting the day that you prefer, please book well in advance. Tickets can be purchased using a Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.

If a trip is sold out, can I get on a waiting list?

No, Dolphin Watch does not keep a waiting list for our sails. Sails often sell out, and typically well in advance, so please make sure to purchase your tickets far in advance, especially if you have limited time availability.

What happens if it rains?

Rain is not usually any problem as the Patty C is covered and in most cases we can go around the rain! In the case of tropical storms or high winds, it is possible that we would have to cancel, and you would be able to reschedule subject to availability, or receive credit for a future trip.

Are children allowed?

Of course - children of any age are welcome on board. However, because we can only carry up to 6 passengers, children must pay full price.

Are pets allowed?

We have, on occasion, allowed dogs on board. You may have seen the Patty C on Animal Planet with the dog that swims with dolphins - "Pieces" the wonder dog! Please let us know upon purchasing your tickets if you plan to bring a pet with you.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?

Yes! Pregnant women are welcome to come on board with us. In fact, many pregnant women book a tour to have their unborn baby exposed to the beauty of the dolphins!

What exactly will we do on the tour?

On this tour we'll start by heading out about 5 miles out onto the Gulf of Mexico to a sandbank about 10 feet deep where dolphins live and play! We may swim or snorkel right there. If time permits (depending on how much time our guests want to stay with the dolphins), we will head out to nearby snorkel reef and snorkel for a bit. Then we'll head back to shore after a fun filled day!

Do I need to know how to swim?

Nope! Non-swimmers are welcome. We have flotation devices on board at your disposal.

Do I need to have snorkeled before to enjoy this trip?

Definitely not! This trip is suitable for both very experienced snorkelers as well as beginners. First time snorkelers can be assured of one-on-one instruction and assistance.

Can I bring my own snorkeling equipment?

While we have enough fins, masks and sanitized snorkels for everyone, please feel free to bring your own gear if you so desire. You may also bring your own wet suit if you'd like!

Will there be a guide snorkeling with us?

Yes, in most cases when the boat is anchored or moored, your captain will join you in the water and guide you.

Can I still come if I don't want to snorkel?

Of course! Snorkeling is totally optional - feel free to stay on the boat or take a swim instead!

How old should my child be to snorkel? Is there an age limit?

Children that can swim can usually snorkel with some help. We have children sized masks and fins that will fit children around ages 8 and up. If you bring your own equipment, then there is no age limit.

Are the waters safe?

The dolphins live out on a sand bank that is only about 10 feet deep. We have been swimming and snorkeling in these waters with our passengers for more than 20 years without incident.

Will I see sharks in the water?

We often see Nurse Sharks at the reef (don't worry they don't have any teeth!) but other types of sharks are hard to find in this area.

Can I bring my own food and beverages on board?

Yes - although we will have snacks and soft drinks available on board, feel free to bring your own packed lunch, snacks, and beverages with you. We highly recommend the Waterfront Market, located very close to our meeting spot, where you can buy food and drinks right before the tour. Please note that if you'd like to bring alcohol on board, we only allow beer in cans - no glass bottles or hard alcohol please.

Can I bring an ice chest or cooler?

We keep our cooler stocked with ice and you can put anything you bring along in our cooler.

What kind of snacks and drinks are included and available on board?

We normally have fruit and drinks such as water and sodas. Since we are just outside of Waterfront Market, you can pick up your favorite snacks and bring them along as well.

Should I bring extra cash with me?

It isn't necessary but sometimes it is handy for giving a tip if you're happy with your experience.

Should I tip the crew?

Tipping is never required but greatly appreciated!

How far will the boat go out?

The dolphins live within a five mile radius from our boat launch. Sometimes they are closer but we rarely go out further than five miles.

Am I guaranteed to see dolphins?

Yes! We guarantee that you will see dolphins on our trip or your next trip is FREE!

Can we feed the dolphins?

NO, we watch them catch their own fish! Dolphins are experts at catching live fish and it is very exciting to watch. NEVER FEED A WILD DOLPHIN! Not only is it illegal but it puts the dolphins in danger. The dolphin's natural curiosity and intelligence is what makes them interested in humans. Feeding them is unnecessary, careless and could ultimately be fatal to wild dolphin populations. Report any wild dolphin feeding to your local Marine Patrol. (Dial *FMP on your cell phone).

Can we touch, pet or ride on the dolphins?

Absolutely not! We provide the opportunity to visit wild dolphins in the open ocean behaving as they do naturally. Dorsal towing is a learned behavior that captive dolphins are taught to do in return for fish. Touching or pursuing a dolphin in the wild is considered harassment and is illegal. Under no circumstance do we touch, chase, pursue, harass or feed the dolphins. However, if we are swimming/snorkeling and the dolphins come to you, that's fair game!

Are the dolphins more active in the morning or afternoon?

Because we visit wild dolphins and they have no schedule we find that they are very spontaneous. There is no predictable time when they are more active.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

No, unfortunately it is not possible to come aboard on a wheelchair.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes - there is a very clean restroom on board that you will be at your disposal for the duration of the tour.

Is there a shower on board?

Yes, we have a fresh water shower on board that you can use after snorkeling/swimming to rinse off.

Are there life jackets on board? Do I have to wear one?

Yes we have life jackets for everyone but it is not required that you wear it during the trip.

Is the boat safe?

Our boat is a catamaran which is extremely stable in the water. We also have all standard safety equipment on board, and our Captain is Coast Guard certified and will make your trip pleasurable and safe.

Will I get seasick?

Because the Patty C. is a Catamaran, it is much more stable in the water than other tour boats. If you are a very sensitive person to motion sickness, it is best to take medication just to be sure. (Make sure to follow the instructions as most medication for motion sickness need to be taken 1 hour before going out.)

Will there be music on board? What kind?

We have an excellent stereo system on board with a CD player. Feel free to bring your favorite music. We have collected a variety of music that the dolphins seem to love.

Where should I stay in Key West?

There are so many charming, tropical bed & breakfasts and guest houses in Key West. We highly recommend staying in 'Old Town' where all the action and magic is. That way you will be within walking distance of Duval Street, the Historic Seaport, Key West's famous nightlife and a plethora of fabulous restaurants.

How can I book a private charter?

To book a custom private charter, click on the "Contact DolphinWatch" link to let us know what you're interested in. Someone will contact you shortly to make arrangements!

Are gift certificates available?

Yes, please click on the "Contact DolphinWatch" link if you're interested in purchasing a gift certificate.

Refund/Rescheduling Policy

Non-refundable, cannot be rescheduled.

Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.

Weather Policy

Activity may be cancelled due to severe weather.

The activity usually runs in light rain and other moderate weather conditions, but the seller may cancel the activity up to an hour before the start time in the event of severe or unsafe weather conditions. If the seller cancels the event, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule tickets (subject to availability) or receive credit for a future event.

Other Policies

Children under 8 years of age must bring their own snorkeling equipment.

Our snorkeling equipment generally doesn't fit children under the age of 8, so please bring snorkel gear for any passengers under 8 years of age. If you don't have snorkel gear for your child, we have flotation devices on board and your child can still swim.

Dolphin Watch