FAQ

We offer a convenient pick-up location on Anna Maria Island: Kingfish Boat Ramp. If you are wanting a pick up from a private dock we may be able to arrange that. Just reach out with the details and we will try to accommodate your request.

Our pontoon tours run from 3 to 6 hours. You choose the length that fits your day. Three-hour tours are great for a quick dolphin sighting and some time on a sand bar. Four to six hours give you time to island hop, snorkel at Egmont Key, and really explore. Our Beach Cat tours accommodate larger groups and have their own scheduling options.

All of our tours are 100% private. When you book with Island Hoppers, the boat is yours for the entire experience, no strangers, no shared schedules. This means you choose the activities, set the pace, and get your captain’s full attention the whole time.

We recommend booking as early as possible, especially during peak season (spring break, summer, and holidays). Our tours fill up fast, particularly on weekends. You can book instantly online through our booking system, available 24/7.

Dolphin sightings are very common on our tours. Our captains know exactly where to find them in the waters around Anna Maria Island. While wildlife is never 100% guaranteed (they are wild animals!), most of our guests see dolphins up close, often swimming and jumping right alongside the boat. The more relaxed you are out on the water, the better the chances!

You get to customize your tour! Popular activities include: dolphin watching, snorkeling (including Egmont Key and its sunken Spanish-American War ruins), island hopping to Beer Can Island, Passage Key, and Jewfish sandbar, sunset cruises, and our famous Pub Crawl starting at Compass Hotel. Just tell us what you’re most excited about when you book and your captain will plan the perfect route.

Yes! Our captains provide all the snorkeling equipment you need for a seamless experience. No need to bring your own gear! We’ll get you set up and show you the best spots, including the incredible underwater ruins at Egmont Key where you can spot sea turtles, stingrays, manatees, and dozens of fish species.

Island hopping is our most popular activity! We explore the stunning islands and sandbars of the Gulf, including: Jewfish Key (a famous crystal-clear sandbar perfect for swimming, shelling, and snorkeling), Beer Can Island (a driftwood-strewn hidden gem that feels like a tropical oasis), Egmont Key (historic lighthouse island with wildlife and incredible snorkeling), and Passage Key (a natural sandbar — note: clothing is optional here, adults recommended).

Absolutely! Our pontoon tours are perfect for families with children of all ages. Seeing dolphins, collecting shells on sandbars, and snorkeling are experiences kids absolutely love. Our captains are experienced with families and will make sure everyone feels safe and has an amazing time.

Our pontoon boat fits 1–6 passengers, perfect for couples, small families, and small groups. For larger groups, our 27ft Beach Cat accommodates up to 18 passengers, making it ideal for birthday parties, family reunions, bachelor/bachelorette groups, and corporate outings.

Yes! We love celebrating special occasions on the water. Our private tours are a fantastic option for birthdays, bachelorette/bachelor parties, anniversaries, family reunions, and corporate groups. The Beach Cat is especially popular for larger celebrations. Contact us to discuss custom arrangements and we’ll make it memorable.

Here’s our recommended packing list: 2–3 bottles of water per person (staying hydrated is key!), towels, sunscreen, hats and sunglasses (with a retaining strap — wind on the water!), a camera or phone for photos, and comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a little wet. In fall and winter months, bring a light jacket.

Yes, life jackets are provided for all passengers and are required by U.S. Coast Guard regulations. Your captain will go over all safety procedures before departure. Your safety is our top priority, our captains are Coast Guard certified, with over 20 years of experience on these waters.

Yes! Swimming and snorkeling are safe activities on our tours. Our captains choose spots with calm, clear water conditions and supervise all in-water activities. We provide all snorkeling equipment and safety briefings. Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times in the water.

Customers receive a full refund or credit if canceled 21 days prior to the departure date. Cancellations must be made by email to [email protected]. If we cancel your tour due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you will also receive a full refund or credit. No-shows are charged the full price.

Your captain makes the final call on weather 30 minutes before departure, based on real-time conditions. Safety always comes first. If we cancel due to weather, you receive a full refund or credit — no questions asked. Florida weather can change quickly, so we monitor conditions closely and will contact you as soon as possible if there’s a concern.

The easiest way is to book online directly through our website, available 24/7. Choose your tour, pick your date and departure location, and you’re confirmed instantly. You can also reach us at 863-797-4460 or email [email protected] if you have questions before booking or want to arrange a custom group tour.