Private Avalon Funship Charter on Clearwater Beach: Dolphins, Islands & Sandbars
Step aboard the Avalon Funship for a private four-hour cruise from Clearwater Beach that mixes dolphin encounters, shelling on barrier islands, and swimming off a sandbar. Ideal for families and celebrations, this customizable tour balances wildlife watching with time ashore at protected beaches.
The Experience
Before You Go
Sunscreen and shade
Use reef-safe SPF and a brimmed hat—Florida sun reflects off water and sand, intensifying exposure.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
Take anti-nausea medication 30–60 minutes before departure if you’re susceptible to seasickness.
Water shoes for shelling
Protected beaches and sandbars can have shells and shell beds—water shoes make walking and wading comfortable.
Respect wildlife distance
Do not chase, touch, or feed dolphins and manatees; the captain will position the boat for viewing without disturbing animals.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •North tip of Caladesi Island for quiet shelling and fewer crowds
- •The shallow lagoon behind Three Rooker Bar—excellent for wading and seeing small rays at low tide
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •Florida manatees
Conservation Note
Caladesi is state-managed—follow park rules, avoid removing live shells and refrain from feeding wildlife; smaller private boats reduce crowding when responsibly operated.
Caladesi split from the nearby barrier system after early 20th-century storms and has been preserved as a state park; the area also has a long Indigenous presence tied to coastal resources.
Photographer's Notes
- • Upper deck of the Funship for dolphins and coastline panoramas
- • Caladesi’s northshore dunes for low-angle shell shots
- • Shallow flats at Three Rooker Bar for reflective water and wading portraits
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and local ecosystems during long sun exposure on open water.
Water shoesEssential
Protects feet when walking on shell-strewn beaches and sandbars.
Wide-brim hat & sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare and sun exposure on the deck and while ashore.
Light windbreaker
Evenings on the water can be cooler—bring a thin jacket for sunset cruises.
Common Questions
Where do departures happen?
The operator coordinates a convenient pickup point after booking—options include public docks, marinas, or private floats near Clearwater Beach.
Is snorkeling or swimming included?
Yes—trips commonly anchor at sandbars or near islands for swimming and snorkeling; bring your own snorkel gear if preferred.
Will we see dolphins?
Dolphin sightings are very common but not guaranteed; captains know local pods and will position the boat for the best viewing opportunities.
Are restrooms available?
The Funship has onboard facilities; when ashore, facilities depend on the island or sandbar visited—plan accordingly.
Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes—tours accommodate families and provide life jackets in multiple sizes; supervise children on deck and in the water.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure; tours may be canceled for bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Clearwater, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for people of most fitness levels; requires ability to climb a short ladder and move on deck and beach.
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