Private Half-Day Buccaneer Funship Charter — Clearwater Beach Dolphin & Island Tour
Board a private double-decker Funship from Clearwater Beach for a customizable 4–8 hour cruise that chases dolphins, drops anchor at emerging sand bars and lands you on secluded barrier islands for shelling and swimming. Perfect for families or small groups wanting a flexible Gulf day.
The Experience
Before You Go
Sun protection is essential
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brim hat and polarized sunglasses — sun reflects strongly off the water and sand.
Prepare for seasickness
Take motion-sickness meds before boarding if you’re prone to nausea; mornings are usually calmer for sensitive passengers.
Footwear for beaching
Wear quick-dry water shoes or sandals for walking on shell-strewn beaches and slippery boat ladders.
Timing for light and crowds
Choose a morning departure for glassy water and fewer boats, or an evening cruise for sunset photos and cooler temperatures.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Three-Rooker Sand Bar — a newly formed, semicircular sand spit ideal for shallow-water play and shelling
- •The north end of Caladesi Island — quieter stretches with intact dunes and good shell hunting
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •West Indian manatees
Conservation Note
Barrier islands are dynamic habitats vulnerable to erosion and boat traffic; use reef-safe products, avoid disturbing wildlife and follow crew guidance about landing sites.
The Clearwater coastline sits on lands long used by the Tocobaga people; modern tourism grew in the 20th century as railroad and ferry access opened the barrier islands.
Photographer's Notes
- • Foredeck for bow-level dolphin shots
- • Shallow edge of Three-Rooker Sand Bar for low-angle water reflections
- • Upper deck for wide island-and-horizon compositions
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and local ecosystems during long exposure on deck and beaches.
Polarized sunglasses and hatEssential
Cuts glare off water to help spot dolphins and protects eyes from reflected sunlight.
Quick-dry water shoes
Useful for shelling, climbing on sand bars and boarding from shallow water.
Light windbreaker or towel
Even warm afternoons can have a cool breeze on the water; a towel doubles for drying after swims.
Common Questions
How many people fit on the Funship?
The private charter accommodates up to 10 guests per booking, making it ideal for families or small groups.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes — life jackets and standard safety equipment are onboard and a safety briefing is given before departure.
Can we request specific stops like Caladesi Island or the sand bar?
Yes — the captain can customize the route to include Caladesi, Honeymoon Island, Three-Rooker Sand Bar and other local spots based on tides and conditions.
Is the boat suitable for young children or seniors?
Yes — the trip is family-friendly, but passengers should be able to step on/off the boat and manage short walks on sand; morning departures are gentler for children and seniors.
What about bathrooms and food?
The Funship typically has a marine head onboard; guests often bring snacks or small coolers — bottled water is provided.
What’s the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; tours may be canceled for bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–8 hours
Location
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to step on and off a small boat and walk on uneven sand.
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