St. Petersburg, Florida, is well-known for its beautiful beaches and waterfront attractions. But did you know that it’s also a prime location for whale watching? That’s right, these gentle giants of the sea can often be spotted off the coast of St. Petersburg, making for an unforgettable wildlife experience. So, if you’re looking to get up close and personal with some of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures, read on for a guide to the best whale watching in St. Petersburg.
The 3 Best Whale Watching in St Petersburg
The 3 Best Whale Watching in St Petersburg
1. Dolphin Cruise to Shell Key
Looking for an adventure that’s perfect for all ages? Take a dolphin cruise from St. Pete Beach and get up close with local wildlife like manatees, rays, seabirds, and, of course, dolphins! After spotting these playful creatures in Boca Ciega Bay, the tour will take you to Shell Key Island, a serene wildlife preserve where you can collect shells on the beach or go snorkeling in the Gulf of Mexico. With both late morning and afternoon departure times available, this tour is flexible and easy to fit into any schedule. Snorkeling equipment and bottled water are included for your convenience. The meeting point is Tierra Verde Marina Resort on 200 Madonna Blvd in Tierra Verde, FL. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to see the beautiful marine life in the Tampa Bay Area!
2. Egmont Key Tour
The Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge is a serene secluded island located in Tampa Bay that’s perfect for hiking and fishing. Embark on a relaxing half-day tour from St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key, where you’ll get to wander miles of white sand beaches and explore the Fort Dade ruins and historic lighthouse on the key. With the snorkeling equipment included, you can discover the vibrant marine life while keeping an eye out for dolphin sightings while boating. Sail under the stunning Sunshine Skyway Bridge and enjoy a refreshing bottled water during the trip. You can also bring your own food and drink to enjoy a quiet island lunch. This activity ends back at the meeting point located at 400 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg FL 33701 USA, which is near public transportation. Confirmation is received at the time of booking and please note that this activity is not wheelchair accessible.
3. Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise and Eco Tour
Embark on a thrilling Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise and Eco Tour departing from John’s Pass at Hubbard’s Marina. Check-in and board 30-45 minutes prior to departure and enjoy the convenience of restrooms and snacks onboard. This tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is near public transportation and suitable for most travelers. Operated by a third-party company, this tour/activity can accommodate up to 76 travelers and includes a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Return to the meeting point after an unforgettable experience watching dolphins in their natural habitat.
Whale Watching in St. Petersburg: Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions
Are you planning a trip to St. Petersburg with the hopes of seeing whales in their natural habitat? Whale watching is a popular activity in this area and attracts thousands of tourists each year. However, you may have some questions before embarking on your adventure. In this blog post, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about whale watching in St. Petersburg.1. When is the best time to go whale watching in St. Petersburg?
The best time to go whale watching in St. Petersburg is from April to October, as this is when the whales are most active in the area. During this time, you have a higher chance of encountering a variety of whale species, including humpbacks, orcas, and gray whales.2. What types of whales can be seen in St. Petersburg?
St. Petersburg is home to various whale species, including humpbacks, orcas, gray whales, and minke whales. Humpbacks and orcas are among the most commonly sighted species, but gray whales are also occasionally spotted. Keep in mind that whale sightings are never guaranteed, as these animals are constantly on the move.3. How long does a typical whale watching tour last?
Whale watching tours in St. Petersburg typically last around 3-4 hours. However, some tours may be shorter or longer, depending on the provider and the specific details of the tour. Be sure to check the tour details before booking to ensure you have a clear idea of what to expect.4. How close will we get to the whales?
The distance between the whale watching boat and the whales can vary, as it is controlled by various factors such as the behavior of the whales and the safety of the passengers. Tours are conducted with the utmost respect for the whales and their habitat, and there are strict guidelines in place to ensure that the animals are not disturbed or harmed.5. What should I bring on a whale watching tour?
When going on a whale watching tour, it’s important to dress in warm layers, as the weather on the water can be cold and windy. You should also bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. Camera equipment is also recommended, as you will want to capture the moment if you spot a whale.6. Is it safe to go on a whale watching tour in St. Petersburg?
Yes, it is safe to go on a whale watching tour in St. Petersburg, as long as you book with a licensed and reputable provider. The tour guides are knowledgeable and experienced, and the boats are equipped with safety equipment to ensure the well-being of passengers. However, it’s important to follow the instructions of the tour guide and keep a safe distance from the whales.7. What happens if we don’t see any whales on the tour?
While it’s rare to go on a tour without seeing any whales, it can happen. In this case, many whale watching providers offer a “whale sighting guarantee,” which means that you can come back on another tour at no additional cost if you do not see any whales on your first tour. Be sure to check with your provider before booking to see if this guarantee is offered.8. How much does a whale watching tour in St. Petersburg cost?
The cost of a whale watching tour in St. Petersburg can vary depending on the provider, the duration of the tour, and the number of passengers. Generally, tours start at around $100 per person, but prices can go up from there. It’s important to shop around and compare prices and tour details before booking to ensure you get the best value for your money.How to Do Whale Watching in St. Petersburg
If you’re interested in whale watching and happen to be in St. Petersburg, you’re in for a treat. Located on the west coast of Florida, St. Petersburg is a great spot for whale watching, whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting out. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.Step 1: Choose the right time of year
The best time to go whale watching in St. Petersburg is between December and April, which coincides with the migration of humpback whales. During this time, the whales swim through the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico to reach their breeding and calving grounds in the Caribbean. The calm water and sunny weather during this period make for an ideal whale watching experience.Step 2: Book a tour
There are several tour operators in St. Petersburg that offer whale watching tours. Choose a reputable one that has experienced guides and operates in a responsible and sustainable manner. Some popular tour companies include Dolphin Landings, Island Boat Adventures, and Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours.Step 3: Prepare for the tour
Before the tour, make sure you dress appropriately for the weather. It can get chilly out on the water, so it’s important to wear layers. You should also bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.Step 4: Board the boat and set sail
When you arrive at the tour operator’s location, you’ll board the boat and meet the captain and crew. They will provide you with a safety briefing and explain what to expect during the tour. Once you’re all set, the boat will set sail from the marina and head out to deeper waters.Step 5: Spotting the whales
As you cruise along the waters, keep an eye out for signs of whale activity such as breaching, tail slapping, and spouting. The captain and crew will also be on the lookout and will alert you when they spot some activity. Once you spot the whales, the boat will slowly approach them, maintaining a safe distance, and the guide will provide you with information on the species and their behaviors.Step 6: Enjoy the experience
As you watch the whales, enjoy the experience and take some photos or videos to capture the moment. Remember to be respectful of the whales’ space and avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that may startle or disturb them.Step 7: Return to the marina
After spending some time observing the whales, the boat will start heading back to the marina. You’ll have some time to relax, chat with the crew, or grab a snack or drink before arriving back at the dock.Step 8: Review and share your experience
After the tour, take some time to review and share your experience with others. Leave a review on the tour operator’s website or social media pages to help other travelers in their search for a whale watching tour. You can also share your photos and videos on social media and tag the tour operator to give them some exposure.Book Your Tour Now
Whale watching in St. Petersburg is a fantastic experience that is both educational and exciting. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can have a safe and unforgettable whale watching tour. Book your tour today and enjoy the beauty and majesty of these magnificent creatures.
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