The Flordia Gulf coast is the perfect location for a family vacation. If you foresee yourselves spending a lot of time on the water or chartering a boat for a day there are several different things to do on a boat. There are boating activities for animal lovers and adventure junkies alike, so keep reading for more inspiration!
1. Snorkeling
Relaxing on the boat is nice but don’t forget about the magic of snorkeling. Grab a mask and fins and dive underneath the surface to uncover the underwater ecosystems.
Caladesi Island and Honeymoon Island are two hotspots for snorkeling because the water off the islands is shallow, calm, and clear.
If you have small children you can rest assured at Caladesi Island because a lifeguard monitors the area; usually from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Of the two, Honeymoon is more remote so there is a higher chance of seeing more unique sea creatures like sea turtles, stingrays, or colorful tropical fish like parrotfish or angelfish.
The easiest way to access these islands is by boat, so consider arranging a boat charter with A Boat Day. After booking, inform your captain that you would like to snorkel so they can provide you with the right amount of masks and fins.
2. Shelling
Florida is one of the best states for shelling and the Tampa Bay area has several amazing beaches where you can hunt for unique shells.
Instead of competing with the tides and foot traffic of the public beaches, going on a shelling boat tour is one of the best ways to go shelling. Shelling is also a great hands-on activity for kids and adults alike.
Our shelling boat tours will allow you to visit untouched barrier islands via a deck boat or funship. A knowledgeable captain and shelling bags will be included for your convenience. Tours depart from Clearwater, Indian Rocks, or Dunedin.
If you want an interactive boat day, keep this unique family boating activity on your radar.
3. Look for native animals on an Eco Cruise
An eco-cruise should be at the top of the list for families who want to learn more about the Tampa Bay area’s ecosystem, wildlife, and natural environments.
You will often have the opportunity to see dolphins, manatees, various bird species, and other marine life in their natural habitats. Your captain should be able to provide you with information regarding the different animals’ biology and behavior.
In Tampa Bay, you can choose from kayaking eco-tours or catamaran, pontoon, and sailboat eco-tours. Private eco cruises are the best option for accommodating entire families. They give you enough room to spread out without worrying about interrupting other people’s personal space like you would on a public eco-tour.
4. Dolphin Watching
Let’s be real, everyone loves dolphins. These beautiful creatures are plentiful in the Gulf waters. If you spend several hours on a boat charter, you are bound to spot some. Plus dolphin watching tours can provide educational insights that will be interesting for both kids and adults.
How many dolphin facts do you know? Find out here.
5. Tan in a Sunchill
The awesome thing about having a boat day is that you can use fun floating objects to relax out in the water. At A Boat Day, one of our customer’s personal favorites is the Sunchill. The mesh bottom allows you to soak in the water and the anchor allows you to relax without worry of drifting away. The Sunchill can hold up to 4 adults comfortably but you can squeeze in up to 6. Of course, you can fit even more if your group has a mix of kids and adults.
5. Explore barrier islands
The Tampa Bay area has many barrier islands to explore. This is one of our top recommended things to do on a boat as a family. As locals of Clearwater and the owners of A Boat Day, we have visited these different islands countless times and their beauty and solitude always bring us so much happiness, so we’re sure it will for you too.
Depending on how long of a charter you book, you will be able to hop around to several of the area’s barrier islands and take in the unique landscapes while swimming or tanning. These islands are perfect for stacking other activities into your boat day such as shelling or snorkeling.
6. Private sunset sail
This could be your reality…
A private sunset sail can be a wonderful way to spend intentional, quality time with your family, especially in today’s fast-paced culture. For families with older children who appreciate a more relaxed atmosphere, this activity offers a perfect opportunity to engage in meaningful conversation and enjoy the beautiful scenery together.
As you embark on your sunset sail, remember to bring along some of your favorite boating snacks and drinks. This will not only enhance the experience but also allow you to savor the moment as you watch the sun descend below the horizon.
8. Spend an adventurous overnight on a sailboat
Looking for a true family bonding experience like no other? Spend 24 hours aboard Wild Sail on the pristine waters of St Joseph Sound near Dunedin, Florida.
You can make this once-in-a-lifetime luxury boating activity as adventurous or laid-back as your family wants. Have your professional captain teach you how to set the sails, or sit back and relax. From island hopping to dolphin watching, you can include anything your heart desires in your itinerary.
You can see more details and check prices here.
Anchors aweigh!
After exploring this list of fun things to do on a boat in Tampa Bay, we hope you’ve found an idea your entire family will enjoy. Whether you’re spicing up a simple boat charter by floating on a Sunchill or exploring marine life by snorkeling at a hidden barrier island, Tampa Bay is one of the best places in Florida for fun family boating activities. No matter how you end up spending family time, you’re sure to create lifelong memories.