From Orlando: Day Trip to Clearwater with Sea Screamer Ride

Planning a day trip from Orlando to Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast sounds tempting, especially when it involves a high-speed boat ride and time to relax on a beautiful beach. This particular tour, offered by Gray Line of Orlando – Gator Tours, promises an exciting mix of adventure and relaxation—perfect for those who want a taste of coastal Florida without staying overnight.

What really caught our eye? First, the 1-hour Sea Screamer ride on the largest speedboat on the U.S. East Coast, which guarantees a quick, exhilarating experience. Second, the opportunity to spot dolphins jumping and playing in the boat’s wake is a highlight many travelers cherish.

However, a potential consideration is that this trip is quite long—about 11 to 12 hours—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with full-day outings and who enjoy a bit of adventure combined with beach leisure. It’s also worth noting that the experience is quite active, with plenty of time outdoors, so packing appropriately is key.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love boat rides, wildlife spotting, and spending time on beaches, especially if you’re after a straightforward yet memorable day trip. If you’re after a relaxed cruise or a luxurious, slow-paced beach day, this might not be the perfect fit. That said, for those seeking a blend of thrill and sun, it really hits the mark.

Key Points

• High-Speed Thrill: The Sea Screamer is the largest speedboat on the East Coast, offering a safe yet adrenaline-pumping 1-hour ride.
• Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins are a common sight, often following the boat and jumping in the waves, adding a magical element to the ride.
• Beach Time: Plenty of free time on Clearwater Beach to swim, relax, or explore, with a picnic lunch included.
• Comfort and Safety: The boat is Coast Guard-licensed, equipped with safety features, and has comfortable seating, restrooms, and refreshments.
• Cost and Value: At $125 per person, this tour offers a solid mix of adventure and leisure, especially when considering the included transport, guide, and activities.
• Flexible Cancellation: It’s easy to cancel up to 24 hours before, making it flexible for changing plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Departure and Transportation

Starting from Orlando, the trip begins early in the morning and involves round-trip transportation, which is a huge convenience. The pickup points are clearly specified: outside hotel lobbies, with instructions on exact locations—like the Pacifica Ballroom entrance at the Royal Pacific Resort or the rear of Universal Blvd at ICON Park. The guide, known for being friendly and engaging, leads the group, helping to keep the mood light and informative.

Travelers have praised the small group setting, making the journey more intimate and less like a big bus crowd. The ride itself is comfortable, with plenty of room for everyone to relax before reaching Clearwater.

The Sea Screamer Ride: Speed, Views, and Dolphins

Once at Clearwater, the highlight is the Sea Screamer ride. This 72-foot-long speedboat is impressive just to look at, with dual twin-turbocharged engines capable of reaching speeds up to 35 miles per hour. That’s fast enough to give you a real adrenaline rush, but the boat’s design and safety features ensure everyone stays secure.

During the ride, you’ll want to hold onto your hat—trust us—and prepare for a fun, wet-and-wild experience. Many travelers mention how dolphins tend to follow the boat, playing in the wake. It’s a true highlight, especially if you’re lucky enough to see a pod jumping in unison. One review noted, “Dolphins were good,” which speaks to how reliable this sighting can be.

Relaxing at Clearwater Beach

After the thrill of the boat, you’ll have ample free time on one of the top-rated beaches in the US. Clearwater Beach offers white sandy shores and calm waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking up the rays. Several reviews mention how much they enjoyed the beautiful scenery and friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot for a laid-back afternoon.

A picnic lunch is provided, so you can fuel up without worrying about extra costs. If you prefer grabbing a casual bite or a drink, soda and water are available for purchase onboard the boat during the trip.

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The Return Trip and Overall Comfort

The return journey is straightforward, with transportation arranged back to Orlando. The entire day lasts about 11 to 12 hours, including travel, activities, and free time—so be prepared for a full, activity-packed day.

What Travelers Are Saying

Overall, reviews are quite positive, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 14 reviews. Many travelers loved the friendly staff and the stunning views. One shared, “We had the best time! Angelina was an excellent host,” which highlights the importance of good guides in making the experience enjoyable.

Others appreciated the value for money, especially when considering the included transportation, boat ride, and beach time. A review from someone who booked with lunch on the trip described it as “delicious” and highly recommended.

That said, some noted minor inconveniences. For example, one traveler mentioned the bus being cold, so dressing in layers or bringing a jacket might be wise. Also, the boat spray might get some passengers wet, so packing appropriate clothing or a change of clothes could be helpful.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy boat rides and wildlife sightings, along with those who want to relax on a beautiful beach. It’s also good for families or groups of friends looking for a comprehensive day with a mix of thrill and chill. If you’re after a luxurious, slow-paced day at the beach, this might not be your best bet.

However, if you’re someone who loves a bit of speed, loves seeing dolphins, and doesn’t mind a full day out, this tour could be just right. Keep in mind that it requires some physical mobility and comfort with outdoor activities.

FAQ about the Clearwater & Sea Screamer Day Trip

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pick-up from specified locations, round-trip transportation, a 1-hour ride on the Sea Screamer speedboat, a service of a driver guide, and free time on Clearwater Beach with a picnic lunch.

How long does the trip last?
Expect the entire experience to take about 11 to 12 hours from departure to return, making it a full-day outing.

Is the boat ride safe?
Yes. The Sea Screamer is Coast Guard-licensed, with all necessary safety features. It’s designed for comfort and safety with bucket seats, restrooms, and refreshments.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, and sunscreen. Since the spray might get passengers wet, packing a towel or a change of clothes might be smart.

Can I cancel the tour?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which gives some flexibility if plans change.

Are there food options on board?
Sodas and water are sold onboard, and a picnic lunch is provided during the beach stop. Additional meals or beverages are not included.

What are the group sizes like?
Small groups are available, making the experience more personalized and less crowded.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, older children who enjoy boat rides and beaches should find it fun. Always consider your children’s comfort with outdoor activities.

What if I have a fear of speed or water?
The boat ride is exhilarating but designed for safety, and the guide ensures a comfortable experience. If you’re uneasy about speed or water, consider whether this trip matches your comfort level.

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
While the tour involves outdoor activities and walking on beaches, specific mobility accommodations aren’t detailed. It’s best to contact the provider directly if you have special needs.

Final Thoughts

This full-day trip from Orlando to Clearwater offers a compelling blend of adventure and relaxation. The thrilling Sea Screamer ride combined with the chance to observe dolphins in their natural habitat makes it stand out. The included transport, guide, and picnic lunch add convenience and value, especially considering the length of the day.

It’s a good choice for travelers seeking an active, engaging experience without the fuss of multiple bookings or expensive extras. The reviews highlight the friendly staff and the stunning views, making it clear that many find it worthwhile.

However, keep in mind the length of the day and the outdoor nature of the activities. Packing appropriately and being prepared for a full, busy schedule will help you enjoy every moment.

Overall, if you’re after a memorable, action-packed day with plenty of scenic moments, this tour is likely to deliver. Just set your expectations for a lively day of speed, wildlife, and beachside relaxation, all wrapped into one.

You can check availability for your dates here: