Half-Day Private Boating On Avalon Funship – Clearwater Beach

Clearwater’s Best Kept Secret: A Private Boating Adventure on the Avalon Funship

Thinking about a memorable day on the water while visiting Clearwater? We’ve come across a private boat tour that seems to tick all the right boxes. It’s called the Half-Day Private Boating on the Avalon Funship, and from what we’ve seen, it promises a laid-back, personalized experience that’s perfect for those who love nature, water activities, and a little bit of adventure—all in a cozy group setting.

What immediately caught our eye is how highly rated it is—a flawless 5.0 rating from 182 reviews and a perfect 100% recommendation rate. It’s clear that most folks who try it really enjoy the mix of wildlife sightings, island hopping, and the flexibility to customize the trip. We also appreciate that it’s a private tour for up to 10 guests, meaning you won’t be stuck in a giant crowd, and your guide can focus on your group’s interests.

One thing to keep in mind is the price—at $950 for up to 10 people, it might seem like a splurge, but considering it’s a private charter and includes so many unique stops, the cost per person can be quite reasonable, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family. However, it’s worth noting that tips for the captain are not included, so keep that in mind when budgeting.

This experience would suit anyone looking for a relaxed day of sightseeing, wildlife spotting, and beach fun—perfect for couples, friends, or small families wanting a private escape. If you’re after a flexible, scenic adventure with the chance to see dolphins and explore secluded islands, this one’s definitely worth considering.

Key Points

• Private & customizable: Your group gets exclusive use of the boat and can tailor stops and activities.
• Wildlife opportunities: Chances to see dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and various native birds.
• Island hopping: Visit Caladesi Island, Honeymoon Island, and the emerging Three Rooker Island, each offering unique scenery and activities.
• Comfort & safety: The boat is a cozy 27-foot double-decker with a slide, plus safety gear and life jackets provided.
• Relaxing experiences: Swimming, shelling, and lounging on quiet beaches are all part of the trip, with optional sunset views.
• All-in-one package: Cooler with bottled water, local taxes, fuel, and a professional guide included make for a hassle-free day.

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect on the Boat

The tour kicks off at the Seminole Boat Ramp in Clearwater, where you’ll start with a quick safety briefing. Right away, the vibe is relaxed—your captain, usually described as knowledgeable and friendly, guides you through the day with ease. This is not just a ride; it’s an interactive experience where you can get involved, whether that’s by swimming, shelling, or simply soaking up the scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Right Choice Marine
Once underway, you’ll head north of Clearwater Beach, cruising past shimmering waterways toward the barrier islands. Here, dolphins are almost guaranteed sightings, and you might also spot manatees, sea turtles, rays, and native birds like ospreys. The boat is equipped with a cooler filled with ice and bottled water, so staying hydrated is easy—even on hot days. Guests often mention how the captain’s local knowledge makes this part especially fun, pointing out wildlife and sharing interesting tidbits.

Stop 2: Caladesi Island State Park
This is one of the true highlights—an untouched island accessible only by boat, which makes it feel like a private paradise. The reviews love the extra effort to visit this spot, calling it “worth the effort” and “beautifully untouched.” Here, you can go shelling on pristine beaches or just relax with your toes in the sand. The admission to Caladesi is included, so you won’t have extra costs.

Stop 3: Honeymoon Island State Park
A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Honeymoon Island offers miles of soft sand and a scenic trail through virgin slash pine forests. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk or a quick swim. It’s also free to visit, which adds to the value of the tour.

Stop 4: Three Rooker Island
This emerging island is a fascinating example of coastal dynamics—it appeared within the last decade, and now offers a vegetated and stable spot for exploring. Guests love the opportunity to walk around and enjoy the natural beauty of this newly formed island. The two-hour stop here allows plenty of time for shelling, beachcombing, or just relaxing.

Stop 5: Clearwater Beach
Finally, the boat heads back past Clearwater Beach itself, famous for its soft, white sand and calm waters. This is the perfect spot to unwind, splash around, or watch the sunset if you’re on an afternoon or evening tour. Many reviewers mention how the laid-back vibe of Clearwater Beach makes this trip feel like a true escape.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

What keeps getting mentioned in reviews is the professionalism of the guides, especially their local knowledge and friendly attitude. One reviewer said, “Captain Matt was so engaging—we really enjoyed his personality.” Others appreciated the flexibility, like getting off the boat for swimming and shelling, or the chance to see dolphins and other wildlife.

The boat itself is described as comfortable and fun. The double-decker design with a slide makes it appealing for families or groups wanting a mix of relaxation and activity. The boat is also equipped with safety gear and life jackets, which adds peace of mind.

Guests also rave about the value. For around $950, your group gets a private, tailored experience with multiple stops, wildlife sightings, and all the gear you need. The reviews show that many people consider it a highlight of their trip—a special way to see the Gulf Coast from a different perspective.

Practical Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting a few things. Since the trip is 4 hours long, you’ll want to be comfortable with a moderate amount of time on the water. The boat is suitable for most travelers, and the trip is designed to be flexible, but if anyone in your group has mobility issues, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

The price might be a consideration, but given the private, customizable nature of the tour, many find it worthwhile—especially if split among friends. Remember, gratuity for the captain isn’t included, so plan to tip if you’re happy with the experience.

Weather can impact your plans—if conditions aren’t suitable, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. So, it’s good to keep an eye on the forecast when booking.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This private boat tour is best suited for small groups seeking a personalized, relaxed day on the water. It’s perfect for couples, small families, or friends who enjoy wildlife, beaches, and a touch of adventure without the crowds. If you’re looking for a flexible itinerary that mixes sightseeing, wildlife watching, and beach time, you’ll probably find this tour hits the right notes.

It’s also a good choice if you want a special occasion like a birthday, anniversary, or even a romantic sunset cruise. The privacy and custom nature of the trip make it feel exclusive without being overly formal.

The Sum Up

The Half-Day Private Boating on Avalon Funship offers a well-rounded, highly rated way to experience Clearwater’s scenic waterways. The combination of dolphin sightings, island hopping, and beach lounging makes it a versatile adventure that can appeal to many types of travelers. The guides’ local expertise and the comfort of the boat stand out as major pluses, making this a trip that feels both relaxing and engaging.

While it’s not the cheapest activity out there, the private nature and unique stops give it a solid value—particularly for those who want a tailored experience. It’s ideal for small groups looking for a memorable, scenic day without the hassle of large tours or crowded beaches.

If you’re after a flexible, wildlife-rich, and scenic trip with a friendly guide at the helm, this boat tour could be just what you need to make your Clearwater visit special.

FAQs

Is this tour private? Yes, it’s a private, custom boat tour for your group only, up to 10 people.

What is included in the price? The tour includes the boat, dolphin watching, island hopping, shelling, swimming, a cooler with bottled water, safety equipment, a professional guide, and taxes. Fuel is also covered.

Can I go swimming or shelling? Absolutely. Guests often get off the boat to swim, shell, and explore the islands.

Where does the tour start? The meeting point is at the Seminole Boat Ramp in Clearwater.

Is there a minimum age or suitability for children? While not explicitly mentioned, the boat’s features and the reviews suggest it’s suitable for most travelers, including families.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 4 hours.

Do I need to book far in advance? Yes, on average, most trips are booked about 41 days ahead, so planning early is advisable.

What happens in case of bad weather? The tour can be canceled due to poor weather, and you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

If you’re looking for a flexible, wildlife-rich, and scenic day on the water, this private boat tour in Clearwater sounds like a fantastic option. It combines the thrill of dolphin sightings with the tranquility of secluded beaches—perfect for making some memorable moments.