Private Siesta Funship Adventure/Dolphin Cruise Sandbar Stops

If you’re looking for a laid-back yet memorable way to explore Sarasota’s waters, the Private Siesta Funship Adventure might just be what you need. This tour offers a chance to see playful dolphins and gentle manatees in their natural habitat, all aboard a private boat that guarantees a personalized experience. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned boater, this trip has a few neat perks that make it stand out.

What really caught our eye? First, the private setting ensures you won’t be part of a large crowd, and the opportunity to stop at a sandbar or beach for swimming adds a fun, relaxed vibe. Plus, the BYOB policy makes it flexible for guests to bring their own drinks, with coolers and ice provided. But, a quick heads-up—at $800 for a group of up to six, it’s a bit on the pricier side. Still, many find it well worth the expense for the personalized attention and unique stops.

If you love wildlife, enjoy water activities, and value a tailored experience, this tour could be perfect. It suits small groups or families wanting quality time on the water, with a good mix of wildlife spotting and fun at a sandbar or tiki bar. It’s not the best choice if you’re after a large group or a super budget-friendly option, but for those who prioritize comfort and exclusivity, it’s a solid pick.

Key Points

• Private tour means more personalized attention from the captain and crew.
• Wildlife spotting is a highlight, with dolphins and manatees likely to appear.
• Sandbar stops offer opportunities for swimming, sliding, or paddleboarding.
• BYOB policy gives guests flexibility to bring drinks, with coolers and ice supplied.
• Duration is about 4 hours, making it a relaxed yet engaging outing.
• Pricing is $800 per group, suitable for up to 6 people, offering an intimate experience.

Discover Sarasota’s Waters with a Private Dolphin and Manatee Cruise

This tour promises a peaceful, scenic adventure on Sarasota’s open waters, with the chance to see some of Florida’s most charming marine life. We’re talking about dolphins that play just off the boat’s bow and the slow-moving manatees that often drift nearby. Knowing where to find them is half the battle, and luckily, the captain’s local knowledge makes this a good shot at wildlife encounters.

The boat departs from 946 Siesta Dr., right by the North Siesta Key Bridge, at 10 a.m., setting a leisurely tone for the day. As soon as you’re on board, the focus is on relaxing and taking in the scenery. The boat itself is described as large, with toys suited for kids—though it’s just as good for adults wanting a peaceful escape. The crew, including Captain Joe and Cosmo, are praised for their friendliness and expertise, adding a personal touch to the trip.

Wildlife Encounters and Sandbar Stops

One of the main draws of this trip is the chance to see dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat. Many reviews highlight how much fun it is to spot these creatures gliding through the water, especially when the weather is clear. As one traveler put it, “Joe was very nice and had a lot of good information about the Sarasota area,” making wildlife spotting both enjoyable and educational.

The itinerary includes a stop at a sandbar or beach where guests can swim, slide, or paddleboard. This flexibility is a big plus—after a good dose of wildlife viewing, you can cool off in the water or just relax on the sand. The tour operator provides coolers with ice and water, and since it’s BYOB, you can bring your favorite drinks for lounging in the sun. Many find this feature makes the experience feel more customized and laid-back.

Tiki Bar and Beach Experiences

Another feature that elevates this trip is the opportunity to stop at a tiki bar or restaurant to grab a frozen drink or a bite. While not part of the core water adventure, it’s a fun addition for those looking to extend their laid-back day. Keep in mind, the boat is BYOB—so if you want to enjoy your own drinks, just bring them along and use the coolers provided.

From the reviews, we see that guests appreciate the flexibility. “We can stop at a tiki bar/restaurant to grab a frozen drink,” and another noted the big boat “with a ton of toys for kids,” which suggests it’s a family-friendly option for those traveling with children.

What to Expect During Your Trip

The trip begins with wildlife searches near the North Siesta Key Bridge. Expect the captain and crew to be attentive and eager to find dolphins or manatees, often a highlight for animal lovers. The boat’s size and equipment allow for comfortable viewing, and the open water provides an excellent vantage point for photos.

Once wildlife is spotted or the crew decides it’s time, you’ll stop at the sandbar or beach. Here, the focus is on relaxation—swimming, paddling, or just soaking up the sun. If you’re feeling adventurous, paddleboarding is an option, though it’s not explicitly detailed whether equipment is included or if you need to bring your own.

The tour wraps up with a scenic cruise back toward shore, often with the chance to see more wildlife or simply enjoy the views. The entire experience lasts around four hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure that’s not too rushed.

Real Traveler Experiences

One review from Charlie_C captures the essence nicely: “Really nice day out with Captain Joe and Cosmo. Big boat with a ton of toys for kids. Joe was very nice and had a lot of good information about the Sarasota area, would go out again if we are back in the area.” This suggests the trip is both fun and informative, with enough features to keep everyone engaged.

However, not all experiences are perfect. A less favorable review was shared by Rebecca_L, who expressed dissatisfaction because “the owner said he doesn’t work with Viator,” leading to confusion and disappointment. It’s a reminder to double-check your booking details and confirm the provider’s communication—issues like this can happen, but they seem to be exceptions rather than the norm.

Price and Value

At $800 for a group of up to six, this tour isn’t the cheapest option out there, but it’s understandable given the private setting and personalized service. For small groups or families wanting an exclusive day on the water, many find it reasonable. The fact that it includes coolers, ice, and the flexibility for BYOB also adds value, especially if you plan to relax and enjoy your own drinks.

Practical Details

The trip begins at 10 a.m., and since it’s a private tour, your schedule is flexible within the four-hour window. The activity ends back at the starting point, so you don’t have to worry about long transfers or complicated logistics. The tour is accessible to most travelers, with service animals allowed and close proximity to public transportation.

Weather can impact the trip—poor conditions mean cancellations or rescheduling, but the provider offers full refunds or alternative dates if that happens. Booking in advance is recommended, with many travelers scheduling about a month ahead.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves wildlife and enjoys relaxing water days, this adventure will resonate. It’s especially good for small groups or families looking for a more intimate experience, rather than a crowded tour. If you appreciate personalized service and the chance to swim or enjoy drinks at a scenic spot, you’ll find this tour ticks those boxes.

On the flip side, if you’re budget-conscious or traveling solo, this might feel a bit pricey for your situation. Also, if you’re after a high-energy, large-group tour, this private experience might not be your best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the boat is equipped with toys for kids, and swimming stops can be fun for children. It seems suitable for families, but always check with the provider about specific age recommendations.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a private boat, coolers with ice and water, and the opportunity to bring your own drinks with BYOB. Stops for swimming and a scenic cruise are part of the experience.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, swim, and enjoy wildlife spotting.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the provider offers free cancellation if the weather turns poor, with either a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Is this a shared or private tour?
It’s private, meaning only your group participates, which allows for a more tailored experience.

What if I don’t see dolphins or manatees?
Wildlife sightings depend on nature and conditions, but the captain’s local knowledge maximizes your chances. These encounters are common, but not guaranteed.

Can I bring alcohol on board?
Yes, the boat is BYOB, so you can bring your favorite drinks to enjoy during the trip.

If you’re after a mellow, personalized day on Sarasota’s waters with the chance to see dolphins and manatees, this private cruise offers a pretty good deal. It’s relaxed, flexible, and designed for those who want quality over quantity. Just remember to confirm all details beforehand and be prepared for a scenic, wildlife-filled journey that’s perfect for small groups or families craving a special day on the water.