How did you discover this activity?

I had searched Dolphin Cruises for our trip to Panama City and found Trip Shock. There were a lot of options and I was easily able to find the one that suited our group the best.

When did you book your tour compared to the departure date?

I booked 2 days ahead of time, once I knew what the weather would be like for the week of our visit.

Why did you choose this activity?

We had a large group with many little ones. We ultimately booked this trip because the duration was approximately 3.5 hours and permitted for docking at a separate island with the ability to get off the boat, walk around, swim, shell, etc. and then return to harbor. It sounded like a great way to spend time and engage the little ones and adults, alike.

How did you get to the activity location?

We drove to the harbor from our beach condo - it was about a ten minute trip. Super quick and easy!

What was your experience with the activity’s staff?

SO INCREDIBLE! We had a family member with a new prosthetic leg with our group. The crew reserved a seat on the main deck for us, helped us get her aboard, helped her to enjoy the bow of the deck while we walked around on the island and helped her get back off the boat at the end. This was FAR BEYOND what we expected when we booked our trip. The crew was so kind, thoughtful and helpful. There are not enough words to express our gratitude for helping us make the trip wonderful and memorable for her and our whole group!

Highlights or memories you and your group will take from the trip?

We all were able to see multiple dolphins but for me, the best experience was seeing my aunt happy that she was able to participate and experience the tour like everyone else. Shell Island was gorgeous - it’s an uninhabited island that is a wildlife sanctuary. There was a really nice boardwalk from the dock over to the beach where our group was able to swim, hunt seashells and have fun before walking back to the boat. While my aunt didn’t venture out to the shore, the crew helped her up and accompanied her to the bow of the deck and let her enjoy time in the sunshine relaxing. As we returned to the boat, with our feet all sandy, the crew stood with a hose and hosed off our feet, which was SO nice and thoughtful. It was on the way back that we saw the dolphins. Our captain pointed out multiple pods and everyone in our group saw at least one dolphin. When we arrived back at harbor, we were fully prepared to get off the boat last, as it takes extra time for our aunt to maneuver around, however, the crew opened a separate exit and again helped us get her off the boat with the same care as they did with everyone else. I honestly cannot speak high enough of this crew and our experience.

Would you recommend this activity to another group like yours? Why or why not?

Absolutely - go and don’t think twice. It’s a great experience and the crew is phenomenal.