Captain Anderson's Marina - Image 1
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Captain Anderson's Marina

4.4
·3k reviews·Panama City, United States

Iconic marina offering thrilling dolphin tours, Shell Island adventures, and deep-sea fishing trips. A Panama City Beach staple!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoons

Dolphins are often more active.

CrowdMedium
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Captain Anderson's Marina - Image 1

Captain Anderson's Marina

Best Time

Afternoons

Dolphins are often more active.

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic marina offering thrilling dolphin tours, Shell Island adventures, and deep-sea fishing trips. A Panama City Beach staple!

4.4
(3k reviews)

"Hands down the best dolphin tour I've ever been on. Amazing time!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Sunset Cruise Magic

Don't miss the sunset cruise! The views are stunning and dolphins are frequently spotted.

🐬 Dolphin Spotting Tips

Dolphins are wild, but tours often have great success. Seeing a baby dolphin is extra special!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dolphin Ecotour & Shell Island

Dolphin Ecotour & Shell Island

Marina

Witness playful dolphins in their natural habitat and explore the pristine shores of Shell Island. A must-do for nature lovers!

Deep-Sea Fishing Excursions

Deep-Sea Fishing Excursions

Marina

Embark on a thrilling half-day fishing trip and reel in your catch of the day. Experienced captains and crew make it an adventure.

Sunset Dolphin Cruise

Sunset Dolphin Cruise

Marina

Experience the magic of a PCB sunset while spotting dolphins. A romantic and memorable evening for couples and families.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Dolphin Tour in Advance

Popular dolphin and Shell Island tours fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Booking online ahead of time is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Many tours offer flexible cancellation policies.

Consider the Weather for Your Trip

Panama City Beach weather can change. Check the forecast before your tour and pack accordingly. Sunscreen, hats, and light clothing are essential for sunny days, while a light jacket might be useful for cooler evenings or breezy boat rides.

Best Times

When
Afternoons
Why
Dolphins are often more active.
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Beautiful sunsets and cooler temps.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Lets Eat Seafood at “Captain Anderson’s” This Place Is FANCY!🤯🦞 ##fyp##fypシ##Foodie##foodietiktok##foodcritic##chopelasreview##foodvlog##ChopelasCreations##foodreview##foodvlog##lobster##seafood##restaurant
@justinchopelas
36.2K likes • 870.8K views

🌅 Sunset Cruise Magic

Don't miss the sunset cruise! The views are stunning and dolphins are frequently spotted. TikTokReddit

🐬 Dolphin Spotting Tips

Dolphins are wild, but tours often have great success. Seeing a baby dolphin is extra special! Reddit

Here is a glimpse of the individuals that make it all possible! We could not make it a day without our outstanding staff that has become our family! #captandersons #florida #lagoon #grandlagoon #pcb #seafood #steak #legendary #joinus #panamacitybeach #Summer #july #newtiktok #foryoupage #employee #crew #family #meetus #dinner #shoplocal #restaurant #waterfrontmarket #lounge #bar #wine #wineclub
@capt.andersons
31.1K likes • 253.9K views
Solid trip with tha boys today @capt_alan_culpepper put us on em today !
capt.benji
50 likes • 0 views

🎣 Fishing Excursion Value

Half-day fishing trips are pricey but can be worth it for the experience and fresh catch. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids love steering the boat and feeding seagulls. Crew makes it memorable! Reddit

Catch of the day - served with a view! Discover why @Capt. Anderson’s is a local & visitor favorite. #pcb #panamacitybeach #captandersons #restaurants
@visitpcb
5.3K likes • 41.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Sunset Cruise Magic

Don't miss the sunset cruise! The views are stunning and dolphins are frequently spotted. TikTokReddit

🐬 Dolphin Spotting Tips

Dolphins are wild, but tours often have great success. Seeing a baby dolphin is extra special! Reddit

🎣 Fishing Excursion Value

Half-day fishing trips are pricey but can be worth it for the experience and fresh catch. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids love steering the boat and feeding seagulls. Crew makes it memorable! Reddit

🛍️ Marina Gift Shop

Browse the gift shop for souvenirs after your tour. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently rave about the exceptional dolphin tours and the friendly, engaging crews who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience, especially for families. The beautiful scenery of Shell Island and the stunning sunsets are also frequently highlighted as major draws. While fishing excursions are pricey, they are often deemed worthwhile for the adventure and the convenience of fish processing.

"We went on the Dolphin Ecotour with Shell Island today and it was AMAZING. Hands down the best dolphin tour I've ever been on. Captain John and the crew were all awesome, super friendly and informative. We saw so many dolphins and Shell Island was beautiful! The boat was great; covered and steady even with the big swells, A/C downstairs of you need it, restrooms and snacks plus other sundry items available for purchase. If you are ever in PCB, I highly recommend this your with Captain Andersons!"

Emily Green

"We did the shell island/dolphin cruise. Shell island was absolutely stunning! Our captain was so funny and wonderful! We had an amazing time. We saw dolphins several times, including a baby. I know that not everyone gets that kind of experience so we were really grateful the dolphins were willing to show out that day. The captain let this kids take turns steering the boat. The crew was very helpful and entertaining as well. Overall would highly recommend!!"

Megan Van Kirk

"My wife, 3 sons, and I went on a sunset dolphin cruise. This was a fantastic experience. We did get to see dolphins but honestly Captain John and his crew were the reason my family and I had such a great time. My kids have been going on for hours about how this was their favorite thing they did during our vacation. They had a guy juggling, they passed out cheetos to feed to the seagulls, and Captain John even let my two older boys steer the boat and honk the horn. I was really impressed with how personable they were. Captain was talking to me about how he enjoys doing this work and making an impression on people. You could really tell he cared about customers having a good time. I will come here every time we come to PCB from now on. Thank you Captain John and crew! GIVE THESE GUYS A RAISE!"

Brenden Welton

What People Like

Amazing dolphin sightings
Friendly and interactive crews
Beautiful Shell Island

What People Dislike

Fishing excursions can be expensive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Captain Anderson's Marina is located in Panama City Beach, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors use ride-sharing services or taxis to reach the marina. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at the marina. It can get busy, especially during peak tour times, so arriving a little early is a good idea. TikTok

If you are staying nearby in Panama City Beach, walking might be an option depending on your accommodation's location. However, it's a popular destination, so driving or using a taxi/rideshare is more common. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can book tours directly through the Captain Anderson's Marina website or by calling them. It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for popular dolphin tours and fishing excursions, as they tend to sell out. TikTokReddit

Tour times vary depending on the specific excursion (dolphin tours, fishing trips, sunset cruises). It's best to check their official schedule online or contact them directly for the most up-to-date operating hours for each tour. TikTok

Yes, Captain Anderson's Marina offers a variety of tours including Dolphin Ecotours, Shell Island tours, deep-sea fishing excursions, and sunset dolphin cruises. Reddit+2

Prices for dolphin tours can vary based on the duration and specific package. It's advisable to check their website for current pricing. Some visitors have mentioned excursions costing around $1000 for a half-day fishing trip. Reddit

While it might be possible to purchase tickets on the day of the tour, it's not guaranteed, especially during busy periods. Booking in advance is strongly advised to ensure availability. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Besides the tours, the marina features a beautiful lobby, a gift shop for souvenirs, and a restaurant. It's a lively hub for marine activities. TikTok

Reviewers often mention the boats are comfortable and steady, even in rougher waters. Some boats have air-conditioned areas downstairs and restrooms. Reddit

Yes! Many visitors rave about how the captains let children take turns steering the boat and honking the horn, making it a highlight for kids. Reddit+1

Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. A light jacket might be useful for cooler evenings. You can purchase snacks and drinks onboard. Reddit

Yes, snacks and other sundry items are available for purchase on most tours. Some tours might offer complimentary items, but it's best to confirm beforehand. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Captain Anderson's Marina is known for its restaurant, which serves seafood, steaks, and other dishes. It's a popular spot for dining after a tour or for a dedicated meal. TikTok+2

The restaurant is famous for its fresh seafood, including options like Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Grouper, and shrimp. They also offer grilled specialties. TikTokReddit

While seafood is their specialty, the restaurant typically offers a variety of other options, including steaks and other non-seafood dishes, to cater to different preferences. TikTok

Some describe Captain Anderson's as a 'fancy' seafood restaurant, suggesting a more upscale dining experience compared to casual beachside eateries. TikTok

If you go on a fishing excursion, they will clean and process your fish for you at the marina after your trip. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The marina itself offers scenic views of boats and the water. Dolphin sightings, Shell Island's natural beauty, and sunset cruises provide incredible photo opportunities. TikTokReddit

Yes, the boats are designed to allow for easy movement and great vantage points for photography. The crew is also often accommodating to guests wanting to capture memories. Reddit+1

A camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing clear shots of dolphins from the boat. However, most smartphones can capture great memories too. Reddit

Absolutely! The sunset cruises offer breathtaking opportunities for capturing stunning sunset photos over the water. Reddit

While you can take photos of the staff, it's always polite to ask for permission first, especially if you plan to feature them prominently in your content. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Captain Anderson's Marina is a fantastic choice for families. The Dolphin Ecotours and Sunset Dolphin Cruises are huge hits with children, offering exciting opportunities to see marine life. The crew's interactive approach, including letting kids steer the boat and feed seagulls, creates unforgettable moments. Reddit+1

Beyond the tours, the marina itself has a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant offers a variety of options to please picky eaters, and the gift shop provides a fun diversion. Consider booking a tour that includes a visit to Shell Island for beach play and exploration. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Fishing Enthusiasts

For serious anglers, the half-day deep-sea fishing excursions are a must-try. While an investment, these trips offer a genuine offshore fishing experience with knowledgeable captains and crews. The convenience of having your catch cleaned and processed at the marina is a significant advantage. Reddit

Even if you're not fishing, the marina is a hub for marine activity. You can watch the fishing boats come and go, and the restaurant is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood, perhaps even some of your own catch if you've been out on a charter. Reddit

💑 Couples and Romantic Getaways

The Sunset Dolphin Cruise offers a perfect romantic experience. Imagine watching the sun dip below the horizon with dolphins playing in the waves – it's incredibly picturesque and memorable. Reddit

Couples can also enjoy a fine dining experience at Captain Anderson's Restaurant, known for its upscale ambiance and delicious seafood. It's an ideal spot for a special dinner during a romantic getaway to Panama City Beach. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dolphin Ecotour Experience

Captain Anderson's Marina is renowned for its Dolphin Ecotours, offering visitors a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat. These tours are consistently praised for their success in spotting pods of dolphins, including mothers and their calves. The experience is often described as 'amazing' and 'the best' by travelers, highlighting the friendly and informative nature of the captains and crew. Reddit+1

Beyond dolphin sightings, these tours typically include a visit to the beautiful Shell Island, a pristine barrier island known for its natural beauty. The boats used for these excursions are generally comfortable and steady, even in choppy waters, and often feature amenities like air-conditioned seating, restrooms, and snack bars. The crew's engaging personalities, including allowing children to steer the boat, contribute significantly to the memorable family experience. Reddit+1

While dolphin sightings are never guaranteed, the high success rate and the overall positive atmosphere created by the crew make the Dolphin Ecotour a top recommendation for anyone visiting Panama City Beach. It's an opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories. Reddit+1

Deep-Sea Fishing Adventures

For those seeking a more adventurous outing, Captain Anderson's Marina offers deep-sea fishing excursions. These half-day trips are an investment, with costs around $1000, but are considered worthwhile by many for the thrill of the catch and the overall experience. The marina provides boats and experienced crews who are knowledgeable about the local fishing grounds. Reddit

The success of a fishing trip, of course, depends on factors beyond the captain's control, such as fish behavior and weather conditions. However, reviewers consistently praise the crews for their effort and helpfulness, regardless of the catch size. A significant perk is that the marina offers to clean and process your fish after the excursion, allowing you to enjoy your fresh catch. Reddit

These fishing trips are ideal for individuals or groups who enjoy the sport and are looking for an active way to spend their time in Panama City Beach, offering a different perspective from the typical beach day. It's an opportunity to experience the Gulf's bounty firsthand. Reddit

Dining at Captain Anderson's Restaurant

Captain Anderson's is not just a marina; it's also home to a legendary restaurant celebrated for its fresh seafood and upscale dining experience. Visitors often describe it as a 'fancy' place, perfect for a special meal. The menu features a variety of local catches like Mahi Mahi, Snapper, and Grouper, alongside grilled specialties and steaks. TikTokReddit+1

The restaurant's reputation is built on serving high-quality dishes, with many patrons highlighting the delicious flavors and the overall dining ambiance. It's a popular choice for both tourists and locals looking for a memorable culinary experience in Panama City Beach. The grill masters, like Leon, are noted for their skill in preparing top-tier dishes. TikTok

While seafood is the star, the restaurant typically accommodates various tastes with other menu options. It's a place where you can enjoy a fantastic meal after a day of exploring the coast or as a destination in itself. TikTok

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