Adventures at Sea in Panama City Beach, FL is a terrific one-stop shop for a bounty of spectacular activities for your beach vacation. From jet skis and pontoon boats to parasailing and sail boating, the choices are there. Whether you’re a one man/woman show, part of a couple, a family or even a large group, you’ll find plenty to keep your crew busy at Adventures at Sea.
Parasailing is always one of the favorites among beach travelers as they sail through the sky and soar over the sparkling water. It’s your choice whether you want to just dangle your feet over the water or actually touch down for a dip. Unlike the earlier days of parasailing, it’s fairly effortless these days. Once the crew makes sure your harness is secure, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the outstanding sights. You’ll see everything from other water enthusiasts enjoying their day, hotels and condos, Shell Island, sea gulls and hopefully, a few dolphins. A waterproof camera is a great idea to use for taking pictures from above. For your safety, they’ll never take you up in the air when the weather is not suitable. You might want to schedule this one early in your trip in case you have to reschedule due to the weather. Parasailing is $44, $54 or $64 per ride (1-mile, 2-mile or 3-mile) and observers riding in the boat pay only $19. Anyone over the age of 80 goes for free!
The two-hour Wave Runner Tours will consist of a guide and several wave runners. Each runner seats up to two people. The guide will direct you on a tour of some of the surrounding sights such as St. Andrews State Park, Shell Island, the Bay Area and Grand Lagoon. They will help you find dolphins for a closeup view. Those who like to soar ahead will be able to do so, while the ones who want to hang back a bit to enjoy the sights or accommodate younger kids can do that as well. The tour guide will be able to round up everyone and make sure no ones strays too far away. A waterproof camera is a definite, especially if you get to frolic with the dolphins. Bring your own snorkeling gear to spend some time in the water or rent it from Adventures at Sea. Wave Runner Dolphin Tours are $120 per wave runner.
Jet skis are also available for up to three people per vehicle with a combined weight of no more than 400 pounds. Life jackets are provided and are mandatory for everyone’s safety. They have jackets to fit everyone from 30-300 pounds. The trained staff will provide instructions for those that are inexperienced. There are no limits to the speed that is allowed, so you can go as fast or slow as you’re able to safely drive. A half hour is $59 and a full hour is $94 for a thrilling ride.
Banana Boat Rides always provide loads of fun as you skim across the water in an inflatable banana boat that holds up to six passengers. This is something the whole family can do together. Kids as young as 4 years can ride and have a terrific time. All you do is sit and hold on as the jet ski pulls the boat across the coastal waters. A three mile ride is $19 per person. Special rates are available for large groups.
Pontoon Boats are another great idea for a fun excursion for your crew. With ease of operation, learning to drive and maneuver these boats is not a problem. Maps are always provided so you never have to be concerned that you’ll be lost and stranded on an uninhabited island. Capacity is 12 people, so they’re great for groups. Plan to share with another family or group, if needed, to make the rates more affordable. Pontoon boats are perfect for fishing and sightseeing or even for watching dolphins up close. It’s possible you might even come across a sea turtle or two. You may want to make a stop at Shell Island for a walk on the beach to view the wildlife or to snorkel in the shallow waters. Take along a cooler and snacks to help enjoy your day. Half day prices are $179 and a full day is $249. Gas is included in the price. There is an additional fee of $20 for insurance on the Pontoon that is definitely worth the price for those off-chance things that sometimes just happen.
For those looking for a more authentic fishing experience, Charter Fishing is the way to go. Previous experience is not necessary as the crew will show you everything you need to know. The day will start early to get everyone ready and all the equipment stowed. They provide the bait and the poles. Inshore fishing trips will have you bringing back Spanish mackerel, King mackerel, Ling and Blues. The bottom fishing of the offshore excursions will result in some great catches of Black and Red Grouper, Snapper, B-Liners, Cobia, Triggers and more. The boats will hold up to 20 people and accommodate large or small groups. You’ll need to call 850-236-0056 for pricing, reservations and additional information.
And you must not forget the Sail Boat Rides! Four people at the time can enjoy sailing together. No previous experience is required for sailing, as they will teach you all you need to know. Instructions only take about 20 minutes and you’ll be a pro in no time. You will always be within sight of the instructor during the entire time, so no worries. Or if you prefer, the instructor can come along and do all the driving for you. Life jackets are provided for added safety. One hour will run $59.
The newest attraction at Adventures at Sea is the Boat Cruises to the beautiful Shell Island. During the cruise, passengers will be able to swim with dolphins. Be sure to take your waterproof camera along to take some pictures of the dolphins. The captain will teach you everything you want to know about the Bay area as you cruise through Grand Lagoon, St. Andrew’s Bay and on into the Gulf of Mexico. Your stop at Shell Island will offer the opportunity to discover the beauty of an island inhabited only by wildlife and natural sand dunes. Plan to also spend some time snorkeling in the shallow waters and collecting starfish and sand dollars on the shore. Each boat accommodates up to six people for $54 per person. If your party is larger than six, you can reserve more than one.
What a super way to spend your vacation! Adventures at Sea provides so many opportunities that you could spend your entire vacation just enjoying them all. Take a look at their website before you go for more information and to print out their valuable online coupons to many area attractions and lodging options. The coupons do change often so check them often.
We have just a few words of advice to make your vacation more satisfying. Use the coupons for booking online and you can often get some great deals such as 25% off. If you’re renting a pontoon boat, get there as early as possible the morning of your trip. They officially open at 8 am and advise you to be there between 7:30 and 8am to pick out your boat, as some of them are newer and in much better shape than the others. They rent on a first come, first serve basis. Some of the older boats may have ripped seats, louder motors and slower speeds, which can be expected as the boat ages. Also, if you’re there early they may let you pull out before the scheduled time, adding an extra 30 minutes or so to your day. The extra $20 for the insurance is definitely worth the extra. Even the good drivers may come across something unforeseen and unavoidable. One reviewer accidentally ran aground and caused $400 worth of damage and the $20 insurance completely covered it. Boy, were they relieved!
Panama City Beach, FL 32408
USA
Phone: 850-235-0009
http://www.watersportspc.com/
Reviewed March 13, 2010 / Stars
“Adventures at Sea in Panama City Beach, FL offers the area’s best watersports featuring jet skis, banana boat rides, parasailing, pontoon boats, cruises to Shell Island and more!”
If you have experienced any of the activities offered by Adventures at Sea in Panama City Beach, FL then please share your review with others in the comments section below. If you’re looking for other fun attractions then take a look at our list of the best things to do in Panama City Beach, FL. If you want to find great resorts and condos in Panama City Beach, then be sure to check out our list of the best Panama City Beach condos. Finally, save money on your vacation with our source of the best Panama City Beach coupons!