Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the Island Time Sailing FAQ’s! Here you can find the answers to many of our common questions organized by topic. Have a question not listed here? Feel free to contact us and we will get you an answer right away.

General Trip Info

How early should I arrive?

Please plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure time.

Can I bring my cooler?

No coolers are allowed.

Can I buy snacks or drinks on the boat?

We sell beer, wine, sodas, water, chips, candy, etc.  NO DRINKS, NO COOLERS.

Is there a bar on board?

We have a stocked bar with beer and wine, and all of our snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are just $2.00. We’re known for our famous “Rum Punch,” tropical music and entertainment including fun games and dancing after the sun goes down.

What types of shoes do you recommend on board the catamaran?

We recommend rubber, hard-soled shoes with good grip like boating shoes such as Crocs, Sperry’s, etc. We do not allow high heels as they may damage the boat.

Are there any suntan products I should avoid?

Aerosol sprays.

Can I smoke on board?

No, for the safety and comfort of our guests we do not allow smoking on board.

Which trip includes paddle boards?

The Shell Island Snorkel & Sail trip.

How many catamarans do you have?

We have two Catamarans, the Original Island Time and Island Time II.

Do you sell gift certificates?

Yes we do! You can purchase Island Time Sailing Gift Certificates on site at the Island Time Sailing office.

I’m not able to swim far or snorkel. May I still go on the dolphin and snorkel cruise with my family?

Yes. We do not require you get in the water and there are locations we visit where the water is fairly shallow and easily waded through. We also provide life vests and can get you fitted so you can enter the water if you choose.

Where is Island Time Sailing located?

We are located at Lagoon Pontoons Marina right down the road from Captain Anderson’s restaurant in Panama City Beach, Florida. Click here for Google Directions.

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Dolphin Day Sail

How long is the Dolphin Day Sail trip?

2 hours.

When is the Dolphin Day Sail trip available?

During the spring and fall months: Feb 15th – Apr 30th & Sept 1st – Oct 31st.

What activities are included during the cruise?

In addition to dolphin and wildlife watching, there are games and dancing for the whole family to enjoy on the return trip to the dock.

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Dolphin Sunset Cruise

How long is the Dolphin Sunset Cruise?

2 relaxing and fun-filled hours!

Where all does the Dolphin Sunset Cruise go?

We begin in the calm waters of Grand Lagoon, past St. Andrew’s State Park and then we sail the beautiful waters around Shell Island.

Is the Dolphin Sunset Cruise suitable for families?

Yes! The cruise is perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking for a relaxing sunset experience. We offer fun games and dancing after the sun goes down to make it a memorable experience for everyone.

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Shell Island Snorkel & Sail Cruise

How long is the Shell Island Snorkel & Sail trip?

It is 3 hours of fun in the sun.

Is snorkeling gear included in the cost of the cruise?

Yes. The price includes snorkeling gear.

What should I bring on the cruise?

Your bathing suit (although it is better if you wear it upon arrival), towels, hats, cameras, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Please no aerosol sprays.

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Private Charters

Do you offer private charters for weddings and such?

Yes. Please call (850) 234-7377 and ask to speak to our manager for a quote.

How large of a group can you accommodate?

We usually have groups of 30-60 people. Please call for larger groups.

What kinds of private events do you host on the catamaran?

Weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, corporate outings, church groups, senior trips, sailing parties, etc.

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Dolphins & Other Wildlife

What kind of wildlife might I see on one of your trips?

While conditions and such affect what we see, you could see baby dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, and manta rays among many others.

Can you guarantee I will see dolphins?

Dolphins are wild animals in their natural habitat doing what they want to do. Our encounters observe them on their terms and depend on what they are doing and their mood. Encounters happen pretty often; however, there is no way that we can guarantee it.

Will we get to feed the dolphins?

We are bound by the laws of The Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and subsequent amendments, in addition to the laws of the State of Florida. We are not allowed to feed or harass dolphins, so we don’t and are very strict about that. Thank you for understanding.

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Booking & Cancellations

How much in advance do I need to book my trip?

Online bookings must be made no later than 2 hours prior to the departure time. BUT, you can call (850) 234-7377 to see if there is any availability after that deadline.

What payment types do you accept?

We accept most major credit cards through our online booking apps; additionally we accept both major credit cards and cash on site.

What do we need to do if we need to cancel?

If anyone in your group needs to cancel please call the office, we must be notified 24 hours prior to receive a refund. If you or anyone in your group does not show up you will not receive a refund and will not be eligible to reschedule.

The weather doesn’t look that great, what should I do?

If it seems a storm is approaching, the crew and office staff keep watch on the radar and discuss options. If you are nervous about inclement weather you can cancel and reschedule at any time, but cancelling the cruise is usually a last minute decision. It is highly recommended that you let the Island Time management make the call. If a trip is cancelled due to bad weather you will have the opportunity to cancel, reschedule, or be refunded.

Help! My cruise was canceled because the minimum capacity wasn’t met. Now what?

We will first try and reschedule your trip. If you are unable to reschedule then we will provide a refund.

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