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Dolphins are one of the most impressive animals on Earth - and for good reason! Between their energetic playfulness, curious personality, and sharp intellect, it’s no wonder why humans have always been fascinated with these wonderful creatures. 

At Avi’s Watersports, we have the pleasure of spending every day with these friendly marine mammals, and yet we continue to learn more about them even after decades of serving the community in Marco Island. From our on-the-water experience during our dolphin sightseeing tours, here are 10 fascinating facts about dolphins! 

1. Dolphins Are Highly-Intelligent 

Dolphins are extremely intelligent creatures, and they are one of a couple of species to pass the self-awareness test where they can identify themselves in a mirror. Dolphins are also among the few types of animals that have proven to be able to use tools. As an example, dolphins in Shark Bay, Australia fit marine sponges over their beaks to protect them from rocks when they forage for fish at the sea floor. 

2. Dolphins Are Great Communicators 

A 2016 scientific study found that dolphins have an advanced, highly-developed communication system very similar to human language. Dolphins exhibited the ability to produce sound pulses reflecting human words and packs of these sound pulses equated to sentences. They produce various whistles, clicks, and squeals used in echolocation in order to “inform the community about their identity and about the location of other members of the social group”. 

3. Dolphins’ Brains Are Powerful

The likely reason for dolphin’s unique personalities and complex communication skills is their brain power. Did you know that dolphins have bigger brains than humans, with a developed neocortex allowing for their self-awareness and problem-solving skills? Their brain-to-body ratio is second only to humans, and their sensory awareness is remarkably advanced as well. While they have no sense of smell, dolphins can hear frequencies of sound 10x above the threshold of humans, have the ability to use echolocation, and have well-developed eyesight both in and out of water. 

If that wasn’t mind-blowing, it’s also true that dolphins can turn off half of their brain in order to sleep while keeping one eye open. They evolved in this way so that they could continue to swim while sleeping, but also to stay close to their group and keep an eye out for predators like sharks. 

4. Dolphins Are Social Creatures

Dolphins are very social animals. They play, hunt, and live together in what’s termed as ‘pods’. The largest pods of dolphins, called ‘superpods’, can consist of up to 1,000 members or more! Their linguistic skills facilitate their community structures, but they are also built around familial structures just like humans. In fact, dolphins usually only have one calf which lives with its parents for its first eight years of life. Furthermore, dolphins have been documented to help other animals, including humans, if they’re in need, and they will help fellow dolphins that are injured return to the surface for breathing. 

5. There Are About 40 Different Dolphin Species 

To be exact, there are 42 different dolphin species. They can be found in nearly all ecosystems, including freshwater rivers, saltwater, coastal, deep ocean, and estuarine, and surface temperatures varying from 32 degrees to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Dolphins also come in all different sizes, with the smallest being around 1.4 meters long (Hector’s Dolphins) and the largest being 8.2 meters (Orcas) or 27 feet long! Yes, you read that right, Orcas, also known as killer whales, are actually considered a type of dolphin. 

6. Dolphins Have Long Lifespans

The lifespans of dolphins vary considerably depending on their size, but they live far longer than most people think! The smallest species of dolphins live around 20 years while the largest dolphins can live up to 80 years or more. 

7. Dolphins Are Marine Mammals

The fact that dolphins are marine mammals means they must breathe air and they give birth to live young. Most dolphins can stay underwater for 10-15 minutes at a time before needing to surface, using a blowhole so that they can breathe while eating and not risk sucking up air into their lungs. Depending on the species, dolphin gestation takes between 9 and 17 months, and the baby is born tail first and ready to swim!

8. Dolphins Are Strong Swimmers

Speaking of swimming, dolphins are incredibly strong swimmers. They will travel around slowly, around only 2 mph, but they can reach sprinting speeds of over 30 mph for brief periods, allowing them to leap several feet out of the water! 

9. Dolphins Are Great Hunters

Just like their highly developed social skills, dolphins are great hunters and work in teams. One example of their hunting technique is called the “diver and barrier”, where one group of dolphins pursues the fish, and the second group acts as the barrier to wall the prey in. Another technique is called “fish-whacking”, where they use their tail to hit fish and stun them so their hunting partners can catch them more easily. Finally, most dolphins will produce bubbles through their blowholes in order to herd their prey to the surface of the water, closing in the area where fish are easily caught. With these different techniques, dolphins not only ensure that they eat well, but their whole pod does too. 

10. Some Dolphin Species Are Endangered

An unfortunate fact is that some dolphin species are highly endangered. The Māui dolphin, for example, is the most endangered species with less than 50 dolphins remaining. Dolphins are sometimes accidentally killed in fishing nets such as gillnets, driftnets, purse seines, trawls, longlines, and hook-and-line gear. Noise pollution from big ships in the oil and gas industry can also stress these creatures, leading to lower lifespans. Finally, dolphins that are kept in captivity rather than thriving in the wild also tend to live shorter lives due to less diverse nutrition and decreased socialization. 

Marco Island: One of the Best Places For Dolphin Sightseeing

There’s no wonder humans have been fascinated by dolphins - in many ways, they remind us of ourselves! For those of you who have never had the pleasure of experiencing them in person, let’s just say it will be an unforgettable memory. 

If you’re planning a visit to Marco Island, consider going on an exciting dolphin sightseeing tour with Avi’s Watersports! With decades of experience, a journey with our family team through the 10,000 Islands will turn your trip into the vacation of a lifetime. Visit our website or call today to book your excursion!

Nested in the Gulf of Mexico, Marco Island is one of the best places in the world to spend your spring break. Offering crimson sunsets, long, sandy beaches, and breathtaking access to nature’s wonders, it’s impossible to go wrong for a week-long getaway. Looking for things to do in between sessions of much-needed rest? We got you covered! 

This article will take you on a virtual tour offering a curated list of exciting activities and places that you should not miss when vacationing on the breathtaking Marco Island during spring break. So, pack your bags and fasten your seatbelt for the escape of a lifetime!

  1. Jet Ski Dolphin Tours 

Jet ski dolphin tours are, hands down, the most memorable thing you can do on Marco Island. Are you looking for an exciting, unforgettable adventure? Want to experience an up-close, once-in-a-lifetime encounter with dolphins and other wildlife natural to South Florida? 

Join the family at Avi’s Watersports with over 20 years of experience for a high-throttle adventure into the 10,000 Islands. You’ll be led by a friendly, dedicated, and knowledgeable guide who is devoted to making sure every participant has a phenomenal experience. Whether you're a seasoned jet skier or a beginner, a jet ski dolphin tour should be on your must-do list! Avi’s Watersports guarantees safety, fun, and the thrill of an exciting journey for 30 miles over the course of two hours. Take a look at some of the jaw-dropping photos taken on our excursions, and see what happy customers have had to say. 

  1. Tour the Island

Rent a bicycle, e-bike, or golf cart, and see the whole island on your terms. Marco Island may be a small, close-knit community, but there is so much to see, especially during a short spring break trip! Given that Marco Island is six miles in length and four miles in width, having a bit of additional transport assistance is always beneficial.

  1. Explore by Water

Prefer to get your sea legs while on our beautiful island? Rent a paddleboard and explore the canal system, mangrove tunnels, and more. There are 100 miles of man-made waterfront canals on Marco Island, and the majority of homes are waterfront locations. So whether your preference is natural beauty or manmade luxury, getting around by paddleboard will be sure to help you explore paradise. 

  1. Visit Tigertail Beach

There is a reason why Trip Advisor voted Marco Island as the #1 island in the U.S. and #4 in the world. Among its many beaches is the renowned Tigertail Beach - one of the best beaches in Florida. A white-sand beach, developing barrier islands, bird watching and shelling opportunities, tidal pool exploration, breathtaking sunsets, and glorious sunrises await visitors. This beach also has a playground, picnic area, parking, and full facilities. Whatever outdoor activities you enjoy best, you’re likely to find it here. 

  1. Marco Island Beach Bars

Relax with your shoes off at one of the many Marco Island beach bars throughout the island. Thirst-quenching drinks and island-themed cuisines are sure to get you in the spring break mindset! Wherever you might be staying, just head to the beach and follow the delicious smells. 

  1. Small Boutiques 

Shop the plethora of small boutiques scattered about the island for everything from souvenirs to jewelry, gifts, and more. Be sure not to miss the Marco Island Center for the Arts. It has a free gallery that includes a gift shop selling locally produced art pieces.

  1. Explore the Everglades

Marco Island is the largest of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands and is the gateway to the Everglades. This means you can expect beautiful wildlife beyond anything you could imagine. From dolphins to gopher tortoises, burrowing owls, iguanas, sea turtles, bald eagles, bobcats, manatees, and so much more! 

  1. Exercise at Marco Island Racquet Club

If you’re looking for a little bit of exercise, look no further than the City of Marco Island Racquet Club! Here you can play an afternoon of tennis or pickleball on high-quality clay courts. From 4-6 p.m., the courts are free on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

  1. Hit the Links 

There are 90 different golf courses in Naples, Marco Island, and Collier County, known as Florida’s Paradise Coast. Three of the very best are located on Marcos Island, so be sure to book your tee time well in advance! 

Explore the Paradise Coast Unlike Ever Before

One thing is certain: a week at Marco Island is sure to fly by with all the wonderful activities that will fill your time. With so many things to do on Marco Island, we recommend prioritizing the most memorable experiences and booking your activities in advance. Our dolphin jet ski tours are one of the most popular adventures on the island, so give us a call or book your excursion today! 

South Florida is a vacationer’s paradise. Few places in the world compare with its white sandy beaches and stunning, golden-red sunsets. If you’re looking to plan your next vacation and are looking for a spot that has all of the natural beauty but with smaller crowds and brighter, cleaner beaches, than some of the other popular locations, Marco Island is the place to go. 

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Marco Island is the ideal coastal getaway for your next family vacation. If you’ve convinced yourself and the family it’s time to take a break, here’s our expert guide to planning the perfect family vacation in Marco Island! 

What is Marco Island? 

Marco Island is your next dream destination. As a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Southwest Florida, Marco Island is home to resorts, hotels, marinas, boating, and golf courses. It has a network of inland waterways and is covered with sandy beaches along most of the west coast. 

Marco Island is connected to the mainland near Naples, so it is an easy journey to the ultimate holiday retreat. Enjoy six miles of white beaches and over one hundred miles of waterways, all while living your best life - whether that means kayaking, fishing, swimming with dolphins, or simply relaxing. 

Choose the Time of the Year and Length of Your Trip

First thing first: When are you coming? To really get the ball moving (and to move your plans from ideation to action), the first thing you’ll need to do is gather the family council and decide on the best time to retreat to Marco Island. South Florida can be extremely hot during the summer, so the best time of year to visit is usually on the fringes of summer. Late spring (May) and early autumn (September-October) are, seasonally, the months with the most enjoyable weather, but it’s possible to find great travel deals during the offseason as well. 

No matter the time of year, you can bet on having absolutely delightful weather. 

After you determine which time of year is best for your family, the next step is to decide on how long you will come to visit. There’s no limit to how little or how long you’re allowed to come (unless work has something to say about that). Some people even love it so much that they never leave! 

We’ve found that a week is usually the minimum amount of time to fully experience Marco Island with its attractions and natural beauty while having plenty of time for relaxation as well. No matter how long you can come, there are plenty of memorable things to do throughout your time here. 

Plan Your Activities

You’ve arrived at the stunning beauty of Marco Island; but what’s next? We highly recommend booking activities well in advance, especially if you’re arriving in peak travel season for Marco Island. But if you’re already here and looking for a bit of inspiration, here are some of the top recommended activities for the perfect family vacation. 

Dolphin Excursions

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. Avi’s Watersports combines the thrill of exploration with the natural beauty of Marco Island with dolphin jet ski tours! For over 20 years, Avi Watersports has been delivering the most memorable experiences for people of all ages, and we’re ready to make your vacation one to remember. 

Experience close encounters with dolphins and other wildlife native to the Gulf of Mexico during a 30-mile round trip. Our excursions are a two-hour journey on your own jet ski and they are led by experienced, friendly guides. Come explore deep into the 10,000 islands and see the world like never before! 

Keep in mind that you’ll need to be at least 16 years old to drive; otherwise, children as young as 5 can hop on board jet skis driven by an adult. Operators will need to bring an ID and undertake a boater’s safety course

With your excursion, you can expect: 

You’ll need to bring: 

Interested in seeing what our tours look like? Take a gander at our photo gallery to get an idea of the beauty you can expect. 

Land Activities

Outdoor enthusiasts will find numerous family-friendly trails in Marco Island. Take a leisure walk along the boardwalk at Otter Mound Preserve, winding through tropical hammock habitat. Or, explore the historic Marco Island and its ancient life forms at the Marco Island Historical Museum. Throughout the museum, children can partake in various interactive exhibits and learn about the Calusa Indians who once lived on the island.

For families seeking a blend of relaxation and active adventure, Marco Island houses several mini-golf courses. Each course presents unique challenges that are fun and engaging for all age groups. Marco Golf and Garden or Coral Cay Adventure Golf provides a fun day out with perfectly manicured landscapes, exciting obstacles, and lots of laughs. 

A trip to Marco Island just wouldn’t be the same without visiting the pristine white-sand beaches that stretch across the island. The most famous is Marco Beach, which offers a haven for swimming, shelling, water sports, and relaxation. Families can enjoy building sandcastles, lounging under the umbrellas, or swimming in the warm, shallow Gulf waters. The Tigertail Beach Park, with its large playground and picnic areas, is a perfect spot for a family gathering. The park's sand dollar spit, a unique carousel of pristine sands and shallow tidal lagoons, is an excellent spot for children to explore marine life safely. 

Plan a Trip to Remember

Vacation isn’t vacation without a fair amount of R&R. The last thing you want is to return home without having relaxed at all! That’s why it’s important to not overbook yourself. Give yourself and your family ample time to simply do nothing, enjoy the peaceful beaches, and sink into an extra nap or two. On the days you do plan on keeping busy, choose activities that are sure to be remembered forever. 

Ready for your next getaway? Grab the whole family and journey to sunny Marco Island. Between the natural beauty of our beaches and wildlife, a dolphin excursion is the perfect complement to the best family vacation. Contact Avi's Watersports to reserve your spot today!

Looking for things to do in Marco Island? A visit to the beach is on everyone’s list, but why not plan something that you’ll be talking about for years to come? Whether you enjoy action and adventure or are looking for a memorable, family-friendly experience, a dolphin jet ski tour is something you won’t want to miss. With the wind in your hair and the splash of the sea on your face, discover the incredible world of dolphins right at your fingertips - or in this case, your handlebars.  

Avi's Watersports, our family-owned and operated business has been providing our exhilarating jet ski dolphin tours for over 20 years! We understand that many people who are unfamiliar with our tours will probably have a lot of questions. That’s why we’ve put together some essential tips and tricks to help make your adventure smooth and unforgettable.

What is a Jet Ski Dolphin Tour?

A jet ski dolphin tour is a water activity where you ride a jet ski out into areas where dolphins are known to inhabit. The goal is to observe these remarkable marine animals in their natural environment while enjoying the fun and excitement of jet skiing. It's an amazing way to combine a love for water sports with the thrilling experience of wildlife viewing. Tours are led by experienced guides who provide safety instructions, jet skiing tips, and share insights about the dolphins and their behaviors.

At Avi’s Watersports, guests of our tour will explore 30 miles of the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge located just south of Marco Island. This chain of islands and inlets covers over 35,000 acres and hosts an abundant variety of wildlife including birds, sea turtles, otters, and of course, dolphins!   

Everything You Need to Know About Your Tour With Avi’s Watersports

The Tour Basics

The first question that most people have about our jet ski dolphin tours is the price. Tours are $275 per jet ski. This includes the use of jet skis, two hours on the water with a professional tour guide, complimentary photos, lifeguard-approved life jackets, and water. If you choose to ride two or three people per jet ski, the cost is still $275. Keep in mind that there is a 400-pound weight limit per jet ski.

Our tours run seven days a week, three times per day. We encourage people to book well in advance to make sure you get your desired date and time. It is requested that you book online for the most up-to-date availability. 

Tour participants should plan to arrive 30 minutes ahead of their tour to allow for a safety briefing and to sign our damage and release waiver. In the case of inclement weather or if we do not meet our minimum amount of two jet skis for the tour, we will be in touch to discuss rescheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Jet Ski Dolphin Tour

What if I need to cancel?

Please contact us as soon as possible if you have to cancel or reschedule. We have a 24-hour cancellation policy.

Is tipping included?

Tipping is not included, but greatly appreciated. A tip can be added to your booking or, you can bring money with you and give it directly to your guide.

Where do tours depart from?

Tours depart from Goodland Boat Park, 750 Palm Point Drive, Goodland, FL 34140

Can I book a tour for a large group?

More jet skis may be available - please call us to inquire if you need to book more than 4!

Know the Rules

We want everyone to have fun on their jet ski dolphin tour, but our top priority is safety. There are a few rules to understand and comply with in order to make your experience (and everyone else’s) safe and enjoyable. 

Rules Regarding Age

A jet ski dolphin tour is an exciting experience for people of just about any age. Children aged 5 years and older are welcome to ride, but you must be at least 16 years old and possess a temporary boating certificate in order to drive. If you’re under 18 years of age, drivers must be accompanied by an adult. 

Temporary Boating Certificate Requirement

Florida State Law requires anyone born after January 1, 1988, must have a valid boaters’ safety ID card in order to operate a motorized boat or personal watercraft of 10 horsepower or more. That means if you’re planning to drive, you’ll need to register and take the test online before the tour in order to get your temporary boating certificate. You must bring a copy of your certificate with you and present it before the tour begins. 

If you’re planning to just ride along with someone else, then you won’t need the boating certificate. 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Boater Safety Course

How do I sign up?

There are several companies that are accredited by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. We recommend signing up with Boat-ed.com.

How long is the temporary boating certificate good for?

Your temporary boating certificate expires 90 days after you complete the course. 

Is there a minimum age to take the course?

No, there is no minimum age requirement, however, even if you pass the test, you must meet the minimum age required to drive a jet ski. 

How do I get my temporary certificate?

After successful completion of the exam, you can print out your certificate. For more information or to sign up for the boater safety course, please visit Boat-ed.com.

Know What to Bring (and What Not to Bring!)

When preparing for a jet ski dolphin tour, it is essential to bring a few necessary items for safety and comfort. Sunscreen and protective clothing such as sunglasses and a sunshirt are vital as you will be exposed to the hot Florida sun for extended periods. You should also plan to bring a pair of sandals to wear on your way to and from the jetski. 

Other important items that shouldn’t be forgotten are your government-issued photo I.D. and temporary boating certificate. Without these items, you will not be allowed to drive a jet ski (but you will be allowed to ride with someone else).

As far as what you shouldn’t bring, valuables and personal items such as purses of cell phones should be left behind. Consumables like food and drinks are also not allowed as they could attract wildlife or add litter to the water environment. One exception is bottled water, which we will be providing to you, free of charge.

Book Your Jet Ski Dolphin Tour With Avi’s Watersports

At Avi's Watersports, we strive to deliver not just a jet ski ride, but an extraordinary encounter with nature. Our jet ski dolphin tours provide guests with the unique opportunity to witness the magnificent spectacle of dolphins in their natural habitat, offering a captivating blend of adventure and learning. Guided by experienced and knowledgeable tour leaders, we ensure the utmost safety and comfort of our guests while maintaining respect for the wildlife and environment. Book your jet ski dolphin tour with Avi's Watersports now and embark on the experience of a lifetime! 

Marco Island, the largest of Florida's Ten Thousand Islands, is renowned for its pristine beaches, translucent waters, and exotic wildlife.. Among the numerous aquatic adventures this place has to offer, one of the most popular and unique is the jet ski dolphin tour. If you’re planning a visit to Marco Island in the near future and are looking for something to do besides just sitting on the beach, check out one of these thrilling and memorable experiences. Here are a few reasons why a jet ski dolphin tour is something you won’t want to miss.

Get Up Close and Personal with the Dolphins

Dolphins are marvelous creatures, known for their intelligence, agility, and playful nature. A jet ski dolphin tour gives you the chance to observe them in their natural habitat. Dolphins are abundant in the waters surrounding Marco Island and seeing them up close is not rare during the tour. The dolphins often put on an exhilarating show, leaping and spinning out of the water. Moreover, dolphins in the wild are not subject to the unfortunate and unethical conditions experienced by some in captivity. Observing them from a respectful distance allows for a non-invasive interaction that promotes their well-being while providing a remarkable experience.

Bird’s Eye View on Nature

Jet skiing gives you a different perspective than say, a boat tour. You’re seated close to the water, which allows for immediate, close-up connections with curious dolphins that might come to investigate your jet ski. Furthermore, the fact that you're skimming across the water surface puts you in a prime position to also see other wildlife up close, such as manatees, sea turtles, and various species of birds.

Experienced Guides

Jet ski dolphin tours are guided by experienced dolphin and nature enthusiasts who will share their knowledge about the local flora, fauna, and history of Marco Island. Among the many providers of adventurous water activities in the area, Avi's Watersports offers comprehensive jet ski dolphin tours that offer participants an unforgettable experience. Avi's is an established name on Marco Island and they are known for their exceptional guides who are not only experienced jet ski instructors but also possess a vast knowledge of the local ecosystem. With a commitment to safety and respect for marine life, they ensure that your jet ski adventure is not just adrenaline-filled entertainment but also an opportunity to learn more about the local waters and its fascinating inhabitants. 

Great For All Ages

Jet ski dolphin tours are suitable for people of all ages which makes them the perfect activity for families, young adults, couples, and just about everyone. The tours also prioritize safety so even the thrill of riding a jet ski on the open water comes with a sense of security. Participants do not need any jet ski experience before embarking on the dolphin tour. Guides provide a comprehensive safety briefing and instructions for operating the jet ski, making sure everyone feels comfortable and confident before setting off on their adventure. 

Promotes Eco-Tourism

Taking a jet ski dolphin tour promotes responsible eco-tourism. Many tour operators implement sustainable practices, such as maintaining a safe distance from the dolphins, limiting the noise, and teaching participants about the importance of protecting marine life. By choosing such tours, you contribute to a form of tourism that respects and seeks to preserve natural environments.

Book Your Jet Ski Dolphin Tour With Avi’s Watersports!

If you’re looking for an exciting, interactive nature tour that combines wildlife viewing, aquatic adventure, and the opportunity to learn fascinating ecological facts, consider booking a jet ski dolphin tour during your next visit to Marco Island. Whether you’re a solo traveler looking for an adrenaline rush or a family seeking to make lifelong memories, you won’t be disappointed!

While there are several places that offer these types of tours, consider booking your adventure through Avi’s Watersports. A family-owned business with over 18 years of experience, we’ve spent thousands of hours navigating the 10,000 islands and take pride in our knowledge and expertise of the region. Plus, we also provide complimentary photos so you can always remember your unique tour. Spots fill up fast – book your jet ski dolphin tour today!

Contact Us: (239) 777-9873

Open Hours

We offer tours 7 days a week!
Reservation hours are 9am – 6pm.

Tours Depart From:

Goodland Boat Park, 750 Palm Point Drive, Goodland, FL 34140
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