Cruise dates and times are subject to change without notice due to weather, mechanical, or other operational issues. Ticket holders can reschedule or receive a refund if a cruise is canceled due to one of those issues.

 

Ticket holders who arrive after the cruise has departed, or provide 24 hour cancellation notice will be allowed to reschedule but are not entitled to a refund.

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​​​Q: Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
We strongly recommend purchasing your tickets in advance as tours quite often sell out. Purchasing your tickets online in advance is the best way to ensure you get the day and time booked for the tour you want. Tickets can be purchased on our website using the "book now" button at the top of the page, or you may call 727-934-0547 if you have any questions about our cruises.

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Q: Where will we go on the tour?
Tours depart from the Historic Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks and travel down the Anclote River out to the Gulf of Mexico and to Anclote Island. The location of the dolphins incoming weather patterns as well as other circumstances may cause the route to vary slightly from tour to tour.

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Q: What will we see on the tour?
Each tour is a unique experience and no two tours are exactly alike. While the dolphins are the main attraction for most tours, we will be seeing a variety of wildlife including nesting osprey, herons, egrets, and sometimes endangered species like manatees and sea turtles. However because the dolphins we see are wild animals in their natural habitat, unfortunately we cannot guarantee dolphin sightings on each tour.

 

Q: Do you cancel tours due to bad weather?
Tours usually run in light rain and minimally poor weather conditions. If we decide the weather conditions are unsafe, we will cancel the tour. Weather conditions are monitored right up to the departure time and cancellations are made by Odyssey Cruises up to one hour prior to departure. If we cancel the tour, you will have the opportunity to reschedule based on availability or receive a credit for a future tour. All of our boats have a roof that runs almost the length of the boat. Don’t be too disappointed if your tour departs in less-than-ideal weather conditions. Our tours taken in light rain and often experience the best wildlife and dolphin shows.

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Q: Can I get a refund or reschedule my tour after buying tickets?
Yes. If you notify us at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure.

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Q: Will I get wet on the tour?
As for vacation, relaxation, and exploring, unless it is raining, you will probably not get wet on your tour. Our boats are almost fully covered on top but the sides are open. If we experience light rain or wind on your tour you may get some sea spray or rain along the sides, but we have side curtains we can roll down in those instances. Please note that if you are taking a tour that disembarks on the island, your feet may get wet when getting off the boat.

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Q: Are food and beverages available on the tour?
Soft drinks, beer, wine, water, etc. and some snacks are available for purchase on board. You are more than welcome to bring food on board, but you are not permitted to bring your own beverages abroad.

 

Q: Is there a restroom on the boat?
Yes, we have restrooms on all of our boats.

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Q: How smooth is the ride? Am I likely to get seasick?
Our tour boats have a dual-hull design which provides a very smooth ride. The Anclote River is very calm and the Intercostal is also quite calm. Thankfully we have not had anyone get seasick yet on one of our tours.

 

Q: Are children allowed on the tours?
Yes. Our tours are appropriate for ALL AGES. Anyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. We offer a reduced-price ticket for children ages 2-10 years old and children under 2 years old can tour for free. Please note that, due to Coast Guard rules, all children are required to have a ticket, even a free child’s ticket.

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Q: What age group are your tours suggested for?

Our tours are wonderful for all ages and stages of life. From the young to the "young at heart" everyone will enjoy their time on an Odyssey Cruise.

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Q: Can we bring a cooler onboard?
No. Due to safety issues, coolers are not allowed on board.

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Q: Are the tour boats wheelchair accessible?
Yes.

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Q: Is the tour safe for pregnant women?
Yes, however we recommend you consult with your doctor just to be safe. Our tours are calm, and comfortable with a focus on the safety of all our guests. Odyssey Cruises has no restrictions for pregnant women.

 

Q: What are the chances we will see dolphins on this tour? Very good!
We see dolphins most of the time.

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Q: Will we be able to feed, pet or touch the dolphins?
No. Dolphins are protected by the National Marine Mammal Act. Therefore, we do not touch, chase, pursue, harass or feed wild dolphins. It is against the law.

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Q: Is a gratuity included in the price of the tour?
A gratuity for your Odyssey Cruises Crew is not included in the ticket price. If you had a great time and wish to recognize your crew for a job well done, you are welcome to give a gratuity. All gratuities are shared and appreciated. We are sometimes asked what is appropriate, and while it is entirely up to you, 15% - 20% is the most common in the industry.

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Q: Is there parking available nearby?
Yes, there are paid parking lots up and down Dodecanese Blvd, (the ‘main street’ of the Sponge Docks), including a lot located at our ticket booth, 776 Dodecanese Blvd. Parking at this lot costs $8.00 and payment can be made inside the gift shop.

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Q: Are there life jackets on board?
Per Coast Guard regulations, all tours have life jackets for everyone on board. This includes life jackets for both adults and children. If you have an infant coming on board, we recommend you bring a life jacket that fits your small child.

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Q: Is smoking permitted during the tour?
Absolutely not. Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the boat. Vaping/ecigarettes are not permitted anywhere on the boat or loading area either.

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Q: Should I bring a camera or binoculars with me?
We highly encourage guests to bring a camera or binoculars, as you will see many photo opportunities.

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Q: What should I wear?
Dress as you normally would for the weather conditions. If you are taking an evening tour, you may want an extra layer since temperatures drop once the sun goes down. It is also recommended to bring beach attire and water shoes if you wish to disembark the island, especially if you plan on wading in the water or plan to go hunting for the most beautiful shells.

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Q: Are dogs allowed on the boat?

Yes, dogs on a leash are allowed to join their owners for a cruise. However, dogs are not permitted on Anclote Key State Park and must remain on the boat.

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Q: Are private charters available?
Yes, if you would like to book a private group tour or have one custom tailored for your needs, please click here and we will be happy to assist you. Whether you are planning a wedding, memorial, or a private party, Odyssey Cruises will work with you to create the perfect tour for your occasion.

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Q: What else is there to do in the area?
Tarpon Springs is full of history and there are lots of fun things to do. Visit SpongeDocks.Net for more information about Tarpon Springs.

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Q: Why choose Odyssey Cruises?
All cruises offer you a chance to witness “once in a lifetime” views of the historic Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks as well as the beautiful and amazing wildlife only found on the West Coast of Florida. It's not just a tour, it's an adventure! Come make memories with us that will last a lifetime.