FAQs

Q: Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
We strongly recommend purchasing your tickets in advance as tours very often sell out. This way you can be sure to get the day and time booked for the tour you want. Tickets can be purchased on FareHarbor using the button at the top of the page, or you may call 727-934-0547 (or 727-484-2937 after hours) if you have any questions about our cruises.

Q: Where will we go on the tour?
Tours depart from the Historic Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks and travel down the Anclote River, into the Intracoastal Waterway (St. Joseph Sound), and then to Anclote Key Island. We often have time to search for dolphins and other wildlife within the River and the Sound.

Q: What will we see on the tour?
Each tour is a unique experience and no two tours are exactly alike. The tour along the Anclote River will allow you to explore a special part of Tarpon Springs, and we will surely see a variety of wildlife including dolphins, nesting osprey, herons, egrets, and sometimes endangered species like manatees and sea turtles.

Q: Do you cancel tours due to bad weather?
Tours usually run in light rain and minimally poor weather conditions. If the weather conditions are unsafe, we will cancel the tour, and 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 covers most of the boat. Don’t be too disappointed if your tour departs in less-than-ideal weather conditions. Tours departing in light rain can experience the best wildlife and dolphin shows.

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.

Q: Will I get wet on the tour?
You will probably not get wet on your tour. Our boats feature covers on top and sides covered on the lower portions.  We also have side curtains that can be lowered, although these may impact your view.  If you experience light rain, wind or choppy seas on your tour, you may get some sea spray.  Our crew will guide you on the best places to sit based on your desire to partake in a natural part of the boating experience.  Please note that if you are taking a tour that disembarks on the island, your feet may get wet when getting off the boat.  You are welcome to leave your shoes onboard while you explore Anclote Key Island.

Q: Are food and beverages available on the tour?
Soft drinks, beer, wine, and our famous margaritas are available for purchase on board. You are more than welcome to bring food on board, but please have no drinks.

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

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 St. Joseph Sound is sheltered by Anclote Key and other islands. We have not yet had anyone get seasick on one of our tours.

Q: Are children allowed on the tours?
Yes. Our tours are appropriate for all ages. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. We offer a reduced-price ticket for children ages 2-10 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 children’s ticket.

Q: Can we bring a cooler onboard?
Due to safety issues, please do not bring coolers on board.

Q: Are the tour boats handicapped accessible?
Our 47-foot boat, the Odyssey II, is fully accessible.  Our 40-foot boat, the Odyssey, cannot accommodate a wheelchair within the seating area.  Please contact us with any questions regarding accessibility.

Q: Is the tour safe for pregnant women?
We recommend you consult your doctor to be sure. Our tours are safe, calm, and comfortable. We have no restrictions for pregnant women.

Q: What are the chances we will see dolphins on this tour?
We see dolphins 95% of the time.

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 as it is against the law.

Q: Is 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% is the most common in the industry.

Q: Is there parking available nearby?
Yes, there are paid parking lots up and down Dodecanese Blvd, the ‘main drag’ of the Sponge Docks, including one located near our ticket booth, 776 Dodecanese Blvd, which is operated by the gift shop next door.

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.

Q: Is smoking permitted during the tour?
No, smoking is not permitted anywhere on a boat.

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.

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.

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 or a private party, Odyssey Cruises will work with you to create the perfect tour for your occasion.

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.

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. All of our tours are narrated by a certified naturalist.  It’s not just a tour, it’s an adventure!