The Sea Screamer in Clearwater: The World’s Largest Speedboat
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Clearwater is one of the busiest beaches on the Gulf Coast. This is the place all the tourists go to even though there are plenty of other fantastic white sand beaches in the area. There is never a dull moment here because there is so much to do. Even though I love the soft sand, lively vacation vibe, and many amenities, we rarely visit this beach because it’s such a hassle to find parking, and oftentimes, you can’t find one open space on the sand even if you get here early.
We recently moved to the region for the 3rd time and we were looking for something new to do. You can only swim and lie around on the sand for so long before it gets a bit boring. I’ve taken a beautiful sunset cruise and a pirate themed cruise in this area but always wanted to check out the dolphin speed cruise.
After a few days of swimming, beachcombing, and sunbathing, a fun boat ride is a great opportunity to enjoy the scenery in a completely different setting. There are a number of options in the area, but if you book the dolphin cruise, you can check a ride on “the world’s largest speedboat” off your bucket list.
A unique boat tour to check off your bucket list!
The Sea Screamer bills itself as ‘the world’s largest speedboat.” The boat is 72 feet long and reaches speeds up to 35 mph. This boat tour is actually a combined sightseeing/dolphin watching tour, so you get a little 2 for 1. Tours last about an hour as your narrated guide takes you past various sights of interest in the area.
On one negative note, most of the ride is pretty slow with the exception of a few thrilling speeding sessions. Nevertheless, we learned a lot of interesting facts, saw a lot of dolphins, and enjoyed seeing them dance around with the waves. Plus, the scenery was really beautiful. I love all the colorful hotels that line the beachfront.
The most fun dolphin watching tour in the Bay
Sightings are guaranteed on this cruise or your next trip is free. I’ve noticed many other tours offer this same promo which is a smart idea as sightings are so common. I’ve sighted many on all the cruises I’ve taken in the Bay (including the Johns Pass boardwalk cruise in Madeira Beach and the Odyssey cruise in Tarpon Springs). Likely, you will see many of these gorgeous marine mammals out and about in their natural habitat (it’s the best way to see them over an aquarium).
One cool aspect about this cruise in particular is that the speed boat creates natural waves that the dolphins like to play in. Basically, you get to enjoy a free dancing dolphin show as they jump along with the boat. This most unique experience gives you a rare up close look at them having fun in their natural environment.
It was hard to obtain quality photos as it was an extremely sunny and hot day and the ride was packed to the brim. We got really burnt despite putting on lots of sunblock. I recommend saving your ride for the cooler spring season if you can as it was a fun, yet totally uncomfortable experience.
Check out the dolphins dancing in the waves of the boat! Your captain will speed up really fast for a few minutes at a time and they will start playing in the wake! I’ve never seen anything like this before so a pretty cool experience. Unfortunately, we got in the boat last and were left with the worst viewpoint.
I recommend getting here early to pick the best seat. It was so hard to take good photos. We caught a few quick photos of the dolphins jumping in mid air (as you can see, the prime back seats had a much better viewpoint!).
Tip: If you want to take good photos and videos, take a seat in the back for an unobstructed view. You will get wetter the further back you sit which may be a good thing on a hot, sunny day! I could have used a cool down for sure!
Besides seeing lots of marine life, you’ll also get to enjoy some pretty views of the coastline. The giant pink hotel in the background is the Hyatt Regency – it really stands out!
Best time to take a ride
I would say to absolutely skip this one during the hot, sunny, humid summer season. There are better things to do in this area this miserable time of the year (check out my guide for when it’s too hot for more details). The boat is not at all covered. You will likely get burnt and have a miserable time. Mike and I were completely miserable – seriously, probably the hottest we have ever been! I recommend bringing your swimsuit so you can hop in the water afterwards.
We left totally exhausted and sunburnt! It’s best to plan a ride on an overcast day, if possible. If not, get tickets for the earliest tour of the day before the sun is at full intensity. Fall and early spring is the best time to enjoy a comfortable ride weather-wise.
Additional cruise details
Location: 25 Causeway Blvd. Order tickets at the stand or on their website
Tour times: 10am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm.
Tickets: $29 per adult, $22 (kids aged 12 and under), One child free (under age 4) per adult.
Accessibility: Unfortunately, the boat is not wheelchair friendly (there are 4 steps). They do store strollers.
Walk up tickets are available, however your preferred time slot may be sold out. I recommend advance booking.
Drinks (including alcohol) available for purchase on board.
What else to do in Clearwater?
Swimming at Clearwater Beach – Although I can’t stand the crowding here, I admit it is one of the Gulf’s best swimming beaches due to the calm, gradually sloping warm water. Also, there is a nice stretch of sand for walking which is relatively shell-free in comparison to other nearby beaches like Sand Key.
Stroll along Beach Walk – A walk along this 1/2 mile waterfront promenade is a great way to enjoy the scenery without getting your feet sandy or wet. A number of restaurants and shops line the route. You will find lots of surf/beach themed stores to browse around. I like this little pizza shop called We the Pizza (they serve great pizza and Greek salad).
Lunch at Marina Cantina – This is a great local Mexican restaurant overlooking the water that we have dined at several times. The vibe is causal, the food is good, and the views are great! I recommend the Huevos Rancheros for a tasty breakfast entree before a morning cruise.
Attend the Pier 60 nightly festival – Every night, a big celebration takes place – events include live music and vendors. Sometimes they also have movies on the beach (we saw The Goonies years ago – it was really fun to see one of my favorite 80’s movies at the beach!).
Beach sports – Rent a paddleboard, jet ski, kayak, etc. and have some fun on the water!
More o do in the Bay – I also recommend taking a look at my Bay area tourist guide for more fun activities. This is a really underrated metro with lots to do both on and off the beach. You don’t want to miss out while you are in the vicinity!
