Summertime is right around the corner (and summer temps are already here), which means summer camp season is almost here. And a new series of week-long camps on the water is set to give area children one of the most hands-on marine experiences you can get anywhere in the Tampa Bay Area.

Pier Dolphin Cruises has announced “Captain Christian’s Summer Camp,” a series of one-week sessions where campers will learn about boating, marine life, and the important habitat our waters are home to. Each session is limited to six campers, so spots are likely to go fast. Visit pierdolphincruises.com and click book now to find more information and secure your child’s spot.

Led by Captain Christian, who runs the area’s most-loved dolphin cruises in operation for nearly 30 years, the summer camp’s curriculum is twofold: teaching campers boat safety, and providing them with hands on education about Tampa Bay and its wildlife.

Activities include snorkeling excursions, eco tours, collecting critters for the touch tank, and learning about the local marine life and its habitat. Additionally, campers will learn how to idle a boat around, use boating features such as anchors, operate a VHF radio, practice how to get on and off a boat, safely use flares, and how to perform docking and other mechanisms to ensure boating safety and comfort.

The camp is designed for children 8-12 years old, and costs $325 per camper for the entire week. Sessions run from 9 am – 1 pm each day of camp and are available in June and July this summer. Learn more or reach out to Captain Christian here.

Pier Dolphin Cruises provides the most beautiful rides in Tampa Bay

Meanwhile, while the kids are off at camp, there’s plenty for parents to enjoy, too. Pier Dolphin Cruises departs from the beautiful St. Pete Pier and offers dolphin watching tours, eco adventures, Shell Key trips, and is available for private charters. This floating events venue is equipped with local brews and water, an on board bathroom facility with old school glow paint on the walls, cozy seats, and access to panoramic views of our beautiful Tampa Bay.

Captain Christian is a 4th generation St. Pete native. His parents have operated a yacht charter turned yacht sales company in the marina since he was a kid. At the outset of the pandemic Christian opted to go all in on his passions. He purchased the The MV Dolphin Queen, a large, stable catamaran, and has swiftly made himself an indelible part of the St. Pete community.

Outside of private charters, Pier Dolphin Cruises also provides daily dolphin watch tours. Captain Christian guarantees dolphin sightings on these tours or your next one is free.  “Tampa Bay dolphins love the sound of our engines,” says Captain Christian. He says these creatures have been naturally performing for the Dolphin Queen for nearly 30 years. Dolphins aren’t all you’ll see on these tours. A vibrant abundance of sea birds and other marine life will pass by the boat on your trip. The dolphin tours run 90 minutes.

Eco tours are also on the menu. These adventures are perfect for school field trips, year-round camp programs, or any group that wants to learn more about the delicate natural environment that surrounds Pinellas County.