Frequently Asked Questions Our Cruises
Captain Johnny's Dolphin Watch is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience during your dolphin tour. If you have any other questions please feel free to e-mail or give us a call us at 252-473-1475 and we will be happy to answer them for you.
Below are some common questions that we receive about our Outer Banks tours:
Q: What time do your Dolphin Watch Tour tours depart?
A: During the summer time, we depart Monday thru Friday at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and around 6 p.m. for the sunset tour. Spring and Fall depends on several factors, call the week you are here for the current schedule. A private charter will displace a slot time if no reservations are already made for that time.
Q: Do need to make a tour reservation in advance?
A: We do not absolutely require advance reservations. We prefer to take reservations no more than a week out, it reduces no-shows. 90% of the time two or three days advance is enough. We run three tours a day and will add a forth if all three sell out early or a charter takes a spot. We do not require a minimum ticket sales for a tour. If we take your reservation we will accommodate you.
Q: Is there a minimum age for children on your tour?
A: There is no minimum age for children, we routinely have infants on tours, however, we are limited as to the number of seats that are available so every person counts against that number.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: If YOU cancel: Our policy is pretty straightforward…we simply ask that you cancel at least 72 hours in advance…we don’t need a note from Mom or Dad or anyone for that matter. We simply want enough time to offer the seats to someone else. You will not be charged any fees, and you get a full refund (charters have different rules). If WE cancel: Weather, earthquakes etc., there is no charge and you get a 100% refund or we will try and reschedule you as best we can, subject to availability.
Q: What should we bring/wear?
A: I like to tell folks to dress for the beach and be comfortable. Flip flops are fine, as are shorts, tees, or whatever suits you. Dress for the weather. In the fall a sweatshirt feels good.
Q: What is the best time of day to take a Dolphin tour?
A: Most days, it makes little difference. We see dolphin throughout the day, and it revolves around what other activities folks have planned, and how far away their next activity is. Hardcore photographers prefer the early and late tours. Again, we have a shade top on the boat.
Q: What happens if it rains?
A: Well, this depends on the rain. If it’s a little sprinkle and no one is going to melt, then we will continue the tour. Downpours and/or thunderstorms are a no-go. We will cancel. (See cancellation policy above).
Q: Are there restrooms on the tours?
A: Yes! It is not the Ritz but it is large enough for a parent and child (most boat restrooms are barely big enough for one person.
Q: How many people does the Capt. Johnny hold?
A: We could carry 70 but limit it to 49 passengers.
Q: Can we bring food or snacks?
A: NO BANANAS. No alcohol. We sell soft drinks, crackers and Snickers candy bars. Any special dietary needs are welcome.
Q: Is the tour safe for pregnant women?
A: Yes.
Q: Where do we check in for our tour?
A: 400 Queen Elizabeth Avenue is the parking lot located on the waterfront at the intersection of Budleigh and Queen Elizabeth in Manteo. Our ticket office is floating on the water behind the parking lot. Parking is public, with plenty of spaces over the bridge to Festival Park and the Elizabeth II.
Q: Can I get a private Dolphin watch or Sunset tour?
A: Absolutely! See the web link for charter prices. Charters are allowed to bring food and drink including moderate alcohol as desired.
Q. What is a charter? How many are required for a charter?
A. Charter means you rent the whole boat. If you charter the boat you may bring 1 to 49 people. A charter may bring food and alcohol. Like to charter a Bus or Airplane, you do not have strangers on the boat with you.