H2O. It is to Tampa what sand is to the Sahara desert. Everywhere you look there is water, water and more water. You can sail on it, swim in it, kayak, jet ski, snorkel, enjoy from above, dive deep below, drive or ride over it (great bridges abound) and even check out the local wildlife that inhabits it. If you are so inclined, you can also fish for your dinner on it. You get the picture, water is a main source of fun and enjoyment here, so to help you get the most out of this natural resource we give you several options to enjoy the many fun and varied water sports available for less. Check out our recommendations for the best Tampa water sports deals below.
Dolphins and Manatees
Get acquainted with the local aquatic fauna on a dolphin cruise on the waters off Madeira Beach or Clearwater Bay. Bottled nose dolphins cavort in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and often will put on a show for passersby. You will also have a chance to see sea turtles, manatees and all kinds of sea birds as well as local flora such as the ubiquitous Florida mangroves. Take in some great views from either a double-decker or single deck catamaran or even on a speed boat where you will enjoy dolphins playing in its wake. Some tours are narrated by Coast Guard certified captains. Check out current Dolphin tour discounts or look into getting a GoCard for discounts on other activities as well.
Diving & Snorkeling
Another great way to mingle with the aquatic locals is by getting in the water with them. Take a manatee tour and snorkeling trip, or sign up for scuba diving lessons and get your open water certification or try a “Discover Scuba” introductory class to see if diving is the thing for you. Find deals on snorkeling with the manatees and assorted diving lessons available in the Tampa Bay area and save 40-50% over regular rates.
Kayaking & paddle boarding
Paddle boarding and kayaking are very popular in Florida due to the many different waterways and locales where native wildlife and nature can be enjoyed, while coasting along calm waters. Visit Anclote River, Sand Key Park, Tarpon Springs and more, utilizing this eco-friendly mode of transportation. Check out all current kayak & paddle board specials on offer at Groupon and get an average of 50-60% off regular rates .
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Fishing trips, cruises & rentals
A versatile way to enjoy the water is on board a boat, either fishing for some local catch, chillaxing with friends and family on a rented pontoon boat or speeding it up on a power vessel. Specials on boat rentals are usually available for about 45% off regular rates. Take a local cruise to party like sailor on a pirate ship, be romantic on a sunset cruise or play some slots on a casino cruise, all for a discount with these Tampa Bay cruise deals. Or head out into the Gulf of Mexico, on one of the local fishing charters to reel in some of the over 200 species of fish that call this area home. From intimate trips for two, to larger group outings, all with experienced captains on board who know the best fishing spots, there are always some savings to be found on Tampa fishing charters.
Wave runners
For a speedy thrill on the water head out on a wave runner or jet ski. Rent one for as little as 30 minutes or spend several hours skimming along the waterways and the Gulf of Mexico stopping along different attraction spots along the way. Team up with friends or family and stop at beach bistros, enjoy local flora and fauna or race along at high speeds as you hop over the wakes left by larger sea craft. Click to check out the latest specials on wave runner rentals in Tampa, Clearwater and St. Pete.
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