Unforgettable Boat Tours & Fishing Charters in Panama City Beach

Federally Permitted | Family Friendly | Captain-Led Gulf Adventures

"Captain Gary and deck hand Casey were nothing short of amazing. My family of 8 had the best experience on our 8 hour charter! We will definitely be booking with these guys again! My entire family hasn’t stopped laughing and talking about how much fun we had while on our trip. We charter out of PCB every year and this was definitely one of our best experiences."- Ashley

Welcome to Reel Groovy Experiences!

At Reel Groovy Experiences, we are your go-to destination for unforgettable adventures on the Gulf of America. Owned and operated by Captain Gary Ray Stanfill and Emily Stanfill, our family-run business specializes in private deep sea fishing charters, dolphin cruises, sunset excursions, and even burial at sea services. With our 43’ BHM offshore sport fishing boat, we ensure a comfortable and safe experience for up to 18 passengers, making it perfect for families, friends, and corporate outings alike.What sets us apart is our commitment to creating memorable experiences tailored to your desires. Whether you're casting a line for red snapper or enjoying a scenic dolphin cruise, our professional crew is dedicated to providing a fun and relaxed atmosphere. With high-end fishing gear, customizable trip options, and amenities like air conditioning and cushioned seating, we prioritize your comfort and enjoyment on every journey.

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Best Price Guarantee – Book Direct for the Lowest Rates!


Third-party booking platforms take a significant percentage of each reservation—sometimes up to 30%. To cover those added fees, we’re often forced to raise prices on those sites. When you book directly with Reel Groovy Experiences, you avoid those markups and get our lowest available rate. Plus, direct bookings mean clearer communication, more flexibility, and a smoother, more personalized experience from start to finish. Support local and save—book your trip with us today!

Unforgettable Adventures Await

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Why Choose Reel Groovy Experiences?

At Reel Groovy Experiences, we believe that your adventure should be as comfortable as it is exciting. Our spacious and comfortable vessel, the Reel GRooV, is equipped with a range of amenities to ensure you have the best time on the water. Enjoy the convenience of a bathroom, stay cool with air conditioning, and relax on our cushioned seating in the cabin. The covered back deck provides a perfect spot to soak in the sun or enjoy the scenery while listening to your favorite tunes on our Bluetooth speaker. Our expert local crew is dedicated to making your experience unforgettable, whether you're fishing, cruising, or simply enjoying the beauty of Panama City Beach. With federal permits and a focus on safety, we offer a private and personalized experience that’s family-friendly and kid-approved. No experience is required—just bring your sense of adventure!

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Find Us in Panama City Beach, Florida

Located in the heart of Panama City Beach, Reel Groovy Experiences is your go-to destination for unforgettable fishing charters and boat tours along Florida’s beautiful Gulf Coast. Whether you're looking for deep sea fishing, private sunset cruises, or family-friendly dolphin tours, our location is easy to access and just minutes from top local resorts and beaches. Guests frequently search for “fishing charters near me” or “best boat tours Panama City Beach”—and we’re proud to be one of the top-rated experiences in the area. Click the map above for directions to your next Gulf Coast adventure with Captain Gary Ray aboard the Reel GRooV.



As a locally owned and operated business, we’re proud to offer custom, high-energy trips exploring the vibrant waters of the Gulf of Mexico, also known as the Gulf of America. Our federally permitted sportfishing vessel gives guests access to some of the best fishing grounds off the Florida Panhandle, including popular targets like red snapper, king mackerel, grouper, and mahi-mahi. From offshore fishing expeditions to relaxing sightseeing cruises, Reel Groovy Experiences offers something for everyone—whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned angler.

Our Panama City Beach charters are ideal for families, couples, and groups looking to experience the best of the Gulf Coast. We frequently rank for popular search terms like:


  • Best deep sea fishing Panama City Beach
  • Dolphin tours Gulf Coast Florida
  • Private boat tours Panama City Beach FL
  • Fishing trips Gulf of Mexico
  • Sunset cruises Panama City Beach
  • Offshore fishing Panama City Beach


Join us for a fun, safe, and unforgettable time on the water with Captain Gary Ray and the Reel GRooV—one of the most recognized fishing and tour experiences on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

What Guests Say: Real Reviews, Real Memories

At Reel Groovy Experiences, our guests become part of the family. Don’t just take our word for it—hear what past adventurers have to say!

A row of black stars on a white background.

We caught a ton of fish and had a blast with Captain Gary. Everything was clean, organized, and fun—worth every penny!

John

2 weeks ago

A 5 star rating review.

A beautiful, respectful ceremony at sea for our father’s memorial. Truly unforgettable.

Emily

1 month ago

A five star rating review.

Hands down, the best booze cruise we’ve ever been on. Laid-back vibes, amazing music, and dolphins too!

Mark

3 months ago

MOST FREQUENT QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Frequently Asked Questions


  • How many people can join a charter?

    Our boat is Coast Guard-approved to accommodate up to 18 passengers, making it an ideal choice for large groups. Most fishing boats in this area are only 6-pack charter boats and can't accommodate larger groups of friends and family.

  • What types of tours do you offer?

    We offer a variety of excursions to suit every taste and occasion. Choose from deep sea fishing tours lasting 4 to 12 hours, relaxing sunset cruises, thrilling dolphin cruises, and lively booze cruises. Additionally, we provide burial at sea services for those seeking a meaningful and serene way to honor their loved ones.

  • Do we fish in federal or state waters for our deep sea fishing charters?

    For our deep sea fishing charters, we primarily fish in federal waters, which begin where state waters end. State waters extend up to 9 nautical miles on the Gulf coast, but we venture further into federal waters for most of our fishing expeditions. This allows us to target a wider variety of species and provides an exciting experience for our guests. The further you go, the better fish you may be able to catch, as these spots are less likely to be overfished. Unlike most of the smaller 6-pack boats, we have federal permits, enabling us to offer these extended trips. Please note that the length of the trip you choose will determine how far out we can go to fish & the type of fish you may get to catch.

  • What should I bring on my charter?

    Don't forget to bring drinks, snacks, sunscreen lotion (please apply aerosol sunscreen on the dock or in the parking lot prior to boarding the vessel to avoid making the back deck slick), polarized sunglasses, a hat, a camera, motion sickness medication, cash for live bait (optional), and gratuity for the crew (18-20%). It is also recommended to wear appropriate attire, including an SPF shirt and shoes with a good grip.

  • Do you offer split or shared charters?

    Most of our charters are private boat tours, where your group, along with the Captain and First Mate, has exclusive access to the entire boat. However, we understand the appeal of sharing costs, and we do our best to accommodate groups interested in split charters. For more information on booking this style of charter, please contact us at 850-774-9007

  • Are your charters inshore or offshore?

    All of our fishing charters are considered offshore or nearshore tours. We do have business relations with smaller inshore charters that we can set you up with if that is what you're looking for. Give us a call for more information. Our sunset cruises, dolphin cruises, and booze cruises are considered inshore or nearshore tours.

  • Is there an age limit?

    We are a family-friendly business and welcome guests of all ages! Whether you're bringing along little ones or grandparents, we're here to ensure everyone has a fantastic time. Just remember to supervise children closely for their safety.

  • What is provided for each charter?

    Safety equipment, including life jackets, is provided for all charters. For deep-sea fishing charters, we supply all fishing gear, your fishing license, and ice to keep your catch fresh.

  • What is your cancellation policy?

    After booking, you may cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. After 24 hours, your deposit is non-refundable. If you choose to pay the full amount at booking, you can cancel with a refund (- deposit) up to 30 days before your trip date.

  • What happens if the weather is bad for my scheduled charter?

    Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities! If the weather is deemed unsafe for boating—such as high winds, rough seas, or storms—we will either reschedule your trip for a later date or provide a full refund if rescheduling is not possible.


    However, if it’s just light rain, many of our trips can still run since our boat has a cabin and a covered back deck to keep you dry. Florida weather can change quickly, and light rain often passes through without affecting the experience.


    Our captain closely monitors weather conditions and will make the final decision regarding cancellations. We strive to give as much advance notice as possible, but we appreciate your understanding.


    If you have any concerns about the forecast before your trip, feel free to call or text us at 850-774-9007 for updates.

  • Will I get seasick?

    Seasickness is a possibility for some guests, especially if it's your first time out on the water or if you're prone to motion sickness. We recommend taking motion sickness medication the night before and the morning of your trip to reduce the risk and ensure you have an enjoyable experience. If you begin to feel queasy while on the boat, try focusing on the horizon, sipping on some ginger ale, or sitting in an area with less movement.

  • How will we get our fish cleaned?

    After your charter has ended and we've taken some memorable pictures, we will assist in getting your group's catch to Captain Anderson's Marina's fish cleaning station, where services are offered for a small fee per pound of fish. Additionally, there are restaurants that offer "hook & cook" services, where they will cook your fresh catch to your liking while you reminisce about your adventure. We discuss these options in one of our blog posts. Alternatively, you can prepare your catch at home for a delightful seafood feast.

  • What amenities does the boat have?

    Our boat is equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. The air-conditioned cabin provides a cool retreat from the sun and features cushioned seating, a small table, and a bathroom for your convenience. The spacious covered back deck offers plenty of room to move around while providing shade and protection from the elements, allowing you to fully enjoy your time on the water. We also have coolers with ice specifically for your catch, ensuring your fish stay fresh throughout the trip. Additionally, a Bluetooth sound system is available so you can play your favorite music. If your trip includes fishing, we have all the necessary gear and tackle ready for you.


    For bait options, we provide cut frozen bait and artificial bait, but if you prefer live bait, we have a live well on board to keep it fresh. You can purchase live bait as we head out of the pass, or for added convenience, you can select our live bait add-on package when booking your trip.


    If you need ice for your drink cooler, ice is available at the marina for just $6 per 50-pound basket. Simply ask the first mate, and he will assist you with getting the ice before your trip.


    Whether you’re joining us for a fishing trip, sunset cruise, dolphin cruise, or booze cruise, we ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic adventure. Come aboard the Reel GRooV and experience the best with Reel Groovy Experiences!


    We also offer a variety of add-on packages that include extra amenities and services to enhance your experience. Whether you’re looking for premium fishing gear, catering options, or a customized excursion, we have options to make your trip exactly what you want. For more details on available add-ons, feel free to contact us or check our booking options.

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Wahoo caught during a deep sea fishing charter with Reel Groovy Experiences in Panama City Beach, FL
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Learn how to catch Wahoo- Florida's famous "Tiger of the Sea"- with tips on gear, bait, and where to find them off Panama City Beach.
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By Reel Groovy Experiences May 1, 2025
Explore the top attractions in Panama City Beach! From dolphin cruises to fishing charters, local restaurants, and family-friendly fun- this guide has it all.
A full moon is shining over the ocean at night, advertising night fishing with Reel Groovy Experiences.
By Reel Groovy Experiences April 1, 2025
Looking for a unique and thrilling twist to your fishing adventures? Look no further! Night fishing with Reel Groovy Experiences in Panama City Beach is an unforgettable journey you won’t want to miss.

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