Mission
Crafting Unforgettable Adventures
At Reel Groovy Experiences, our mission is to create unforgettable memories. Whether you're deep-sea fishing or enjoying one of our scenic cruises—like a serene sunset cruise, an exhilarating dolphin cruise, or a lively booze cruise—we strive to make every moment a cherished experience. We believe in the power of creating lasting memories with loved ones and are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service to ensure every trip is a fun and groovy adventure.

Our team is passionate about the ocean and the joy it brings. We love sharing that passion with every guest aboard the Reel GRooV. Whether you're a seasoned fisherman, a first-time angler, or a family looking to relax in nature on a sunset cruise, our goal is to make your time with us a treasured memory.
Master Merchant Mariner
A Word From The Captain
Ahoy there, fellow adventurers!
Welcome aboard Reel Groovy Experiences! I'm Captain Gary Ray, and I can't wait to share the thrill of deep-sea fishing and the beauty of Panama City Beach with you. Our love for the sea and passion for fishing are what drive us to provide unforgettable experiences for families and friends.

Our 43’ BHM offshore sport fishing boat is not just a vessel; it's a gateway to adventure. Whether you're joining us for a deep-sea fishing trip, a relaxing sunset cruise, a dolphin-watching excursion, or a lively booze cruise, our goal is to create memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime.
Our experienced crew, including myself and a dedicated First Mate, are here to ensure your trip is not only enjoyable but also safe and comfortable. We're committed to exceptional customer service and making sure every moment on board is filled with excitement and joy.
So, let's set sail and make waves together. I look forward to welcoming you aboard and sharing the magic of the Gulf of America with you. Here's to an unforgettable journey and countless groovy memories! Fair winds and following seas,
- Captain Gary Ray
Story
From Passion to Profession
Reel Groovy Experiences was born out of a love for the sea and the joy of time spent with family and friends doing what we love! Starting this business has been one of the greatest blessings we could have ever imagined. We love spending our days watching people enjoy their well-deserved time off to let loose, socialize, and have fun. Isn’t that what life is supposed to be about? You’ve put in the hours, you’ve done the hard work, and now you deserve those special moments with loved ones. The moments you’ll remember for a lifetime and reminisce about when life gets tough again. We hope you give us the opportunity to take you and yours out for one of those special events.

Our founder, Gary Ray, holds a USCG Master Merchant Mariner Credential and is licensed for permitted fishing charters, ensuring every trip is safe, enjoyable, and compliant with regulations. We also offer sunset cruises, dolphin cruises, booze cruises, and burial at sea services. With a unique vessel—the 43’ BHM offshore sport fishing boat—Reel Groovy Experiences stands out by offering federally permitted trips for up to 18 passengers, allowing us to cater to larger groups and venture into federal waters. If you need more information or want to experience the best deep-sea fishing in Panama City Beach, call Captain Gary Ray at 850-774-9007. He’d love to hear from you!
Why choose us?
We offer an unparalleled experience in the breathtaking waters of Panama City Beach, Florida. If you're looking for things to do in Panama City Beach, look no further! We offer a wide range of boat charters for you to choose from. Our spacious and comfortable vessel, the 43’ BHM offshore sport fishing boat, comes equipped with several amenities for your comfort and enjoyment. We strive to provide each group with a private and personalized experience tailored to your needs. Whether you're seeking a relaxing family outing or an action-packed deep-sea fishing charter, we've got you covered. We're also family-friendly and kid-friendly, catering to both beginner anglers and avid fishermen alike.
When you choose one of our fishing trips, our expert crew—including a US Coast Guard Certified Captain and a First Mate—are dedicated to ensuring your satisfaction. With years of local expertise and a deep passion for charter fishing and sharing the water with others, we take you into federal waters where the adventure truly begins.

Whether it's a fishing charter or a sightseeing boat tour, we guarantee a thrilling outing that will leave you eager to return. Join us at Reel Groovy Experiences and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Spacious & Comfortable Vessel
Our 43’ BHM boat offers plenty of space for up to 18 passengers, making it the perfect choice for group fishing adventures, family outings, or corporate events. With ample seating, air conditioning, and an onboard bathroom, you can enjoy a comfortable and convenient experience on the water. The boat also features a covered back deck to provide shade from the hot sun, ensuring everyone stays cool and relaxed. Whether you're planning a small group trip or a larger gathering, our spacious vessel ensures everyone has room to unwind and make the most of the adventure.
Expert Crew
Our friendly and professional crew is dedicated to making your fishing charter or boat tour experience unforgettable! When you join us for a deep sea fishing charter, our crew will use their years of local knowledge and expertise to guide you to the best fishing spots in Panama City Beach. They will provide tips for a successful catch, ensure your safety throughout the trip, and ensure you have a fantastic adventure with us. No experience is required—our crew will provide all the guidance you need, whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer. Our family-friendly charters are perfect for creating lasting memories with your loved ones!
Federal Waters
When you book with us, you get access to federal waters, offering a broader range of fish species and exciting fishing opportunities. These deeper waters provide a chance to reel in bigger catches, from red snapper to grouper, and many other sought-after species. Fishing in federal waters enhances your adventure, giving you a truly unique and thrilling fishing experience you won’t find closer to shore.
Private & Personalized Experience
For a truly unique adventure on the Gulf of America, opt for Reel Groovy Experiences! Our private and personalized fishing charters and boat tours cater to your every need, whether you’re aiming for a trophy catch or enjoying a leisurely day with family. Our expert crew tailors each trip to your goals, providing exclusive use of the boat and personalized guidance. Skip the crowds and enjoy a fishing trip designed just for you, creating memories that will last a lifetime!
Location
Explore the Gulf of America Panama City Beach
Located in the vibrant Panama City Beach, Reel Groovy Experiences offers an unparalleled fishing experience in the Gulf of America. Our location allows us to provide a variety of tours, including deep-sea fishing, sunset cruises, and dolphin sightings. With the ability to fish in both state and federal waters, our guests have the opportunity to explore diverse marine environments and catch a wide range of fish species. Join us for an adventure that combines the thrill of fishing with the beauty of the Gulf's stunning waters.
Most frequent questions and 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.
