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We had a really great time on our sunset/night fishing excursion. It was from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm.At first I was nervous because it appeared there were a LOT of people on board with not a ton of extra space or rods, but we settled in just fine and we had space. Honestly, my kids had the BEST time. We had a group of 6 people and I'm not kidding, we probably caught 40 fish between all of us--mostly Croaker. We kept a handful to do the "biggest fish pool" challenge, but didn't win. My boys were disappointed about that, but has nothing to do with Rudee Tours. Really professional captain and crew--the first mates were super friendly and nice. They also were super attentive to my boys and engaged with them a lot, which made them feel very special. Had a fabulous time and will totally be back. It's worth the money and was beautiful watching the sun go down.
If you're looking for something to do. The Rudee Inlet has a few boat rides that may peak your interest. They have 2 different dolphin tours. We chose the Rocket which was the faster boat ride, for $28. There's a small discount for seniors and kids. There's also free parking on site. You will need to arrive early to board. They have a small store on site also with souvenirs and stuff. They will be taking pictures that you can purchase at the end. The boat ride was a good time. You see several dolphins and the first half it's slower, but coming back is where the fun begins. You're going to probably get wet, and a hat or loose wig isn't recommended!! Strap that ish down or be prepared to lose it!! Lol. I also recommend sun shades because salt water in your eyes could screw up the experience. My very first ride I got drenched and my eyes burned for a while. I wore my bathing suit this time, so the water was fine with me. It's good for kids and adults. My 84 year old grandma had a wonderful time!! Also remember to bring cash to tip the crew at the end. I do this every year during the summer, it's always fun. Definitely check them out!!!
This is for the Rudee Rocket We did both tours this year but this one really set itself apart from the other tour. The staff on this boat were so personable and fun. They really made this tour so much fun. I wish I could remember the one guys name but he really took it to the next level. He made this tour very very enjoyable and had lots of knowledge not only about the dolphins but the area in general. He also helped both of my sons to get a better view of the dolphins! I would definitely recommend seeing this crew and going on the Rocket. I wouldn't bat an eye at going again. I really can't say enough good about this tour/ ride. Be prepared to get wet but that's part of the fun. Thanks again
The GUARANTEE WAS REAL! Don't skip this tourist excursion!!! This is a must! Take the family!! Take yourself!! Incredible experience! My first time being on the ocean, on the ocean during hurricane season and seeing dolphins both up close and in general! I can't contain my excitement!! Go! Go! Go! Go NOW!!!!!
If I could give this 10 stars I definitely would! I have been vacationing at Virginia beach for over 10 years and not once have I indulge in this tour. My family and I bough tickets for this tour on September 21st and had a blast of a lifetime! I can definitely tell you no matter how many times we come back each year this will always be on our list! We purchased our tickets online and went and checked in at the office once we arrived. From there we were informed to head to the dock where there are signs posted for Rudee's line. While you are waiting in line you can enjoy the view of the water, luxury boats, and fish. You are supposed to arrive 30mins before hand so you can be standing in line for a while but luckily the line was getting longer so we were allowed to board the boat. Once you climb aboard they will take your picture and inform you (depending on your preference) which spot on the boat would be the best place to sit (Do you want a calmer trip, bumper one, etc.). The employees will introduce themselves and give you a summary of the trip and what you can expect along the way. If you are sitting in the the seat on the outside (closest to the water) you will get set either on your way out or the way back but they do give you options to move before taking off. The views of the oceanfront are great the speed of the board is totally thrilling and of course seeing all the dolphins makes it even more worth it. They will even take you all the way out to see the lighthouses and to the end of the public beach at 88th street. If all that wasn't enough on the way back they will kick up the speed and do some tricks so make sure you hold on! Please be sure to bring some cash with you as you can purchase the pictures that they took of you before the trip but also the 2 employees work for tips only. Tip: If you get nauseous or motion sick easily I would definitly suggest taking something before this trip otherwise you will be feeding the dolphins :-)
I've been on two Rudee tours. The first time was a dolphin tour. This time I decided to try out their whale watching tours. I have used another local company to do whale watching tours prior. I feel like Rudee's boats are bigger than the other company because there's a second level/top deck you can view the whales so you can switch up the angles. They also seem to have more seating on their boats (I didn't use them). There's an inside cabin if you aren't able to brave the cold or the elements. A snack bar is located inside the cabin. The two bathrooms are located at the stern. There are even some standing tables at the stern & a couple on the top deck. They have multiple vessels for the whale tours contingent upon the numbers. Tickets can be purchased online. If there are available spots left, tickets can be purchased at the office at the pier off Winston Salem Ave. Parking is free if you purchased a tour. Tours can be canceled due to strong/high winds, but will be rescheduled for another day. Those who are unable to attend the new date can request a full refund. However, if it's just raining & no strong winds are present the tours still continue. This company actually guarantees whale sightings or you you ride for free next time. The boat itself is very clean & well maintained. Bathrooms were very clean & fully stocked with supplies. When attending the whale tours arrive 30 minutes PRIOR to tour time, go straight to the box office to acquire your physical ticket to board. You must check in first. Temperature on the water is typically 10 degrees cooler so dress accordingly, especially in the winter. Think hats, scarves, gloves. They offer various tours from fishing, wildlife tours to pure entertainment of going fast if riding the Rudee rocket. Make sure to check out when the various seasons for the whale tours & other wildlife are as they are seasonal contingent upon what you wish to see or do.
This is an annual event, where Rudy Tours provides a day on the water fishing for veterans wounded warriors, combat wounded veterans, and their families or accompanying caregivers to fish and create lasting memories. They do more than say that they support veterans, they actually take a day to provide this memorable experience every year, if you want to support a business that actively tries to support Veterans and their families and wounded warriors, please consider them next time you are booking a tour to watch dolphins or take a day out fishing with family and friends. This event is sponsored and hosted by the Coast Guard exchange and the Armed Services YMCA.
We always have the most amazing trips with Rudee tours!! They use Whale Sense which is a huge plus to me! L We have done dolphin tours multiple times (seriously ever time we come to VB) and today did 2 whale trips!! Both times we had the best crews. We were lucky to see 3 humpbacks plus tons of dolphins. If you are on the fence about spending money on an excursion, this company is the one to use!!!
This was our second time on the Rudee Rocket and it was just as thrilling and fun the second time around! Perfect way to see dolphins, have the thrill of being on a giant jet ski so to speak and cool down on a hot day by being DRENCHED!! The crew was great and the dolphins did their thing!! This is a must if you're in VA Beach!! So much fun!! To add for anyone wondering-I am not a huge fan of boats or deep water or thrill rides. I was fine on this and felt safe and had a blast!!
Great for the family Souvenirs on board The people were friendly, and the boat turned so everyone could have a view of the (sea creatures) dolphins It was a peaceful and incredible adventure A must-do in my book!
Do not waste your time looking up another place for a tour... RUDEE TOURS is the best! Just book your tour now! I was looking for something to do while my in-laws were visiting. We decided a dolphin tour would be great. We booked online with no problems. The pricing was perfect! So perfect that this is going to be something we do all the time with friends and family and in our off time. We arrived 45 min early and boarded about 15 min prior to departure. It was perfect since they are operating at 50% capacity. I was actually a little bit worried at one point because I saw the amount of people and I thought to myself this has to be all on one boat. I booked because they were at 50% capacity and it seemed safe enough during Covid. All my worries went away when I realized that only half of us were going on one boat and the other half was going on a boat next to us. We found a seat all the way at the top to the front where it was just our family so we were not around anyone else. We had some great views just from that top. Then about 45 minutes into the trip I personally went downstairs and stood in a corner away from everybody else looking down at another level. If you're down on that lower level I warn you people will have their masks off because they're eating and drinking and you will also be around a lot more people because they all like to crowd around whenever they see it often so if you wanna have space I suggest you go up to the top. There is a restroom in board along with a cafe and seating indoors to warm up or get away from the heat and sun if needed. The crew was great. They took our picture before we got on the boat and sold it for $10 which I felt was very reasonable. The captain was amazing I could hear him letting the crew on the first level know when and where dolphins were. Seriously amazing!
I had a really good time aboard. The captain definitely put us on the fish and I love how he came on the speaker to talk to us instead of just blowing the horn like other boats do. He updated it's on what he saw on the fish finder and when we would move to the next spot. The mates were very vigilant and quick to help when needed. I can't remember their names but one came around with a remora stories caught to show us. Such a gorgeous fish. They have so much patience and untangled so many of us that day. I'm looking forward to my next trip with them in a couple weeks
We had a nice smooth ride, helped by great weather and an expert captain/helmsman. We saw lots of dolphins on the 4pm tour. The sun was bright and hot but there is shade on the boat if you go downstairs or move with it. There are also slushies and other refreshments to help you cool off They maneuvered the boat to give all sides a chance to get some views and pictures/video. I would definitely do it again
21 days ago
Our group went on a private charter to see the offshore wind turbines. Really neat experience! The turbines are 27 miles off the coast, so it took a few hours to even get out there. Really fun half day boat ride! read more
3 months ago
We had a really great time on our sunset/night fishing excursion. It was from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm.At first I was nervous because it appeared there were a LOT of people on board with not a ton of extra space or rods, but we settled in just fine and we had space. Honestly, my kids had the BEST time. We had a group of 6 people and I'm not kidding, we probably caught 40 fish between all of us--mostly Croaker. We kept a handful to do the "biggest fish pool" challenge, but didn't win. My boys were disappointed about that, but has nothing to do with Rudee Tours. Really professional captain and crew--the first mates were super friendly and nice. They also were super attentive to my boys and engaged with them a lot, which made them feel very special. Had a fabulous time and will totally be back. It's worth the money and was beautiful watching the sun go down. read more
If you're looking for something to do. The Rudee Inlet has a few boat rides that may peak your interest. They have 2 different dolphin tours. We chose the Rocket which was the faster boat ride, for $28. There's a small discount for seniors and kids. There's also free parking on site. You will need to arrive early to board. They have a small store on site also with souvenirs and stuff. They will be taking pictures that you can purchase at the end. The boat ride was a good time. You see several dolphins and the first half it's slower, but coming back is where the fun begins. You're going to probably get wet, and a hat or loose wig isn't recommended!! Strap that ish down or be prepared to lose it!! Lol. I also recommend sun shades because salt water in your eyes could screw up the experience. My very first ride I got drenched and my eyes burned for a while. I wore my bathing suit this time, so the water was fine with me. It's good for kids and adults. My 84 year old grandma had a wonderful time!! Also remember to bring cash to tip the crew at the end. I do this every year during the summer, it's always fun. Definitely check them out!!! read more
1 year ago
This is for the Rudee Rocket We did both tours this year but this one really set itself apart from the other tour. The staff on this boat were so personable and fun. They really made this tour so much fun. I wish I could remember the one guys name but he really took it to the next level. He made this tour very very enjoyable and had lots of knowledge not only about the dolphins but the area in general. He also helped both of my sons to get a better view of the dolphins! I would definitely recommend seeing this crew and going on the Rocket. I wouldn't bat an eye at going again. I really can't say enough good about this tour/ ride. Be prepared to get wet but that's part of the fun. Thanks again read more
1 year ago
The GUARANTEE WAS REAL! Don't skip this tourist excursion!!! This is a must! Take the family!! Take yourself!! Incredible experience! My first time being on the ocean, on the ocean during hurricane season and seeing dolphins both up close and in general! I can't contain my excitement!! Go! Go! Go! Go NOW!!!!! read more
If I could give this 10 stars I definitely would! I have been vacationing at Virginia beach for over 10 years and not once have I indulge in this tour. My family and I bough tickets for this tour on September 21st and had a blast of a lifetime! I can definitely tell you no matter how many times we come back each year this will always be on our list! We purchased our tickets online and went and checked in at the office once we arrived. From there we were informed to head to the dock where there are signs posted for Rudee's line. While you are waiting in line you can enjoy the view of the water, luxury boats, and fish. You are supposed to arrive 30mins before hand so you can be standing in line for a while but luckily the line was getting longer so we were allowed to board the boat. Once you climb aboard they will take your picture and inform you (depending on your preference) which spot on the boat would be the best place to sit (Do you want a calmer trip, bumper one, etc.). The employees will introduce themselves and give you a summary of the trip and what you can expect along the way. If you are sitting in the the seat on the outside (closest to the water) you will get set either on your way out or the way back but they do give you options to move before taking off. The views of the oceanfront are great the speed of the board is totally thrilling and of course seeing all the dolphins makes it even more worth it. They will even take you all the way out to see the lighthouses and to the end of the public beach at 88th street. If all that wasn't enough on the way back they will kick up the speed and do some tricks so make sure you hold on! Please be sure to bring some cash with you as you can purchase the pictures that they took of you before the trip but also the 2 employees work for tips only. Tip: If you get nauseous or motion sick easily I would definitly suggest taking something before this trip otherwise you will be feeding the dolphins :-) read more
6 months ago
I've been on two Rudee tours. The first time was a dolphin tour. This time I decided to try out their whale watching tours. I have used another local company to do whale watching tours prior. I feel like Rudee's boats are bigger than the other company because there's a second level/top deck you can view the whales so you can switch up the angles. They also seem to have more seating on their boats (I didn't use them). There's an inside cabin if you aren't able to brave the cold or the elements. A snack bar is located inside the cabin. The two bathrooms are located at the stern. There are even some standing tables at the stern & a couple on the top deck. They have multiple vessels for the whale tours contingent upon the numbers. Tickets can be purchased online. If there are available spots left, tickets can be purchased at the office at the pier off Winston Salem Ave. Parking is free if you purchased a tour. Tours can be canceled due to strong/high winds, but will be rescheduled for another day. Those who are unable to attend the new date can request a full refund. However, if it's just raining & no strong winds are present the tours still continue. This company actually guarantees whale sightings or you you ride for free next time. The boat itself is very clean & well maintained. Bathrooms were very clean & fully stocked with supplies. When attending the whale tours arrive 30 minutes PRIOR to tour time, go straight to the box office to acquire your physical ticket to board. You must check in first. Temperature on the water is typically 10 degrees cooler so dress accordingly, especially in the winter. Think hats, scarves, gloves. They offer various tours from fishing, wildlife tours to pure entertainment of going fast if riding the Rudee rocket. Make sure to check out when the various seasons for the whale tours & other wildlife are as they are seasonal contingent upon what you wish to see or do. read more
2 years ago
This is an annual event, where Rudy Tours provides a day on the water fishing for veterans wounded warriors, combat wounded veterans, and their families or accompanying caregivers to fish and create lasting memories. They do more than say that they support veterans, they actually take a day to provide this memorable experience every year, if you want to support a business that actively tries to support Veterans and their families and wounded warriors, please consider them next time you are booking a tour to watch dolphins or take a day out fishing with family and friends. This event is sponsored and hosted by the Coast Guard exchange and the Armed Services YMCA. read more
1 year ago
We always have the most amazing trips with Rudee tours!! They use Whale Sense which is a huge plus to me! L We have done dolphin tours multiple times (seriously ever time we come to VB) and today did 2 whale trips!! Both times we had the best crews. We were lucky to see 3 humpbacks plus tons of dolphins. If you are on the fence about spending money on an excursion, this company is the one to use!!! read more
3 years ago
This was our second time on the Rudee Rocket and it was just as thrilling and fun the second time around! Perfect way to see dolphins, have the thrill of being on a giant jet ski so to speak and cool down on a hot day by being DRENCHED!! The crew was great and the dolphins did their thing!! This is a must if you're in VA Beach!! So much fun!! To add for anyone wondering-I am not a huge fan of boats or deep water or thrill rides. I was fine on this and felt safe and had a blast!! read more
5 years ago
Great for the family Souvenirs on board The people were friendly, and the boat turned so everyone could have a view of the (sea creatures) dolphins It was a peaceful and incredible adventure A must-do in my book! read more
6 years ago
Do not waste your time looking up another place for a tour... RUDEE TOURS is the best! Just book your tour now! I was looking for something to do while my in-laws were visiting. We decided a dolphin tour would be great. We booked online with no problems. The pricing was perfect! So perfect that this is going to be something we do all the time with friends and family and in our off time. We arrived 45 min early and boarded about 15 min prior to departure. It was perfect since they are operating at 50% capacity. I was actually a little bit worried at one point because I saw the amount of people and I thought to myself this has to be all on one boat. I booked because they were at 50% capacity and it seemed safe enough during Covid. All my worries went away when I realized that only half of us were going on one boat and the other half was going on a boat next to us. We found a seat all the way at the top to the front where it was just our family so we were not around anyone else. We had some great views just from that top. Then about 45 minutes into the trip I personally went downstairs and stood in a corner away from everybody else looking down at another level. If you're down on that lower level I warn you people will have their masks off because they're eating and drinking and you will also be around a lot more people because they all like to crowd around whenever they see it often so if you wanna have space I suggest you go up to the top. There is a restroom in board along with a cafe and seating indoors to warm up or get away from the heat and sun if needed. The crew was great. They took our picture before we got on the boat and sold it for $10 which I felt was very reasonable. The captain was amazing I could hear him letting the crew on the first level know when and where dolphins were. Seriously amazing! read more
I had a really good time aboard. The captain definitely put us on the fish and I love how he came on the speaker to talk to us instead of just blowing the horn like other boats do. He updated it's on what he saw on the fish finder and when we would move to the next spot. The mates were very vigilant and quick to help when needed. I can't remember their names but one came around with a remora stories caught to show us. Such a gorgeous fish. They have so much patience and untangled so many of us that day. I'm looking forward to my next trip with them in a couple weeks read more
3 years ago
We had a nice smooth ride, helped by great weather and an expert captain/helmsman. We saw lots of dolphins on the 4pm tour. The sun was bright and hot but there is shade on the boat if you go downstairs or move with it. There are also slushies and other refreshments to help you cool off They maneuvered the boat to give all sides a chance to get some views and pictures/video. I would definitely do it again read more
My boyfriend bought whale watching tickets for me for my birthday last September. He scheduled our our tour for February 14th for Valentine's Day. Unfortunately 2 days before our tour was supposed to take place a rep from the business called and explained that the weather wasn't cooperating. The man was very polite and nice. So we rescheduled to 2/22/24. We arrived early as suggested. Wore and carried extra warm and water resistant clothing. We were greeted by a nice young woman at the ticket window and another as we boarded the boat. There was a group of physically challenged people in front of us. The staff was very good at helping them aboard. The trip out was great. It was too cold and we had a nice seat. We saw some great birds and we did get some humpback whale sightings. It was pretty exciting. As with any excursion or thing of this nature some of the others who booked the trip were rather rude. The Capt was very good making sure groups on each side of the boat had a good view of a tail, back, and blow hole spouting. The ride back, although a little rough and chillier, was still nice. We felt safe the whole trip and the staff on the boat was great. I highly recommend taking a tour with Rudee Tours. We will probably do a dolphin tour this summer. read more
One of the best tour groups in the area. From speed boats, fishing boats, to large whale watching boats you cannot go wrong with Rudee tours. The crew is all friendly and knowledgeable there is nothing that you will see on your tour that they cannot inform you about. Parking goes quickly so be sure to check in early because the boats do depart on time. Tours have varying lengths to suit your schedule. Don't forget to tip the crew and enjoy the ride. Happy Adventuring Yeeps!!! read more
4 years ago
5 years ago
We went on the whale trip and cruised around in the freezing cold but came up empty. Very disappointing as we made the 3 hour drive and spent the night just for this. As a consolation they give you a ticket so you can do it all again. Lots of reasonably priced food and snacks and souvenirs on the boat. Although the picture they try to sell is kind if lame. You can stay inside the boat and keep warm if you like but most people in there looked miserable rocking and rolling - at least one got sick. Better to bundle up and enjoy the ride and fresh crisp air outdoors. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
1 year ago
3 years ago
This is a must do whether you're a local or a visitor! Just sitting on the boat enjoying the ride on a perfect June day was plenty for me. But back to the purpose at hand. Took my Dad out for half day of fishing. And I have not one complaint!! They provided the rods, bait, and ice. They also had snacks onboard to purchase. The staff was awesome Kyle was my fave he gave service with a smile. Even when I continued to jack up my line he was right there and very patient. The ride was very smooth. The People that sat up front got wet but hey I believe that's what they wanted. They were dressed for the occasion. We caught a few small fish until my Dad caught a SHARK!!! WOOOOOO Daddy Shark dooodooodoooo!! I'll definitely go again read more
2 years ago
I brought my family of four out for the Rudee Rocket tour today and we had a great time! My four and five year olds were absolutely thrilled with the experience and want to go again for sure. The wait in the marina was pretty boring but we got the seats we wanted and entertained our kids with some silly conversation so it was okay. Thirty minutes early is what they ask for but next time we'll probably check in and walk around before boarding so we don't have to sit there for so long. My kids had never been on a boat before so from the second it started moving they were all smiles. We barely made it to the open water when a large pod of dolphins showed up. What a thrill! The guide shared little facts about dolphins and the area during the tour. They opened the boat up a bit to get some speed and stopped to see more dolphins two or three times along the way down the strip. People were able to move about at times but they'd tell us when to sit and buckle up. The whole ride back to the marina is purely to get people wet. My daughter and I moved to the wettest seats which turned out to be a bit too much for her. We were 100% soaked. People up front not so much (which they tell you). You can sit on the outer rows to get good views, up front is bumpier but drier, and the stern is a calmer ride but you'll get wettest there. The way the water comes in though you can anticipate and totally see it coming. You could definitely bring a purse or bag with you but it will likely get splashed a bit. My phone was fine in my pocket. Some people had drinks. There were some people who barely looked wet at all from the front middle of the boat. It's nice you can choose what you want your ride to be though it's probably smart to prepare to be wet anyway. Next time I'll bring a bottle of water for rinsing purposes since the salt water in your eyes can be a bit much for kids. We had dry clothes in our car for after and changed the kids in our trunk and the adults just sat on towels for the ride home. If you needed to you could walk across the street to the changing rooms at Grommet Park to rinse and change. It's close by but on a 94° day we elected to just ride home wet. Overall we had a great time and I can't wait to share this gem with visiting family. read more
2 years ago
What a horrible experience. They seem to pack way too many people on this boat. I'm handicapped. The older gentleman I assume the captain would not get me a chair. Every single seat was taken unless I want to sit inside and not be able to see the dolphins on the dolphin tour. The people were pretty rude too but I do kind of see this on the East Coast. I had asked some people if I might be able to sit down and twice I was told... no their kids are sitting there. Oh my gosh whatever happened to chivalry where you can give up your seat to an elderly handicapped person. And I thought it was pretty horrible that the man offered no suggestions to me at all. I left my friends on the boat and told them to go have fun. They were sitting on the inside. Not going to pay for a dolphin cruise and not be able to get to see dolphins. And as I'm sitting there walking upstairs downstairs everywhere looking for a seat they are letting on more and more people. Just for this fact alone I would not recommend these people. I took the picture of the boat as I was walking away. Packed. And they don't care. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
2 years ago
Great times on the water. Thank you guys for an awesome experience This place is a ten out of ten highly recommend !! read more
4 years ago
3 years ago
I have family visiting from Texas and Georgia and they wanted to do do something fun, heard about this tour and decided to give it a try. The tour was very organized and the staff was knowledgeable explaining really well every aspect io the trip and what to expect. The boat was clean and they have food and drinks for purchase. read more
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Trying to decide between the 1/2 day fishing during the day or the night fishing. Anyone have a preference or suggestion?
Night fishing is usually better. Cooler waters usually mean more fish.
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