punta gorda dolphin tour

Gasparilla Boat Tours

Dolphin, sandbar and sunset tours around englewood and manasota key, florida, our tours & cruises.

Dolphin / Eco Tours

Set out on an enchanting cruise to witness a vibrant spectacle of bird, dolphins, and even manatees, all coming together in the picturesque waters of Lemon Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

SUNSET CRUISES

Savor the breathtaking beauty of the Lemon Bay and Gulf of Mexico while sightseeing on our sunset cruise. Relax and enjoy this unforgettable tranquil experience with a glass of wine! (BYOB)

SANDBAR CRUISES

Set sail to a serene sandbar, offering a perfect getaway for relaxation, swimming, snorkeling, wading, and beachcombing for shark teeth. It’s a paradise of leisure and exploration!

Sandbars, Sunsets and Dolphins – we’ve got it all!

Located at the Cape Haze Marina in Englewood, just minutes away from North Port, Placida, Manasota Key, Port Charlotte and Venice. Escape and unwind while you enjoy watching dolphins, manatees, ospreys, bald eagles, pelicans and other birds on our Dolphin Tour. Take in the beautiful sunset from the comfort of our Coastguard inspected, custom-built, 30’ covered pontoon boat with restroom. Take a dip in the crystal blue waters or venture on the sandbar for shark teeth and unique shells on our sandbar tours. We offer daily dolphin, sandbar and sunset tours. In addition, we offer customized and private tours.

Check out our awesome customer reviews

Absolutely Amazing, Fun & Memorable.

Absolutely amazing,fun and memorable. Captain Justin and first mate Christina Knowledgeable of the wildlife fun and entertaining And superfriendly. Highly recommend the critter cruise private tour. Just want to give a big shot out to both of them for making are cruise fun exciting and memorable they are amazing.

Terry Starnes

So much better than anticipated!

I’ve done two dolphin tours with two different companies in Englewood. This one was a sunset cruise and we really weren’t expecting a lot of animal activity. Boy was I wrong! We really lucked out and saw a pod of females, a baby on Mamas back, a lone male dolphin and a manatee. Captain Sue and Captain Eric were so professional and informative. Good music and no corny jokes! Thank you for making my friends’ visit to Englewood so much more special!

Amazing Sunset Cruise!

We had an amazing sunset cruise with Christina as our guide and Justin as our captain. This was my daughter’s first sunset cruise and she was blown away. Christina’s knowledge of the wildlife was very informative and fun to learn. Our captain even joined in sharing why no wake signs were implemented to protect manatees and how much they have helped. If you are scrolling and trying to decide on which boat to book, pick them because they were amazing!!

Ashley Johnson

Engaging, Informative, Friendly, & Professional

We had an excellent experience on our sunset cruise. Kayla and the captain were engaging, informative, friendly and professional. We caught a beautiful sunset and even saw some dolphins. I would highly recommend their cruise. They were punctual, professional and we felt very comfortable being in their care.

Rhonda Harris

Captains Eric & Kayla !!!!

What a tremendous evening we all had !!!! Eric and Kayla are the most hospitable, fun, genuine and authentic people !!! They are certainly meant for and called to show others SW Florida as it is meant to be enjoyed !! Do not think twice about booking with Gasparilla Boat Tours. You deserve this experience and the friendliness and love from Eric and Kayla.

martinadams0977

We saw lots of dolphins close up, flamingos, and a beautiful sunset

I definitely recommend this sunset tour!!! Its was a little over 2 hours, we saw lots of dolphins close up, flamingos, and a beautiful sunset. Kayla and cpt Justin were great guides, loaded with info and fun to talk with about the area!! I will do this again the next time we are in town!

TripAdvisor

Gem of at trip!!!

Boat tour was well worth the price. Captain Sue and her first mate were informative and great fun. We took the morning critter cruise and spotted dolphins. Boat is clean and comfortable. I would take this cruise again and would recommend to anyone waiting to spend a few hours out on the water.

Highly recommend this Critter Cruise

We took our grandkids on this cruise and what a blast it was. Captain and First Mate asked both kids to drive the boat. We saw dolphins and Manatees and cruised past some really cool spots. I would highly recommend this Critter Cruise to your family!!!!

Daniel Deicher

Contact Info

Cape haze marina 6950 placida rd englewood, fl 34224 ph: (941) 279-4350, associations.

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King Fisher Fleet

Welcome to charlotte harbor and the peace river. join us for a ride and we’ll show you around our special slice of paradise on a large, comfortable boat that was custom designed for cruising these waters., we are located at fishermen’s village in punta gorda, fl. we offer sightseeing cruises to cabbage key, cayo costa, and boca grande, trips up the peace river, harbor tours, sunset cruises, private events, and christmas light canal cruises..

Wilderness Boat Tours

Welcome to wilderness boat tours.

Join Captain Al and Wilderness Boat Tours on the Peace River for an approximately two hour tour on a custom made pontoon! The Peace River is one of Florida's best kept secrets. With our custom made pontoon you will experience areas of the river that are largely inaccessible to other tour boat's in the area. With the very knowledgeable Captain Al as your tour guide accompanied with some of the most comfortable seating and best views of any local tour boat in the business, you can be sure that your tour will make memories to speak of for years to come. Every seat is a window seat with Wilderness Boat Tours!

The Peace River is a river in the southwestern part of the Florida peninsula, in the U.S.A.. It originates at the juncture of Saddle Creek and Peace Creek northeast of Bartow in Polk County and flows south through Hardee County to Arcadia in DeSoto County and then southwest into the Charlotte Harbor estuary at Port Charlotte in Charlotte County. The river was called Rio de la Paz ( River of Peace ) on 16th century Spanish charts. It appeared as Peas Creek or Pease Creek on later maps. The Creek (and later, Seminole) Indians call it Talakchopcohatchee, River of Long Peas .

Remember, every seat is a window seat with a full canvas  over-head cover on Wilderness Boat Tours providing a much more cool and personalized experience! Our day tour cruises are 10:00am and 12:30pm. Wilderness Boat Tours will pick up guests from the Laishley boat ramp located next to 120 Laishley Court in Punta Gorda, Florida. Parking is located within Laishley Park. Each tour is approximately two and a half  hours. Please be sure to arrive no less than FIFTEEEN MINUTES prior to your cruise time.

We also offer charter tours ($250.00 plus tax). Customize your tour by making it an Eco Tour, Evening Cruise, Booze Cruise, Canal or Harbor Tour. Please feel free to bring your favorite drinks, snacks and/or sandwiches. Call 317-997-4639 or email us at [email protected] to schedule your custom charter tour today! Please call for special charter tour time of 3:00pm.

Adult: $35.00 (plus tax) Minimum charge of $140.00 (plus tax) per tour includes up to four adult passengers.

Children 2-11: $30.00 (plus tax)

Private Charters: $250.00 (plus tax)

Tips accepted and greatly appreciated!

(Maximum of six guests)

Please call for special charter tour time of 3:00pm. ($250.00 plus tax)

book a tour...

Book a tour with Wilderness Boat Tours today! For available tours and times, please click the following link. Remember, every seat is a window seat with Wilderness Boat Tours! Please call for special charter tour time of 3:00pm.

Sunset & Dolphin Tour

At Beach Road Watersports, we think there’s only one thing better than renting a boat to explore the Florida coast, and that’s letting US show YOU the Florida coast! Have one of our experienced USCG Licensed Captains take you on a trip you will never forget!

Trying to experience Florida to the fullest?! What better way to enjoy yourselves then cruising around with your family and friends stress free? Our location in Englewood, FL does not restrict your boating experience to only that location, especially on one of our tours. We serve Englewood, Port Charlotte, Nokomis, Venice, Manasota Key, Gasparilla Island, Palm Island, Rotonda, Boca Grande, Cape Haze, Placida, Punta Gorda, and all of Charlotte and Sarasota County, FL. If the home-base for your Florida vacation is in any one of these areas, make Beach Road Watersports your stop for an experience of a lifetime!

Our private sunset and dolphin tour is a 2 hour trip and we can accommodate up to 6 passengers. Our guests are more then welcome to bring a cooler, food, adult beverages, etc. We spend that time exploring Lemon Bay, looking for Florida’s beautiful wildlife, stopping to watch the sunset in the Gulf of Mexico, and then cruising back to shore.  At Beach Road Watersports, we make sure your tours are private; your group will never be mixed with another group. Relax on one of our brand new luxurious Pontoon’s, have fun, and experience Florida on a private, professional cruise!

*Reservations required. $180 minimum per tour. Call for availability. 6 Passenger Max

Cape Coral and Punta Gorda Boat Tours

Sightseeing boat cruises: the best way to see nature up close.

Brian Olehy

March 3, 2024

John Calavano

February 2, 2024

January 1, 2024

Mike McCarthy

Charlotte Allen

December 12, 2023

November 11, 2023

October 10, 2023

Come aboard for a tour you'll never forget!

At Matlacha Boating Adventures, we offer boat tours on a scale never seen before. Our boat tours are well organized and will take you to the untouched areas of Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound! Don't miss out on this chance to observe some of the finest Flora and Fauna found in Charlotte Harbor/Pine Island Sound.

We love pristine beaches as much as you do; that is why we are dedicated to providing you with exciting boat tours. Choose from a variety of cruises to Cabbage Key, Boca Grande, Cayo Costa, and remote beaches. Our boat is located in Jug Creek Marina. Matlacha Boating Adventures has a wide range of boat cruises to ensure there is something for everyone. Our sunset cruises from Bokeelia are beyond ordinary since they offer an exhilarating way to watch as the sun disappears beyond the Gulf of Mexico.

Explore our activities

Cabbage Key Nature Cruise

Take a spectacular cruise for lunch or dinner to Cabbage Key - where Jimmy Buffet either did or did not write his biggest hit "Cheeseburger in Paradise"! This tour runs from Bokeelia. Tour Shell Pass, Jug Creek, Back Bay, and Pine Island Sound. Enjoy a beautiful boat ride and nature cruise, plus One and a half hours on the Island.

**Similar Lunch/Dinner Cruise is now available at The Tarpon Lodge. Call for details.**

Tours From Boca Grande

THE BOAT CRUISES for all our friends staying at the Gasparilla Inn -and others close by- originate from the Pink Elephant Docks, across the street from the Pink Elephant Restaurant (491 Bayou Street). The Docks are about one block east of the Inn.

There are several pedestrian entrances- use the one closest to the fairway on the golf course. There are 8 docks there.

Captain Will will send you a text when he arrives to let you know where to find the boat.

Dolphin Cruise

Search for one of Florida's most beloved aquatic mammals - the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin. We have a population of around 600 in our area. This cruise runs from Bokeelia and lasts 1 and a half hours.

Boca Grande Cruise

You could drive the enormous loop - it's almost 3 hours round trip from Cape Coral! Fight the traffic, curse the tailgaters, search for parking. OR you could book our beautiful, hassle-free cruise to the village of Boca Grande from Matlacha.

Boca Grande was, at one time, a small fishing village; then, a bustling port with a scenic lighthouse. Now, it's a historic village with one of Florida's most fabulous beaches. There is a wide variety of dining options and small shops to explore and the island is full of fascinating history! Make sure to visit the historic lighthouse! Time on Island: 3 hours.

Cayo Costa Cruise

These cruises depart from Bokeelia, Knights Landing Marina.

Sunset Cruise

Sunset Cruises are a magnificent way to celebrate the end of another day in paradise. These cruises are available from Bokeelia. All waters serve as habitats for dolphins and manatees, making sightings plentiful. The disappearance of the sun beyond the Gulf of Mexico is spectacular! We depart 1 hour before sunset.

Why choose us?

Unparalleled Boat Tours That Will Never Fade From Your Memory

We offer breathtaking sightseeing cruises to make sure a boat tour with us remains in your memory for life. If you are looking for a different experience on the water and you love learning the history and nature of the local area, you can expect us to add excitement and fun moments on any of our outstanding cruises. Our boat tours are not just fun; they also offer the opportunity to learn more about Charlotte County.

We believe that harbor tours in southwest Florida should be fun; that is why we offer different packages, including Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound tours, and an hour sunset cruise, to ensure you are not left out. Our boat tours on Charlotte Harbor allow you to learn more about the fun and incredible features that are in the area.

Family-Friendly

If you have kids and wish to take them out to explore Cabbage Key, we are still the real deal for you. We understand that family bonds need to be strengthened time after time, and one of the best ways to achieve this is to go on a boat tour. For an eventful, adventure filled day with the kids, book a boat tour with us and enjoy an encounter with dolphins and manatees ! Choose the Cabbage Key boat tour and hike the remote island, climb the water tower and meet the Gopher Tortoises!

At Matlacha Boating Adventures, we offer boat tours to redefine excitement. The trip brings you closer to manatees and dolphins to ensure you interact with them in a way never seen before. Our boat tours are also exciting in the sense that you get the opportunity to explore an incredibly large region full of amazing features. The scenery is gorgeous, and you will love the idea of watching many different species of birds.

Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound, Florida

Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound showcase the beauty of nature in the most stunning way possible. In other words, these destinations are a tourist’s dream since they offer more than just fun. With an intriguing history that dates back a thousands of years, there is a lot to do in these destinations. Come with us and discover the magic of Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound!

Our cruises offer a unique experience, allowing you to encounter bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat and explore more than 650 different species of fish and other marine life. We provide an opportunity to get close to nature and appreciate its wonders, while also enjoying all the comforts of modern cruising. Our experienced crew will make sure that your journey is as safe and enjoyable as possible. So, why not come join us on a cruise today?

Frequently asked questions

Do i have to purchase tickets in advance.

We operate on pre-paid reservations made in advance.

For reservations call us at 772-214-6359.

We accept payment by cash, credit card, and Venmo.

What will we see on the boat cruises?

Each tour is unique. Dolphins are the main attraction, but we usually see a wide variety of wildlife including nesting osprey, herons, egrets, brown and white pelicans, a variety of fish, and sometimes manatee.

Jug Creek Marina is located at 16498 Tortuga Street, Bokeelia Florida 33922.

The closest major intersection is Pine Island Road and Burnt Store Road/Veteran's Parkway in Cape Coral.

Proceed west on Pine Island Road toward Matlacha. Obey speed limits- they are strictly enforced. Continue to Pine Island. Pass the Publix. At the 4-way stop, turn right on H. Stringfellow Road. Go about 5 miles. The turn onto Tortuga is near Mile Marker 14. It is a very slight right turn as Stringfellow Road angles to the left. Keep straight on Tortuga- do NOT turn onto Barancas.

Where the road ends, the fun begins!

Our boats are located in Slips 14 and 15, on the left, just past the big white tanks.

Parking at the Marina is $8 per day, payable in the Ships Store. Drinks, snacks, hats, tee shirts, charts, sunglasses, and ice are available there.

You are likely to see osprey, pelicans, egrets, herons, and dolphins at the main dock.

For cruises from Boca Grande pick up is at the Pink Elephant Docks directly across the street from the Pink Elephant Restaurant located at 491 Bayou Street. Its about one block east of the Inn. Use the pedestrian entrance closest to the fairway on the golf course.

Is the boat owned and operated by a Florida Corporation?

Yes. The boat is owned and operated by a Florida Corporation, the Boat Safety Academy, LLC.

Do you cancel tours due to bad weather?

The tour usually runs in light rain and minimally poor weather conditions. If we determine the conditions are unsafe, we will cancel the cruise. We monitor the weather and cancellation decisions are made up to one hour before the cruise is set to depart. In that case, you will be given the opportunity to reschedule or receive credit toward another cruise. Our boats are fully covered, but open on the sides.

Will I get wet on the cruise?

Unless it's raining, you will most likely not get wet. You might experience misting or sea spray if it's windy or choppy, but you will not get drenched.

Are food and beverages available on the boat?

You are welcome to bring your own food and drink with you, as well as small coolers. Usually, we carry a cooler stocked with water and drinks.

No food and drinks are allowed off the boat at Cabbage Key. Their lunches and dinners are excellent and their menu is available on their website, www.cabbagekey.com.

Please keep in mind that our docking privileges there mean that's where we all eat when visiting the island. Thank you.

Is there a restroom on the boat?

No. We always recommend using the facilities at the marina before each departure.

Am I likely to get sea sick?

Not likely, but it can happen depending on the severity of your sensitivity. If you know you are motion sickness or sea sickness sensitive, we recommend using a remedy that works for you and using it in advance. Our recommendation is ginger.

Can we bring a small cooler on the cruise?

Yes. Small coolers are acceptable.

Is parking available nearby?

Yes, there is parking available at our locations. At the Pink Elephant, park on the street. Use the parking lot at Jug Creek Marina; all day for $8 per vehicle.

Should we bring a camera or binoculars?

Yes, Bunny and I encourage this. Please remember to bring protective covering for the items and a strap if you have them, as you will be on the water.

Are tips included in the ticket price?

Tips are expected in the boat service industry. 15% is the standard.

Captain Will shares tips with The Wounded Warrior Project and with Bunny.

Is there music on the boat?

Yes. The Captain has a wonderful selection of good, suitable music. He usually plays it while you board and on the way home. We play Amato Mio, among others, during Sunsets.

Are Gift Certificates available?

Can your tours accommodate more than 6 passengers.

Yes, but a charter contract is required. The vessel can accommodate 10 passengers. TEXT 772-214-6359 for vessel charter information. All charter agreements are bare boats and will require a qualified and Coast Guard-licensed Master aboard for any cruise (other qualifications also apply- we can provide a list of fully qualified captains).

What is your cancellation policy?

We require 5 days' notice for cancellation of cruise participation.

Participants/passengers who fail to appear for a cruise and who do not give a 5-day notice-- confirmed by email or text-- will not receive a refund nor credit toward another cruise.

Cancellations made before 5 days will receive a refund minus a $50 fee.

Private tours may have some departure time flexibility, but all other cruises must depart on time. We can not issue refunds for late arrivals.

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Wilderness Boat Tours

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Wilderness Boat Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Riding Locations

Jet Ski Tours

The Guidelines

Are you excited to make the amazing memories of your life by leasing our jet ski rental service? Before that make sure to get a temporary boaters license if you are born after January 1, 1988, and read and sign the waiver. We will provide you with all the instructions on how to operate the jet ski at the time of your rental and still you should check out the basic laws while operating a watercraft in the video link below.

MAGNIFICENT

Dolphin Tours

Take a dolphin tour of the Gulf of Mexico, and prepare for one of the most majestic and playful events you’ll ever lay eyes on. Our two-hour jet ski tours, which cover miles of majestic shoreline bring you just an arm’s length away from pods of dolphins and manatees, and other wildlife. Experiences like this come around once in a lifetime, so embrace the opportunity and let our tour guides take you out onto the water.

Get up close to Dolphins, Manatee and Manta Rays. These tours sell out fast! Duration: 2 Hours adventure Type: Tours Tour Time: Everyday at 9AM and 11AM (Weather Permitting) Wildlife: Dolphins, Manatee, Manta Rays

Jet Ski Private Tour

PUNTA GORDA POWER SPORTS prides itself on consistently providing the latest Yamaha Jet Skis. Cruise the in comfort and style or blast through the waves. Rentals are available 2 hours private tours and are available 7 days a week from 9am-sunset. All of our jet skis have room for up to two passengers and 14+ to drive. Duration: 2 Hours Tour Times: 9AM, 11AM, and 1PM (Weather Permitting)

Jet Ski Tour Opportunities

Since 2018, Punta Gorda Power Sports Jet Ski Tours & Rentals has been delighting both visitors and locals with dolphin jet ski tours in , Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, and beyond. Because jet skis are easy to maneuver in shallow waters, they’re perfect for touring Florida’s waterways and seeing the marine wildlife that inhabits them. We tailor our tours to accommodate the individual needs of each group, catering to what your family and friends specifically want to see and do. These tours are such a favorite that it’s not uncommon for us to see repeat customers year after year.

Our two-hour excursion from Punta Gorda is a 10, mile trek that includes traveling to the beautiful Charlotte Harbor where visitors can spot manatees and pods of dolphins. We’ll also stop by a beautiful bird sanctuary. On the return trip through the Intracoastal Waterway, you’ll get a chance to play around on your jet ski out on the open water at sunset

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Fort Piece Dolphin Jet Ski Tour

Play with the dolphins from the seat of your own jetski as we lead you to all the dolphin hotspots in Fort Pierce. You know you’ve found the hidden gem of Fort Pierce when you see the crystal-clear and protected waters, thriving wildlife, and beautiful tiny islands perfect for a picnic or afternoon on a secluded beach. Our competitive prices include new boats and equipment, knowledgeable and skilled staff, and convenient facility locations for getting the most out of your time on the water. Salty’s Watersports is a family-operated small business. We love the outdoors and being able to offer customers the opportunity to safely explore the spectacular Indian River Lagoon.

The Indian River Lagoon is home to a playful family of local dolphins, including babies and teenagers. Since the water is so clear, you can easily spot the dolphins swimming under and around the jet skis and playing in the wakes. Our dolphin tours are led by our trained and knowledgeable staff, which creates a safe and comfortable outdoor experience and enables you to play with the dolphins.

Fort Pierce Water Sports Rentals

You know you’ve found the hidden gem of Fort Pierce when you see the crystal-clear and protected waters, thriving wildlife, and beautiful tiny islands perfect for a picnic or afternoon on a secluded beach. Our competitive prices include new boats and equipment, knowledgeable and skilled staff, and convenient facility locations for getting the most out of your time on the water. Salty’s Watersports is a family-operated small business. We love the outdoors and being able to offer customers the opportunity to safely explore the spectacular Indian River Lagoon.

The beautiful blue waters around Fort Pierce are a quiet refuge for many of the state’s flora and fauna. Since kayaks are much quieter than outboard engines and jetskis, you will have a chance to get up-close and personal with turtles, exotic birds, tropical fish, and even manatees.

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601 Seaway Dr Ste 1, FL 34949

125 Fishermans Wharf, FL 34950

806 Indian River Dr, Slip 1, FL 32958

150 Laishley Ct, FL 33950

Sandpiper Wyndham Resort 4500 SE Pine Valley St Port St Lucie FL 34952