Everglades Nature Boat Tours
Marco Island – Florida Everglades 10,000 Island Eco-Tours
Florida Everglades Boat Tours
Captain Mike led us out of the harbor and directly into view of a basking Florida Gator. The alligator was the first of our sightings – many of which happened within the first ten minutes of our tour!
Our Everglades Nature Tour departed from Port of the Island Marina. The tour boat is comfortable yet small enough to maneuver the mangrove trails. Captain Mike is an expert of the Everglades and was quite adept a spotting surfacing manatee. It was not long before the first of several manatees were spotted. Manatee, unlike Dolphin, will not interact with people and will not breach the water. The gentle mammals rise slowly to sniff some air and then retreat below the surface of the water. Manatee like freshwater and may be found in South Florida waters year-round.
One of the things about this Boat Tour that impressed all was the knowledge and care of the Captain and the quietness of the motor on our vessel. The four-stroke Yamaha purred like a kitten and emitted no notable fumes and odor. We noticed the difference when we smelled a passing boat on a similar mission.
Birdwatching in the Everglades
The Everglades wildlife includes dozens of species of birds and waterfowl. The falcon, eagle, ibis, hawk, egret and dozens of others migrating and resident species may be viewed. We spotted several nesting Osprey. The osprey live here and build large nests in the upper branches of trees and on top of platforms. Osprey nests are the target of hungry raccoons, panthers, and other predators. The everglades hawks are always on the prowl for an unattended nest.
Dolphin Viewing Adventures
The highlight for most of us on our Everglades Nature Tour was the sensational show put on for us the school of dolphin that we spotted. Captain Mike was first to spot the fin of a dolphin in the distance. He shut down and drifted quietly in and then announced: “they are females, there are several of them!” Indeed there were several playful dolphins circling and jumping around our boat! While most of the dolphin played just 10 – 20 feet from the boat, several came within inches as they seemed to want to interact with us. Captain Mike agreed and said, “female dolphin travel in groups and will often interact with humans”. The grace and beauty of this amazing creature were witnessed by all of us, up close and personal.
What to Bring
We suggest bringing along a camera, rain gear (which was not needed), sunblock, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, snacks, and beverages. Double-check this list before you get into the boat. Extra camera batteries are a good idea also. The Everglades scenery is spectacular. The weather can be cool in the morning but will warm into the 80’s during the day. Thank you for respecting our wildlife and boating regulations.
Go Cats On The Water 2200 Tamiami Trail E, Collier Seminole State Park, Naples, FL | 239-748-4099
Marco and Naples Most Exciting Boat Tour. Explore the backwater and mangroves for an unforgettable adventure in Southwest Florida. Everglades Backwater Sightseeing Eco-Tours in our safe, and easy to drive boats. Choose a 75 minute or a 2.5 hour tour. Our custom Go-Cat boats are fun for all ages and can easily be operated by both younger adults and seniors. Kayak, and Canoe rentals now available.
GoCatsOnTheWater.com - Naples, FL
Avi's Water Sports Jet Ski Adventure Tours, Caxambas Park, 909 Collier Ct., Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-777-9873
Avi's is a family-owned business that offers some of the most exciting dolphin jet ski tours and jet ski rental adventures on Marco Island. You are invited to take an exciting journey with Avi "The Dolphin Whisperer" and take home a complimentary flash drive of photos from your adventure. Bring the family and make lasting memories. Contact us to book your dolphin Jet Ski tour.
Avi's Water Sports & Jet Ski Adventure Tours - Marco Island, FL
Naples Bicycle Tours, Naples, FL 34113 | 239-580-7960
Naples Bicycle Tours provides a unique opportunity for visitors and residents to experience Marco Island, the Natural Florida Everglades, and Historic Old Naples up close and personal, on a bicycle. All bike tours include everything needed for an amazing bicycling adventure: custom-fit cycle, helmet, drinks, snacks, and a certified FL naturalist guide.
Naples Bicycle Tours - Naples, FL
Marco Island Princess / Sunshine Tours, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island FL 34145 | 239-642-5415
The Marco Island Princess is a 90' luxury yacht offering daily Sightseeing, Lunch and Sunset Dinner Cruises. All of our delicious meals are prepared fresh on board for your enjoyment. Our professional and friendly crew will attend to your every need. Two full service cash bars serving up all of your favorite drinks! Also available for Weddings and Private Charters. Marco Island's most unique dining experience!
Visit The Marco Island Princess - Marco Island, FL
Sunshine Tours and Fishing Charters, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island, FL | 239-642-5415
Sunshine Tours. Fish the 10,000 islands, the best in Offshore, Back Water, Off Shore, and Near Coastal Fishing Charters. We know where the fish are. Also offering Marco Island Shelling Trips, and Sightseeing aboard one of our four fishing boats. Since 1984, Sunshine Tours has provided unsurpassed fishing charters, and on-the-water experiences for locals and visitors alike. Shared and private charters available. Contact us to book your Marco Island fishing charter.
Sunshine Tours & Charters - Marco Island, FL
Contact us, to feature your Marco Island fishing, boating, charter boat or other business, in Marco Island Living, Marco’s Internet Magazine.
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Marco Island Weddings
View a video of a SWFL Eco Tour RIP Gary and Thank You for your amazing Everglades Eco Tours Southwest Florida, Paradise Coast.
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