boat cruises sarasota

LeBarge Tropical Cruises

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LeBarge Tropical Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Low Tide Tours

Floating tiki bar boat experiences in florida.

SARASOTA | SIESTA KEY | VENICE | ANNA MARIA ISLAND | BRADENTON BEACH | PANAMA CITY BEACH

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ANNA MARIA ISLAND | BRADENTON BEACH

Fort myers beach, longboat key | lido key | sarasota, venice | englewood | osprey | nokomis, panama city beach, fl.

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WELCOME ABOARD!

 This best way to experience Sarasota, Siesta Key, Cortez, Bradenton Beach, Anna Maria Island, Fort Myers Beach and Panama City Beach is from the water. Enjoy a cold one while cruising through our scenic waterways on a floating tiki bar! We often encounter dolphins, manatees, and Florida’s majestic birds. The floating tiki boat is fun for all ages!

• Most Popular
• Users All Ages
• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Siesta Key Tiki Bar Private Tour

Come and enjoy a lovely private daytime cruise off of Florida’s beautiful western coast or watch a Florida sunset on the water! Fun for all ages!

• Users Ages 21+

Siesta Key Tiki Bar Public Tour

Relax and enjoy a leisurely cruise off the western coast of Siesta Key, FL with a fun public tiki bar tour!

Anna Maria Island Private Tiki Bar Tour

Come and enjoy a lovely private daytime cruise off of Florida’s beautiful west coast and Anna Maria Island, or watch a beautiful Florida sunset on the water with us!

• Hour Glass 4.5 Hours

Siesta Key Tiki Bar Excursion

Enjoy experiencing the world famous Sand Dollar Island Sandbar and its crystal clear waters with a fun half-day tiki bar excursions. Great for the whole family!

Anna Maria Island Tiki Bar Excursion

Relax and enjoy a leisurely cruise off the coast of Cortez, Anna Maria Island and more! Take some photos of beautiful scenery or just sit back and enjoy that warm Florida sun!

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Sarasota Tiki Bar Private Tour

• New Location!

Venice Private Tiki Bar Tour

Come and enjoy a lovely private daytime cruise off of Florida’s beautiful western coast or watch a Florida sunset on the water aboard one of our beautiful tiki boats! Fun for all ages!

Venice Private Tiki Bar Boat Excursion

Private charter (fort myers beach) – up to 12 passengers.

Come and enjoy a lovely private daytime cruise off of Florida’s beautiful coast!

Make it a Double! (Fort Myers Beach) – Up to 12 Passengers

E bike rental (anna maria island).

This is not your Grandma’s eBike Rental! Our bikes have 1000w geared hub motors, and a 52v battery for unrivaled power and range!

• Users Ages 18+
• Hour Glass 90 minutes

Anna Maria Island Sunset E Bike Tour (Guided)

Join us for an exhilarating 90 min guided e bike tour during an epic AMI sunset!

Paddle Board Rental (Anna Maria Island)

Stand up paddle boards (SUP), are an excellent way to explore the bay or the gulf!

Private Charters (Sarasota)

Come and enjoy a lovely private daytime cruise off of Florida’s beautiful western coast or watch a beautiful Florida sunset on the water with us!

Make It A Double! (Sarasota)

When our standard 2 hour cruise just isn’t enough! This 4.5 hour cruise shows off the best of Florida’s western coast! Leaving ample time to search for dolphin, take in the stunning coastal real estate, have a meal on the water, and enjoy a dip at the sandbar!

Make It Double! Panama City Beach Private Excursion

Come and enjoy a half day combo off of Florida’s beautiful coast!

Panama City Beach Private Charter

Have fun in this private sailing time off of Florida’s beautiful coast.

ABOUT LOW TIDE TOURS

Tours – vibes – tiki – relax – party.

Low Tide Tours is a locally owned and operated tiki bar boat company offering cruises in Sarasota, Siesta Key, Cortez, Anna Maria Island, Fort Myers Beach and Panama City Beach. Kick back and relax with your favorite beverage while enjoying breathtaking 360° views, tropical tunes, and good company. We typically encounter dolphins and native birds on our tours. We operate seven days a week. Book us for any occasion!

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GUESTS LOVE OUR TIKI BAR BOAT TOURS!

What a great time!! Capt Michael provided a wonderful experience cruising. Great music, fun, relaxing. We will definitely do it again. An added bonus were complimentary drinks and snacks, making this a wonderful carefree and memorable experience.

We had such a great time today out on the water. Michael was our Captain and he was awesome. He was entertaining and very knowledgeable. If you are looking for a low-key, fun day on the water, I definitely recommend Low Tide Tours. Be sure to ask for Micheal!

Went out with low tide tours to celebrate my and my sons birthday and it was awesome! A great time was had by all! Our Captains, Jason and Chaz were very nice guys! They were friendly and helpful. I am going to request them next time we go out!

We had such a great time! We had a private half-day tour and every single one of us (8 people) had so much fun with lots of laughter, dancing and all around great time. We didn't want the trip to end! Highly recommend, will definitely do this again when we are back!

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1600 Ken Thompson Parkway Sarasota, FL 34236 Ph: (941) 388-4441 Hours: 10AM - 5PM A 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

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• Sarasota Bay Explorers: Eco Boat Tours
• Experiences

Have an exciting, educational and fun experience on the water—guided by experts who can tell you what you're seeing.  Sarasota Bay Explorers , working with Mote Aquarium, offers interactive eco-adventures on the Sea Life Encounter Cruise and private charters aboard the Miss Explorer.

These tours are a fun and fascinating extension of any visit to Mote Aquarium. Our cruises visit Sarasota and Roberts bays and are operated by a U.S. Coast Guard-certified boat captain and narrated by a biologist. Guests have the potential to meet our native marine wildlife—dolphins, manatees, ospreys, eagles and other marine birds in their natural settings—as they learn more about Florida wildlife from the on board biologist.

Boat trip ticket prices:

• Non-members: $36 for adults and $32 for children (3-12)
• Members: $33 for adults and $29 for children (3-12) 

All schedules are subject to change.

Register on the Sarasota Bay Explorers website.

For more information, visit  Sarasota Bay Explorers  or call (941) 388-4200.

Sarasota Coastal Boat Tours

Hours updated 2 months ago

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Serving Sarasota Area

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Amenities and More

About the business.

Business owner information

Business Owner

Our mission is to inspire and facilitate unforgettable moments of rejuvenation, connection, and joy. We believe in the transformative power of coastal waters, where time slows down and cherished memories are made. By providing access to breathtaking experiences with family and friends, surrounded by the beauty of nature, we aim to foster deep relaxation and reconnection. From encountering playful dolphins to savoring local delicacies at waterfront restaurants, from witnessing mesmerizing sunsets to exploring pristine beaches and secluded islands, we invite you to embark on a journey of serenity, exploration, and wonder. Together, let's create memories that will last a lifetime. …

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awesome service.. punctual and such a good time. Super nice boat and ride. I would recommend Scott anytime.

May 5, 2024

Thanks Rick, it was a pleasure having you aboard.

Super awesome experience with the captain! Thank you for a nice cruise down the coast of Sarasota-Bradenton!

May 4, 2024

Thanks Brooke, glad you had a good time.

1 other review that is not currently recommended

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• Call (305)-CAPTAIN | 305-227-8246

Custom Catamaran Cruises

Bachelorette parties, make lasting memories with friends, dolphin and sunset tours.

Seas the Day Charters runs one of the most sleek and comfortable boats on the water.    Our “Manta” is a custom Calcutta 263 Sport Catamaran and is one of only 7 made with the “Slashback” planing hull.  Boats from Calcutta Marine are unique in design, wood free and all composite construction.   Read More…

Sarasota’s BEST 5 Star Rated Charter Services!

Front Row Seats

To the Dolphins

Check Out the Wildlife!

Lets Seas the Day and Enjoy an Aqua Adventure Carpe Diem Baby!!!”.

• Sunset Cruise

Dolphin Cruises

Island Hopping  Exploration Cruises

Offshore Coastal Cruising

Priceless Memories, Family Fun

See what our biggest fans have to say about their Charters

Hi, I’m Captain John Gerhardt. I am a U. S. Coast Guard Licensed, Master Captain 50 GRT Coastal. I’ve been a “water baby” since birth. I was born in Chicago, where I spent my summers on Lake Michigan learning to swim and sail. I moved to Sarasota, Florida at the age of eight and had the privilege of living and growing up on the offshore islands of both Siesta and Casey Keys at Sarasota Bay. I found that I had salt water “in my blood” as I grew up motorboating, sailing, skin-diving, crabbing and spearfishing.   READ MORE…

Ready to Seas The Day?

• Celebrations
• Committal Services
• Tiki Bar Crawl
• Sunset Dolphin Cruise
• Intracoastal Cruise
• Bird/Rookery Photography
• Island Hopping/Exploration
• Full Moon/Night Cruise
• Offshore and Coastal Cruising
• Offshore Snorkeling
• Custom Charter

Call Us Now! 941-926-3131

• mORNING Tours
• Sandbar Tours
• Sunset Cruises

WELCOME TO SIESTA DOLPHIN TOURS

The boat is an open concept with plenty of seating. A large portiom is covereed providing shade from sun or rain.

The boat also offers a small bathroom on board.

The boat has a partial cover to keep you comfortable in the shade and to offer protection from the sudden showers we get, especially on summer evenings. It has a bathroom on board for your comfort

The boat is the perfect size, not too big and not too small. It accommodates 30 guests max.  

CHOOSE A CRUISE

Morning mimosa cruise .

$45 adults / $30 Children under 10yrs.

Sunset/ Dolphin Cruise 

$65 adults / $50 Children under 10yrs.

Sandbar Dolphin Cruise

$60 Adults / $40 Children under 10yrs.

• Jet Ski Rentals
• Parasailing
• Boat Rentals

Dont Miss the Next Sunset Cruise!    We Leave 1 Hour Before Sunset Today's Sunset is var sun = GetSunriseSunset(); function Pad(value) { if (value > 9) { return value; } else if (value > 0) { return "0" + value; } else { return "00"; } } function GetSunriseSunset() { // initialize the date var today = new Date(); var month = today.getMonth(); var day = today.getDate(); var year = today.getFullYear(); var timezone = today.getTimezoneOffset()/60; var latitudeDegrees = 27; // San Francisco var latitudeMinutes = 26; // San Francisco var latitudeSeconds = 70; // San Francisco var longitudeDegrees = 82; // San Francisco var longitudeMinutes = 54; // San Francisco var longitudeSeconds = 63; // San Francisco return SunriseSunset( month, day, String(year), String(timezone), String(longitudeDegrees), String(longitudeMinutes), String(longitudeSeconds), String(latitudeDegrees), String(latitudeMinutes), String(latitudeSeconds)); } // var sunset = new Date().sunset(27.2670, 82.5463); //document.write(sunset); if (sun.setHours >13){ sun.setHours = sun.setHours -12; } document.write(sun.setHours + ":" + Pad(sun.setMinutes) + "PM");

• Beach Canopy Rentals
• Beach Chairs and Umbrellas
• Paddleboards
• Floating Mats

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Cancellation Policy

24 hour concellation policy -.

Any of our dolphin tours or sunset trip services that are reserved with a credit card are subject to be charged the full amount of the cost of the reserved item if not properly cancelled 24 hours prior to the reservation date and time.

Phone: 941-926-3131

Address: 1536 Stickney Point Rd. Sarasota, FL 34231 Siesta Key, Fl

• Dolphin Tours
• Boat Charters

©Siesta Key  Dolphin Tours    Sunset tours and dolphin excursions located in Siesta Key  and Sarasota, Fl.

24 HOUR CONCELLATION POLICY- Any of our dolphin tours or sunset trip services that are reserved with a credit card are subject to be charged the full amount of the cost of the reserved item if not properly cancelled 24 hours prior to the reservation date and time.

Sarasota FL and Siesta Key Florida dolphin trips for sightseeing and sunsets views on the water. Site design by Zucker and Zucker

1.941.253.5404

Why go bar hopping… When you can hop on the bar!​

We offer fun tiki cruises in beautiful Sarasota Florida, including Sarasota Bay, the Intercoastal Waterway, Siesta Key, Lido Key, Bird Key and Longboat Key. Excursions are customizable based on availability, so please call for details and pricing. Cruises are private charters and accommodate up to 6 people, age ten and over.

If you have a private dock on Sarasota Bay to depart from, go to, or return to, let us know at time of booking, we will do our best to make your special requests happen!

FUN TIKI CRUISE

Enjoy a cruise that will pass the mansions and yachts of the “rich and famous” and be on the lookout for Florida’s dolphins and manatees in the beautiful waters of the Sarasota Bay. This is YOUR private charter, so make a request with your Captain and we will do everything possible to make it happen! This 90-minute, BYOB, cruise is for ages ten and over.

(FUN TIKI DOES NOT STOP AT SANDBAR)

Price (Private Charter): 1.5 Hour: $300 (up to 6 guests)

2 HOUR SUNSET TIKI CRUISE

Take in a beautiful Florida sunset as you cruise down the Intercoastal Waterway. Whether it’s with friends, family, or a romantic trip for two, this cruise is a fabulous way to end a long day or begin the perfect date night! Charter times will vary with the changing seasons. This 2-hour, BYOB, cruise is for ages ten and over.

Pricing subject to change for firework holidays.

Price (Private Charter): 2 Hour: $400 (up to 6 guests)

SANDBAR & SWIM CHARTERS

If you’re looking for Tiki fun in the sun and to hang out with the locals, our most popular Sandbar & Swim cruise is the way to go! Once we drop anchor, the Sandbar is the ideal spot for parties and gatherings of any kind. This is YOUR private charter, so make a request with your Captain and we will do everything possible to make it happen! This 3 or 4 hour, BYOB, cruise is for ages ten and over.

Price (Private Charter): 2 Hour: $400 (up to 6 guests) 3 Hour: $525 (up to 6 guests)

CRUISIN' N BRUNCHIN'

Like to Brunch? Sit back & relax during this one hour “early bird special” cruise. Bring your favorite Bloody Mary or Champagne/OJ Mimosa’s, along with your favorite morning pastries, while enjoying the beautiful views of The Sarasota Bay waterways. The perfect way to start your day with family and friends on a Cruisin’ Tiki. This 60-minute BYOB cruise is for ages 10 and over. 

Price (Private Charter): 1 Hour: $250 (up to 6 guests)

Meet The Crew

Cruisin' Tikis Gift Cards

Purchase the perfect gift with a gift card of your value to be redeemed on any offering.

Besides relaxing with a cold drink, we can pretty much book anything you can imagine. From sightseeing to birthday parties, bachelorette/bachelor parties, anniversaries, corporate meetings, retirement parties, weddings, proposals, or everyone’s favorite…a day at the sandbar. You name it and we will try to make it work. Give us a call for special requests.

NO, however, you may bring any food, snacks, soft drinks or alcoholic beverages and supplies you prefer and the pickup location has package goods, sandwiches and snacks available. We DO provide for your convenience, an iced filled cooler, bottled water, consumable ice, cups, straws, shot glasses and koozies to keep for souvenirs. Feel free to bring your own cooler.

YES. Must be 21 to consume alcohol on board, photo ID is required

YES. The minimum age to ride the boat is 10 years and over. Children under the age of 12 MUST wear a life jacket. Guest must provide their own USCG Approval stamp life jacket to fit the size and weight of your child. Anyone under the age of 21, MUST be accompanied by an adult or guardian. Waiver release age verified must be signed via email by a parent or guardian for anyone under the age of 21.

YES. We are dog lovers so dogs are very welcomed on the Tiki!

The US Coast Guard Regulations for our Tiki boats is 6 people, plus one or two crew. This includes children (NO EXCEPTIONS)

YES. We do have Bluetooth capable Kicker sound system that you can sync to your phone and play your choice of music. Or ask your Captain to play your favorite kind of tunes.

Our Tiki’s are NOT equipped with restrooms. We strongly encourage you to use the restroom before leaving the dock. So please do not drink more then you are able to hold while on your tour. We do have an emergency Porta-Lu, but again, we strongly encourage you to use the restroom before boarding.

Daily cruises range from 90 minutes to 3 or 4 hours. Additional time may be added based on Tiki availability, so please call far enough in advance to customize a cruise past our slotted times.

Due to Covid 19, we are only accepting private charters and are not selling individual seats. When booking online, whether it is one, two or six passengers, the entire boat must be reserved at this time.

All our Captains have been vetted and trained through the U.S. Coast Guard requirements. All Captains have been chosen based on their experience with boating and knowledge of the area.

Our Captains do work for tips, so gratuity is greatly appreciated. As with all service industry positions, we do suggest a 20% gratuity (on the regular price if applying a discount) for our Captains. They are very experienced, knowledgeable and work hard to ensure your safety and to provide an amazing Tiki experience for our guests.

YES. There is a type 1PFD for every passenger over the age of 13, along with all the coast guard requirements for the vessel including a first aid kit.

We do operate in the rain as the Tiki boats have a roof. However, the Captain can decide at anytime to cancel due to conditions (typically high winds or thunderstorms). We operate under USCG’s rules. The USCG does not advise going out if wind speeds exceed 20 knots. If you are unable to reschedule and still want to go on one of our cruises, the captains, under certain conditions, may go out to cruise in calmer protected waters.

The Tiki boat has a cruising speed at around 4 to 6 mph. Tiki speed…slllooooowww enough you won’t spill your drink. It’s not about the speed…it’s about the ride and the experience, not the destination.

Our main boarding location is at 920 John Ringling Causeway in Sarasota. If you have a private dock location you wish to depart, go, and/or return to, let us know at time of booking and we will do our best to make it happen.  Free parking is available with limited spaces so we suggest using a ride service. 

Yes! We are a Military family and do offer Military members a 10% discount on all tours. Proof of service is required with ID. Thank you to all for your service!!!!!

NO. We do not allow smoking of any kind. Our Tiki boats are made of high-quality wood and bamboo and powered by an outboard motor with a below deck fuel tank, so your safety is most important.

We encourage you to arrive 15 minutes early. The tours are BYOB and food, whether you bring your beverages from home or pick them up at a local store or restaurant. You may bring your own wine, beer, soda, mixers, water or beverage of choice and snacks. Sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended as well as towels if booking a sandbar and swim cruise. We provide a cooler with ice, but feel free to bring your own if desired.

5 DAY CANCELLATION POLICY. We will charge your credit card at the time of booking. More than 5 days notice is required to receive a full refund. Please allow 3-5 business days for refund (depending on your bank). Please read our FAQ page before booking so you have all the info you need.

To make a reservation, please click on the “Book Now” button to view our times and availability.

Inclement Weather: For weather related issues, we may “wait out” a brief shower, reschedule for another day during your stay, or refund if unable to rebook.

Cancellations: No refunds if cancelled under 5 days of scheduled cruises. Trip insurance is available for purchase at 15% of the trip cost and will allow cancellations up to 48 hours ahead of the scheduled departure time for a full refund.

A full refund will be given if cancelled more than 5 days in advance. We will also be happy to try to reschedule your cruise. If vacationing here in Florida, we highly suggest you book in the earlier days of your stay in the event your cruise in cancelled due to weather. This allows more possible availability to reschedule rather than waiting until the last day of your visit here in Florida. 

Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about cancellations at 941-253-5404. Cancellations WILL NOT be accepted by email. 

“NO SHOWS” will not be refunded. We will wait 15 minutes after official start time to determine “No Show”, so please call if you are running late so we can inform our Captain. We reserve the right to cancel any tour at any time due to weather, safety, mechanical issues or behavioral issues. If your tour is cancelled, you will be given a full refund or a gift card to re-book at another time (this excludes behavioral, along with alcohol related cancellations). Again, our Captains reserve the right to cancel a cruise at any time during a cruise, even if in the very beginning start of cruise, due to behavioral issues or alcohol related issues without a refund, no exceptions – these circumstances will never be refunded or rescheduled.

941-253-5404 [email protected]

Cruisin’ Tikis is a patented, copyrighted and registered trademarked vessel. Our “Trade Dress” is proprietary and may not be duplicated in whole or part without specific written approval of Cruisin’ Tikis International, Inc.

Reservations Open Four Weeks in Advance

• most popular!

SEA LIFE ENCOUNTER ECO TOUR

Quick Details

• Users Ages: All ages
• Hour Glass Duration: Approx. 2 hours
• Clock Note: Arrive 30 min before departure
• Users Group Booking: For groups of 21 or more, please contact us at (941) 388-4200 or [email protected] to book

Observe & Handle Some of the Curious Residents of Sarasota Bay!

Join a marine biologist on this approximately 2 hour marine life and nature tour through Sarasota and Roberts Bays. Observe our Florida manatees and resident population of bottlenose dolphins while learning about the ecology, history, and folklore of the area.

Your guide will lead you on a short nature walk on an uninhabited island followed by a unique opportunity to view pelicans, herons, ibis and egrets in their nesting habitat.

The highlight of this trip is the collection of a sample of marine life with a trawl net. Observe and handle some of the curious residents of Sarasota Bay: puffer fish, sea horses, stone crabs, and cow fish to name a few.

Our 45-foot pontoon boats, the Explorer V and Explorer VI , are Coast Guard-inspected covered vessels equipped with on-board restrooms, comfortable seating, cold drinks and snacks available for purchase. This trip is suitable for all ages. Reservations are recommended, and charters are available. Check-in is 30 minutes prior to departure.

Departure times are 11:00, 1:30 and 4:00 daily. At this time we are not offering the combo tickets with the aquarium.

• Chevron down Itinerary

Your guide will lead you on a short nature walk on an uninhabited island followed by a unique opportunity to view pelicans, herons, ibis, and egrets in their nesting habitat. The highlight of this trip is the collection of a sample of marine life with a trawl net.

• Chevron down Reservations

We must meet a minimum passenger count to cruise. Reservations are highly recommended. We take reservations for regularly scheduled cruises no more than two weeks in advance. All scheduled cruises are subject to change. Special Charters are available.

• Chevron down Check-In Information

Check-in is 30 minutes prior to departure, boarding is approximately 15 minutes prior to departure. Please allow extra time for the traffic — you don’t want to miss the boat!

RELATED TOURS

• Users Max of 40 people
• Hour Glass Custom
• Users All ages

Sarasota Private Charters - Large Groups

Great for school field trips, family reunions, weddings, and work outings. Maximum of 40 guests on the boat. Plenty of room to move around!

• (941) 284-3694

OUR MISSION

To provide our customers with an experience of a beautiful waterside view of the exotic siesta key, this boat sets us apart.

Axopar boats stand out as an exceptional choice for boat tours, offering an ideal blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. Their innovative design, characterized by a sleek, modern hull and sharp bow, ensures not only an attractive appearance but also excellent maneuverability and stability. The spacious and well-thought-out deck layouts provide ample room and comfort for passengers, enhancing the overall touring experience. 

Check Out The Boat

Our Captain

Meet captain joe.

Joe is a USCG-licensed captain with the skill, knowledge, and passion to provide you with the finest experience the area has to offer while safely under his care. Captain Joe began his journey as a young boy fishing with his father and grandfather on the Great Lakes while living in Michigan. He took his first boating safety class at 12 years old and began motoring around on small vessels exploring the waters and building skills.

As a teenager, he explored and worked in the marinas helping with small charters, sanding and painting boats, and traveling as the first mate with friends and customers from the marina. He graduated to larger vessels with large parties as a crew member working under a respected captain at the marina, honing his skills and love for boating culture. As an educator for over 20 years, Capt. Joe has the heart of a teacher and loves to share his knowledge. 

A beautiful adventure on the water

Come explore the sea life, turquoise water, and sandbar swimming with us on our Siesta Key boat tours!

Our private charter boat tours are customized to deliver your dream vacation.

We offer a luxury boat, with just your party of up to six people plus our captain.

Our Activities

Check out our packages.

• Sunset Cruise
• Dolphin Watching
• Water Sports

Sandbar Day

Hourly prices, why choose us, perfect destination.

Once you feel the refined-crystal powdery sand between your toes and experience the soft waves and the abundance of sun & fun at gorgeous Siesta Beach, you will realize that you are in the perfect place to relax, chill out, and enjoy.

KNOWLEDGEABLE CREW

Our crew members have been exploring the waters surrounding Siesta Key for years, where they have acquired their skills. They are knowledgeable of the different beautiful spots to go where you can maximize the best of your beach vacation.

Our beach adventures are perfect for family getaway vacation destinations where you can enjoy dolphin watching, sightseeing, and sandbar swimming. It is also perfect for romantic lovers who love sunset-watching while on the waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

It has a flushable marine toilet for liquids only. The boat also has fresh water so you can rinse yourself from salt water.

To some extent – yes. Sometimes we will have to because the weather isn’t always ideal and we want to stay in shallow, calm waters to keep the trip enjoyable.

If you feel like you had a great experience gratuity is much appreciated, but not expected!

We have a refrigerator with bottled waters and sodas. You’re welcome to bring your own drinks, beers and snacks.

Send Us A Message

We want you to experience the waters of the best beaches in Sarasota, Florida. We want you to have the best family, friends, and lovers vacation you’ll ever have. We want you to relax, chill, and enjoy every moment under the sun. We want to cruise the waters with you while you relax in paradise!

• Sandbar Tour
• [email protected]
• Siesta Key, FL 34242

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Cruise ship worker accused of attacking, stabbing people with scissors on board vessel

JUNEAU, Alaska ( KTUU /Gray News) - A South African citizen was arrested by the FBI in Juneau Tuesday after he allegedly stabbed a cruise ship passenger and several employees who attempted to stop him.

A press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Alaska said 35-year-old Ntando Sogoni was employed on the Norwegian Cruise Lines ship Encore and was observed by other staff attempting to launch one of the ship’s lifeboats. He was then taken by security to the ship’s medical facility for an evaluation.

In the medical center, Sogoni reportedly physically attacked a nurse and a security guard. He then allegedly entered an examination room, grabbed a pair of medical scissors and attacked a woman receiving treatment, stabbing her in the arms, hand and face. When two security guards intervened, the court documents allege he stabbed one in the head and one in the back.

Once he was under authority’s control, Sogoni was held in the ship’s jail before being taken into custody and being charged with assault with a deadly weapon in maritime and territorial jurisdiction. The charges carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district judge will determine the total sentencing.

Court documents say that the employee had just joined the ship’s crew at its Seattle port of call on May 5. The incident occurred approximately 16.5 miles from Vancouver Island. There is no word on whether the incident has delayed the ship or on the condition of those hurt.

The FBI Anchorage Field Office and FBI Juneau Resident Agency, and the Coast Guard Investigative Service are investigating the case.

Copyright 2024 KTUU via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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10 best iconic restaurants in Sarasota area for delicious food, drinks in a fun setting!

Now that tourist season is over, it's the perfect time to visit these iconic restaurants in sarasota, bradenton and venice for quality food and drinks in settings that are fascinating and fun.

There are restaurants I recommend when asked, " Where should I eat in Sarasota and Bradenton? " I also have dining guides for more specific questions, such as " What's the best waterfront restaurant? " Now that tourist season is behind us and the summer heat hasn't hit yet, allow me to unveil my latest list, which focuses on iconic restaurants in Sarasota and Manatee counties that you'll definitely want to visit right now.

These establishments are rich with decades of history and serve outstanding food in exciting locations. They are the kind of places that new residents really need to experience before they can truly call themselves locals, and spots that we locals might overlook in our eagerness to try all the new restaurants . Presented in alphabetical order, here are the 10 best iconic restaurants in Sarasota and Bradenton to enjoy quality food and drinks in settings that are fascinating and fun!

What's the best waterfront restaurant? 10 favorites I love to recommend in Sarasota and Bradenton

Top 10 restaurants I recommend when asked 'Where should I eat in Sarasota and Bradenton?'

Ticket Newsletter: Sign up to receive restaurant news and reviews plus info on things to do every Friday

Columbia Restaurant

411 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota; 941-388-3987;  columbiarestaurant.com

Open since 1959, Columbia is Sarasota's oldest full-service restaurant , located in the renowned shopping and dining district of St. Armands Circle. Specializing in Spanish-Cuban cuisine, the restaurant offers a beautiful setting with open-air indoor tables, and sidewalk seating ideal for people-watching.

Columbia is nationally acclaimed for its Cuban sandwich and Original "1905" Salad, both considered essential dishes in Florida cuisine. Additionally, their tapas classics include the Ybor City Devil Crab Croquettes, Croquetas de Pollo, and one of my all-time personal favorites, the Scallops "Casimiro."

Sarasota restaurant voted Florida's best Cuban sandwich by Southern Living readers

5600 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key; 941-383-0777;  harryskitchen.com

Opened in 1979 by Harry and Lynn Christensen as a destination for takeout dinners, Harry's celebrated its 45th anniversary earlier this year. Spanning two blocks on the Manatee County side of Longboat Key, Harry's features a fine-dining restaurant alongside a gourmet deli, bakery, catering operation, and corner store. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, serving continental cuisine with a focus on locally sourced fish.

For lunch, I highly recommend their grouper sandwich topped with remoulade, paired with their sublime corn salad. For dinner, consider trying the baked grouper prepared "Matecumbe style." Another classic entree at Harry's is the family's signature crab cakes, served with rémoulade sauce. The restaurant offers cozy and elegant indoor tables, as well as charmingly tropical al fresco seating.

Best seafood restaurant: 10 favorites for a grouper sandwich in Sarasota and Bradenton

The Main Bar Sandwich Shop

1944 Main St., Sarasota; 941-955-8733; themainbar.com

Established in 1958 by a couple of former circus stars , Main Bar Sandwich Shop in downtown Sarasota offers a nostalgic ambiance with plenty of black-and-white photographs from that era still adorning its wood-paneled walls. What's even more intriguing than the historic setting, though, is the food, featuring a menu with over 50 sandwiches. I've dedicated much of the past two decades to trying every single one of them.

Begin your sandwich adventure with Our Famous Italian . This classic creation features salami, ham, and provolone cheese topped with thinly sliced tomatoes, chopped peppers, onions, and a delightful blend of oil, garlic, and spices on a toasted bun that perfectly complements the ingredients without overpowering them.

Next, treat yourself to the Mayan, which consists of thinly sliced smoked turkey breast and provolone cheese served on a toasted Kaiser roll with crisp lettuce, tomato, and onion. The standout element of this sandwich is the jalapeno dressing: creamy with a satisfying kick that enhances everything it touches. Yeah, I often order an extra side for dipping.

Craving an awesome sandwich? 10 best restaurants and delis in Sarasota and Bradenton

Marina Jack

2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota; 941-365-4232;  marinajacks.com

This downtown Sarasota destination, with more than a half-century of history , includes a nationally acclaimed marina, sunset dinner cruises, and three restaurants, including my favorite, the Blue Sunshine Patio. It offers a large bar and plenty of covered open-air seating, ideal for enjoying live music by local favorite Bain Beakley .

The best things to eat at Marina Jack's patio include the Grouper Reuben and Double Angus Cheeseburger, paired with a cold beer or tropical cocktail. Of course, no visit to Marina Jack is complete without a stroll along the Bayfront for a beverage or two at sister business O'Leary's Tiki Bar & Grill.

10 best waterfront restaurants I love to recommend in Sarasota and Bradenton

Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant 

760 Broadway St., Longboat Key; 941-383-2391;  marvistadining.com

Boasting more than 100 years of history , Mar Vista offers guests a one-of-a-kind waterfront dining experience, especially when seated at the wrought-iron tables under the buttonwood trees overlooking Sarasota Bay.

To complement the Old Florida setting and rich history, Mar Vista serves delectable Southern cuisine, including the Lemon & Herb grouper entrée featuring a fresh filet of Gulf fish covered in a superior beurre blanc sauce, served with smartly seasoned rice and delectable sausage made from Florida wild boar via Shogun Farms in Seffner.

Local resident Ed Chiles, son of former Gov. Lawton Chiles, owns Mar Vista along with nearby Anna Maria Island restaurants Sandbar , and Beach House, which is home to my favorite beach bar in the region for food, drinks, and waterfront views .

Best beach bar in Sarasota, Bradenton? My favorite for food, drinks, waterfront views!

New Pass Grill & Bait Shop

1505 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota; 941)-388-1618;  newpassgrill.com

Tucked away on a prime spot of waterfront property at the south end of New Pass Bridge on Sarasota's City Island, New Pass Grill & Bait Shop dates back nearly a century . Since the 1950s, New Pass has been famous for its burgers, and that's still what you'll want to order at this casual eatery that operates much like a concession stand with orders placed at the window.

The classic cheeseburger is a fine choice, or you can splurge on the New Pass Famous Angus Burger. Both burgers come in a delightfully hearty bun with a side of fries, and really, it's hard to beat a burger and beer at New Pass while watching the boats, pelicans, and the occasional dolphin.

Craving an amazing burger? Here are my top picks in Sarasota and Bradenton

1200 First Ave. W., Bradenton; 941-748-8087;  pier22.com

Downtown Bradenton's oldest and most famous restaurant, Pier 22 places guests right on the Manatee River with indoor seating and offers a more casual dining experience on the covered patio, where you can enjoy a front-row seat to spectacular Gulf of Mexico sunsets, pelicans, and perhaps even some frolicking dolphins. Highlights from the extensive lunch and dinner menu include the burger , fried chicken sandwich , steaks, and the popular prime rib dinner served Fridays and Saturdays.

Pier 22 also serves commendable breakfast and brunch on weekends. However, the restaurant's most popular attraction is its exceptional happy hour, featuring deals on drinks and small plates daily from 3 to 6 p.m. Must-try items include the nicely loaded house-made potato chips, the poutine featuring hand-cut fries and local cheese curds, and the chicken flatbread covered in Pier 22's highly addictive molasses barbecue sauce.

Better than Chick-fil-A? 12 best restaurants for fried chicken in Sarasota and Bradenton

Pop’s Sunset Grill

112 Circuit Road, Nokomis; 941-488-3177;  popssunsetgrill.com

Pop's offers a tropical getaway along the Intracoastal Waterway by the Albee Road Bridge connecting Casey Key to Nokomis. Originally opened as Urbanek’s Fish Camp in 1954, Pop's produces a winning combination of Old Florida charm and modern features, such as the three-level, full-liquor tiki bar.

While stopping by Pop's for libations and daily live music is always fun, be sure to bring your appetite. Personal favorites include the smoked mahi spread,  fresh grouper cooked on the open-flame grill , and a veggie skewer that is not to be dismissed.

Bucket list: Discover Sarasota's 100 best restaurants, fun things to do, places to visit

Star Fish Company

12306 46th Ave. W., Cortez; 941-794-1243;  starfishcompany.com

Named one of the best restaurants in the country this year by our sister publication USA TODAY and nestled along Sarasota Bay in the fishing village of Cortez,  Star Fish Company  offers exceptional Gulf seafood with a generous serving of Old Florida charm. Credit Karen Bell, a third-generation Cortezian dedicated to preserving her family's commercial fishing heritage. She not only owns Star Fish and its adjoining fish market, but also a fleet of commercial fishing boats and the adjacent “fish house.”

While dining at her dockside restaurant with a century of history, you'll be captivated by the fishermen working alongside seabirds and the occasional dolphin. Star Fish serves expertly prepared Florida favorites like grouper, shrimp and oysters. In fact, one of the best things I've eaten in recent weeks was the spicy grouper nuggets Star Fish served as a special May 1. However, the restaurant is particularly renowned for its mullet, a fish best enjoyed fried or blackened with a side of cheese grits.

Bell is also co-owner of the equally excellent, nearby waterfront restaurant  Tide Tables , which is perhaps best known for its fish tacos featuring blackened fillets of mahi-mahi and a show-stopping sesame ginger sauce. In addition, Cortez is home to two other exceptional waterfront restaurants that serve fresh seafood: Swordfish Grill and Cortez Kitchen , which are both owned by local businessman and fisherman John Banyas.

Sarasota area waterfront restaurant named one of best in U.S.

Walt's Fish Market Restaurant & Tiki Bar

4144 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941-921-4605;  waltsfishmarketrestaurant.com

Family-owned and operated  for more than a century , Walt's is a seafood market and restaurant that lives by the saying: "The fish we sell today, slept in the Gulf last night." Each meal at Walt's, which offers indoor as well as open-air seating, begins gloriously with a complimentary serving of their smoked fish dip, made in-house with mullet and mahi-mahi.

For entrees, Walt's has served me some of the best red snapper — flame-broiled with a side of lemon cream for occasional dipping — of my life. They also offer one of my favorite grouper sandwiches, the humorously named Square Grouper Sandwich . Looking for another way to enjoy fresh grouper at Walt's? Try the lightly panko-fried Firecracker Grouper Bites, which are indeed fire whenever I have them.

10 best restaurants in Sarasota and Bradenton to impress out-of-town guests

Wade Tatangelo  is Ticket Editor for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, and Florida Regional Dining and Entertainment Editor for the USA TODAY Network. Follow him on  Twitter ,  Facebook  and  Instagram . He can be reached by email at [email protected]. Support local journalism by  subscribing .

Dolphin & Manatee Watch Cruise

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JOIN US FOR A SARASOTA DOLPHIN TOUR

Join LeBarge and a Sarasota Bay Explorers-trained marine biologist on this two-hour cruise and learn about the lifestyle and behavior of our local population of over 160 bottlenose dolphins, as well as manatees (in season). The guide explains their hunting techniques, physical adaptations, and social hierarchy, plus you learn of the effects brought on by humankind and what is being done to protect this magnificent mammal.

Sarasota Bay is the ideal location to observe these intelligent marine mammals. All of our marine biologists are guides with our sister company, Sarasota Bay Explorers, located at Mote Marine Laboratory, to ensure that you receive the latest, most accurate information regarding these marine mammals.

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Subscriber only, travel | here’s how to catch a south florida cruise that now stops in key west.

Since its founding as Bahamas Paradise in 2014, the company has only sailed to one place: Freeport, Grand Bahama. And the cruise line only recently expanded the length of its cruises.

While it spent years exclusively operating quick, two-night trips, it started taking reservations last November for three-night trips out of Palm Beach aboard its ship Paradise that will begin this August.

Last December, the cruise line announced the purchase of a larger ship, called the Islander, that in June will begin sailing four- and five-night trips out of the Port of Tampa to locations in Mexico and Key West.

The idea of stopping in Key West must have been appealing to the cruise line’s guests and managers, because the island has been added to the Paradise’s itineraries beginning in September.

Key West will mark the first destination beyond Freeport for sailings by Margaritaville at Sea or its predecessor, Bahamas Paradise, out of the Port of Palm Beach.

In fact, it will be the first destination other than the Bahamas for any ship sailing out of the Port of Palm Beach since the 1990s, port spokesman Yaremi Farinas said.

Five voyages will sail on a Monday-through-Friday schedule. Embarkation dates are Sept. 19, Sept. 30, Oct. 14, Nov. 25, and Dec. 9.

Fares will start below $200 for interior staterooms on all except the Nov. 25 cruise, which will start at $330.

The cruise line, of course, is part of a vast hospitality company founded by singer/songwriter Jimmy Buffett, who died last year at age 76.

Buffett-inspired flourishes can be found all over its ships, from tropical art on the bows and in staterooms to signs that borrow song lyrics like “One Particular Harbour” and “It’s 5 ‘o clock somewhere.”

Key West was Buffett’s home in the early 1970s, when he supplemented his income as a recording artist and performer at the Chart Room Bar and Howie’s Lounge by working on a deep-sea fishing boat.

The Key West stop is being offered as a “limited edition release so that select Paradise guests can also experience (its) laidback charm,” a Margaritaville at Sea spokesperson said.

After the ship sets sail, guests will have to chill out for awhile before getting to the Conch Republic.

After departing on day one, day two will be spent at sea. The ship will arrive in Key West at about 7 a.m. on the third day and depart at about 4 p.m. — leaving about eight or nine hours to visit the Hemingway Home and Museum, the Truman Little White House, the Key West Lighthouse, Mallory Square, the bars on Duval Street, or the first Margaritaville restaurant, which opened in 1987.

Whether the Key West stops from the Port of Palm Beach will continue after December is not yet known. The stops to the place “where it all began for the Margaritaville brand” are expected to be very popular, the spokesperson said, adding, “we are continuing to evaluate our 2025 deployment.”

Michael Meekins, executive director of the Port of Palm Beach, said the port operators are “thrilled” by the addition. “I think it is great the cruise line is offering its cruise passengers different itineraries from Palm Beach, adding more days of fun,” he said Thursday.

Cruise line CEO Christopher Ivy emphasized the “limited capacity” of the Key West plans, saying, “these special sailings give both new and returning guests even more options from the beautiful Port of Palm Beach aboard Margaritaville at Sea.”

For more information, visit margaritavilleatsea.com .

Ron Hurtibise covers business and consumer issues for the South Florida Sun Sentinel. He can be reached by phone at 954-356-4071, on Twitter @ronhurtibise or by email at [email protected].

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