3 Hour Eco Tour Adventure: Sarasota Bay, Egmont Key & Fort DeSoto
Overview
Experience the Best of Florida’s Backwaters on a Private 3-Hour Eco Tour!
Set sail on a private boat adventure through Sarasota Bay, Manatee River, Egmont Key, and Fort DeSoto Park. This 3-hour tour offers an unforgettable mix of wildlife, history, and stunning scenery. Spot dolphins, manatees, and colorful birds in their natural habitats, stroll along pristine beaches, or snorkel over underwater ruins at Egmont Key.
With your private captain, you control the pace and focus—relax, explore, and enjoy the beauty of Florida’s hidden gems. Whether you’re looking for adventure, wildlife photography, or a peaceful escape on the water, this eco tour promises an intimate and memorable experience for up to 6 guests.
Book now and create your own private Florida adventure!
Itinerary
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Accessible only by boat, beautiful Egmont Key is a place to relax, picnic, swim, collect seashells along the pristine beach, see wildlife, and explore a piece of history. One of the first things youu2019ll notice upon arrival is the 85u2032 lighthouse on the northern end of the island that has stood there for almost 150 years. Egmont Key has had a lot of military significance since the Civil War and you can still see the remains of Fort Dade on the island. There is also a portion of the fort in the water where you can snorkel and see underwater marine life. In 1974, Egmont Key became a National Wildlife Refuge and as you stroll the trails you might happen to come across a tortoise sunning itself. A wonderful place to stroll along the beaches and take some time for yourself u2013 delightful and historic Egmont Key.
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Directly across from Egmont Key to the northeast is Fort DeSoto Park. A true Florida gem, Fort DeSoto often receives top honors on annual u201cbest-ofu201d lists for the best beach. And what a beach it is u2013 pristine white sand, beautiful views, and seashells are just a few of the highlights. The park is made up of 5 connected islands and has campgrounds, picnic areas, fishing piers, nature trails, food concessions and more for visitors. Take time to visit the fort (for which the park was named) which was used for the protection of Tampa Bay dating back to the Civil War.
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Heading back to the Manatee and Braden River takes you past some of the most beautiful backwater preserves, combining fallen trees and an u201cOld Floridau201d feeling as you meander up and down the river. This part of Florida offers lots of excellent wildlife viewing, including birds, alligators, and turtles. But the river is where you will achieve a real sense of South Florida feel..
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4
Sarasota Bay:nJust to the south is Sarasota Bay. As a child, I spent many days shrimping and digging for clams in the Sarasota area with my grandparents. Sarasota Bay has many acres of shallow water flats that hold all kinds of wildlife and seashells. Spend your day in the bay proper or explore the many kayak and canoe passageways that create an elaborate maze through the mangroves.
What's included
- US Coast Guard Licensed Captain/ Guide
- Personalized experienceu2014you control the itinerary during your private tour
- Opportunity to see wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, birds, and other marine life
- Scenic views and access to beaches only reachable by boat
- Private eco tour for up to 6 guests
- Guided exploration of Sarasota Bay, Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Park, and Manatee River
What's not included
- Food and Drink
- Gratuity
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- ✓ 100% refund24 hours or more before the start time
- ✕ 0% refundLess than 24 hours before the start time