Yesterday we enjoyed an unforgettable private boat tour starting from Eldred’s Marina and heading north toward Manasota Key.
First Stop – Dolphins in the ICW
Our first stop was in the No Wake zone of the Intracoastal Waterway near Cape Haze. Even after the recent storms, when dolphins have been less active than usual, we were lucky to encounter a few. Watching them surface and move peacefully through the calm water is always a special experience.
Second Stop – Just Outside Stump Pass
Our second stop took us just outside Stump Pass, about one mile into the Gulf of America. The open water, fresh sea breeze, and endless horizon created a true feeling of freedom on the water.
As we re-entered Stump Pass, a small pod of dolphins appeared directly in our path, swimming gracefully alongside the boat. Moments like this make every tour unique and unforgettable.
Third Stop – Stump Pass Beach State Park
Our third stop was just before Milton Pass along Ski Alley at Stump Pass Beach State Park, a beautiful stretch of land accessible only by boat.
The sand was clean and natural, the water calm, and the atmosphere peaceful — exactly what Southwest Florida boating is all about. We anchored for about an hour while my guests walked along the pure white sand and searched for shark teeth, one of the favorite activities in this area. The shoreline, reshaped by recent storms, is now more open and easily reachable by boat.
Lunch on Manasota Key
Continuing through Ski Alley past Milton Pass, we made our way toward Manasota Key for lunch. We docked waterfront at Sandbar Tiki & Grille, where we enjoyed excellent service and delicious food. There’s nothing better than combining a relaxing boat ride with a casual waterfront dining experience.
Sunset and Return Home
In the evening, we returned toward Stump Pass to watch the sunset. The sky transformed into brilliant shades of orange and pink, reflecting beautifully across the calm water — a classic Southwest Florida sunset that never disappoints.
As darkness settled in, we cruised safely back home with navigation lights on, passing through Lemon Bay, the Long Channel of the Intracoastal Waterway near Cape Haze, and into Gasparilla Sound before returning to Eldred’s Marina in full dark, smooth and safe.
At the end of the trip, my guests told me that although they had been in Florida for three months, this was the best day they experienced here.
And that is exactly why I love what I do.
