Florida Gulf Discovery provides professional and compassionate Burial at Sea services in Southwest Florida, serving families in Venice, Englewood, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and Naples. We specialize in EPA-compliant ash scattering ceremonies in the Gulf of Mexico, offering private and dignified memorial charters throughout Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee Counties.

We proudly serve the counties of:

• • Manatee County
  • Sarasota County
  • Charlotte County
  • Lee County

A burial at sea offers a peaceful and meaningful way to honor your loved one, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Gulf of America. Our private charter allows family and close friends to gather on the water for a dignified ash scattering ceremony conducted in full compliance with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations.

We are committed to providing a respectful, safe, and memorable experience during this important time.

---

What Is a Burial at Sea?

A burial at sea in Southwest Florida involves the scattering of cremated remains in the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Under federal EPA guidelines, cremated remains must be scattered at least three nautical miles offshore. Our licensed captain navigates to the appropriate offshore location to ensure full legal compliance.

Families choose burial at sea because it offers:

• • A peaceful natural setting
  • A private and intimate ceremony
  • A meaningful alternative to traditional burial
  • A lasting connection to the Gulf waters

Whether you prefer a quiet moment of reflection or a structured memorial with readings, prayers, or music, we help you create a ceremony that reflects your loved one’s life and legacy.

---

Burial at Sea Policy & EPA Legal Requirements

Florida Gulf Discovery operates in accordance with all federal and state regulations regarding ash scattering at sea in Florida.

EPA requirements include:

• • Cremated remains must be scattered at least 3 nautical miles from shore
  • Only biodegradable materials (such as loose flowers) may be placed in the water
  • The burial must be reported to the EPA within 30 days
  • Non-cremated remains require special permits (most families choose cremation)

We document the exact GPS coordinates of the scattering location and provide them to the family as a permanent memorial reference upon request.

---

Responsibilities: Funeral Home, Captain & Family

Arranging a Burial at Sea charter in Venice, Englewood, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Fort Myers, Naples, and surrounding areas involves coordination between the funeral home, the captain, and the family.

Funeral Home Responsibilities

The funeral home handles:

• • Cremation services
  • Filing the death certificate
  • Preparing the cremated remains
  • Providing a temporary container or urn
  • Assisting with required documentation

Local funeral homes offering cremation services in Southwest Florida include:

• • Farley Funeral Homes (Venice)
  • Lemon Bay Funeral Home (Englewood)
  • Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Homes (Port Charlotte & Punta Gorda)
  • Harvey-Engelhardt Funeral & Cremation Services (Fort Myers)
  • Coral Ridge Funeral Home (Cape Coral)
  • Hodges Funeral Home (Naples)
  • Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home (Bonita Springs)

Families typically arrange cremation first and then schedule the burial at sea charter.

Captain’s Responsibilities

The captain of Florida Gulf Discovery is responsible for:

• • Safe navigation to the offshore burial location
  • Ensuring EPA compliance
  • Monitoring weather and sea conditions
  • Providing a stable and safe vessel
  • Documenting GPS coordinates
  • Maintaining a respectful environment during the ceremony

Safety, professionalism, and compassion are always our highest priorities.

Family’s Role

Family members are encouraged to personalize the ceremony by:

• • Reading scripture, poetry, or personal tributes
  • Playing meaningful music
  • Bringing biodegradable flowers
  • Sharing memories and reflections
  • Observing a moment of silence

We work with you to create a ceremony that feels personal and meaningful.

---

What to Expect on the Day of the Charter

On the day of your Southwest Florida Burial at Sea ceremony, your family will meet at the designated marina location. After a brief safety orientation, we will depart into the Gulf of America.

Once beyond the required three nautical miles offshore, the vessel will idle and the ceremony may begin. The captain provides assistance as needed while allowing privacy and space for your family.

After the ashes are scattered, many families choose to circle the area once more in tribute before returning to shore.

---

Waterfront Restaurants Accessible by Boat for Family Gatherings

Many families gather before or after the ceremony at a waterfront restaurant accessible by boat in Southwest Florida.

Venice & Sarasota Area:

• • Crow’s Nest Marina Restaurant
  • Sharky’s on the Pier (Venice)
  • Pop’s Sunset Grill (Nokomis)

Englewood, Port Charlotte & Punta Gorda:

• • Farlow’s on the Water (Englewood)
  • Laishley Crab House (Punta Gorda)
  • Riviera Bar & Grill (Punta Gorda)

Fort Myers & Cape Coral:

• • Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille
  • Dixie Fish Company
  • Parrot Key Caribbean Grill
  • Rumrunners

Naples & Bonita Springs:

• • The Dock at Crayton Cove
  • Pinchers at Tin City
  • Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grille

These locations offer dockage and provide a comfortable setting to gather, reflect, and celebrate a life well lived in a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

---

Why Choose Florida Gulf Discovery for Burial at Sea?

• • Licensed and experienced captain
  • Private charter experience
  • EPA-compliant ash scattering services
  • Serving Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte & Lee Counties
  • Service areas from Venice to Naples
  • Beautiful Gulf of Amemrica setting
  • Compassionate, professional guidance

We understand this is a deeply personal experience. Our goal is to provide a smooth, respectful, and dignified ceremony that honors your loved one’s memory.

---

Schedule a Burial at Sea Charter in Southwest Florida

If you are considering a Burial at Sea in Venice, Englewood, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, or surrounding Southwest Florida communities, contact Florida Gulf Discovery to discuss availability and planning details.

Florida Gulf Discovery
floridagulfdiscovery.com
Serving Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte & Lee Counties

We are honored to help families create a meaningful farewell on the waters of the Gulf of America.

 

Private Boat Tours in North Port, Florida

Experience the natural beauty of Southwest Florida with Florida Gulf Discovery’s private boat tours in North Port, Florida. Our custom-guided excursions offer a unique way to explore the region’s waterways, coastal landscapes, and wildlife in comfort and privacy. Whether you are visiting on vacation or live locally, our tours provide an unforgettable way to enjoy the Gulf Coast.

From peaceful scenic cruises and dolphin encounters to beach landings and waterfront dining, our private boat tours are designed to create lasting memories for families, couples, and small groups.

Why Choose Florida Gulf Discovery in North Port

When you book with Florida Gulf Discovery, you are choosing a local boating company with extensive knowledge of the waters surrounding North Port, Lemon Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico. Our experienced captains tailor each tour to your interests, schedule, and comfort level.

We focus on private, personalized experiences rather than crowded group tours. This allows you to relax, explore at your own pace, and fully enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

• Private and personalized boat tours
• Flexible scheduling and custom routes
• Experienced local captains
• Comfortable, well-maintained boats
• Family-friendly and beginner-friendly
• Ideal for vacations and special occasions

Explore Nearby Beaches and Coastal Destinations

While North Port is located inland, it provides easy access to some of Southwest Florida’s most beautiful beaches and barrier islands. Our private boat tours allow you to travel by water to quiet shorelines and hidden coastal spots.

Popular nearby destinations include Englewood Beach, Manasota Key Beach, Stump Pass Beach State Park, and secluded sandbars along the Gulf Coast. These areas are known for clear water, soft sand, and excellent shelling.

During your tour, you can swim, relax, search for seashells and shark teeth, take scenic photos, and enjoy peaceful beach time away from crowds.

Dolphin Watching and Wildlife Encounters

The waters near North Port and Lemon Bay are home to a wide variety of marine life and coastal wildlife. Our private tours give you front-row access to these natural habitats in a safe and respectful way.

Guests commonly see bottlenose dolphins swimming alongside the boat, manatees during warmer months, and many species of birds including pelicans, ospreys, herons, and egrets. Depending on the season, sea turtles, stingrays, and schools of fish may also be spotted.

Because our tours are private, we can slow down and spend extra time observing wildlife, making your experience both relaxing and educational.

Waterfront Dining and Island-Hopping Experiences

Many guests enjoy combining their boat tour with waterfront dining and island stops. Arriving at restaurants and beach locations by boat adds a special touch to your day on the water.

Popular nearby dining destinations include Farlow’s On The Water, SandBar Tiki & Grille, Beachcomber Trading Post, and Lighthouse Grill and Tiki Bar. These restaurants offer fresh seafood, tropical drinks, and beautiful waterfront views.

We also offer island picnics, lunch cruises, sunset dinner tours, and casual cruising between popular coastal spots.

Sunset Cruises and Romantic Boat Tours

Our sunset cruises are one of the most popular experiences for guests visiting North Port. Watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico from the water creates a peaceful and romantic atmosphere.

These tours are perfect for date nights, anniversaries, honeymoons, proposals, and special celebrations. Many couples choose our sunset cruises for engagement photos and memorable evenings on the water.

Shelling, Shark Tooth Hunting, and Beachcombing

The beaches near North Port are well known for shelling and fossil hunting. Our captains know the best locations and times to search for seashells and shark teeth.

During your tour, you can explore quiet beaches, walk along tidal flats, and collect unique natural treasures. This activity is especially popular with families and children.

Family-Friendly and Educational Boat Tours

Our private boat tours are designed to be enjoyable for guests of all ages. Families love the opportunity to explore nature together while learning about marine life and coastal ecosystems.

Children and teens enjoy dolphin spotting, sandbar playtime, swimming, snorkeling, and hands-on exploration. Our captains are happy to answer questions and share local knowledge throughout the tour.

Custom Charters and Special Occasions

No two groups are the same, which is why we offer fully customized private charters for guests from North Port and surrounding areas.

• Birthday celebrations
• Bachelor and bachelorette parties
• Corporate outings
• Family reunions
• Holiday cruises
• Proposal and engagement tours

Tell us your ideas, and we will design a personalized boating experience that fits your vision.

Local Attractions Near North Port

Your private boat tour pairs well with many of North Port’s popular attractions and nearby destinations.

• Warm Mineral Springs Park
• North Port Aquatic Center
• Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park
• Atwater Community Park
• Historic Dearborn Street in Englewood

Many visitors combine their boating experience with shopping, dining, and outdoor activities for a full day of fun.

What’s Included in Your Private Boat Tour

Every Florida Gulf Discovery tour includes everything you need for a safe and enjoyable experience.

• Licensed professional captain
• Fuel and safety equipment
• Comfortable seating
• Local navigation expertise
• Flexible itinerary
• Personalized service

Optional upgrades may be available for extended time or specialty routes.

Book Your Private Boat Tour in North Port, Florida

Whether you are visiting North Port for a short getaway or you are a local looking for a new adventure, Florida Gulf Discovery offers the best way to experience Southwest Florida from the water.

From dolphin watching and beach hopping to sunset cruises and waterfront dining, our private boat tours deliver adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.

Call today or book online to reserve your private boat tour in North Port, Florida and begin your Gulf Coast adventure with Florida Gulf Discovery.