FAQ’s

Got a question?

You can always contact us online, but you might find the answer to your question below.

You can also call us at +1.239.472.8443 if you have any other questions or special requests. We'd love to hear from you!
Office phone hours are from 8am to 5pm EST Monday thru Sunday.


Common Questions

What happens if it rains?

The rain here can come and go rather quickly. Your captain and crew watch the weather forecasts closely and want to ensure your cruise is safe, enjoyable, and a memorable experience. In the event that we are required to cancel due to unsafe weather conditions, we will contact you as soon as possible so you can join us at another date/time. If you are unable to join us we will be happy to process a refund. Be sure to provide a good local contact number when placing your reservation.

Is gratuity included in the ticket price?

Gratuities are not included in the cruise price and is at your discretion. Never required and will get the same great service regardless. If you wish to recognize the crew for a job well done, you're more than welcome to tip them.

Is there an age limit? Can children attend?

There is no age limit. Children of all ages are welcome to attend and there is a reduced child rate for children age 4-12. Children 3 years old and under can attend for free (with the exception of holidays) but are still needed in your reservation count. (Special children rates for holiday cruises.)

Are we guaranteed to see dolphins?

While we do see dolphins 95% of the time on all of our excursions, they are a part of the wildlife and not something we can guarantee. We cruise the waters of one of the most populated and varied wildlife areas in the U.S.

What is the cancellation policy?

Due to each vessels capacity we request that cancellations be made 24 hours in advance which gives us the opportunity to offer your seats to other guests wishing to go out. (48 hours for holiday cruises and for parties of 6+.) There will be a 3% service fee.

Changes or cancellations received within 24 hours of departure time are subject to a 100% penalty. Your card will still be charged if you did not call to cancel or if you are a no show. Cancellations via email or left on our voicemail will not be accepted.

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Advance reservations are strongly recommended and our cruises and tours often sell out quickly. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book in advance.

Other Questions

On the Fishing Cruise, can we keep what we catch?

While we encourage catch and release, if you catch something of legal size and would like to keep it, time permitting, the crew would be happy to clean it for you. We adhere to state regulations on what size a specific fish must be to keep, each fish species has its own set of size regulations.

Are we guaranteed to catch fish?

Fish are not guaranteed. However we do have a very high success rate! That's why it's called fishin' not catchin' har har!

Do you go out into the Gulf of Mexico?

No. We fish and cruise the waters of Pine Island Sound and the San Carlos Bay, which are essentially the waters between Sanibel and the mainland.

What kind of bait do you use?

On the Backwater Fishing Cruise we use live shrimp!

On the Sealife Encounter Cruise, do I have to get into the water?

While part of the experience it is completely up to you! How far and how deep you get into the water is also at your discretion.

On the Sealife Encounter, how much time do we spend “netting”?

Time will vary with weather and captain, but on average the amount of time netting at Picnic Island is 30-45 minutes. We provide scoop nets!

On the Shelling & Lunch Cruise, how much time do we spend shelling?

We spend about 1 3/4 to 2 hours on the beach. As our guest, feel free to use this time to shell, swim or relax on the beach! We provide a limited number of beach chairs, umbrellas, noodles and light snorkeling equipment.

Do you offer private charters?

Yes! In addition to our regular scheduled cruises we offer private charters and activities whether your group is large or small; Island Trolley Tours, Corporate Events, Wedding Cruises, and more! We are sure that we can tailor fun activities that will meet your needs. Serving all of Southwest Florida: Sanibel, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Naples.

Are gift certificates available?

Yes! Gift certificates are available for all cruises and tours and make great gifts for any occasion. To purchase a gift certificate click here or call into our office at 239-472-8443.

Is the boat handicap accessible?

Yes, our boat is handicap accessible for your convenience. Please keep in mind that the Sealife Encounter and the Shelling & Lunch Cruise do require you to get on and off the boat via a ladder.

Are life jackets available on board?

All vessels are U.S. Coast Guard inspected and certified. While we do have life jackets available for everyone on board, you are not required to wear the life jackets during the cruise.

Is there shade on the boat?

Yes, 3/4 of the boat is covered.

What Should I wear?

Wear sun block! You'll also want to wear footwear you don't mind getting wet. Other useful items might include a hat and a pair of sunglasses. During the cooler months, you may want to bring a jacket or fleece.

Are there restrooms on board?

Yes

Are drinks or food available during the trip? Can I bring my own?

Soft drinks and water are complimentary on the following cruises: Morning Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise, Afternoon Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise and the Sunset Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise. Guests are more than welcome to bring any of their own food and beverage on board any of our cruises. This also includes alcohol beverages. We just ask that you not bring glass.

Do the trips have to reach a minimum amount of passengers?

Yes, each tour will need to have a small minimum amount of passengers in order for the tour to depart.  We will reach out to you earlier if there is a possibility we won't reach the minimum and offer other options to get you out on the water.  If your tour is unable to go due to minimums then there will be no charges to your account.