Saint James City, Florida

Rising Tide Explorers is a biologist-owned and operated ecotour company based in Naples, Florida, specializing in guided kayak and boat tours throughout the unique estuaries of Southwest Florida. Founded in 2016 by local scientists and graduate students, it stands out as the only company in the region offering tours led exclusively by active local biologists with advanced degrees and research experience. This expertise ensures that guests receive an educational and authentic experience while exploring the mangrove tunnels, oyster reefs, mudflats, and protected bays of the Rookery Bay Reserve and surrounding areas. The company’s commitment to science and conservation is reflected in its partnership with the Friends of Rookery Bay, supporting ongoing research and stewardship efforts in the 110,000-acre reserve. The company offers a variety of eco-adventures, including family-friendly guided kayak tours through mangrove tunnels, boat cruises to bird rookery islands at sunset, and shelling excursions on remote barrier islands like Keewaydin Island. Each tour is led by knowledgeable biologist guides who share insights into local wildlife, ecology, and conservation, providing a hands-on learning experience for guests of all ages. Equipment is high-quality and well-maintained, and every kayak tour includes free HD photography to capture the adventure. Rising Tide Explorers caters to nature enthusiasts, families, and travelers seeking an immersive and educational outdoor experience in Naples and Marco Island, combining adventure with a deep appreciation for Southwest Florida’s natural environment.

Matlacha Fishing Charters, located in Matlacha, Florida, offers an authentic fishing experience guided by Captain Tim Jones, who is intimately familiar with the local waters. Specializing in inshore fishing, the charters focus on species such as Redfish, Snook, Tarpon, Snapper, Trout, Sharks, and Sheepshead. The business stands out for its personalized approach, navigating the quiet, shallow creeks and inland waterways that make Matlacha unique. With a small, comfortable Florida Fisher Skiff accommodating up to four adults, clients can enjoy a peaceful and immersive fishing adventure often without encountering other boats. The charters provide half and full-day trips, equipped with top-of-the-line spinning rods, reels, live bait, ice, and water, ensuring a well-prepared outing. In addition to traditional fishing, guided fly fishing trips are available for those seeking a specialized experience. Beyond fishing, the service also offers sunset, dolphin, and bird watching excursions, catering to a variety of interests. This range of offerings makes the charters suitable for both avid anglers and nature enthusiasts looking to explore the serene Matlacha waterways.

Sundance is a sailing charter based in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, operating from Snug Harbor at 645 Old San Carlos Boulevard. The business is led by Captain David Richardson, a seasoned sailor with over 31,000 miles of experience, ensuring a safe and enjoyable offshore cruising experience. The vessel, a 42-foot yacht designed for comfort and safety, accommodates a maximum of six guests, allowing for an intimate and personalized sailing adventure. Sundance stands out for its pet-friendly and smoker-friendly policy, as well as its relaxed atmosphere where guests can bring their own refreshments and take the helm if they wish. The charter offers half-day and full-day cruises tailored to a variety of occasions, including wildlife viewing, sunset sails, and celebrations such as birthdays and bachelor or bachelorette parties. Guests can expect a casual and flexible experience, with the freedom to bring any food or drinks on board and enjoy the scenic Gulf of Mexico waters. The yacht features onboard restroom facilities and provides ample opportunities to observe dolphins, soak up the sun, or simply unwind. Sundance caters to small groups seeking a unique and memorable sailing outing in the Fort Myers Beach area.

Located in Naples, Florida, Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve encompasses 110,000 acres of one of the few remaining undisturbed mangrove estuaries in North America. Managed through a public-private partnership involving the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, and Florida International University, the Reserve is dedicated to research, education, conservation, and professional training. Its unique coastal environment stretches from downtown Naples through the Western Everglades, covering 40 percent of Collier County’s coastline. The Reserve’s Environmental Learning Center offers interactive exhibits, art galleries, and trails, providing visitors with hands-on experiences that highlight the region’s ecological significance. The Reserve offers a variety of eco-tours including boat and kayak excursions that explore the estuary’s diverse habitats, such as mangrove tunnels and mudflats. These tours, operated by Rising Tide Explorers, provide all necessary equipment and instruction, catering to participants as young as three years old. Primitive camping is available year-round in designated areas north of San Marco Road, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings while adhering to conservation guidelines. The Reserve also hosts educational events, lectures, and art exhibitions, appealing to families, nature enthusiasts, and researchers alike. Through its comprehensive programs and protected lands, the Reserve fosters a deep connection between the community and Southwest Florida’s coastal environment.