Venice, Florida

Griffin’s nonprofit offers charter boat trips throughout Florida for people who use wheelchairs and others with disabilities, in collaboration with Tampa Electric’s private and easily accessible boat ramp at the Big Bend Power Station.

Siesta Key Watersports is the only full-service watersports company servicing Siesta Key, Sarasota, and Venice, with three locations. Voted #1 watersports company year after year, they offer parasailing with a 100% safety record, jet ski rentals for 1-3 riders up to 450 lbs max weight, dolphin tours (morning mimosas & dolphins, dolphin drinks & sandbar, sunset & dolphins) with complimentary drinks and bathroom on board, boat rentals with unlimited riding area including Gulf of Mexico, private charters, fishing charters, sunset charters, and custom charters. Over 28 years in business with USCG licensed captains, best maintained equipment, and free parking.

SURFit USA is a leading provider of kayak and stand up paddleboard eco-tours and rental equipment in Sarasota, Florida, with locations on Lido Key and Siesta Key. They offer guided tours through mangrove tunnels, wildlife encounters, paddleboard and kayak rentals for self-exploration, and multi-day adventures including hiking, surfing, and paddling in various locations. Owners Karla and Aaron, transplants from Hawaii, emphasize safety, fun, and sharing Sarasota's beautiful waterways since 2012.

St. Pete Coastal Cruises is an affordable luxury boat tour operation offering guided boat tours, private charters, sunset cruises, Skyway Bridge Light Show cruises, dolphin watching, shelling, sandbar parties, and booze cruises using their 50’ custom-built catamaran 'Escape' with capacity for up to 49 passengers.

St. Pete Beach's premier watersports & boat tour company, creating unforgettable memories on the water since 1978. Offers safe, fun activities for all ages including parasailing, dolphin and sunset cruises, waverunners, banana boats, Sand Dollar Island tours, and private catamaran charters.

Located in St. Petersburg, Florida, Pier Dolphin Cruises offers over 28 years of experience providing unique dolphin-watching excursions on the Tampa Bay waters. What sets this company apart is its long-standing relationship with local dolphins, who are accustomed to the sound of the Dolphin Queen catamaran and regularly swim alongside the boat, creating an exceptional and interactive wildlife experience. The tours are led by native captains certified by the United States Coast Guard, ensuring both safety and expert knowledge of the area's wildlife and history. The spacious, stable MV Dolphin Queen features a splash-free flat deck, ample seating with social distancing, and accessible facilities, all maintained with thorough sanitation protocols. Pier Dolphin Cruises specializes in dolphin tours, sunset cruises, and eco tours designed to educate and entertain visitors of all ages. Guests can expect close encounters with dolphins, manatees, stingrays, and various bird species while cruising through the bay and inlets. Knowledgeable guides share insights about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts, enhancing the experience for nature enthusiasts and families alike. The company also offers private charters for special events such as weddings, office parties, and celebrations, providing a memorable setting on the water. With a dedicated team including marine educators and experienced captains, the cruises combine safety, comfort, and engaging storytelling for an unforgettable outing in St. Pete.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is a federal agency dedicated to the conservation and management of fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats across the United States. Established in 1871, it is the nation’s oldest conservation agency and operates more than 560 National Wildlife Refuges, 70 national fish hatcheries, and numerous regional offices nationwide. Headquartered in Washington, DC, the agency is unique in its comprehensive approach to preserving natural resources for current and future generations, combining scientific research, habitat restoration, and public engagement. Its extensive network of facilities offers diverse opportunities to experience and protect America’s natural heritage. FWS provides a wide range of services including wildlife refuge management, fish hatchery operations, educational programs, and partnerships with tribal and local communities. Visitors can explore habitats such as the Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge in Florida, which protects nesting sea turtles, gopher tortoises, and over 30,000 pairs of birds on a remote island at the mouth of Tampa Bay. The agency supports conservation through scientific monitoring, law enforcement, and public outreach, targeting outdoor enthusiasts, educators, researchers, and conservation partners. Experiences at FWS sites emphasize both recreation and stewardship, fostering a deeper understanding of wildlife and habitat preservation.

Kayaking SRQ is a well-established kayaking business located in Sarasota, Florida, with over 40 years of experience guiding visitors through the region’s unique waterways. Specializing in exploring the mangrove tunnels of Lido Key, the company offers both guided tours and kayak rentals for those who prefer to navigate independently using provided maps. What sets this business apart is its deep local knowledge and passion for sharing Sarasota’s natural beauty, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for paddlers of all ages and skill levels. The company’s commitment to education and environmental appreciation enhances each outing, making it a standout choice in Florida’s premier kayak park. The offerings include guided kayak tours that highlight the local ecology, wildlife, and history, appealing to nature enthusiasts, photographers, families, and individuals seeking relaxation or exercise. Experienced guides provide informative commentary and personalized attention, accommodating groups ranging from young children to older adults. Rentals are also available for those who want to explore at their own pace, with all necessary equipment supplied. Customers consistently praise the knowledgeable staff and the opportunity to encounter diverse marine life while paddling through scenic mangrove tunnels, making the experience both memorable and enriching.

StarLite Cruises is a family-owned business based in the Clearwater and St. Petersburg area of Florida, operating since 1986. With decades of experience, it has grown from a single vessel to Florida’s largest daily excursion fleet, serving over three million passengers. The company is known for its diverse offerings, including award-winning dining yachts, tropical cruises, and dolphin adventures, all set against the scenic backdrop of Florida’s inland and coastal waters. Its reputation for excellent service and variety makes it a standout choice for both locals and visitors seeking memorable water-based experiences. The fleet includes elegant dining yachts like the StarLite Majesty and StarLite Sapphire, which provide chef-prepared meals, live entertainment, and panoramic waterfront views ideal for special occasions or casual outings. For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, Calypso Tropical Cruises and Tiki Island Cruises offer casual buffet dining, tropical vibes, and social settings. Adventure seekers can enjoy the high-speed Dolphin Racer Adventure, featuring narrated tours with guaranteed dolphin sightings. The company also accommodates private events, group charters, and themed cruises, ensuring a tailored experience for birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate gatherings.

Island Ferry is a family-owned, locally operated company based in St. Petersburg, Florida, specializing in small-group boat tours, kayak adventures, and private charters. With experienced local captains and a focus on safety and personalized service, the company offers unique access to the calm, shallow waters of Tampa Bay and its barrier islands. Their tours emphasize relaxed pacing and intimate group sizes, allowing guests to enjoy Florida’s coastal environment without the crowds. Departing from Tierra Verde Marina Resort and downtown St. Petersburg, Island Ferry provides a convenient gateway to explore pristine locations such as Shell Key, Egmont Key, and Passage Key. The company’s offerings include dolphin cruises, snorkeling excursions, sunset cruises, guided kayak tours, and private sandbar party charters. Guests can choose from clear or traditional kayaks to navigate mangrove shorelines or join boat tours that include snorkel gear and supervision at Shell Key Preserve. Private charters cater to families, couples, and groups seeking a personalized day on the water with the option to bring their own food and drinks. These experiences highlight Florida’s natural beauty, wildlife, and historic sites, making them suitable for visitors of all ages and interests looking for an immersive coastal adventure.

Totally Tiki Tours operates in Tampa Bay, Florida, offering a distinctive way to explore the area's scenic waterways aboard a spacious tiki boat. With locations at Rocky Point Island in Tampa, Downtown Tampa’s Riverwalk, and the St. Petersburg Pier, the company provides a unique blend of local charm and natural beauty. The tours are led by USCG-qualified captains, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all passengers. What sets this business apart is its focus on private and public cruises that highlight Tampa Bay’s playful dolphins, manatees, and stunning Florida sunsets, all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat featuring Bluetooth speakers and onboard restrooms. The company specializes in two-hour private and public tours tailored for celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and bachelor or bachelorette parties, accommodating up to 13 passengers on private charters. Guests can bring their own beverages and enjoy complimentary water, coolers filled with ice, and various water activities like floating mats and frisbees. Tours include stops at shallow sandbars for swimming and cruising through residential areas, offering a relaxed and customizable experience. Whether visitors are locals or tourists, these tours provide a memorable way to enjoy Tampa Bay’s natural attractions and festive atmosphere.

LeBarge Tropical Cruises offers unique boat tours and cruises in Sarasota, FL, aboard the LeBarge, a floating tropical island with palm trees and mermaids. Services include narrated Dolphin & Manatee Watch Cruises with marine biologists, Sightseeing & Nature Cruises, Tropical Sunset Cruises with live entertainment, Rhythm on The Bay, Full Moon Cruises, private charters for events like weddings and parties, and special holiday cruises. Features full bar, specialty cocktails, beer on tap, light food menu, and views of Sarasota Bay wildlife and shoreline.