Capt. Dylan Hubbard here with another weekly look at all the exciting wildlife encounters and coastal adventures happening across our beautiful slice of central west Florida. This time of year always brings big seasonal changes to our ecosystem, and our guests have been right in the middle of the action while dolphin watching, shelling, snorkeling, island hopping, and cruising the calm back bay waters between Madeira Beach, Treasure Island, St. Pete Beach, Shell Key, Fort De Soto and Egmont Key just west of Tampa Bay.Â
The Wildlife Action This WeekÂ
We have seen some incredible activity on our dolphin watching nature cruise and eco tour, with dolphins extremely energetic and playful. They have been showing off daily, riding our bow wakes, leaping out of the water, and socializing in big family groups. These cooler temperatures really fuel that mullet movement, and when the baitfish shift, the dolphins light up right along with it.Â
Our winter migrants continue to arrive in strong numbers too. The brilliant white pelicans are back in huge flocks across the bay, settling into their seasonal roosts and feeding flats around Shell Key and Egmont Key. Alongside them, we are seeing even more bald eagles showing up as they make their seasonal return to spend winter here in our warmer coastal climate. These two species together make for some remarkable bird-watching opportunities right from the deck of our boats.Â
New Ways to Cruise & Spot WildlifeÂ
We are excited to share that Hubbard’s Marina now officially has a pirate ship as part of the fleet. With the acquisition of the Royal Conquest, families can now enjoy a fun-filled pirate cruise experience while still spotting dolphins and enjoying our scenic waterways. It’s a unique and exciting new way to enjoy time on the water, especially for families looking for something adventurous and entertaining.Â
Sunsets & Scenic CruisesÂ
Sunset cruises have been stunning lately, offering dramatic skies, calm seas, and exceptional views as the sun melts into the Gulf. Cooler, clearer air after the fronts always creates extra-vivid evening colors, and pairing that with free beer and wine makes these evenings aboard truly special.Â
Wildlife Rescue Work ContinuesÂ
We continued our ongoing wildlife rescue efforts this week as well. Our team successfully rescued a cormorant and three pelicans tangled in line and debris. On top of that, I personally had to go into action for a seagull rescue when the bird found itself somewhere only a determined captain could reach. We’re committed to doing our part to protect the wildlife that makes this place so special.Â
Cruise News: Island Ferries
Incredible Shelling & BeachcombingÂ
Behind that strong cold front last week, the rough north winds did exactly what beachcombers dream of. They pushed an incredible haul of shells up onto the shorelines at Shell Key and Egmont Key. Our guests found countless sand dollars, beautiful conch shells, and an impressive number of shark teeth. Those post-front morning trips are always prime time to get out and explore, and our shell key ferry and three-hour shelling trips put guests right where the treasure is piling up.Â
Your Adventure AwaitsÂ
This is one of the best times of year to get out here and enjoy the water—cooler air, migrating wildlife, active dolphins, great shelling, and uncrowded islands. Whether you’re joining us for a dolphin watching nature cruise, sunset cruise, Egmont Key ferry, Shell Key ferry, or our three-hour shelling adventure, there is no shortage of excitement and natural beauty waiting just offshore.Â
Come join us on the water and make some memories with the original family-owned and operated marina here in Madeira Beach, serving our community and visitors since 1928.Â
