Capt. Dylan Hubbard here with your latest update from the waters of central west Florida. As we continue cruising daily around Tampa Bay and the beautiful beaches of Madeira Beach, Treasure Island, St. Pete Beach, Shell Key, Fort De Soto, and Egmont Key, the wildlife activity and overall experience on the water remain outstanding. From dolphin watching nature cruises and eco tours to island ferry trips, shelling adventures, pirate ship cruises, and sunset cruises with free beer and wine, there is a lot happening across our local waters.Â
One of the most exciting seasonal changes we are watching right now is taking place at one of our local osprey nests. The chicks have grown rapidly over the past several weeks and are now reaching the stage where they are nearly ready to leave the nest and begin life on their own. (Read this article about the life of Ospreys) Guests who have been following along on our dolphin tours, shelling trips, and pirate ship cruises have had the unique opportunity to watch this progression from early nesting to near independence. It is always a special moment when these young birds take that next step.Â
Dolphin activity continues to be a major highlight. We are seeing a strong presence of dolphins throughout the area, and there has been a noticeable increase in newborn calves traveling alongside their mothers. These young dolphins are being spotted regularly during our dolphin watching cruises, island trips, and pirate ship adventures. Watching them learn how to swim, surface, and interact within their pods provides an incredible look into their early development and social behavior.Â
Out on the water, our pirate ship adventures remain a favorite for families. These trips offer a fun and interactive experience while still providing great opportunities to spot local wildlife. Whether it is dolphins cruising through the bay, seabirds diving for bait, or even the occasional manatee sighting, you never know what you might encounter while enjoying time aboard the pirate ship.Â
Cruise News: Island Ferries
Our Egmont Key ferry trips have been especially productive for wildlife sightings. Guests have been enjoying frequent encounters with dolphins, along with consistent sightings of sea turtles and manatees while traveling to and from the island. Once on Egmont Key, visitors are finding great shelling opportunities and enjoying time exploring one of the most unique barrier islands along Florida’s Gulf Coast.Â
Shell Key continues to be another standout destination. Our Shell Key ferry trips and three hour shelling adventures have been producing excellent results, particularly for those searching for sand dollars and other beautiful shells along the shoreline. The island’s natural beauty and relatively untouched beaches make it a favorite for guests looking to explore and relax.Â
Between the active dolphin population, emerging wildlife moments like the osprey chicks preparing to leave the nest, productive shelling at Shell Key and Egmont Key, and consistent sightings of sea turtles and manatees, this is a fantastic time to be out on the water. Add in relaxing sunset cruises and family friendly adventures, and there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.Â
We look forward to welcoming you aboard soon and sharing another unforgettable week exploring the waters and wildlife of Florida’s Gulf Coast.Â
