Greetings from Hubbard’s Marina! Capt. Dylan Hubbard here, bringing you the latest from our exciting adventures on the waters of Central West Florida. As always, there’s a lot to see and do, and we are thrilled to share the wildlife sightings and memorable experiences we’ve had this past week. From dolphin watching nature cruises to sunset cruises with free beer and wine, and our trips to Shell Key and Egmont Key, there’s something for everyone at Hubbard’s Marina. Let’s take a closer look at what we’ve encountered on the water and what you can expect when you join us for an adventure!
Local Active Dolphins and Playful Encounters
The bottlenose dolphins in the area have been especially active and playful this past week. We’ve been seeing large groups, playful pairs, and even some juvenile dolphins swimming and leaping around Boca Ceiga Bay. On our dolphin watching nature cruises and eco tours, it’s been common to witness these dolphins showing off their acrobatic skills. Watching these intelligent creatures interact with one another and their environment is always an unforgettable experience, and our guests have been thrilled with the chance to see them up close.
Manatee Sightings
While we haven’t seen large groups of manatees, we’ve still had plenty of sightings, with singles or pairs cruising along the shores. These gentle giants have been spotted during our dolphin cruises and shelling trips, often moving slowly through the shallow waters as they graze on seagrass. Manatees are always a crowd favorite, and it’s always a special treat for our guests when they get to see these peaceful creatures up close, whether they’re spotted while cruising the waters or while relaxing on the beach at Egmont Key or Shell Key.
Wildlife Rescues
At Hubbard’s Marina, we always do our best to help local wildlife in need. This past week, we were able to rescue a snowy egret that had become entangled in fishing line. We were able to safely capture the bird, untangle the line, and release it back into the wild. In another instance, we worked with local wildlife experts to capture a white egret with a damaged wing. We got the bird safely transported to the local wildlife hospital, where it will receive the care it needs to recover. These rescue efforts remind us of the importance of keeping our waters clean and protecting the wildlife that calls this area home.
Sunset Cruises with Free Beer and Wine
Our sunset cruises continue to be a favorite of our guests, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico as the sun sets over the horizon. The views this past week have been absolutely stunning, with vibrant colors filling the sky as we cruise along the coast. Guests enjoy free beer and wine as they relax and take in the beauty of the sunset. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring and adventure, and many of our guests have shared that it was the highlight of their trip.
What’s Coming Up at Hubbard’s Marina
With so much happening this week, there’s no better time to plan your next adventure with Hubbard’s Marina. Whether you’re interested in dolphin watching, shelling, sunset cruises, or eco tours, we’ve got something for everyone. Join us for an unforgettable experience on the water and discover the beauty of Madeira Beach, Treasure Island, St. Pete Beach, and the islands of Shell Key and Egmont Key. Our knowledgeable crew is ready to take you on a memorable journey, ensuring you have the best time possible.
Cruise News: Island Ferries
Rays and Other Marine Life
Our guests have been fortunate enough to spot some incredible wildlife this week, including several schools of cow-nosed rays, also known as a ‘fever’ of rays. These large groups have been frequenting the waters as we cruise to Shell Key and Egmont Key, with some beautiful sightings while heading out to the Egmont Key snorkeling area. These rays are a spectacular sight to behold as they glide effortlessly through the water, and they’ve been a highlight for many of our guests.
Shelling at Shell Key and Egmont Key
This week has been a great time for shelling, with many guests finding incredible shells during their trips to Shell Key and Egmont Key. We’ve had several guests discover conch shells and sand dollars, and the best finds have been coming from guests getting into waist-deep to chest-deep waters along the shorelines. Whether you’re snorkeling or just beachcombing, Shell Key and Egmont Key offer some of the best shelling opportunities on the Gulf Coast. If you’re looking to take home a beautiful souvenir, these trips are a must!
