Capt. Dylan Hubbard here with your weekly update from the waters of central west Florida, where every day brings new adventures along the beautiful beaches and islands of Tampa Bay, including Madeira Beach, Treasure Island, St. Pete Beach, Shell Key, Fort De Soto, and Egmont Key. Whether you’re joining us for a dolphin watching nature cruise, eco tour, sunset cruise with free beer and wine, or a shelling adventure, there’s always something incredible to see on the water.
Dolphins, Manatees, and Rays
The dolphin action this past week has been remarkable, with several groups swimming right alongside our boats. Guests were treated to dolphins jumping completely out of the water multiple times, a rare and exhilarating sight for anyone lucky enough to be on board.
Manatees have been equally active, visiting our boats during Egmont Key and Shell Key trips and even at the Fort De Soto boat ramp while waiting for guests. Their curious and gentle presence is always a highlight of our tours. In addition, we spotted multiple groups of rays gliding gracefully through the shallow coastal waters, offering perfect photo opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.
Sunset Cruises
Evenings on the water have been breathtaking this week. Overcast skies combined with the Gulf’s natural light created some of the most vibrant sunset views we’ve seen recently. Guests enjoying our sunset cruises with complimentary beer and wine were treated to a front-row seat as the sun dipped below the horizon, often accompanied by playful dolphins or manatees drifting nearby
Cruise News: Island Ferries
Wildlife Rescues
This week our team was able to rescue three pelicans and a snowy egret, ensuring they received proper care from local wildlife rehabilitators. These rescues are a vital part of our commitment to preserving the marine ecosystem along Pinellas County’s coastline, and our crews remain vigilant for any wildlife in need.
Island Adventures and Shelling
Our Shell Key trips continue to deliver fantastic opportunities for guests to explore and discover. Snorkeling along the coastline, some of our shelling guests found a massive conch shell while searching for sand dollars—a rare and exciting find. Sea turtle nests continue to emerge across Shell Key and Egmont Key, and we work closely with conservation groups to protect these vital nesting sites.
Over at Egmont Key, gopher tortoises have become more visible and active as the temperatures cool down. Guests often spot these unique reptiles moving about in the morning hours, adding another layer to the rich wildlife experiences on our tours.
Plan Your Visit
Every trip with Hubbard’s Marina is more than just a cruise—it’s an immersive wildlife and nature experience. From dolphin watching and eco tours to shelling, snorkeling, and island exploration, our family-owned marina offers unforgettable adventures for all ages. Join us to experience the wildlife, clear waters, and scenic beauty that make the beaches and islands of Pinellas County some of Florida’s most treasured coastal destinations.
