Dolphin Diaries
Greetings from the beautiful shores of Pinellas County! Capt. Dylan Hubbard here, bringing you all the latest updates and exciting sightings from Hubbard’s Marina. Whether you’re joining us for a dolphin watching cruise, a relaxing sunset tour, or a fun-filled shelling trip, we’ve been having a fantastic time with plenty of wildlife encounters and stunning views. Here’s a look at what’s been happening this week at Hubbard’s Marina.
Playful Dolphins and Baby Dolphins
This week, we’ve been treated to some amazing dolphin sightings. We’ve seen many family groups of dolphins actively feeding and playing in the waters. It’s always a joy to witness these intelligent creatures interacting with each other and their environment. Adding to the excitement, two brand new baby dolphins were born this past week. These adorable little ones have already begun swimming alongside their mothers, showing off their playful antics. Whether you’re on our Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise or just out on the water, there’s a great chance you’ll spot these beautiful creatures.
Osprey Sightings and Rescue
The skies around Hubbard’s Marina have been filled with action lately. Baby osprey are leaving their nests, and we’ve had several opportunities to spot the juveniles flying around. These young birds are learning to navigate the skies, and it’s always a treat to watch their first flights. We also had the chance to rescue a baby osprey that had fallen into the water during one of our dolphin watching cruises. We safely brought the bird aboard and worked with local wildlife rescue to ensure it received the care it needed.
Sea Turtle Sightings and Rescue
In addition to the dolphins and osprey, we’ve had several sea turtle sightings recently. One of the most memorable moments came when we found a sea turtle struggling to swim during a cruise. We were able to assist the turtle and bring it back to the dock, where it was transferred to the Clearwater Aquarium for rehabilitation. It’s always a privilege to help protect these incredible creatures and ensure they have the best chance for survival.
Manatees Along the Beaches
We’ve had an influx of manatee sightings this week, with several of these gentle giants spotted along the beaches. Guests have had the rare opportunity to see them up close during our eco tours and cruises. One of the highlights was when a manatee joined our snorkelers at Egmont Key during one of our snorkeling trips. These peaceful creatures are a joy to encounter, and we’re lucky to have them in our waters.
Cruise News: Island Ferries
With the crystal-clear waters we’ve been enjoying, our Shell Key Shelling Trips and Egmont Key Ferry trips have been especially exciting. Guests have been finding beautiful seashells along the shores of Shell Key, and snorkeling at Egmont Key has been fantastic, with vibrant underwater life and, of course, the occasional manatee. These trips are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Sunset Cruises with Free Beer & Wine
Our sunset cruises have been as spectacular as ever, with stunning views of the Gulf Coast. The sun sets over the water, casting golden hues across the horizon, making it the perfect way to relax after a day of adventure. Guests can enjoy the beauty of the evening while sipping on free beer and wine, making it an ideal outing for friends and family alike.
Looking Ahead: Water Clarity and Weather
As we move into warmer months, we are seeing fantastic water clarity, making it an excellent time to get out on the water. However, with the rising temperatures and the approaching rainy season, we expect the water clarity to decrease in the coming weeks. Now is the perfect time to book your next trip before the rains arrive!
