Capt. Dylan Hubbard here with another exciting wildlife update from the beautiful waters surrounding John’s Pass, Madeira Beach, Treasure Island, Boca Ciega Bay, Shell Key, Fort De Soto, and Egmont Key. Summer is in full swing along Florida’s Gulf Coast, and every day on the water continues to remind us just how incredible our local ecosystem truly is. Whether you’re joining us aboard our Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise and Eco Tour, Shell Key Ferry, Egmont Key Ferry, 3 Hour Shell Key Shelling Trip, family fun pirate ship adventure, or one of our relaxing sunset cruises with complimentary beer and wine, there is always something amazing waiting just around the next bend.
One of the most memorable moments this past week came right here at Hubbard’s Marina inside John’s Pass. Our crew spotted a large osprey struggling in the water, dangerously entangled in fishing line with an injured wing. The exhausted bird was fighting to stay afloat and was quickly becoming too weak to survive. Thankfully, our team was able to carefully corral the osprey, safely net it, and bring it aboard before contacting our friends at the local Seaside Seabird Sanctuary. They quickly arrived to transport the bird to their rehabilitation facility, giving it the best possible chance at recovery. These types of rescues are never planned, but they are a reminder of how important it is for all of us to properly dispose of fishing line and marine debris to help protect the incredible wildlife that calls our waters home.
The dolphin activity has remained outstanding throughout the area. Guests aboard our Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise and Eco Tour have enjoyed numerous encounters with playful bottlenose dolphins throughout Boca Ciega Bay and around John’s Pass. Many of the local family pods continue to spend their mornings and evenings actively feeding while the younger dolphins practice hunting techniques alongside their mothers and other members of the pod. Watching these young dolphins develop is one of the most rewarding parts of this time of year, and nearly every trip has been producing excellent dolphin sightings.
Our Shell Key adventures have been especially productive lately, with dolphins regularly escorting our boats as we travel to and from the island. Guests aboard the 3 Hour Shell Key Shelling Trip have enjoyed watching dolphins surface alongside the boat before spending time exploring one of Florida’s most beautiful undeveloped barrier islands. Over at Egmont Key, our ferry guests have also been treated to frequent dolphin encounters during the crossing between Fort De Soto and the island. Every trip seems to offer another opportunity to watch these incredible marine mammals in their natural habitat.
Manatee sightings continue to become more common as water temperatures remain warm throughout the region. We have been spotting these gentle giants throughout Boca Ciega Bay, along the beaches near Madeira Beach and Treasure Island, around John’s Pass, and while cruising aboard our dolphin tours and island ferry boats. Some encounters last only a few moments as a manatee quietly surfaces for a breath, while others provide guests with several minutes to observe these peaceful animals as they slowly cruise through the shallow grass flats.
Our Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise and Eco Tour continues to be one of the best ways to experience the incredible diversity of wildlife found throughout Tampa Bay and Florida’s Gulf Coast. Along with dolphins and manatees, guests have been enjoying excellent views of pelicans, herons, egrets, cormorants, osprey, terns, and many other coastal bird species that are busy feeding, nesting, and raising young throughout the summer months. Every cruise offers a different experience, making each trip unique and memorable.
The sunset cruises have also been absolutely spectacular lately. Calm evening conditions have created gorgeous reflections across the water while colorful skies have painted the horizon each evening. It has not been uncommon for dolphins to make appearances during sunset, creating unforgettable moments as they surface against the backdrop of another beautiful Gulf Coast sunset. Combined with complimentary beer and wine, comfortable cruising, and breathtaking scenery, these evening cruises continue to be one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy the waters around John’s Pass.
Whether you’re looking to watch wild dolphins, spot manatees, explore Shell Key, discover Egmont Key, enjoy a family pirate adventure, or simply relax on a sunset cruise, there has never been a better time to get out on the water with us at Hubbard’s Marina. Every day brings new wildlife encounters, beautiful scenery, and lasting memories that remind us why Florida’s Gulf Coast is such a special place to explore.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard soon for your next adventure on the waters of Madeira Beach, Treasure Island, St. Pete Beach, Shell Key, Egmont Key, and Tampa Bay.
Royal Conquest Pirate SHip
Our Family Fun Pirate Ship Adventure continues to create unforgettable memories for families visiting John’s Pass. Every voyage is packed with excitement as our pirate crew leads guests through treasure hunts, pirate stories, sword fights, dancing, and thrilling water cannon battles.
Beyond the pirate fun, guests often enjoy unexpected wildlife encounters while cruising the protected waters around Madeira Beach and Treasure Island. Dolphins, seabirds, and even manatees regularly make appearances, making every pirate adventure a unique experience where you never know what surprises await around the next bend.
