Step aboard for a private tour of Egmont Key, home to a historic lighthouse and wartime fort ruins. Enjoy three hours of history, wildlife, and stunning island views just off the coast of Holmes Beach.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires light walking on uneven and sandy surfaces.
Wildlife
History
Egmont Key played a critical role during the Spanish–American War with Fort Dade serving as a coastal defense installation.
Conservation
The island is a designated wildlife refuge, emphasizing protection for nesting shorebirds and native marine life.
Crysten's AMI
Step aboard for a private tour of Egmont Key, home to a historic lighthouse and wartime fort ruins. Enjoy three hours of history, wildlife, and stunning island views just off the coast of Holmes Beach.
Crysten's AMI operates private boat charters from Holmes Beach, Florida, offering a range of guided experiences for families, friends, and small groups. The company runs half-day and full-day charters that visit sandbars and nearby islands; half-day charters include snorkeling gear and paddle boards for beachside relaxation, while full-day trips are six-hour adventures with options for snorkeling, paddle boarding, and sandbar floats.
Short sightseeing options include a private two-hour "See Dolphins & More" tour in Anna Maria that highlights dolphins, manatees, and vibrant sea life in their natural habitat. The Snorkel Adventure focuses on underwater exploration, featuring a local wreck, exotic fish, and sightings of baby octopuses and seahorses on family-friendly outings.
For history and island scenery, the Egmont Key Excursion is a three-hour trip to Egmont Key to view the historic 1858 lighthouse and Fort Dade remnants from the Spanish–American War. Evening offerings include a two-hour Sunset Harbor Cruise with an ice cooler and amenities, and a three-hour Pub Crawl Harbor Cruise that visits two to four local bars, supplied with an ice cooler and essential amenities. Seasonal offerings include a three-hour Sunset and Christmas Light Cruise in December departing from Kingfish Boat Ramp, accommodating up to six guests with drinks and the chance to spot dolphins.
All trips are private charters tailored to small groups, emphasizing relaxation, local wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and island exploration, with equipment and amenities provided as described for each trip. Reservations vary by season; bookings are arranged directly through Crysten's AMI for groups.
Location
Holmes Beach, FL
Operates from Anna Maria Island area
Trip Durations
2–6 hours
Options from 2-hour to full-day
Tours Offered
8
Range of private charters and excursions
Private Charters
Yes
Tailored for small groups and families
Book a half-day, full-day, snorkel, wildlife, sunset, or seasonal Christmas Light Cruise with amenities included per trip.
Bring Sun Protection
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from strong Florida sun during the excursion.
Stay Hydrated
Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the three-hour tour.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain and sandy beaches.
Respect Wildlife and Ruins
Do not disturb nesting birds or touch historical structures to help preserve the island's natural and cultural resources.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from UV rays during extended sun exposure.
summer
Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the excursion.
Lightweight Hiking Shoes
Provides comfort and support for walking on sandy and uneven terrain.
Binoculars
Enhances birdwatching and wildlife spotting from a distance.
spring