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Experience the Magic of Naples’ Sunset Bird Rookery Boat Cruise - Naples

Experience the Magic of Naples’ Sunset Bird Rookery Boat Cruise

Napleseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels as the boat cruise requires minimal physical exertion.

Overview

Discover a captivating way to experience Naples, Florida’s coastal wildlife as you glide past mangrove-lined waterways during the vibrant sunset hours. This boat cruise reveals the bustling bird rookery in spectacular light—perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Naples, Florida

Sunset Bird Rookery Boat Cruise

Starting at $99 per person | 2 Hours | Ages 3+ | Closed for summer (May through October)

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Adventure Photos

Sunset Bird Rookery Boat Cruise photo 1

About This Adventure

Head out of Shell Island Road and experience evening in the estuary with on of our biologist guides! Watch upwards of 1,500 birds return to rest for the night on Rookery Bay's famous bird rookery island!


Rates

$99/Passenger (Ages 3+)

$525/Private Tour (up to 6 passengers)

Duration

2 hours

About

Your journey begins with a beautiful cruise through the Rookery Bay Reserve as the sun sits low in the sky on-board Tringa, the area's most comfortable tour vessel. Your guide will teach you about the wonders of the estuary as the birds come to life! You’ll visit the Rookery Bay's famous Bird Rookery Islands that are home to hundreds of nesting herons, egrets, pelican, cormorant, and anhinga and many more or our areas avian inhabitants. Watch upwards of 1,500 birds return to the island to rest for the night during the beautiful Southwest Florida sunset. Keep your eyes out for dolphin, manatee (summer months), and other interesting wildlife looking to get a meal in before resting for the night.

This 2-hour nature cruise captained by the areas only active local biologist captains that will allow you to surround yourself with some of the most beautiful wildlife Southwest Florida has to offer! Learn about the nesting habits and migrations of our local bird species before riding back in the twilight! Tours launch Wednesday - Monday from Shell Island Road located about 2 miles South of US-41 on Collier Blvd. The launch site is just South of the Rookery Bay Reserve Environmental Learning Center, 30 minutes or less from anywhere in Naples, and just 5 minutes from Marco Island!

Adventure Tips

Book Ahead for Sunset Times

Reservations fill quickly during sunset hours, so book in advance to secure your spot and enjoy the best light.

Bring Binoculars

Enhance your wildlife viewing with binoculars to spot distant birds and marine life in detail.

Dress in Layers

Evenings on the water can get cool; layers help you stay comfortable as temperatures drop after sunset.

Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect yourself and the local marine environment by using environmentally friendly sunscreen.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Great egrets
  • Bottlenose dolphins

History

Naples became an important fishing and trading hub in Southwest Florida, with conservation efforts growing significantly since the 20th century.

Conservation

The boat operators adhere to sustainable wildlife viewing practices, minimizing disturbance to nesting birds and marine habitats to protect the rookery’s delicate ecosystem.

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Adventure Hotspots in Naples

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Binoculars

Essential

Ideal for closely observing birds and wildlife from the water.

Camera with Zoom Lens

Essential

Capture stunning sunset and wildlife shots from the boat.

Light Jacket or Windbreaker

Essential

Keeps you warm during cooler evening breezes.

fall specific

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated throughout the cruise.