easy
2–3 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels as the boat cruise requires minimal physical exertion.
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.
Starting at $99 per person | 2 Hours | Ages 3+ | Closed for summer (May through October)
$99/Passenger (Ages 3+)
$525/Private Tour (up to 6 passengers)
2 hours
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!
Reservations fill quickly during sunset hours, so book in advance to secure your spot and enjoy the best light.
Enhance your wildlife viewing with binoculars to spot distant birds and marine life in detail.
Evenings on the water can get cool; layers help you stay comfortable as temperatures drop after sunset.
Protect yourself and the local marine environment by using environmentally friendly sunscreen.
Naples became an important fishing and trading hub in Southwest Florida, with conservation efforts growing significantly since the 20th century.
The boat operators adhere to sustainable wildlife viewing practices, minimizing disturbance to nesting birds and marine habitats to protect the rookery’s delicate ecosystem.
Ideal for closely observing birds and wildlife from the water.
Capture stunning sunset and wildlife shots from the boat.
Keeps you warm during cooler evening breezes.
fall specific
Stay hydrated throughout the cruise.