Discover the incredible ecosystem of Florida's 10,000 Islands on a thrilling 2.5-hour CraigCat boat tour. Perfect for wildlife lovers and adventure enthusiasts, this private experience offers a unique perspective of the Gulf Coast's waters.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be comfortable sitting and standing during the tour
Wildlife
History
The 10,000 Islands region has a rich history of native Seminole fishing camps and early European explorers who navigated these waters.
Conservation
Backwater Adventure emphasizes eco-friendly tours, supporting local marine conservation efforts and minimal environmental impact.
Backwater Adventure - Marco Island
Discover the incredible ecosystem of Florida's 10,000 Islands on a thrilling 2.5-hour CraigCat boat tour. Perfect for wildlife lovers and adventure enthusiasts, this private experience offers a unique perspective of the Gulf Coast's waters.
Backwater Adventure - Marco Island operates from Goodland, Florida, and offers self-drive Craig‑Cat boat tours through Marco Island and the 10,000 Islands. The company provides a NEW 1.5-hour Craig Cat Tour of the 10,000 Islands and a most-popular 2.5-hour CraigCat Tour of the 10,000 Islands, both designed for small groups and easy on-water exploration. Guests drive their own Craig‑Cat boats with side-by-side seating that supports conversation and shared viewing. The 1.5-hour route emphasizes a compact, high-energy exploration of backwaters, with opportunities to encounter dolphins, manatees, and local marine life, while the 2.5-hour tour allows more time to navigate channels and shallow estuaries around Marco Island.
Backwater Adventure - Marco Island focuses on hands-on boating experiences using Craig‑Cat boats. Tours depart from Goodland, Florida, providing direct access to the waterways of the Ten Thousand Islands and nearby coastal habitats. The experience emphasizes direct contact with the marine environment and flexible exploration at captain-driven or guest-driven pace on Craig‑Cat vessels with side-by-side seating. Information provided to guests includes boat operation basics and route guidance suited to each trip length.
Backwater Adventure - Marco Island serves visitors looking for a compact, self-driven boating option in the Marco Island area. The business highlights the unique opportunity to pilot a Craig‑Cat through scenic backwaters while observing local wildlife and island landscapes. Trips emphasize comfortable rides with side-by-side seating, making conversation and shared viewing easy while exploring estuaries, islands, and shoreline habitats throughout the Ten Thousand Islands from launch points near Goodland and Marco Island.
Location
Goodland, FL
Launch point for Marco Island waters
Boat Type
Craig‑Cat
Self‑drive Craig‑Cat boats used
Tour Lengths
1.5 & 2.5 hr
Compact and extended options available
Tours Offered
2 Tours
Named 1.5‑hr and 2.5‑hr Craig‑Cat trips
Reserve a 1.5‑hour or most‑popular 2.5‑hour CraigCat tour to explore Marco Island’s backwaters and watch for dolphins and manatees.
Wear Sunscreen and Sun Protection
Ensure you apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing to stay comfortable in the Florida sun.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
Capture the scenic views and wildlife with a waterproof camera or phone case.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Arrive at least 15 minutes early to complete check-in and get settled before departure.
Stay Hydrated
Bring bottled water to stay hydrated during the tour, especially on hot days.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from the strong Florida sun during the boat tour.
summer
Wide-brim Hat
Shade your face from direct sunlight while on the water.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduce glare for clearer views and protect your eyes during the ride.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Light Layers or Jacket
Stay comfortable if temperatures are cooler during winter tours.
winter