Join Gilligan's Tiki Tours for a private three-hour cruise to Sarasota's stunning Big Pass Sandbar. Perfect for relaxing, swimming, and sipping cocktails in a scenic setting, this experience is a highlight of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Discover why this intimate boat trip offers one of the most laid-back ways to enjoy Sarasota’s waters—and create unforgettable memories with friends or family in a truly scenic locale.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for most ages and mobility levels.
Wildlife
History
The Big Pass Sandbar has been a popular local spot for decades, with its shifting sands shaping the local boating culture.
Conservation
Gilligan's Tiki Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices, helping preserve Sarasota Bay’s vibrant ecosystems for future visitors.
Gilligan's Tiki Tours
Join Gilligan's Tiki Tours for a private three-hour cruise to Sarasota's stunning Big Pass Sandbar. Perfect for relaxing, swimming, and sipping cocktails in a scenic setting, this experience is a highlight of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Discover why this intimate boat trip offers one of the most laid-back ways to enjoy Sarasota’s waters—and create unforgettable memories with friends or family in a truly scenic locale.
Gilligan's Tiki Tours is a Bradenton, Florida–based boat tour operator offering private, small-group tiki boat experiences and related water outings.
The company specializes in curated private cruises on Sarasota Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Manatee River, with options that include island sandbar visits, sunset cruises, day tours, and self-pilot rentals. Tours accommodate intimate groups—most private cruises support up to six guests while the self-pilot rental seats up to eight—making the experiences suitable for couples, families, and small friend groups.
Trips feature scenic cruising, wildlife viewing, and relaxed time at local sandbars such as Big Pass, with opportunities to swim, sip beverages, and enjoy coastal sunsets. The Private 3 Hour Island Sandbar Tiki Cruise focuses on Big Pass Sandbar access; Private Sunset Tiki Tours present champagne or wine with light snacks during 1.5-hour evening cruises; Private Day Tiki Tours run about two hours on the Manatee River with wildlife spotting; Rent & Self-Pilot Tiki Cruise provides a six-hour rental for guests to pilot their own tiki boat. The business also lists Float Trips, including a multi-hour Gila float option.
Gilligan's Tiki Tours maintains local licensing and operates commercially in the Bradenton and Sarasota coastal area. Reservations, group size limits, and trip durations are stated per excursion to support safety and planning. The operator emphasizes private bookings, short-group formats, and hands-on rental choices for visitors seeking a relaxed, customizable boating experience. Local captains provide navigational knowledge, safety briefings, clear pre-trip instructions to ensure comfortable, well-prepared outings and timely customer support.
Base Location
Bradenton, FL
Operates from the Bradenton/Sarasota coast
Max Guests
Up to 8
Most private cruises seat six
Trip Length
1.5–6 hrs
Sunset to full-day rental options
Tours Offered
5
Sandbar, sunset, day, rental, float
Check availability for sandbar trips, sunset cruises, day tours, and self-pilot rentals — easy online booking for private groups.
Wear Sun Protection
Apply waterproof sunscreen and bring hats or UV-protective clothing to stay safe during extended sun exposure.
Bring Snorkeling Gear
Light snorkeling equipment allows you to explore underwater life around the sandbar and make the most of your dip time.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water to stay refreshed while relaxing under the sun during your cruise.
Respect Marine Life
Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing the natural habitat to help protect the environment.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from the strong sun while enjoying time on the water and the sandbar.
summer
Swimsuit & Towel
Bring a swimsuit and towel for swimming or lounging in the water.
summer
Hat & Sunglasses
Keep your face and eyes protected from the sun during your cruise.
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Light Snacks & Drinks
Although the boat provides beverages, bringing your own snacks ensures you stay energized.
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