Take the helm and pilot your own Tiki Boat for six hours of sun and sea in Bradenton, Florida. Perfect for groups seeking a private and fun water adventure!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness is required for moderate movement aboard and maneuvering the boat, suitable for all ages.
Wildlife
History
Bradenton’s waterways have been used for centuries by indigenous tribes and early settlers for transport and fishing.
Conservation
Gilligan’s Tiki Tours practices eco-friendly boating by maintaining clean engines and educating guests about protecting local marine life.
Gilligan's Tiki Tours
Take the helm and pilot your own Tiki Boat for six hours of sun and sea in Bradenton, Florida. Perfect for groups seeking a private and fun water adventure!
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.
Bring sunscreen and hats
Florida's sun can be intense, so protect yourself with high-SPF sunscreen and a hat.
Check tide and weather conditions
Always review local tide charts and weather forecasts before heading out for safety and smooth sailing.
Pack snacks and beverages
Since this is a self-piloted rental, bring water and refreshments to stay hydrated and energized.
Wear non-slip shoes
Shoes with grip will help with boarding, maneuvering, and safety on deck.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from intense Florida sun during the trip.
summer
Sunglasses
Helps reduce glare off the water, ideal for piloting and comfort.
Lightweight layers
Useful for cooler mornings or evenings on the water.
fall
Waterproof phone case
Keeps electronics safe from splashes and water exposure.