Discover Sarasota’s stunning waterways on a private sightseeing cruise with Island Time Charter. Glide through mangroves, spot dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles, and enjoy an intimate connection with Florida’s marine life—all in a relaxed, friendly setting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
The Sarasota area has a long-standing maritime history, once serving as a hub for fishing and trade, which influences the local wildlife corridors visible today.
Conservation
Island Time Charter emphasizes sustainable tourism, ensuring wildlife habitats are respected and preserved during each trip.
Island Time Charter
Discover Sarasota’s stunning waterways on a private sightseeing cruise with Island Time Charter. Glide through mangroves, spot dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles, and enjoy an intimate connection with Florida’s marine life—all in a relaxed, friendly setting.
Island Time Charter offers private boat charters operating from Sarasota, Florida, specializing in personalized cruises for small groups. The company runs five distinct experiences: Tiki Bar Cruise, Build Your Cruise, Destination Cruise, Sunset Cruise, and Sightseeing Cruise. Each trip focuses on wildlife viewing—dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles—and coastal scenery along Sarasota Bay and nearby islands.
Trips range from tailored short outings to extended outings. The Tiki Bar Cruise includes options for 3 to 5 hours and visits popular waterfront tiki bars while offering opportunities to spot marine life. The Destination Cruise explores outer Sarasota locations such as Egmont Key, Passage Key, Venice Island, Stump Pass, and Boca Grande. Sunset and Sightseeing Cruises emphasize mangroves, beaches, and birdlife, with private charters accommodating up to six guests.
Island Time Charter emphasizes safety, local knowledge, and personalized service. Crews provide navigation, wildlife viewing guidance, and customizable itineraries for celebrations, family outings, reunions, and special occasions. The company markets private charters rather than large tours, making each cruise suitable for groups seeking an intimate, flexible experience. Reservations are arranged per charter and should be confirmed directly with the company. Island Time Charter’s focus on small-group private charters, local waterways, and varied itineraries makes it a reliable option for visitors and residents wanting a customized marine excursion from Sarasota.
Trips often include wildlife sightings of dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles, and routes can include mangroves, beaches, and island shorelines; guests should confirm itinerary details, passenger limits, and duration when booking a charter in Sarasota waters.
Base Location
Sarasota, FL
Local departures along Sarasota Bay
Trip Lengths
Varied
Options include 3–5 hour cruises
Max Group Size
Up to 6
Private charters for small groups
Experiences
5 Cruises
Tiki Bar, Sunset, Sightseeing, Destination, Custom
Reserve a custom Tiki Bar, Sunset, Sightseeing, Destination, or Build Your Cruise for an unforgettable small-group experience.
Bring Sunscreen and Hats
Protect yourself from the Florida sun during your boat trip for a comfortable experience.
Arrive Early
Getting to the dock a little ahead of your scheduled time ensures a smooth start to your adventure.
Dress in Layers
Weather can change quickly on the water—bring light layers to stay comfortable.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing with binoculars to see distant dolphins and birds more clearly.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during long hours under the Florida sun.
summer
Hat
Shield your face from direct sun exposure while on the water.
summer
Binoculars
Aid in viewing distant wildlife along the shoreline and in the water.
Light Jacket
Keep warm in cooler coastal breezes during winter trips.
winter