Discover Sarasota Bay’s stunning waters on a two-hour cruise with LeBarge Tropical Cruises. Watch for dolphins, manatees, and waterfront homes while enjoying captivating stories and refreshing beverages. It’s the perfect way to relax and soak in Florida’s coastal beauty.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with no strenuous activity required
Wildlife
History
Sarasota has a rich maritime history dating back to the Seminole people and early settlers who relied on the bay for fishing and trade.
Conservation
LeBarge Tropical Cruises emphasizes sustainable tourism by respecting wildlife habitats and minimizing environmental impact during their tours.
LeBarge Tropical Cruises
Discover Sarasota Bay’s stunning waters on a two-hour cruise with LeBarge Tropical Cruises. Watch for dolphins, manatees, and waterfront homes while enjoying captivating stories and refreshing beverages. It’s the perfect way to relax and soak in Florida’s coastal beauty.
LeBarge Tropical Cruises operates in Sarasota, Florida, offering distinctive sightseeing and themed cruises aboard a multi-deck vessel known locally as the Floating Tropical Island. The company provides a variety of public excursions and private charters tailored for families, nature lovers, couples, and event planners. Signature public trips include a Dolphin & Manatee Watch Cruise with a trained marine biologist, a Sightseeing & Nature Cruise with narrated local history, a Tropical Sunset Cruise featuring live music and tropical cocktails, seasonal specialty sails such as Halloween and Full Moon Cruises, and customizable Private Charters for celebrations and corporate events.
Each cruise departs from Sarasota and explores Sarasota Bay and nearby Gulf waters, where guests commonly see bottlenose dolphins and seasonal manatees while enjoying waterfront views and sunset scenery. Safety and guest experience are central to LeBarge Tropical Cruises’ operations; the vessel includes spacious indoor and outdoor seating and full bars on both decks to accommodate comfort and refreshment. The company emphasizes knowledgeable narration on nature and local history, often involving marine biologists for wildlife-focused trips. Private charters offer event-friendly amenities, live entertainment options, and flexible layouts for seated or standing receptions. With consistent public schedules, seasonal specialty events, and customizable private options, LeBarge Tropical Cruises serves residents and visitors in Sarasota seeking guided wildlife viewing, scenic sightseeing, sunset entertainment, and maritime celebration experiences.
Bookings are available online and through local ticket outlets, with recommended reservations for popular sunset and specialty cruises to secure preferred seating and ensure availability and smooth boarding experiences.
Location
Sarasota, FL
Departures from Sarasota docks
Tours Offered
6 Trips
Public cruises and private charters
Onboard Bars
Full Bars
Bars on both upper and lower decks
Wildlife Viewing
Dolphins & Manatees
Guided by marine biologists
Secure seats for a dolphin & manatee watch, sunset sail, specialty event, or private charter — popular cruises sell out, book early.
Arrive early for prime seating
Getting to the dock 15 minutes before departure ensures you get the best views and a comfortable spot onboard.
Wear sun protection
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to stay comfortable under the Florida sun during your cruise.
Bring a camera or binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing opportunities with a camera or binoculars for close-up shots of dolphins and seabirds.
Have a beverage in mind
The full bar offers drinks to enjoy during the cruise—consider ordering a favorite cocktail or refreshing mocktail.
Sunscreen
Helps protect your skin during the sunny open-water cruise.
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Hat or Cap
Provides shade and helps keep you cool while on deck.
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Binoculars
Improves wildlife viewing, especially for distant dolphins and seabirds.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the cruise with a convenient, refillable bottle.