Sunset Cruise to the 10,000 Islands: Manatee, Dolphin & Everglades Wildlife Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires only the ability to step on/off a low-profile boat and stand or sit for portions of the cruise.
Overview
Watch the sun sink over the Gulf while searching tidal channels and mangrove islets for manatees, dolphins and coastal birds. This intimate, three-hour sunset cruise from Port of the Islands offers close-up wildlife viewing and a hands-on primer in Everglades shore ecology.
Sunset Cruise to the 10,000 Islands: Manatee, Dolphin & Everglades Wildlife Tour
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The boat eases out of Port of the Islands as the sun begins its slow, deliberate slide toward the Gulf. Mangrove thickets frame the channel like living walls, their roots pinning the water into narrow ribbons that the captain threads with practiced ease. Expect to trade the clamor of shore for a quieter rhythm—water slapping the hull, distant bird calls, and the occasional pointed snort of a dolphin racing the wake.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring polarized sunglasses
Polarized lenses cut glare across the flats and improve wildlife spotting in shallow water.
Arrive 10 minutes early
Meet at the picnic tables behind the fire station/ship store and have your ticket ready—tours depart on time.
Dress in layers and bring a light windbreaker
Temperatures fall after sunset and the boat gets breezy; a thin jacket keeps you comfortable without bulk.
Respect wildlife distance
Keep noise low and avoid leaning over the rail; the captain will guide close approaches for safe viewing.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- West Indian manatee
- Bottlenose dolphin
History
The Ten Thousand Islands and nearby coasts were home to the Calusa people, who thrived on shellfish and fish before European contact; modern coastal communities still center on saltwater fishing and small-scale marinas.
Conservation
These islands are ecologically sensitive—stick to marked channels, avoid prop-lashing seagrass, and follow the captain’s guidance to minimize disturbance to wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in Naples, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces surface glare and helps you spot submerged manatees and fish.
Binoculars or zoom lens
Essential for viewing distant birds and dolphin activity without crowding the bow.
Light waterproof jacket
Blocks spray and wind after sunset—useful in cooler months or breezy evenings.
fall specific
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is important in Florida’s heat; refill before boarding.
summer specific