Rising Tide

    Rising Tide

    5.0 634 reviews

    Rising Tide Explorers invites you to slip into Southwest Florida’s mangrove mazes and shimmering estuaries with the people who know them best—working biologists. Every kayak or boat tour is led by an active scientist eager to shar...

    Review summary

    5.0
    Excellent
    634 reviewsGoogle Maps

    The guides here are consistently the standout feature, with names like Evan, Eben, Winston, Gerald, and Derek earning individual praise for their genuine expertise and personable approach. Many are biologists or have advanced degrees in marine science, and it shows in how they bring the ecosystem to life. They dive down to retrieve sea creatures for closer looks, share fascinating details about mangrove propagation, and maintain an engaging commentary throughout the 2.5 to 3-hour tours. Families appreciate how patient and accommodating the guides are with nervous kayakers and children. The tours explore Rookery Bay's mangrove tunnels and mudflats, offering sightings of dolphins, frigate birds, ospreys, sea stars, and various marine life. Reviewers love the conservation mission behind the operation, knowing their fees support environmental work in the area. Multiple visitors warn about serious sun exposure since your legs remain uncovered in the kayaks, so come prepared with sun-protective clothing, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen. The physical effort is moderate but sustained, so it's best suited for those without significant mobility limitations. Repeat customers speak volumes about the quality of the experience.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5

    We booked a 9am-12p mangrove kayak tour in Rookery Bay estuary, with 3 adults and 2 children (8yo/9yo). Our guide was Eben, a biologist who studied estuaries at the U, who did a terrific job and shared a ton of valuable information about Rookery Bay and estuaries in general. We covered about 3 miles of Rookery Bay, including numerous mangrove tunnels. We saw an abundance of wildlife both in and out of the water. If you’re looking for a guided/educational kayak tour in southwest Florida, this is it. 10/10. Highly recommend.

    Photo of Caleb McDaniel

    Caleb McDaniel

    October 8, 2025

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