Explore Rookery Bay's wildlife-rich waterways with a biologist guide on a small-group 3-hour cruise
3 hrs
up to 6 people
Guided boat cruise,Biologist guide
Glide through the backwaters of Rookery Bay Reserve on a 3-hour nature cruise led by a local biologist. Learn how mangrove islands and estuary wildlife intertwine as you watch for dolphins, manatees, and vibrant birdlife.
Participants must be at least 3 years old.
Full refund or free reschedule with 48 hours notice. Within 48 hours, rescheduling may incur up to a 50% fee. Changes are not allowed within 24 hours of launch. No-shows and late arrivals are charged in full. Tours depart promptly; arrive at least 15 minutes early for boat tours.
300 Tower Rd, Naples, FL 34113
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.
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.
Caleb McDaniel
October 8, 2025
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.
Caleb McDaniel
October 8, 2025