See birds return to Rookery Bay’s rookery at sunset on a guided cruise with a biologist captain
2 hours
Up to 6 people
Boat cruise, Biologist guide
Cruise the Rookery Bay Reserve as the sun sets and watch hundreds of birds return to their island roosts. Learn about the estuary and its wildlife from a biologist captain aboard a comfortable vessel.
Suitable for ages 3+. Closed May through October. Arrive 15 minutes early; tours depart promptly and only a port-o-let is available at the launch.
Full refund or free reschedule up to 48 hours before start. Within 48 hours, rescheduling may incur a fee up to 50%. Changes are not permitted within 24 hours and a refund should not be expected. No-shows are charged in full. Tours depart promptly; late arrivals will not be refunded.
10 Shell Island Rd, Naples, FL 34113
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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