Florida's Gulf Islands Visitors Guide® 2009 - (Page 22) ECOLOGICAL TRAVEL The waters surrounding Florida’s Gulf Islands are home to a serene environment of marine and bird habitats. Delight in seeing each unique animal up-close, but as the locals will advise, make sure you only leave behind footprints! Jump in a kayak and paddle in search of the lovable East Indian manatee. These shy mammals can be seen along the beach, but are most commonly found making their way along intracoastal waterways in search of sea vegetation. Sightseeing charters offer an easy way to become acquainted with scenic mangrove islands and coastal waterways. Bay and in-land water cruises allow visitors to bird watch and get a hands-on experience with starfish, crabs and rays. Photo by Bill Foxworthy Sightseeing Charters Canoeing & Kayaking ALMOST HEAVEN KAYAK ADVENTURES Anna Maria Island 941-504-6296, www.kayakfl.com Guided kayak eco-tours of many diverse Florida natural habitats and ecosystems. Daily/weekly rentals with free delivery. Sales and instruction. Tour availability is based upon customer interest/demand. Map grid D-3. CANOE OUTPOST – LITTLE MANATEE RIVER 18001 US Hwy 301 S., Wimauma 813-634-2228, www.canoeoutpost.com Relax and enjoy the “real Florida” as you canoe, kayak or tube on the scenic Little Manatee River. Designated a Florida State Canoe Trail and “outstanding Florida water.” Various trips available. Allow from 1 to 5 hours. Camping and cabin rentals available. Map grid H-2. $$$ ISLAND KAYAK TOURS Holmes Beach, 941-592-8869 Kayak the waters – discover the island. Guided kayak eco-tours in the waters surrounding Anna Maria Island. Opportunities abound for sightings of dolphin, manatees, and other exotic wildlife. Great fun for all ages. Map grid B-4. KAYAK TOURS / NATIVE RENTALS 5416 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach 941-778-7757, www.mysitontopkayak.com Offering self-guided eco-tours using state-of-the-art sit-on-top kayaks. Daily and weekly rentals with free delivery included. Bike rentals available for $5 a day. Open 7 days per week. Also offering glass-bottom boat tours and kayak fishing. Map grid B-4. $-$$ LAKE MANATEE FISH CAMP 23745 CR 675, Myakka City 941-322-8500 Canoe and kayak rentals available. Map grid I-5. RAY’S CANOE HIDEAWAY 1289 Hagle Park Road, Bradenton 941-747-3909, www.rayscanoehideaway.com Paddle the “Singing River” by canoe or kayak. Half-day, full-day, overnight or weekly canoe and kayak rentals. Boat launch, equipment rental, ice, live bait, sodas and snacks. Allow at least 3 hours. Map grid H-4. $$$$ WALK ON THE WILD SIDE 941-351-6500, www.walkwild.com Nature/eco-tours, kayaking, canoeing, day hiking, wildlife viewing, camping, auto tours, half day tours and sunset tours. Map grid E-7. $$$$ AQUARIAN QUEST 941-809-7700, www.aquarianquest.org Schoolship sailing adventures aboard “Sea Dragon”, a catamaran. Take a 2 or 3 hour cruise with our onboard educator delighting you with sailing, song, and a wealth of valuable knowledge about our gulf, bays, estuaries and wetlands. We make it fun while you enjoy an unforgettable adventure with experiences and learning that will help our planet! CAPTAIN KIM’S CHARTERS 200 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach 941-901-3307, www.kimscharters.com Hands-on eco-tours with seahorses and starfish, green shrimp, etc. Bay and back water fishing, sand-bar hopping, bird watching, snorkeling or relaxing boat rides along the bay. Map grid B-5. LIL’ TOOT CRUISES 4110 – 127th St. W., Cortez 866-545-8668, www.liltootcharters.com Ride aboard the 28’ sightseeing boat. Enjoy scenic bay and island tours through the Intracoastal Waterway of West Florida. Private charters available, also family fun fishing trips, by reservation. Map grid B-5. MANATEE RIVER BOAT TOURS 4715 7th St. Ct. E., Ellenton 941-721-4230, www.manateeriverboattours.com An intimate way to experience the interesting sights, sounds and beauty of the Manatee River aboard a 20’ pontoon boat. While on the tour, guests may encounter a variety of birds or even spot dolphins. Basic tours last about one hour and are limited to 6 passengers. Reservations are required. Map grid E-3. 22 www.FloridasGulfIslands.com http://www.kayakfl.com http://www.canoeoutpost.com http://www.aquarianquest.org http://www.kimscharters.com http://www.mysitontopkayak.com http://www.liltootcharters.com http://www.rayscanoehideaway.com http://www.manateeriverboattours.com http://www.walkwild.com http://www.FloridasGulfIslands.com
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