Immerse in an ECO-Tour and Experience Southwest Florida Islands by Boat

“Captain Brian Holaway is well versed in the intricacies of our unmatched locale. He can guide to and through a multitude of out-of-the way tidal creeks, bayous, keys and islands. More important is his passionate interest and respect for the region. With unique insights from his many explorations and his studies, not only does he identify the birds and wildlife that inhabit our semi-tropical watery land, but he explains their interconnectedness to their environment and each other. In addition, he shares the fascinating history of rugged people who came long before us: Florida Native Indians, the Calusa, the Spanish, the Cubans, early homesteaders, and the wisdom evident in the growth of their culture.

You will come away with great enjoyment and a new understanding of this beautiful place and its history.”

Historian, Betty Anholt
Author of Sanibel’s Story

FAQs


Frequently Asked Questions

Where do Capt Brian’s trips depart from? 
All trips depart from McCarthy’s Marina on Captiva.
The address is 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva Island, FL 33924.
Turn right at the stop sign near the Bubble Room.

Is there a cost to park at the marina? 
YES.  $5 per car to be paid to McCarthy’s Marina office.

How many hours does a trip go for? 
Minimum of 4 hours to a maximum of 8 hours. 

Will you do sunrise or sunset trips?  YES.

Is low tide the best time to go shelling? 
Depends.  Shelling conditions are dependent on many variables including winds, tides, storms and the time of the year.  I will do his best to take you to locations where shells may be.

What type of payment do you accept?  Cash or Credit Card.

Do you allow pets on your trips?  No.

Can we decide to stay out longer on a trip if we decide we want more time? 
Typically no, usually another trip is scheduled immediately following and I will not be able to extend your time on the water.  If we are able to extend the trip, the cost is generally $100 for each additional hour.

Is there shade on the boat?  YES. 

Will you partner with two different groups of people to share the costs? 
NO.  I have tried this and it doesn’t work well.  It’s difficult to give a private customized trip to two different groups of people with each having a different goal in mind for the trip.

How many passengers can Capt Brian take on his boat?  
Maximum of 6 passengers.  This is a Coast Guard requirement and there are no exceptions.  If you have more than 6 people in your group, please call me to discuss the possibility of partnering with another Captain to charter an additional boat.

Is there a bathroom on board the boat?  NO.

Can we bring food and drinks?  YES.

Is there a cooler on the boat?  YES.  I will have a large cooler loaded with ice to accommodate your food and drinks.

Are you licensed?  YES.  I have a 100 ton near coastal U.S. Coast Guard Captain's License and spend an average of 200 days on the water each year.  I am a certified Florida Master Naturalist, certified with Dolphin Smart and CPR / First Aid trained.