Capt. Brian's Observations On The Water

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

Friday, March 15, 2013

Melissa and Annie on Spring Break

This week I had the pleasure of taking Melissa from Minnesota out for the day with her friend Annie. Even though the day was a little on the chilly side by Florida standards, Melissa and Annie made the most of the day by taking lots of pictures in the overcast light. Melissa is a great photographer. I took Melissa and Annie to lunch at the Tarpon Lodge and then after lunch we travelled over to one of Melissa's favorite islands for some photography. We took advantage of this light rainy day which prompted the resurrection ferns to open up and allowing for excellent photo opportunities. Annie enjoyed learning names of the plants on our walk around the island. Notice the red coral bean in flower, this is the most coral bean I have seen in flower in one area in 20 years. It was an amazing day for taking photographs and a nature walk in the woods. Sun or rain there is always beauty in a day on the water.

Melissa see you in August and safe travels to Africa this summer.

Captain Brian

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Sky

The clouds and colors tonight at sunset were spectacular. I took over 150 shots as the clouds painted many pictures.

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Sanibel Shell Fair 2013

Captain Brian and Rachel with her ribbon winner sailor valentine.

Rachel's Sailor Valentine

Sea Urchin Spines

Pocket Watch

Sailor valentine by Sandy Moran.

A sample of Sandy Moran's beautiful sailor valentines.

More Artistic Shell Crafting by various talented artists.

The Scientific Division amazes me every year.

Can you believe the size of this tulip?

The lovely and talented Karen Robertson

Here are a few photos from the Sanibel Shell Fair this year. It was great seeing old friends and meeting new friends. Rachel, in the first photo, had been on a trip with me over eight years ago. She recently took a class on making sailor valentines with the talented Sandy Moran. This year she entered a beautiful piece of work as you can see. Great job Rachel and congrats on a ribbon!

I enjoyed meeting the lovely Karen Robertson. Her work is amazing. I look forward to talking with her again and seeing more of her beautiful creations.

I always find it rewarding to mingle with fellow shellers and artistic creators of the sea

at the Sanibel Shell Fair.

Thursday, March 7, 2013

Mindy and Erica

What a fun time with Mindy and Erica. Mindy was been collecting seashells on Sanibel since the mid 1970s. The trip started by seeing many dolphin on the way to the out islands. Erica was the mammal whisperer. She spotted the dolphin and also wanted to see a manatee. Sure enough later in the trip a manatee appeared as I was pulling the anchor. Mindy is an excellent photographer. It was a pleasure positioning the boat for her to get great shots of the birds. I enjoyed the conversations as we walked and shelled. Thank you ladies for a fun day on the water. Keep on shelling! Capt Brian

Pages