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

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Texas Shellers

The super moon tide was going out fast when we reached my favorite island. Karen, Alaina and Melodie were as excited as I was to start exploring this isolated stretch of beach. The ladies from Texas were hearty shellers. They shelled their way from Texas stopping at beaches along the way. Then they were going to shell their way back. We talked about shells and what they had found along the way. They told me about the operculam from the turban shell they had found the day before in Northern Florida. I told Karen I had found some up that way a year ago, but never on this "island". Ten minutes later she said, ''Look at this". I'll be darn if it wasn't a operculam from the turban.(second photo from the top) Then she found another. WOW!! Then Melodie found one. Then I found one. My first ever in this location. The whole thing was very exciting. The ladies kept finding them and giving them to me. I just shook my head in amazement. All very cool finds. You never know what you will find. They also found many sand dollars and one excellent Arrow Head Sand Dollar. Karen had a very good shelling eye. Melodie was also a sharp sheller. We reluctantly started our trip back to Captiva, (we probably could have shelled all night.) The May skies were beautiful. It was a great trip with the ladies from Texas. Thank you ladies. God bless Texas!

Monday, May 7, 2012

Moria and Marty

Sunset and a super moon low tide with friends Moria and Marty, WOW! It was a wonderful trip. Marty was like a magnet for sandollars, Moria found a key hole limpet, cockles, a baby's ear shell, tusks, rice shells, olives, sun ray venus, wendeltrap, bubble shells, and many colorful coquinas. Great conversations were had and mutual shelling friends were talked about. Kim the ever busy bee was brought up often. The Essential Beachcomber was also talked about. The day was filled with great memories. Thank you Moria and Marty.

Sunday, May 6, 2012

Captain Brian Goes Astray

I don't often stray to crowded beaches, but today I competed in a 1 mile Paddle Board Race at Fort Myers Beach. I have looked forward to paddling in this race for some time. I paddled hard and I am proud of receiving the honor of 2nd Place. Now I am anxious to get back to my favorite spot to listen to the familiar sounds and smells of a beach I call home.

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Photography And Shelling With Ron And Carol

What a beautiful May evening. Ron and Carol traveled with me to secret spot number four and favorite spot number one. The shelling was good at secret spot number four and the birds were posing for the camera. Ron captured many good shots of the Osprey and landscape. He has a good eye for photography. I enjoyed the conversations we had about photography and cameras. Carol found many fighting conchs, a nice worm shell and a banded tulip. Ron and I enjoyed the last light of the day through the lens of the camera. The almost full moon made for another beautiful day in May.

Pages