Your boat
A motorboat adds a dimension to your experience of south west Florida’s coastline and waterways that cannot be overstated.
Just taking a short trip out along the canals and river often results in really memorable sightings of dolphins, manatees and the impressive range of sea life common here like the large tarpon that roll on the water’s surface or the mullet jumping two feet in the air. Dolphins sometimes come right up to your boat, wanting to play.
Occasionally a manatee and her calf will appear unexpectedly providing a really fascinating close up view of these rare, ancient sea cows. This photo was taken near Sanibel just as a manatee came up for air a few metres from the boat.
Many visitors come here primarily for the fishing which covers a huge range of often great-eating species, including snapper, sea trout, hard fighting redfish and snook, spanish mackerel and large grouper and the chance of reeling in one of the tarpon that this area is famous for.
The islands and inlets also offer an extensive selection of waterfront restaurants and bars with somewhere to moor the boat and the chance to enjoy some fresh locally caught seafood sometimes to the accompaniment of live music.
Ospreys nesting on top of channel markers guard their chicks while watching the water for food. Pelicans patrol in formation up and down the shoreline, Herons and Egrets can be found wandering beaches, docks and back gardens while large Buzzards and huge Frigate birds circle high up on the sea breezes. And it is not unheard of to observe families of sea otters raiding the live wells of fishermen’s moored boats for their catch.
Anchoring off one of the many miles of beaches and wading ashore is the best way of getting to that deserted stretch away from the busier areas to relax and look for some of the shells that the beaches are famous for. You could also still include a visit to a beachfront hotel for some lunch and a refreshing swim in their pool.
Your new (2008 model) well-maintained motorboat will have:
- Comfortable seating, retractable awning for shade from the sun and full coastguard safety kit of lifejackets, etc.
- Boat instruction with a qualified licensed captain covering everything from operation, safety, navigation, docking, fueling, correct anchoring and so on
- Charts and plenty of notes and information including best restaurant tips, beach guides and suggested trips
- Fishing information and rods and basic tackle included
- Experienced help close at hand during your stay to assist with any ongoing questions
This is Coronado’s new boat:
