Tropic Star of Pine Island
Tropic Star of Pine Island
4.5
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
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Tropic Star of Pine Island
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
455 reviews
Excellent
375
Very good
46
Average
13
Poor
6
Terrible
15
Janet M
Hallandale Beach, FL13 contributions
Feb 2020
Capitan Blue was so informative and entertaining while cruising to Costa Cayo! He told us how to find sharks teeth and even shared some for us to keep to have a visual as to what they look like! I enjoyed the cruise there as well as the return cruise. Capitan Joe circled around so that the passengers could enjoy the dolphins chasing the boat. A wonderful experience, I would definitely recommend them for your excursion to Costa Cayo! Have fun!
Written February 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RossiRam
2 contributions
Jul 2021
We camped on Cayo Costa so we rode the ferry twice. Each time the captain and first mate were friendly, helpful and made the trip truly enjoyable. We had two kayaks and they didn't complain at all about loading them on the boat. We were told by the person who took our reservation over the phone that they couldn't guarantee the kayaks if the boat was full and that they no longer could put the kayaks on the roof.But when we got there the boat wasn't that crowded but they still loaded the kayaks on the roof. THANK YOU!!! On the way off the island, the boat was less crowded and they put the kayaks right on the boat.
They were very attentive to some small inquisitive children, all while telling people about the islands and making sure we saw dolphins. Tips are appreciated but not required. We tipped $5 per person.
They were very attentive to some small inquisitive children, all while telling people about the islands and making sure we saw dolphins. Tips are appreciated but not required. We tipped $5 per person.
Written July 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maureen F
Richfield, MN4 contributions
Mar 2021 • Couples
My spouse and I thoroughly enjoyed taking the Tropic Star cruiser boat ferry to Cayo Costa State Park on Monday, March 1.
First, in terms of Covid. The capacity on the boat was limited so there was plenty of room to social distance. Passengers wore masks and maintained safe space between travelers.
Second, as the boat cruised along steered by First Mate Sean, Captain Joe gave a very informative and interesting lecture about the history of the area. He clearly is very passionate about this special place where he has spent his whole life. He told both factual and anecdotal stories with enthusiasm. He also found ways to reach out to interact with other guests on the boat. Well done. I’m looking forward to visiting again and bringing more friends and family along.
The destinations was well worth the cost of the ticket. Keio Costa Park is a very special place. The Long beach was simply stunningly beautiful. Also because very few people make the effort to go out to the island, there is plenty of space for everyone.
The only negative was that there was a $10 charge for parking. $10! That seemed ridiculous to me. It’s not like people have any other alternative forms of transportation to take when they are going to the marina. Are they trying to encourage people to somehow park in the nearby neighborhoods? It felt like a an underhanded way to make another 10 bucks and really left a bad taste in my mouth.
First, in terms of Covid. The capacity on the boat was limited so there was plenty of room to social distance. Passengers wore masks and maintained safe space between travelers.
Second, as the boat cruised along steered by First Mate Sean, Captain Joe gave a very informative and interesting lecture about the history of the area. He clearly is very passionate about this special place where he has spent his whole life. He told both factual and anecdotal stories with enthusiasm. He also found ways to reach out to interact with other guests on the boat. Well done. I’m looking forward to visiting again and bringing more friends and family along.
The destinations was well worth the cost of the ticket. Keio Costa Park is a very special place. The Long beach was simply stunningly beautiful. Also because very few people make the effort to go out to the island, there is plenty of space for everyone.
The only negative was that there was a $10 charge for parking. $10! That seemed ridiculous to me. It’s not like people have any other alternative forms of transportation to take when they are going to the marina. Are they trying to encourage people to somehow park in the nearby neighborhoods? It felt like a an underhanded way to make another 10 bucks and really left a bad taste in my mouth.
Written March 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nhia Yang
milwaukee3 contributions
Mar 2022
I recommend taking the ride over to Cayo Costa State Park with Tropic Star. It was easy to book with the friendly receptionist. Easy directions to their location was texted to my phone immediately after booking. Be prepared and come with food, drinks, and an umbrella since you'll be on the beach from 9-3:00 p.m. with no shade available besides one little shared pavilion. The boat ride over to the island was enjoyable and smooth' I just wish the boat was more spacious since we were fully packed. The boat was small and wish it was a newer boat or had 2 levels. The captains were very friendly though and helped all the passengers load their folding chairs and coolers onto the boat prior to departure. They gave informative information about the islands on the ride there and back. Our time on the beach was fun; plenty of beach to spread out but we found no shells with the high tide. I probably wouldn't rebook this trip again since the tickets were 45 dollars per person, plus 10 dollars to park on their parking lot. I could have just picked any beach and go for free to get the same experience, but this company was professional and I recommend their services.
Written April 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sherpa788215
Roseville, CA2 contributions
Feb 2020
Wonderful experience. Captain let six year old grandson sit in his captain's chair and ring the bell. He loved it. The lunch was great and we hung a couple of dollar bills.
Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
worldtraveler33907
Fort Myers, FL60 contributions
May 2021
With family visiting from Idaho, we wanted a day to celebrate the best of Florida. We chose the whole day adventure on the Tropic Star with Drew and Joe as our Captain and First Mate. Drew’s commentary kept us laughing even as we learned about the islands we were passing. After dropping off passengers who wanted to spend the entire day on Cayo Costa, we continued on to Cabbage Key for Cabbage Creepers (a rum concoction) and our cheeseburgers in paradise. Then, back on the boat to head back to Cayo Costa for a couple of hours of beach time. We saw plenty of dolphins along the way and enjoyed the sparkling Gulf waters on the sunny beach. It was a full day of exploring this beautiful Gulf coast. We had an incredible day and would recommend the Tropic Star to anyone who wants a relaxing day on the water combined with the great experience of Cabbage Key.
Written May 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
fromDianne
Cleveland, Ohio29 contributions
Mar 2022
We had a picture perfect day in tandem with a great experience on two Florida islands. Thanks to the office staff for taking time to answer all my questions prior to purchasing tickets. We opted to take the Tropic Star to Cabbage Key where we had lunch; then on to Cayo Costa for over 2 hours of beach time (which was just enough for us).
Capt. Joe was informative, entertaining and quick witted. He had a perfect mate in Ron. Both reacted in an instant to everyone's needs. If you have the opportunity, take time to have a conversation with either one and learn even more than the wonderful commentary by Capt. Ron along the way. (Tune in and you'll learn a lot.) We saw quite a few dolphins and followed a manatee for over 5 minutes... waiting for it to surface.
Expect the stop for lunch on Cabbage Key to be pricey but service was good and the cheeseburgers we had were adequate. (They advise that all are cooked to medium but ours were well done.) Tropic Star has arrangements to allow its passengers to be seated upon arrival so be sure to eat before exploring. We heard other guests being told they had a 45 minute wait.
Cayo Costa has restroom facilities at the dock and near the beach loading area but don't expect much more. Plan to bring ALL your needs along (sunscreen!!! beach umbrella? towels? beach chairs? cooler of drinks? bug repellent?) There is NO place for cover on the beach but there IS miles of beautiful white sand covered with shells. MEMORABLE! You can seek shelter where the trolley loads. NOTE: You may need to walk a rather long trek (about 15 minutes) to the beach but you will get a trolley ride back to the dock.
If you love to be on the water, this itinerary gives you hours of it! We passed islands, boats and yachts, and sealife. Overlook the fact the the Tropic Star is a bit warn and enjoy every minute of a day with it's crew and all this outfit has to offer!
Lastly, remember to bring cash to pay for parking ($10) and Cayo Costa park ($2 per person).... and maybe some extra for a tip - because I feel quite sure you'll feel the crew more than earned one!
Capt. Joe was informative, entertaining and quick witted. He had a perfect mate in Ron. Both reacted in an instant to everyone's needs. If you have the opportunity, take time to have a conversation with either one and learn even more than the wonderful commentary by Capt. Ron along the way. (Tune in and you'll learn a lot.) We saw quite a few dolphins and followed a manatee for over 5 minutes... waiting for it to surface.
Expect the stop for lunch on Cabbage Key to be pricey but service was good and the cheeseburgers we had were adequate. (They advise that all are cooked to medium but ours were well done.) Tropic Star has arrangements to allow its passengers to be seated upon arrival so be sure to eat before exploring. We heard other guests being told they had a 45 minute wait.
Cayo Costa has restroom facilities at the dock and near the beach loading area but don't expect much more. Plan to bring ALL your needs along (sunscreen!!! beach umbrella? towels? beach chairs? cooler of drinks? bug repellent?) There is NO place for cover on the beach but there IS miles of beautiful white sand covered with shells. MEMORABLE! You can seek shelter where the trolley loads. NOTE: You may need to walk a rather long trek (about 15 minutes) to the beach but you will get a trolley ride back to the dock.
If you love to be on the water, this itinerary gives you hours of it! We passed islands, boats and yachts, and sealife. Overlook the fact the the Tropic Star is a bit warn and enjoy every minute of a day with it's crew and all this outfit has to offer!
Lastly, remember to bring cash to pay for parking ($10) and Cayo Costa park ($2 per person).... and maybe some extra for a tip - because I feel quite sure you'll feel the crew more than earned one!
Written March 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LuvMex828
Sheboygan Falls, WI253 contributions
Jan 2022
Our group of 7 decided at the last minute that we wanted a boat ride in the hope of seeing some dolphins. We were offered a ride on the boat taking campers out to the state park and back for a very reasonable price. Captain Joe and Captain Rob were fun and friendly even if were just "riding along." We didn't take anything along in the way of drinks, but they would have allowed us to enjoy a beverage while taking in the scenery.
We saw several dolphins and lots of birds. It sprinkled a little while we were at the dock, they lowered the windows to keep the seats dry.
Next time, we will take jackets and drinks, and plan to spend the day at the park.
If you plan to camp, they will load your cargo for you and help you unload it at the dock. We even saw people taking their bikes.
We saw several dolphins and lots of birds. It sprinkled a little while we were at the dock, they lowered the windows to keep the seats dry.
Next time, we will take jackets and drinks, and plan to spend the day at the park.
If you plan to camp, they will load your cargo for you and help you unload it at the dock. We even saw people taking their bikes.
Written January 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MICHAEL D
EVANSVILLE3 contributions
Jan 2021 • Family
Captain Joe and Shawn is very informed of the area and history. They move all your gear on and off boat. We had very low tide and they moved our time earlier to get to Cayo Costa so had an extra hour on beach. Tropic star is less expensive then other charters and closer to the islands so you have more time on the beach and less boat time.
Written January 31, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HollyJennifer
Sarasota, FL49 contributions
Jan 2022 • Couples
Great day on the water. I was impressed with the boating competence of the captain and with his ability to handle the passengers. He steered through shallow difficult water, found dolphins for us to see, dealt with stranded boaters and floating trash while being informative and helpful to passengers.
He also managed to get us to Cabbage Key ahead of the other boats so we could get choice seating for lunch.
He also managed to get us to Cabbage Key ahead of the other boats so we could get choice seating for lunch.
Written January 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gailisler6976
Livonia, Michigan
i am looking to purchase a ticke as a wedding gift for my nephew and his bride to be they will be staying in bokeelia. Which cruise would be most romantic.
Written April 13, 2017
Depends on what they like. I took the cruise to spend the day at Cayo Costa Island and I would do that again in a heartbeat over eating but that's me. This is a great place to spend the day and walk the island and collecting sea shells and it doesn't feel like you are in Florida. I understand there are other cruises that take you to eat lunch or dinner which could be nice as well. Then of course watching the sunset from the water is always a great thing too. The boat itself is a simple transporting boat nothing fancy the romantic piece would be what they make of it from either spending the day on an island you can only reach by boat or at lunch or dinner or catching the sunset. Hope this helps :-)
Written April 13, 2017
I've been on the trip to cayo costa out of jug creek marina before, and will be again at the end of march for a week long camping trip. My question is about the little ship store at Jug Creek Marina, does anyone know if they sell butane/propane for small camp stove? I don't have a lot of time to catch the ferry, so I was hoping to cut out an extra stop. And I only need a canister
Written February 18, 2017
I'd call them and ask, particularly since the store is so small.
Written February 18, 2017
We paid $32 per person, round trip to Cayo Costa. Well worth it if you want to lay in the sun, go shelling, swim. Nothing there though so take whatever (picnic, chairs...) you want to have while there.
Written May 9, 2016
I am planning to take my grandson on the Tropic Star Cruise to have lunch in Cabbage Key and then pick up Passengers at Cayo Costa and back to Bokeelia. I did this trip 7 years ago and was very nice, but the reviews are scaring me......about not being picked up, being late, etc. I called Tropic Star and apparently they say, they would have a trip if more than 6 passengers......So that means I have to wait for the night before to schedule? This is totally scary as one can plan. My question is, knowing all the reviews, etc. should I still go? It was worth it 7 years ago.......
Written July 20, 2015
It was not worth it in my experience. We got dumped there and they were unorganized and the trip there and back was boring
Written June 20, 2016
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