Captiva Cruises
Captiva Cruises
4.5
Boat Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours
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8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
For over 30 years Captiva Cruises has been providing shelling cruises, island hopping, dolphin watches & dazzling sunsets on the Gulf of Mexico. Come explore the fabulous out islands of Cabbage Key, Useppa & Boca Grande for lunch or Cayo Costa State Park for shelling, Dolphin Adventures, Sunset Serenades, Sailing Cruises & Private Charters. Captiva Cruises is sure to be the highlight of your trip!
Captiva Island, Florida
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Awards
Travelers' Choice
2022
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,099 reviews
Excellent
811
Very good
202
Average
49
Poor
17
Terrible
20
IzzyBjourney
Lincoln, NH72 contributions
Feb 2022 • Friends
We had the most wonderful experience with Captiva Cruises! I don’t know why I waited so long to go out on one of their cruises because it is so reasonably priced and the staff are so professional! I’ve been vacationing on Captiva for 35 years and keep saying I am going to do this or going to do that but this years I had visitors that really wanted a sunset/wildlife experience so I booked the sunset dolphin wildlife cruise. Captain Dave was so personable and he made the cruise so fun! The music they played was lovely for watching the sun set and they taught us so much about the area and pointed out wildlife that we would not have been aware of. He also shared interesting facts about the area and surrounding islands. This company is very professional, the boat was clean and we felt really safe. Definitely don’t wait to enjoy fun experiences with Captiva Cruises! Next we are going to go to Boca Grande with them!
Written February 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Cynthia H
Wisconsin, United States23 contributions
Mar 2022
Friendly and educational crew. The boat is very clean and comfortable. The trip to Useppa Island was beautiful! We saw dolphins jumping and swimming along the side of the boat. Bar tender was very accommodating and prices are reasonable.
The cost of the trip was very reasonable!
When booking the trip there is a choice to go to Cabbage Key or Useppa Island. If you have children of teens, Cabbage Key is best choice. If you are looking for a beautiful, romantic, peaceful Island, Useppa Island is the best choice.
However, the time schedule for the Useppa Island trip is tight and the Collier Inn restaurant service can be very slow. My recommendation is to enjoy a cocktail at the Collier Inn to see the beauty of it and skip lunch. This will allow more time to enjoy the beauty of the island.
The cost of the trip was very reasonable!
When booking the trip there is a choice to go to Cabbage Key or Useppa Island. If you have children of teens, Cabbage Key is best choice. If you are looking for a beautiful, romantic, peaceful Island, Useppa Island is the best choice.
However, the time schedule for the Useppa Island trip is tight and the Collier Inn restaurant service can be very slow. My recommendation is to enjoy a cocktail at the Collier Inn to see the beauty of it and skip lunch. This will allow more time to enjoy the beauty of the island.
Written March 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
CaptnCokewithalime
Cedar Rapids, IA19 contributions
Feb 2022
Four of us left Fort Meyers early Monday morning to make sure we were at our designated pickup location at South Seas Island Resort. We arrived as instructed, at least 45 minutes before departure.
Our vessel, the Lady Chadwick was clean and comfortable. Plenty of seating was available on the top deck. We were given some safety instructions and we were off!
It was beautiful sunny day (Presidents Day) so all the passengers made sure that they were well protected from the UV rays with sunscreen, hats, sunglasses or sought shade under the canopy or on the first (covered) floor.
The ride was enjoyable with the highlight being able to watch dolphins play alongside our boat's wake!
Approaching Cabbage Key, we were instructed that we'd have enough time to enjoy lunch and possibly look around a bit before the return trip as the restaurant was "aware of our arrival and time frame and would have tables designated for our party"................................WRONG!!!!
After being placed on a 35-45 min. wait list AND paying $39 for a Marg. and Gin & Tonic, we were seated and received our delicious food 15 minutes before our departure! SO DISSAPOINTING! Others got their food to go!
Staff don't make promises you can't keep! I understand you've no control over the number of visitors on any given day, but then allow for additional time as needed!
All in all, the cruise was pleasurable and is recommended.
Our vessel, the Lady Chadwick was clean and comfortable. Plenty of seating was available on the top deck. We were given some safety instructions and we were off!
It was beautiful sunny day (Presidents Day) so all the passengers made sure that they were well protected from the UV rays with sunscreen, hats, sunglasses or sought shade under the canopy or on the first (covered) floor.
The ride was enjoyable with the highlight being able to watch dolphins play alongside our boat's wake!
Approaching Cabbage Key, we were instructed that we'd have enough time to enjoy lunch and possibly look around a bit before the return trip as the restaurant was "aware of our arrival and time frame and would have tables designated for our party"................................WRONG!!!!
After being placed on a 35-45 min. wait list AND paying $39 for a Marg. and Gin & Tonic, we were seated and received our delicious food 15 minutes before our departure! SO DISSAPOINTING! Others got their food to go!
Staff don't make promises you can't keep! I understand you've no control over the number of visitors on any given day, but then allow for additional time as needed!
All in all, the cruise was pleasurable and is recommended.
Written February 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Donna C
10 contributions
Aug 2022
We visited South Sea and decided to book the Dolphin- Wildlife tour AND the 3 hour shelling the next day .
Both were very pleasant rides
The crew of the Shelling tour gave the entire history as we passed by things . Really interested and entertaining- they were great guys !
I didn’t find an sand dollars , but it was fine - the ocean was BEAUTIFUL! This trip was my husband, me and our teenage daughter.
If I had the choice I would do the shelling tour again as it was just spectacular.
You drive right up to the mangroves. The beach again, perfect! And the water was perfect
Both were very pleasant rides
The crew of the Shelling tour gave the entire history as we passed by things . Really interested and entertaining- they were great guys !
I didn’t find an sand dollars , but it was fine - the ocean was BEAUTIFUL! This trip was my husband, me and our teenage daughter.
If I had the choice I would do the shelling tour again as it was just spectacular.
You drive right up to the mangroves. The beach again, perfect! And the water was perfect
Written August 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
guidethrudarkness
Corry, PA30 contributions
Feb 2021
The staff in the office was very nice in helping an out of towner book an online trip. The captain and crew was both professional, courteous, and knowledgeable about the area and made sure that we were comfortable (although a little chilly -- January!).
We booked a trip to Cayo Costa for full day of shelling and was not disappointed. There were a total of 8 of us (again, late January) and a storm had rolled through the previous weekend and there had been very little shelling on the island for a few days. The walk to the lagoon is farther than you think and we didn't get to spend much time there.
Please keep in mind when reviewing that the cruise line cannot do anything about the quality of shelling, or types of birds seen on the island. Its out of their hands.
My only recommendation for the cruise line is to add an extra hour to the trip so that passengers have a little more time to relax. We really had to hoof it down to the lagoon and only spent about 15 -20 minutes there before we had to head back.
We booked a trip to Cayo Costa for full day of shelling and was not disappointed. There were a total of 8 of us (again, late January) and a storm had rolled through the previous weekend and there had been very little shelling on the island for a few days. The walk to the lagoon is farther than you think and we didn't get to spend much time there.
Please keep in mind when reviewing that the cruise line cannot do anything about the quality of shelling, or types of birds seen on the island. Its out of their hands.
My only recommendation for the cruise line is to add an extra hour to the trip so that passengers have a little more time to relax. We really had to hoof it down to the lagoon and only spent about 15 -20 minutes there before we had to head back.
Written February 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Happydaisy219
Naples, FL27 contributions
Mar 2023
What a fun day! We took Captiva Cruises to Cabbage Key for lunch on St. Patrick's Day! The weather was perfect and the captain and first mate were skilled, friendly professionals who made the trip entertaining and informative. This trip would appeal to all ages. Highly recommend 10/10!
Written March 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
lainiekatz
Newport, RI20 contributions
Mar 2021 • Couples
During the past 12 years my husband and I have taken almost every day cruise offered by Captiva Cruises, sometimes with family and other times just by ourselves.
Today we took a trip to Useppa Island, a repeat of the one we took 8 years ago. We were so pleased to see that even after the untimely passing of the company founder, Paul Mc Carthy, long time employees are carrying on his tradition of excellence.
Captiva Cruises offers friendly, quality trips with attention to both fun and safety at an affordable price.
Highly recommended.
Today we took a trip to Useppa Island, a repeat of the one we took 8 years ago. We were so pleased to see that even after the untimely passing of the company founder, Paul Mc Carthy, long time employees are carrying on his tradition of excellence.
Captiva Cruises offers friendly, quality trips with attention to both fun and safety at an affordable price.
Highly recommended.
Written March 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kali H
1 contribution
Nov 2021
Highly recommend Captiva Cruises. Went on their morning Shelling Cruise to Cayo Costa and it was a wonderful experience. The narrator on the trip was very knowledgeable about the area and had interesting information. They give you 2 hours to shell, which was very reasonable. During that time, they walk by and ask if you need any help or have any questions. The boat was very clean and comfortable. It was an ideal day to be out on the water and the ride was very smooth. I will definitely be going on other cruises with them!
Written December 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
havefunaway
Crescent Springs, KY262 contributions
Feb 2022
everyone I encountered through the research, booking and actual cruise were outstanding. Only disappointing was we had to go to South Seas to board the cruise. No biggie..... It is all very well organized from catching the trolly to the boat, lunch and return trip. We did the Cabbage Key cruise aboard the Lady Chadwick. All staff members were very knowledgeable and personable with lots of interesting information along the way. We saw lots of dolphin along the way and the boat will even go off course a little to catch a pod. Lunch on cabbage key in the old house was quite pleasant as are the grounds. Only draw back is that they encourage a boat load of people to dine first and that makes for very over crowding in the restaurant, not covid comfort!! and very little outdoor dining available. The food was decent and service very good and kitchen quick considering they had so many at the same time. The fee for the adventure seemed very fair for all the enjoyment we received. It was a great all day experience for us
Written March 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Glen M
Nashville, TN3 contributions
Jul 2020
We went to Boca Grande on July 22. Threats of rain but turned into a beautiful day--not humid and nice breeze. Made for a great boat ride to and from Boca Grande. Chris and Glenn were the two crewpersons on the catamaran and they were fantastic. We rented a golf cart in Boca Grande and had a good time tooling around the city, going to the lighthouse for pics, etc.
Criticism: We were told AFTER the boat left dock that only two restaurants were open on the island and that most of the shops were closed. The lighthouse was also closed. We found one of the two restaurants but it was more of an ice cream shop with sandwiches. The waitress told us that most shops were closed because they are small and social distancing requirements kept them from opening. Because things were pretty much "normal" on Sanibel and Captiva, we could only assume the same was true at Boca Grande. Considering the cost per person, along with golf cart rental, we felt we should have been informed of the issued so that we could make alternative plans. We chose Boca specifically for the chance to enjoy a nice meal and do some shopping. Having a sandwich and buying a t-shirt at the marina before boarding for return to Captiva was not worth the nearly $200 we spent: boat ride, lunch, cart.
Boca Grande is a little gem and it is a shame that we were not able to enjoy as anticipated. For anyone planning this adventure in the near future, double check on what's open/what's not before shelling out your bucks.
PS did I mention that we liked the boat ride (very choppy waters tho) and Glenn and Chris were excellent hosts.
Criticism: We were told AFTER the boat left dock that only two restaurants were open on the island and that most of the shops were closed. The lighthouse was also closed. We found one of the two restaurants but it was more of an ice cream shop with sandwiches. The waitress told us that most shops were closed because they are small and social distancing requirements kept them from opening. Because things were pretty much "normal" on Sanibel and Captiva, we could only assume the same was true at Boca Grande. Considering the cost per person, along with golf cart rental, we felt we should have been informed of the issued so that we could make alternative plans. We chose Boca specifically for the chance to enjoy a nice meal and do some shopping. Having a sandwich and buying a t-shirt at the marina before boarding for return to Captiva was not worth the nearly $200 we spent: boat ride, lunch, cart.
Boca Grande is a little gem and it is a shame that we were not able to enjoy as anticipated. For anyone planning this adventure in the near future, double check on what's open/what's not before shelling out your bucks.
PS did I mention that we liked the boat ride (very choppy waters tho) and Glenn and Chris were excellent hosts.
Written July 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your review Glen. We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your cruise with us to Boca Grande. We will pass the kind words about Glenn & Chris! Also thank you for sharing your experience once you got to the island. Our guests go to the island with many different agendas and we will try to include up to date restaurant information in the future. Again we are glad you enjoyed your cruise with us!
Written August 10, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
basketsRmine
Arcola, IL289 contributions
Wondering what the difference between the 1/2 day and full day shelling trips is. I understand both go to different parts of Cayo Costa. I am a shelled and just wondered about the difference between the two. I have only been to the 1/2 day cruise.
honuloverChicago
chicago72 contributions
I would like to bring my mom, 80 years young and in fairly good shape abroad. Would any of your cruises be appropriate for her?
honuloverChicago
chicago72 contributions
I would like to bring my mom, 80 years young and in fairly good shape abroad. Would any of your cruises be appropriate for her?
CHRISTINA H
St. Petersburg, FL44 contributions
Is it expected to tip the cruise staff after the trip? If yes, what is considered reasonable?
CaptivaCruises
Captiva, FL2 contributions
Hello! Tips are excepted if you feel that we provided exceptional service. They really range so it would be up to you. :-)
Jacana54
Shreveport, LA75 contributions
Can a charter trip for 5 people for shelling/fishing be arranged for half day?
CaptivaCruises
Captiva, FL2 contributions
Hello-
Yes you can charter one of our boats by the hour. We do not do fishing charters however. Feel free to call us with any questions! 239-472-5300.
What are the options for guest who plan on staying and camping at cayo costa?
Elise G
Hudson River Valley, NY1,058 contributions
I must admit, I cannot speak to this directly. When I visited Cayo Costa, for the day, I made inquiries. Captiva Cruises does not make arrangements for lodging or camping. You need to do that on your own before hand. If camping, our friends at Captiva Cruises suggested that you may even use another mode of travel from a different departure, as it may be more convenient. Best of luck to you!
voulkie
Roulette, PA2 contributions
Is anyone still doing the edison ford museum cruise from captiva iskand
CaptivaCruises
Captiva, FL2 contributions
There are no Edison Ford cruises from Captiva at this time.
Richard M
Starksboro, VT13 contributions
Can I bring a bike to Cayo Costa?
CaptivaCruises
Captiva, FL2 contributions
Unfortunately we can not let our passengers bring a bike on the Cayo Costa trip. There is a ferry from Pine Island that you would be able to bring your bike aboard.
Andrew H
6 contributions
Are any cruises wheelchair accessible?
CaptivaCruises
Captiva, FL2 contributions
Yes we do have some wheelchair accessibility. Please give us a call in the office so that we can discuss all the options. We look forward to hearing from you! :-) 239-472-5300
Henry
Naples, FL29 contributions
Hi, what is the schedule for the trip to Boca Grande ?. Departure time , time in Boca Grande etc etc . Thankyou
CaptivaCruises
Captiva, FL2 contributions
Hello! I am sorry for our delayed response but we did not see your message! The Boca Grande trip departs at 10:00 and returns at 4:00. Our up to date cruise schedule can be viewed on our website or you can give us a call at: 239-472-5300.