Amelia Island: CraigCat Boat Tour & Cumberland Island Wildlife

Summary

Small boats, big wildlife moments and Fernandina’s living history

You’ll drive your own CraigCat boat from Fernandina Beach with a small group, led by a local guide who knows Amelia Island’s quirks. Expect salty air, possible dolphin sightings near Cumberland Island, glimpses of wild horses at Dungeness Ruins, and stories you won’t find in any brochure. It’s equal parts splashy fun and quiet wildlife moments.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the CraigCat felt — kind of like sitting in a go-kart that somehow ended up on water. There’s this low hum when you start it up, and then you’re off, skimming past Fernandina Beach with the salt air hitting your face (and sometimes a little splash — they warned us, but still). Our guide waved us into a loose line and started sharing bits about Amelia Island’s old port days. I didn’t expect to care much about history before coffee, but something about hearing it while dodging pelicans made it stick.

We cut across toward Cumberland Island, the water getting choppier as we left the marina behind. The sky was wide open — Florida blue with those lazy clouds that look painted on. I kept scanning for dolphins (our guide said they show up more often than not), and at one point someone shouted “there!” but it turned out to be a log. Still, we did spot wild horses near the Dungeness Ruins, just standing there like they owned the place. It’s strange how quiet it gets when everyone’s watching animals; even the boats seemed to hush for a minute.

I tried steering with one hand so I could grab my phone for photos — not my best idea, honestly. The boat jerked and I nearly lost my hat (my friend laughed so hard she almost dropped her water bottle). Our guide just grinned and said “that happens every tour.” There was something grounding about being out there with just bottled water and some sunblock, no music or fancy snacks — just the slap of waves and a bunch of strangers squinting at birds together. I still think about that stretch by the fort where time felt sort of slow, like maybe nothing had changed since those 19th-century walls went up.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided boat tour to Cumberland Island

• Meet at 251 Creekside Drive
• Drive your own CraigCat boat
• Pass Historic Fernandina Beach
• View 19th Century Fort
• Explore Cumberland Island waterways
• See Dungeness Ruins and wildlife

Top questions

Do I need boating experience for the CraigCat tour?

No prior boating experience is needed; you’ll get instructions before heading out.

Where does the CraigCat boat tour start?

The meeting location is 251 Creekside Drive Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 (C Dock).

What wildlife might I see on this day trip from Fernandina Beach?

You might see dolphins, manatees, wild horses near Cumberland Island, and local birds.

Is there an age requirement to drive the CraigCat?

You must be at least 18 years old to drive.

Do I need a boating license for this tour?

If you were born after January 1st, 1988, you must complete the Florida Boaters Safety course.

How long does it take to reach Cumberland Island by CraigCat?

The exact timing varies with conditions but expect a leisurely pace with stops for wildlife viewing.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included; only bottled water is provided.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers or those with back issues?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries due to bumpy conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water throughout the guided trip as you pilot your own CraigCat boat from Fernandina Beach toward Cumberland Island alongside your local guide — all wildlife sightings are pure luck but always memorable.