Fort Myers & Sanibel: Daytime Sailing with Dolphins & Wildlife

Summary

Sail past fort myers beach to sanibel see dolphins and birds

You’ll set out from Fort Myers Beach with a local captain, sailing past Bowditch Point and toward Sanibel’s wild bays. Watch for dolphins or manatees surfacing near the pier, sip cold drinks on deck, and let yourself drift with sea breezes while birds circle overhead. It’s a quiet kind of adventure — one you’ll probably remember when you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

Someone hands me a cold bottle of water before I even realize I’m thirsty — that’s how our day sail started off Fort Myers Beach. The boat’s deck felt warm under my bare feet, but not too hot, just that soft sun you get late morning. Our captain, Mike (he grew up around here), pointed out Bowditch Point as we rounded it, saying something about how the water changes color with the tide. I tried to catch it but got distracted by a pelican dive-bombing right next to us. It splashed so close I flinched — didn’t expect that.

We drifted south toward the Fort Myers Beach Pier, and suddenly there was this hush over everyone — then someone whispered “dolphins.” Sure enough, two of them popped up near the bow. Not showing off or anything, just cruising along like they owned the place. Mike told us sometimes you see manatees here too, but today it was mostly dolphins and these weirdly elegant white birds gliding above the estuary grass. The breeze smelled faintly salty and sweet at once. I kept thinking how different everything looks from the water; land feels far away even though it isn’t.

I ended up sitting on the rail for a while just watching Sanibel slide by in slow motion, trying to guess if those shapes in the water were turtles or just shadows. Someone passed around sodas — apparently included (I never remember what’s included until it appears). There wasn’t much talking after that; just the sound of wind in the sails and a couple of kids giggling every time a bird landed nearby. Still think about that light on the water some days when I need to breathe out for a minute.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Relaxing day sail with wildlife viewing

• Begin journey rounding Bowditch Point
• Head south toward Fort Myers Beach Pier
• Watch for dolphins and manatees
• Enjoy views of bays and estuaries
• Take pictures of iconic local landmark

Top questions

Are drinks included on this Fort Myers day sail?

Yes, bottled water and soda are included during your sailing tour.

Can children join this daytime sailing trip?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller onboard.

Will we see dolphins or manatees during the cruise?

Dolphins are regularly seen; manatees are possible but not guaranteed.

Is there public transportation near Fort Myers Beach pier?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Is this sailing tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, guests of all physical fitness levels can join this cruise.

Are service animals allowed onboard?

Yes, service animals are permitted on this daytime sail.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water and soda served onboard as you sail from Fort Myers Beach past Bowditch Point toward Sanibel’s estuaries—just bring yourself (and maybe a hat), since everything else is handled by your local crew before returning to shore in comfort.