Ten Thousand Islands: CraigCat Boat Tour & Wildlife Sighting

Summary

Speed through mangroves spot dolphins and laugh with locals

You’ll take control of your own CraigCat boat through Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands alongside a local guide, spotting dolphins and seabirds as you go. Expect salty air on your skin, laughter over awkward steering moments, and quiet pauses among the mangroves. This isn’t just sightseeing — it’s hands-on adventure with memories that stick long after you’re dry again.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect from piloting a CraigCat — honestly, I’d never even heard of them before this day trip in the Ten Thousand Islands. The name sounded like something out of a cartoon. But there we were, just past the safety talk (our guide cracked a joke about “Floridian steering”), squeezing ourselves into these little two-person catamarans under a sky that looked like it couldn’t decide if it wanted to rain or not. My partner kept fiddling with the life jacket straps while I tried to look like I knew what I was doing — I definitely didn’t.

The first few minutes were all nerves and awkward steering, but then you get this weird confidence as you zip along, wind in your face, salt air everywhere. Our guide — I think his name was Mike? — pointed out some pelicans perched on an old post and told us how locals call this stretch “the nursery” because of all the baby dolphins born here. We actually saw one pop up near our boat, so close I could hear its little exhale. That sound sticks with you longer than you’d think.

There’s something about weaving through those mangrove channels that makes you feel both tiny and sort of invincible at once. The water was calm in some spots, then suddenly choppy enough that my teeth clacked together (Mike just grinned and shouted back “that’s normal!”). Sometimes we’d slow down and just float for a minute — no engine noise, just birds and the smell of brine. It’s hard to describe how quiet it gets out there between the islands; you start noticing every ripple and shadow under the surface.

I still laugh remembering how my partner tried to race another couple — spoiler: we lost by a mile. But honestly, it wasn’t about speed. It felt more like being let in on some local secret, even though there were other boats around. By the end, my hair was a mess and my shoes were soaked but I kind of loved it that way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore 10,000 Islands waterways

• Operate 2-person catamaran
• Navigate winding waterways
• Observe abundant wildlife closely
• Experience excitement and tranquility

Top questions

How many people can ride in each CraigCat boat?

Each CraigCat holds 2 people; groups with an odd number will have one person ride with the guide.

Is there an age or weight limit for this Ten Thousand Islands tour?

Passengers must be at least 5 years old; operators must be 18+ with valid driver’s license; weight limit is 250 lbs per person.

Do I need boating experience for this CraigCat tour?

No experience needed; there’s a safety and instruction briefing before departure.

What wildlife might we see during the day trip?

You’re likely to see dolphins, marine life, seabirds, and possibly more — though sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Is bottled water provided on the tour?

Yes, complimentary bottled water is included in a cooler with ice.

Where does this tour take place?

The tour operates in Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands area.

Are pregnant travelers allowed on this tour?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to the departure point.

What’s included

Your day includes a knowledgeable local guide leading the way through winding waterways, a full safety and instruction briefing before you set off in your own two-person CraigCat boat (with all required USCG equipment), plus complimentary bottled water chilled in an ice-filled cooler so you can focus on watching for wildlife instead of worrying about logistics.