The 13 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Fort Myers
Fort Myers isn’t just about beaches and sunshine—it’s a water lover’s paradise. Whether you’re eager to spot dolphins along the intracoastal, enjoy a sunset with a drink in hand, or hunt for shells on remote islands, the waterways here offer a rich tapestry of experiences. The area’s numerous boat tours showcase its natural beauty, from wildlife-packed dolphin cruises to lively sunset parties and private explorations of Sanibel and the 10,000 Islands.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 13 boat tours in Fort Myers. We’ve included options that range from quick wildlife sightings to full-day private charters. You’ll find tours perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends, with details on what makes each one special, how much they cost, and who they’re best suited for. Whether you want a laid-back trip or an energetic party, there’s a water adventure waiting for you.
1. Dolphin Tiki Cruise around Fort Myers Beach
This 1.5-hour private tiki boat cruise (around $350 per group for up to 6 people) offers a relaxed, personalized experience along Fort Myers Beach waterways. Starting at the north end, your captain takes you south along the intracoastal, passing waterfront restaurants and busy spots, then into the more natural mangroves. The highlight? Watching playful dolphins hunt near Big Carlos Pass, a prime dolphin hotspot. You can bring your own drinks and snacks to enjoy as you glide past bird colonies and perhaps spot manatees.
What makes this tour stand out is its private setting and flexible schedule. The vessel offers shaded and open seating, perfect for relaxing while taking in views and wildlife. Past guests rave about Captain Kate’s knowledge and friendly manner, with one reviewer calling her “fantastic” and “very knowledgeable.”
Bottom line: Ideal for small groups seeking a comfortable, intimate dolphin spotting trip with the flexibility to bring your own refreshments.
2. Sunset and Dolphin Cruise around Fort Myers Beach
This 2-hour private sunset cruise (at $375 per group) combines two of the most memorable Fort Myers experiences: wildlife watching and watching the sun dip below the horizon. The journey begins at the north end of Fort Myers Beach, cruising south along the intracoastal. As you pass waterfront restaurants and nature reserves, your captain points out local ecosystems and wildlife. The boat turns at Big Carlos Pass, where dolphins often hunt, then heads into San Carlos Bay to witness a spectacular sunset.
Guests love the personalized feel—whether they want to relax, take photos, or learn about the environment. One review notes, “Captain Kate was kind, funny, and helped us see dolphins,” making it a top choice for romantic evenings or memorable family outings.
Bottom line: Perfect for anyone wanting a mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and a relaxed, private sunset atmosphere.
3. 2 hour Tiki Pub Sensational Sunset Cruise (Adults only)
For those looking to combine fun and sunset views, this adults-only booze cruise (about $69 per person) is just the ticket. It’s a BYOB party boat with space for up to 25 guests, featuring party games, music, and plenty of room to mingle. You supply the drinks, and the crew handles ice, tunes, and atmosphere. Beginning at Fort Myers Beach, the trip heads south along the intracoastal, with stops at prime dolphin spotting spots like Big Carlos Pass, and ends with a gorgeous sunset view.
Guests rave about the lively vibe and friendly service, calling it “a great time celebrating a birthday,” and “perfect for a young, fun crowd.” While it’s more energetic than serene, it’s ideal if you’re after a social scene on the water.
Bottom line: A lively, budget-friendly option packed with party spirit and sunset views, best suited for adults looking to celebrate.
4. 2.5 hr Sailboat Tour aboard Orion’s Child
Looking for a classic sailing experience? This small-group sailboat tour (around $99 per person) takes you into the Gulf of Mexico aboard Orion’s Child. The husband-and-wife crew will have your sails up, and you’ll cruise past shrimp boats, waterfront homes, and mangroves, with chances to see dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life. The route can include Sanibel’s lighthouse or Fort Myers Beach, depending on conditions.
What makes it stand out is the quiet, immersive nature of sailing—no engines, just the wind and ocean. It’s a great trip for those who want to relax and get a feel for the area’s maritime environment. Reviewers appreciate the small group size and the chance to take photos of dolphins and wildlife.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic sailing adventure, especially those interested in marine wildlife.
5. Half-Day Private Tiki Boat Beach Tour from Fort Myers
This half-day private tour (around $600 per group for up to 6 people) takes you along Fort Myers’ waterways to Lovers Key State Park. You can stop to swim, walk along scenic beaches, or just relax on the boat’s shaded or open decks. The boat comes equipped with coolers, so bring snacks and drinks to enjoy during your trip. The best part? You get to choose your own route and stops, making it highly customizable.
The highlight is anchoring at Lover’s Key, a quieter, less crowded spot perfect for swimming or beachcombing. Reviewers love the flexibility and the chance to see manatees and dolphins up close. It’s a good choice for families or groups wanting a personalized day on the water.
Bottom line: Great for those wanting a private, flexible half-day escape with wildlife, beach time, and the option to tailor your experience.
6. Dolphin and Shelling Cruise Tour at Fort Myers Beach
This 3-hour eco-tour (about $74.55 per person) blends wildlife viewing with shelling. Led by naturalists or biologists, the trip stops at barrier islands like Hickory Island, where you can walk on the beach and search for shells, including the rare junonia. The boat then explores Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, searching for dolphins, manatees, and seabirds.
What sets it apart is the educational aspect—expert guides help you identify shells and wildlife, making it ideal for nature lovers. Past guests mention how the naturalist’s insights added depth to their experience and how they enjoyed spotting dolphins jumping and swimming close to the boat.
Bottom line: Excellent for families or curious travelers who want to combine wildlife observation with shelling and environmental learning.
7. Dolphin Wildlife Cruise Fort Myers Beach
This 1.5-hour dolphin-focused cruise (around $63.90 per person) is perfect for quick wildlife sightings. Led by naturalists or biologists, the tour explores Estero Bay and nearby waters, with plenty of chances to see dolphins and perhaps manatees. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, and the trip is relaxed enough for families and casual wildlife enthusiasts.
Guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to get close to playful dolphins. A reviewer notes, “Very enjoyable, with a friendly crew,” making it a solid choice for a short, wildlife-rich outing.
Bottom line: A compact, insightful tour for those short on time but eager to see dolphins and learn about the local ecosystem.
8. Marco Island: 10,000 Islands Shelling Boat Tour
This speedboat tour (about $113 per person) offers a quick escape to remote islands in the 10,000 Islands for shelling. Starting from Marco Island, you’ll explore uninhabited beaches where shells and sand dollars abound. The guide shares insights on the local flora and fauna, and you’ll learn how to identify rare shells like junonia.
The trip is favored for its brisk pace and the chance to find unique shells. Past guests highlight the knowledgeable guide and the thrill of spotting dolphins and other wildlife in their natural habitat. It’s especially suited for shell collectors and nature lovers wanting a fast, immersive experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for shelling enthusiasts and those wanting a short, scenic adventure in a pristine setting.
9. 4 Hour Dolphin and Sandbar Cruise
This 4-hour customizable cruise (up to $550 per group for 6 people) offers a flexible, in-depth experience with Captain Lauren. Whether you want to relax, snorkel, or explore a sandbar, she tailors the trip to your wishes. Expect to see manatees, dolphins, and perhaps enjoy beach games or sandcastle building on a secluded beach. The boat is a large deck style, with floaties and games included.
Reviewers praise her marine biology knowledge and personal attention, calling it “an amazing, flexible day on the water.” It’s best for families or groups looking for an all-around, private adventure that combines wildlife, beach, and relaxation.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a personalized, multi-activity day with wildlife and beach time in a private setting.
10. Ft Myers Beach 3 Hour Tiki Pub Tropical Sandbar Getaway Cruise
This 3-hour party cruise (about $89 per person) is all about fun, drinks, and making memories. The boat, with a cozy capacity of 25, offers a lively atmosphere with music, party games, and plenty of opportunities to mingle. Bring your own drinks and snacks, and enjoy the scenery along the island’s coast and the sandbar.
Guests love the social vibe, with one reviewer describing it as “an awesome time celebrating a birthday.” It’s perfect for friends or couples wanting a lively, interactive experience with plenty of time to socialize on the water.
Bottom line: Great for party lovers and friends celebrating special occasions with a fun, relaxed boat outing.
11. Sunset Tiki Boat Cruise (BYOB)
This 2-hour BYOB sunset cruise (around $59 per person) combines stunning views with a laid-back party atmosphere. The recent addition of the newly built Oasis features comfy lounge seating, LED lighting, and a private restroom. As you drift past Charlotte Harbor, the captain keeps an eye out for wildlife, and the sunset provides a perfect backdrop for photos.
Guests praise the relaxed, friendly environment, with one saying, “My husband and I loved this cruise—it was beautiful and fun.” It’s perfect for couples or small groups wanting a casual, scenic evening on the water with drinks of their choice.
Bottom line: An affordable, scenic sunset trip ideal for romantic or small-group laid-back evenings.
12. Private Boat Tour up to 12 People Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel
This private 2-hour tour (costing $599.95 for up to 12 people) offers a spacious, flexible way to explore Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel. The large catamaran features cushioned seating and a shaded deck, with the captain guiding you through mangroves, dolphin hotspots, and possibly the Sanibel lighthouse, depending on conditions. You can bring your own beverages or snacks, and the crew provides bottled water and coolers.
This tour is ideal for larger groups or families wanting exclusivity, and reviews highlight the knowledgeable captain and smooth sailing. It’s a fantastic way to see multiple sights with privacy and comfort.
Bottom line: Best suited for groups wanting a private, customizable experience with a focus on wildlife and scenic views.
13. Private Dolphin & Sightseeing Boat Day Tour
Last but not least, this full 4-hour private tour (at $185 per person) provides an in-depth exploration of Fort Myers and Sanibel. The modern boats feature large decks, and the guide is your first mate, experienced and friendly. You’ll cruise past mansions, mangroves, and the Sanibel Lighthouse while searching for dolphins and other wildlife. You can relax, enjoy beverages, and watch the scenery.
This tour is perfect for those wanting a personalized, extended outing to see wildlife, explore coastal sights, and perhaps even indulge in some birdwatching. Reviewers mention their guide’s knowledge and the close encounters with dolphins as highlights.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers seeking a longer, private, and detailed wildlife and scenery tour with a knowledgeable crew.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Fort Myers
When selecting your boat tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you want a quick wildlife fix, the dolphin cruises are excellent options. For a special evening, opt for the sunset cruises—especially the private ones if romance or intimacy is a priority. Those interested in shelling or learning about ecosystems should prioritize tours that include naturalist guides and island stops.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak months (winter and spring), and always check if the boat is private or shared, depending on your preference. For families, tours with wildlife and beach activities work well, while groups celebrating special occasions might prefer private charters or lively booze cruises.
In general, these tours are most enjoyable in the morning or late afternoon, when wildlife is most active and the light is best for photography.
Final Thoughts
Fort Myers offers a fantastic range of boat tours, whether you’re after dolphin sightings, sunset drinks, shell collecting, or private explorations. If you prefer a quiet sail, Orion’s Child is a top choice, while those looking for lively parties might love the Tiki Pub Sunset Cruise. For families or larger groups, private charters like the Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel trip provide plenty of space and flexibility.
Whatever your style, booking early and choosing a tour aligned with your interests will ensure your time on the water becomes one of your favorite memories of Fort Myers. Take your pick, pack your camera and drinks, and get ready for some unforgettable adventures on Florida’s shimmering waters.