Backwater Adventure’s CraigCat Tours of the 10,000 Islands

If you’re looking for a way to experience the beauty of Florida’s 10,000 Islands without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar waters, Backwater Adventure’s CraigCat tour in Naples offers a compelling option. This guided excursion promises an up-close look at pristine mangroves, dolphin sightings, and Florida’s rich coastal wildlife—all from the comfort of a nimble, two-person CraigCat. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, solo, or with family, this tour is designed to be accessible, fun, and packed with memorable wildlife encounters.

Two things we really like about this experience are the intimate size of the tour—limited to just 11 travelers—and the knowledgeable guides who make the journey both educational and entertaining. But it’s also worth noting that you’ll get a bit wet, so packing a change of clothes and sunglasses is wise. This adventure suits travelers who love small-group tours, enjoy wildlife watching, and are comfortable on the water. It’s not ideal for those looking for a completely dry, relaxed sightseeing cruise, but for active explorers eager for a hands-on experience, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Small-group guided tour ensures personalized attention and expert insights.
• Two-person CraigCats are perfect for couples or solo adventurers.
• Wildlife sightings are common, especially dolphins, with plenty of great photo opportunities.
• Tour duration ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, offering flexible options for your schedule.
• All necessary safety gear and a briefing are included, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Bring water, sunscreen, and a change of clothes to fully enjoy the experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Exploring the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge can be intimidating if you’re unfamiliar with the waterways. The tours by Backwater Adventure take the guesswork out of navigation, guiding you through this lush, wildlife-rich environment with a knowledgeable guide. This means you get to focus on the scenery, the wildlife, and the fun of zipping around in a CraigCat—an agile, easy-to-maneuver vessel that’s perfect for exploring shallow waters and narrow mangrove channels.

Pricing at $130 per person might seem steep at first glance, but you’re paying not just for the boat ride, but for a well-organized, small-group experience that offers a lot of value. The inclusion of bottled water, ice, and all required safety gear means there are no hidden costs or worries about equipment. Plus, with most bookings happening about ten days in advance, it’s clear that this tour is popular and well-regarded.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at San Marco Marina in Goodland, where you’ll meet your guide and get a safety briefing. From there, you’ll hop into your CraigCat—an exciting, twin-hulled vessel that’s surprisingly easy to operate, even for first-timers. The guide will steer you through the waterways, pointing out wildlife and interesting sights along the way.

Each stop offers a different flavor of the refuge’s natural beauty. While exact stops aren’t detailed, reviewers consistently rave about cruising through mangroves, zipping between islands, and the chance to see dolphins swimming alongside. One reviewer notes, “Cruised through the mangroves and saw dolphins,” highlighting the immersive experience of navigating these scenic waters.

What sets this tour apart is the small group size—only 11 travelers max—which fosters friendly, engaging interactions with the guide. Many reviews mention the guide’s knowledge and patience, with comments like “Eric was educated and fun” and “Our guide was awesome, fun, and knowledgeable.” This personalized approach means you’ll get insightful commentary, making wildlife sightings more meaningful.

Wildlife encounters are often the highlight. Dolphins are a common sight, sometimes right next to your boat—though, of course, nature can’t be guaranteed. Several experienced travelers recommend bringing a camera and sunglasses to protect from water spray, especially since many mention you will get wet. The tour’s duration varies, with some reviews noting a 2.5-hour trip that felt just right, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling rushed.

What to Expect on the Water

The CraigCats are designed for fun and ease. Many reviewers praise how quickly they pick up the skill needed to operate them. One noted, “CraigCats were easy to maneuver and didn’t take much time to learn,” which is encouraging for those who might fear being overwhelmed.

The experience isn’t just about riding along—it’s about actively participating. You’ll get a safety and instruction briefing before departure, ensuring everyone feels confident. The vessels are stable, and the guide will keep you informed about the environment you’re exploring.

Expect to get wet, especially if the water spray picks up as you zip through the channels; many recommend wearing a bathing suit or quick-drying clothes. With a cooler of bottled water provided, staying hydrated is simple, but bringing sunscreen or SPF clothing is advisable, given the exposure.

The tour is suitable for children aged 5 and older, and operators require 2 people per boat unless a guide is riding along for odd-numbered groups. The vessel weights are limited to 250 lbs per person, so keep that in mind when packing or planning for children.

The Experience and Value

For $130, this tour offers more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to connect with a unique ecosystem in an intimate setting. The small group and knowledgeable guides add a layer of depth that many larger tours lack. You’re not just watching wildlife from a distance; you’re zipping through mangroves, getting close enough to dolphin pods to catch a glimpse, and experiencing the thrill of controlling a CraigCat.

Most travelers find the tour to be “amazing,” with some describing it as a highlight of their trip. One customer says, “Saw tons of Dolphins! Would do it again in a heartbeat,” emphasizing the memorable wildlife encounters. Others appreciated the safety-first approach of the guide, noting “very patient and kept our safety as his first priority.”

Compared to other activities in the area, this tour provides a unique perspective—more interactive than a typical sightseeing cruise but just as scenic and wildlife-rich. The fact that most book about ten days in advance speaks to its popularity and the consistent high ratings.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This CraigCat tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to actively explore Florida’s coastal waterways. If you love wildlife, especially dolphins, and enjoy small-group, guided experiences, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s also great for couples looking for a memorable, shared adventure or families with kids over five who can handle a bit of getting wet.

However, if you prefer a dry, leisurely boat tour with minimal activity, this might not be the best fit. It’s also worth noting that participants must be comfortable on the water and able to meet the weight requirements.

Final Thoughts

This guided CraigCat tour of the 10,000 Islands offers an engaging and authentic way to experience one of Florida’s most scenic and wildlife-rich areas. The combination of expert guides, small group size, and the thrill of zipping through mangroves makes it a memorable outing for outdoor lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The chance to see dolphins up close and explore the lush waterways makes it a worthwhile addition to any Naples itinerary.

While you’ll want to come prepared for getting a little wet, the overall value for the intimate, guided nature of this trip is clear. It’s perfect for travelers who want an active, scenic adventure that balances fun with education.

If you’re craving a hands-on, wildlife-filled day on the water in a small, friendly setting, this CraigCat tour could be just the thing.

FAQ

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

• Where does the tour start?
  It begins at San Marco Marina, located at 604 E Palm Ave, Goodland, FL.

• Do I need a boaters license?
  If you’re born after January 1, 1988, you’ll need a boater’s certificate to drive. If born before, it’s not required.

• What’s included in the price?
  Bottled water, ice, all USCG-required safety equipment, a knowledgeable guide, and a safety briefing are included.

• Can children participate?
  Yes, children aged 5 and older can be passengers. Children must meet weight limits and be able to handle the small vessel.

• Will I get wet?
  Expect to get wet, especially from water spray while zipping through the channels. Wearing a bathing suit or quick-drying clothes is recommended.

• What should I bring?
  Sunscreen, sunglasses, a change of clothes, and a towel are advisable. Water is provided, but additional snacks or other personal items are up to you.

• Is this a group or private tour?
  It’s a small group tour with a maximum of 11 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

• Is it suitable for solo travelers?
  Absolutely. Solo travelers can join, either in a CraigCat with the guide or paired with another participant.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This adventure is perfect for those who want a lively, engaging way to see Florida’s natural coastline—guided, small-scale, and full of wildlife surprises. Whether it’s dolphins swimming alongside or the thrill of navigating in a CraigCat, it’s an experience worth considering for your Naples visit.