Cayo Costa Private Power Boat Experience

If you’re dreaming of exploring some of Florida’s most untouched islands in style, the Cayo Costa Private Power Boat Experience might be just what you need. Priced at $450 for a group of up to four people, this private trip offers a blend of cultural history, pristine beaches, and dolphin sightings—all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat. With a typical booking window of around a month, this adventure is popular among travelers craving an authentic, personalized day on the water.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines a historic island visit with immaculate natural beauty. The fact that it’s private means you can set your own pace and ask your captain, Randi, for personalized tips or quick detours—something many group tours simply can’t offer. However, a key consideration is the physical aspect: getting in and out of the boat via a swim ladder requires moderate agility, which might not suit everyone. This tour suits those who enjoy active, outdoor experiences with a touch of history and a lot of stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience ensures you get undivided attention and flexibility.
• Historic Cabbage Key offers a glimpse into Florida’s past, perfect for history buffs.
• Cayo Costa’s undeveloped beaches provide a peaceful escape for shelling, birdwatching, and relaxing.
• Wildlife encounters, especially dolphins, are common and add a magical element.
• Comfortable amenities, including ice, bottled water, and beach chairs, enhance the trip.
• The 4.5-hour duration strikes a good balance between exploration and relaxation.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Cabbage Key Inn and Restaurant

The journey begins with a boat trip to Cabbage Key, an island accessible only by water, offering a genuine slice of Old Florida. This spot is a hit for those intrigued by history—originally occupied by the Calusa Indians from around 100 BC, then transformed into a residence and inn in 1936. Today, it’s a laid-back haven with nature trails, an ice cream shop, a full bar, and a restaurant serving straightforward, hearty fare.

Guests typically spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes here—plenty of time to snap photos, soak in the rustic charm, or grab a refreshing drink. Reviewers like Stacy_G praised captain Randi as “the best boat captain I have ever had,” emphasizing how her local knowledge made the experience even more enjoyable. Many visitors appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, where you can wander the trails or simply enjoy the views over the water.

Stop 2: Cayo Costa

After exploring Cabbage Key, the boat continues to Cayo Costa, a true gem for outdoor lovers. This undeveloped island has nine miles of pristine white-sand beaches, perfect for shelling, lounging, or birdwatching. Unlike nearby tourist hotspots, Cayo Costa’s lack of roads and cars offers a rare, untouched Florida vibe.

You’ll spend roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes here—just enough time to breathe in the salty air, collect unique shells, or paddle along the shoreline. The reviews reveal many travelers are captivated by the stunning vistas and the chance to spot dolphins, which are often encountered during the trip. The island’s natural beauty is a highlight, and it’s clear why many call it a ‘nature lover’s dream.’

What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour’s value is bolstered by thoughtful inclusions like ice, bottled water, and beach chairs, making the experience comfortable and convenient. The private transportation from Lavenders Landing ensures a smooth start and end to your adventure, with just your group on board.

However, it’s worth noting that lunch and alcoholic beverages are not included, so planning ahead for a meal is advisable. Parking fees are also outside the tour’s scope, so it’s best to check parking options at the meeting point beforehand.

What to Expect on the Day

Your adventure kicks off at Lavenders Landing at 10:00 am, where Captain Randi and her team will greet you and prepare the boat. The journey to Cabbage Key is scenic, offering glimpses of the local wildlife and a chance to relax onboard with the provided refreshments.

Once at Cabbage Key, you’ll have about an hour and a quarter to explore the island’s historic sites and enjoy the views. Expect to see signs of the island’s past, from its Native American roots to its modern-day laid-back vibe. Many guests comment on Randi’s engaging storytelling and her knack for making everyone feel welcome.

The second stop at Cayo Costa allows for an entirely different experience—sprawling beaches, shelling, and chances to spot dolphins. The trip’s duration gives enough time to unwind without feeling rushed, and the boat’s amenities are designed to keep you comfortable throughout.

The Real Value of This Experience

The $450 price tag for a private boat tour might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the personalized service, exclusive access to untouched islands, and the inclusion of beach chairs and refreshments, it’s quite competitive. For small groups or families seeking a tailored, intimate adventure, this experience offers genuine value.

The fact that the trip is private means you can customize your time on each island—whether that’s lingering longer at the beach or taking more photos of the historic sites. Plus, the chance of dolphin sightings adds a spontaneous magic to the day, often highlighted by previous travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous families, couples, or small groups who want a flexible, private day on the water. It’s perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty, history, and wildlife, and who don’t mind a bit of physical activity to get in and out of the boat. If you’re seeking a peaceful escape rather than a busy tour bus, this private trip hits the mark.

Travelers who value authenticity will enjoy the unspoiled nature of Cayo Costa, while history buffs will appreciate the stories woven into Cabbage Key. And if spotting dolphins and collecting shells sounds appealing, you’ll find this trip especially rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In our view, the Cayo Costa Private Power Boat Experience offers a well-rounded, personalized way to discover a slice of Florida’s coastal beauty. The focus on small-group intimacy, combined with the scenic stops, makes it stand out from larger, more commercialized tours. Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches, enjoy some local history, or simply escape the crowds, this trip checks many boxes.

The tour’s flexibility, coupled with the enthusiastic reputation of Captain Randi, makes it an excellent choice for those who want a tailored, memorable day. While it’s not the cheapest option, the private nature and thoughtfully curated stops justify the cost for many travelers—especially those eager for authentic encounters and stunning views.

If you’re ready for a quiet, scenic adventure with all the essentials covered, this tour deserves serious consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including stops at both islands.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, bottled water, ice, and beach chairs. Lunch and alcoholic beverages are not included.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is Lavenders Landing, 7290 Barrancas Ave, Bokeelia, FL, starting at 10:00 am. The trip ends back at the same location.

How many people can join?
This is a private tour for up to 4 people per group, making it ideal for small parties or families.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Yes, but travelers should have moderate physical fitness since getting in and out of the boat requires using a swim ladder.

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

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Yes, lunch is not included, so you should plan to bring your own or purchase at Cabbage Key.

Is parking available?
Parking fees are not included, so check the location beforehand to find the best parking options.

Can I bring alcohol on the boat?
Alcoholic beverages are not included, and it’s best to check with the provider about bringing your own if desired.

In summary, this private boat trip offers a fantastic way to explore Florida’s natural and historic treasures at a relaxed pace, with the added bonus of dolphin sightings and personalized service. If you’re looking for a unique, small-group adventure with stunning views and cultural intrigue, this tour is definitely worth considering.