Sharkey’s Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour in Clearwater

Imagine gliding through the quiet canals of Clearwater under a blanket of stars, with the water shimmering beneath your kayak thanks to vibrant LED lights. That’s what Sharkey’s Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour promises — an unusual chance to see marine life and mangroves in a different light (literally). This tour stands out because of its unique combination of night paddling, fish feeding, and local insights, making it a memorable addition to any Florida itinerary.

Two things we really like about this experience are the stability of the boats, which makes it accessible even for newcomers, and the personalized attention from knowledgeable guides. However, some travelers might find the experience less secluded or the lighting setup less comprehensive than they expected. Still, if you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly adventure that combines wildlife spotting with a bit of fun, this tour is worth considering.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, are curious about local wildlife, and don’t mind a short but engaging outing. It’s particularly appealing for families, couples, or small groups eager to try something different after sunset — especially if you’re eager to learn more about Clearwater’s ecosystem from a local guide.

Key Points

• Nighttime kayaking offers a tranquil, less crowded experience
• LED-lit kayaks allow for underwater viewing and fish feeding
• Guides are knowledgeable and willing to share insights
• The tour is suitable for most travelers with basic paddling ability
• Price offers a good value for a unique, interactive adventure
• It’s a small-group experience, up to 20 participants

What You Can Expect from Sharkey’s Night Tour

Getting Started and Meeting Point
The tour kicks off at the County of Pinellas Boat Ramp, located at 18651 Gulf Blvd in Indian Rocks Beach. The location is accessible near public transportation, making it easier for many travelers to join without additional hassle. Expect to meet your guides with all safety equipment — including USCG-certified life jackets — provided. The tour lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, a manageable length that balances adventure with comfort.

The Paddling Experience
Once you set off, you’ll paddle in clear kayaks equipped with LED lights that illuminate what’s beneath and around you. This isn’t just about looking cool — the lights are designed to help you see underwater life, like fish and perhaps a curious dolphin or manatee if you’re lucky. Reviews mention how stable these boats are, which is a relief for beginners or those wary of night paddling. One reviewer noted, “Boats are super stable with a clear bottom,” reinforcing the ease of the experience.

Wildlife Watching and Fish Feeding
The central thrill of this tour is feeding the fish. Your guide will provide fish food which, as one reviewer put it, led to “amazing” interactions with hundreds of fish that come right up to the boat. Many guests mentioned how engaging it was to see the fish gather and swim around, with some lucky enough to spot dolphins or manatees during the ride. As one reviewer enthusiastically shared, “The fish coming up to the boat and swimming by was fantastic.”

Exploring the Mangroves and Shorelines
The tour takes you through mangrove-lined waterways, an environment teeming with birdlife and providing a peaceful backdrop. Because of the timing — late evening — the experience feels quieter and more intimate. Some reviewers mentioned that low tide prevented access to more secluded areas, but overall, the view of the waterways at night was still impressive.

Guide and Group Size
Having a local guide along is a big plus. As multiple reviews highlight, guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share facts about the ecosystem, wildlife, and the area’s history. With a maximum of 20 participants, the group remains small enough for personal attention but lively enough for a social vibe.

The Experience’s Strengths: Why Travelers Love It

Authentic and Educational
Many reviewers appreciated the guides’ insights. One noted, “Our guide was very informative about the habitats we encountered and was calm and assuring,” which makes the tour appealing for families or those new to kayaking or wildlife. You’ll learn about fish behaviors, local ecosystems, and the importance of mangroves, all while having fun.

Stunning Night Views
The nighttime setting offers a different perspective on Clearwater’s waterways. The quiet, the stars overhead, and the glow of LED lights beneath combine for an atmospheric paddle. Several guests remarked that the experience was “even better than expected,” highlighting how the peacefulness and the visual effects made it special.

Good Value for the Price
At $62 per person, the tour provides an engaging activity that blends outdoor fun with wildlife observation. Considering all equipment—like the stable kayaks and fish food—and the small-group format, many feel it’s a fair deal for a unique outing. Plus, the experience is 100% operated with safety in mind, which adds peace of mind.

Considerations and Areas for Improvement

Lighting and Visibility
One review pointed out that the LED lights are situated on the front and don’t necessarily light up the entire kayak. Some might expect more extensive underwater illumination, but the current setup still allows for a good view of fish and underwater activity. If you’re particularly interested in bright, comprehensive lighting, this might be a minor disappointment.

Weather Dependence
Like most outdoor activities, this tour depends on good weather. If rain or wind kicks in, the tour could be canceled or rescheduled, and refunds are available if canceled due to weather.

Timing and Tide Conditions
The timing of your paddle can influence what you see. For example, low tide might restrict access to certain areas, but it also means calmer waters and better visibility of fish near the surface.

Overall Experience
While some reviews mention the experience being “cool,” a few felt it was a bit overhyped or not quite as advertised. For example, one comment noted that the lights are mainly on the front and don’t illuminate the entire kayak, which can be misleading.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed yet engaging evening activity. It’s perfect if you enjoy gentle outdoor adventures, wildlife, and learning about local ecosystems without the need for strenuous physical activity. It also suits those curious about the environment and eager for a memorable, photo-worthy experience.

If you’re after high-speed paddling or a more secluded, adventure-packed night, you might find this experience a little subdued. But for those wanting a friendly, educational, and beautiful introduction to Clearwater’s waterways, Sharkey’s LED night tour offers good value and genuine fun.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is family-friendly. The gentle pace and small group size make it accessible for kids, especially those comfortable with paddling.

What should I bring or wear?
The tour provides all safety equipment, including life jackets. Just wear comfortable clothes suitable for paddling and perhaps bring a camera or phone in a waterproof case to capture the glowing underwater views.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. If the weather turns poor, the tour may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a refund.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience runs approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, providing enough time for paddling, wildlife watching, and fish feeding without feeling rushed.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, a local guide leads the group, sharing insights and ensuring safety. The small size allows for personal interaction.

Is this experience good value?
Considering the equipment, guide expertise, and the interactive nature of the tour, many see it as a worthwhile expense, especially for a memorable evening activity.

Final Thoughts

Sharkey’s Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour in Clearwater offers a relaxed, family-friendly way to explore the waterways after sunset. The stability of the kayaks, the fascinating fish feeding, and the opportunity to learn from a local guide all combine into an experience that’s both fun and educational. Though it may not provide extensive underwater illumination or seclusion, it compensates with its intimate setting and engaging wildlife encounters.

If you love gentle outdoor activities that emphasize wildlife and local environment, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially well-suited for those traveling with children or anyone curious about the natural world, looking for a memorable yet accessible night adventure in Clearwater.

In short, Sharkey’s LED night tour is a charming way to see the area from a different perspective — with a good mix of fun, education, and stunning views. It’s a low-key, authentic experience that highlights the beauty of Clearwater’s waterways and the friendly nature of local guides. If this sounds like your kind of outing, you’ll likely find it a worthwhile highlight of your trip.

Remember — booking in advance is recommended, with most travelers reserving their spot about 12 days ahead. And with a 100% refund policy if you cancel 24 hours before, it’s a risk-free way to add a little night magic to your vacation.