Captiva Cruises’ popular “Tarpon Lodge on Pine Island” cruise is returning for the season, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the centuries-old fishing cultures of the Pine Island Sound. The cruise will take place four times this year, with the first event scheduled for January 20 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
A Journey Through Time and Tide
This cruise will focus on the fishing cultures of the Pine Island Sound, encompassing more than a thousand years of history. From the indigenous Calusa and Spanish-Cuban fishing eras to commercial fishing with the Punta Gorda Fish and Ice Company and on up to today’s incredible sport fishing, the cruise will provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich maritime heritage.
Highlights of the Cruise
- Departing from McCarthy’s Marina on Captiva, the tour will travel to the community of Pineland on Pine Island.
- Along the way, you’ll see the historic fish houses of the Pine Island Sound, as well as North Captiva, Cayo Costa, Cabbage Key, and Useppa Island.
- Learn about the ecology and importance of the back bay estuary, which has been a common denominator for fishing communities throughout time.
- Gain insights into the cultural history, wildlife, and present-day living of the people who call these islands home.
- Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and a variety of birds while cruising the waters.
A Delicious and Educational Stop at the Tarpon Lodge
On Pine Island, participants will disembark for lunch at the Tarpon Lodge Restaurant. Here, you’ll hear about the family business’ storied tradition of fishing the Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor. The lodge, an historic home converted into an inn and restaurant, dates back to the mid-1920s and still retains that “old Florida charm.”
Exploring the Randell Research Center and Calusa Indian Mounds
Following lunch, there will be an opportunity for a guided walk along the Calusa Heritage Trail at the Randell Research Center and Calusa Indian Mounds. This program, run by the Florida Museum of Natural History, is dedicated to learning and teaching about the archeology, history, and ecology of Southwest Florida through the Pineland archeological and historical site.
Booking Your Trip
The cost of the cruise is $50 for adults and seniors and $35 for ages 12 and under. Reservations are required, and lunch is not included in the cost. The other dates for the cruise are February 7, March 9, and March 20.
For more information or reservations, call 239-472-5300 or visit www.captivacruises.com.
Captiva Cruises is located at McCarthy’s Marina, at 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva.
