FAQ's
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
Yes.
We operate on pre-paid reservations made in advance.
For reservations call us at 772-214-6359.
We accept payment by cash, credit card, and Venmo.
What will we see on the boat cruises?
Each tour is unique. Dolphins are the main attraction, but we usually see a wide variety of wildlife including nesting osprey, herons, egrets, brown and white pelicans, a variety of fish, and sometimes manatee.
Directions
Jug Creek Marina is located at 16498 Tortuga Street, Bokeelia Florida 33922.
The closest major intersection is Pine Island Road and Burnt Store Road/Veteran's Parkway in Cape Coral.
Proceed west on Pine Island Road toward Matlacha. Obey speed limits- they are strictly enforced. Continue to Pine Island. Pass the Publix. At the 4 way stop, turn right on H. Stringfellow Road. Go about 5 miles. The turn onto Tortuga is near Mile Marker 14. It is a very slight right turn as Stringfellow Road angles to the left. Keep straight on Tortuga- do NOT turn onto Barancas.
Where the road ends, the fun begins!
Our boats are located in Slips 14 and 15, on the left, just past the big white tanks.
Parking at the Marina is $8 per day, payable in the Ships Store. Drinks, snacks, hats, tee shirts, charts, sunglasses, and ice are available there.
You are likely to see osprey, pelicans, egrets, herons and dolphins at the main dock.
For cruises from Boca Grande pick up is at the Pink Elephant Docks directly across the street from the Pink Elephant Restaurant located at 491 Bayou Street. Its about one block east of the Inn. Use the pedestrian entrance closest to the fairway on the golf course.
Is the boat owned and operated by a Florida Corporation?
Yes. The boat is owned and operated by a Florida Corporation, the Boat Safety Academy, LLC.
Do you cancel tours due to bad weather?
Tour usually run in light rain and minimally poor weather conditions. If we determine the conditions are unsafe, we will cancel the cruise. We monitor the weather and cancellation decisions are made up to one hour before the cruise is set to depart. In that case, you will be given the opportunity to reschedule or receive credit toward another cruise. Our boats are fully covered, but open on the sides.
Will I get wet on the cruise?
Unless it's raining, you will most likely not get wet. You might experience misting or sea spray if it's windy or choppy, but you will not get drenched.
Are food and beverages available on the boat?
You are welcome to bring your own food and drink with you, as well as small coolers. Usually we carry a cooler stocked with water and drinks.
No food and drinks are allowed off the boat at Cabbage Key. Their lunches and dinners are excellent and their menu is available on their website, www.cabbagekey.com.
Please keep in mind that our docking privileges there mean that's where we all eat when visiting the island. Thank you.
Is there a restroom on the boat?
No. We always recommend using the facilities at the marina before each departure.
Am I likely to get sea sick?
Not likely, but it can happen depending on the severity of your sensitivity. If you know you are motion sickness or sea sickness sensitive, we recommend using a remedy that works for you and use it in advance. Our recommendation is ginger.
Can we bring a small cooler on the cruise?
Yes. Small coolers are acceptable.
Is parking available nearby?
Yes, there is parking available at our locations. At the Pink Elephant, park on the street. Use the parking lot at Jug Creek Marina; all day for $8 per vehicle.
Should we bring a camera or binoculars?
Yes, Bunny and I encourage this. Please remember to bring protective covering for the items and a strap if you have them, as you will be on the water.
Are tips included in the ticket price?
Tips are expected in the boat service industry. 15% is the standard.
Captain Will shares tips with The Wounded Warrior Project and with Bunny.
Is there music on the boat?
Yes. The Captain has a wonderful selection of good, suitable music. He usually plays it while you board and on the way home. We play Amato Mio, among others, during Sunsets.
Are Gift Certificates available?
Yes!
Can your tours accommodate more than 6 passengers?
Yes, but a charter contract is required. The vessel can accommodate 10 passengers. TEXT 772-214-6359 for vessel charter information. All charter agreements are bare boat and will require a qualified and Coast Guard licensed Master aboard for any cruise (other qualifications also apply- we can provide a list of fully qualified captains).
What is your cancellation policy?
We require 5 days notice for cancellation of cruise participation.
Participants/passengers who fail to appear for a cruise who do not give a 5 day notice-- confirmed by email or text-- will not receive a refund nor credit toward another cruise.
Cancellations made before 5 days will receive a refund minus a $50 fee.
Private tours may have some departure time flexibility, but all other cruises must depart on time. We can not issue refunds for late arrivals.