CAPTIVA ECO Tours
To book a summer tour, please email us at nwcharters@gmail.com.
Discover the Best of Our Islands on a Private Eco Tour
Embark on a full-day eco tour and explore the stunning natural beauty of our pristine beaches, secluded sandbars, and vibrant marine life. Snorkel in shallow grass flats, collect rare shells along unspoiled coastlines, and witness breathtaking wildlife encounters. This hands-on, immersive experience is perfect for all ages.
What’s Included?
✔ Private boat tour with a knowledgeable local captain
✔ Snorkeling, shelling & wildlife viewing
✔ Visit hidden beaches & sandbars
✔ Lunch stop at an island-access-only restaurant (on a full day charter)
✔ Opportunities to spot dolphins, sea turtles, manatees & more
Lunch Options – Island Dining Experience
Cabbage Key – A Remote Island Retreat
Discover a Secluded 100-Acre Island: Only accessible by boat, Cabbage Key offers Old Florida charm, scenic nature trails, and breathtaking views of Cayo Costa and the Gulf from its historic water tower.
Dine at the Famous Cabbage Key Inn: Enjoy a classic island menu featuring fresh Gulf shrimp, juicy cheeseburgers, and the legendary Cabbage Creeper cocktail, a tropical blend of rum, piña colada, and coffee liqueur.
Discover Wildlife & History: Stroll quiet nature trails, spot native gopher tortoises, and explore an ancient Calusa shell midden, a historic site that forms the foundation of the Inn.
Tarpon Lodge – A Hidden "Old Florida" Gem
Experience Old Florida Charm at Tarpon Lodge: Nestled on Pine Island’s western shore, this historic waterfront lodge offers a peaceful, crowd-free dining experience with stunning bay views.
Savor Fresh, Locally Sourced Seafood: Enjoy a delicious menu featuring the best of Florida’s Gulf Coast, served in a family-owned restaurant with deep local roots.
Explore History at Randell Research Center: After lunch, visit an ancient Calusa shell midden, one of the highest natural points in Lee County, and uncover their rich history.
Why Choose Our Eco Tours?
✔ Early morning departure to beat the crowds and heat
✔ Customizable itinerary to explore at your own pace
✔ Expert local guides who share local history & ecology
✔ Plenty of swimming & snorkeling in the warmer months
✔ Authentic, hands-on eco-tour experiences exploring marine life, hidden beaches, and unique ecosystems
✔ Exclusive access to remote sandbars, mangrove islands, and top shelling spots
✔ Small group, private tours for a personalized, crowd-free adventure
✔ Eco-friendly & sustainable tourism with a focus on conservation
✔ Unforgettable encounters with dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and more
Full-Day Eco Charter – 6-Hour Private Boat Tour
Price: $900 per private boat (up to 6 passengers)
Time: 8 AM – 2 PM (Daily)
Prefer a Shorter Adventure? Try Our Half-Day Eco Tour!
4-Hour Morning Tour: 8 AM – 12 PM
4-Hour Afternoon Tour: 12 PM – 4 PM
Price: $600 per boat (up to 6 passengers)
Half-day tours do not include a lunch stop
“We have been coming to Sanibel Captiva regularly since 2010 and this is by far our favorite thing we have done.”
“Highlight of our 3 week vacation in Florida. The tour provides an amazing way to experience the area, we made so many stops and the list of highlights is long. The boat is beautiful, comfortable and has everything you need.”
Why Choose New Wave Eco Charters?
Authentic, Immersive Experiences – Our tours go beyond sightseeing, offering hands-on exploration of Captiva and Sanibel’s marine life, secluded beaches, and diverse ecosystems.
Expert Local Guides – Led by knowledgeable captains and marine biologists, our tours provide insightful commentary on wildlife, conservation, and the unique history of the region.
Exclusive Access to Hidden Gems – We take you to pristine sandbars, remote shelling spots, and untouched mangrove islands that few visitors ever experience.
Small Group, Private Tours – Enjoy a personalized and crowd-free experience with private charters tailored to your interests, whether it’s snorkeling, dolphin watching, or a relaxing day on the water.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Tourism – We are committed to responsible eco-tourism, ensuring minimal environmental impact while educating guests about marine conservation.
Flexible Itineraries & Customization – Whether you prefer a full-day adventure or a shorter trip, we customize your tour to match your interests, pace, and group size.
Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters – Spot dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and coastal birds in their natural habitat, making each trip a unique and memorable experience.
Book your unforgettable eco-tour today and experience the best of Southwest Florida’s natural beauty!
“Steve and Stefanie’s love of environmental science and exploration inspired our kids (and us!) - all passionate about wildlife conservation. Thank you Steve and Stefanie! Can’t wait to do this again!”
What to Expect
Our tours are always private for up to 6 passengers as set by the US Coast Guard.
Get ready for an unforgettable day immersed in nature! Our private tours take you on a scenic journey through Southwest Florida’s pristine waters, filled with incredible wildlife encounters.
Your Adventure Includes:
✔ Wildlife Spotting – Search for dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, sharks, rays, large snails, and coastal birds as we cruise along the mangroves and nearshore waters. Every tour is unique!
✔ Barrier Island Beaches – We travel north to secluded barrier island beaches, covering approximately 30 nautical miles on a full-day tour.
✔ Seasonal Snorkeling (April–November) – In warmer months, explore the grass flats and beaches, where you can find beautiful shells and marine life.
✔ Waterfront Lunch Stop (Full-Day Tour) – Enjoy a meal at the iconic Cabbage Key or Tarpon Lodge, surrounded by stunning island views.
Mobility & Accessibility
Our tours are active and require mobility to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Please note:
✔ Boarding & Exiting the Boat – You’ll need to use a ladder (assisted) to get on and off the boat.
✔ Walking Through Water – Expect to walk through knee- to thigh-deep water to reach the beach.
✔ Getting Wet – Be prepared to get wet! While water shoes are recommended, they are not required.
We welcome all ages, but if you have any mobility limitations or special needs, please inform us in advance. We’ll do our best to accommodate you for a safe and memorable adventure!
Private excursion with Marine Biologist
Discover the fascinating world of estuarine marine habitats on an immersive guided tour with marine biologist Stefanie Plein, M.S. This unique experience allows you to dive deeper into grass flats, mangrove ecosystems, and pristine natural beaches, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how Southwest Florida’s marine systems function.
Interested in seashell identification? Stefanie will enhance your trip with expert knowledge, helping you uncover the secrets of our local shells!
Exclusive Guided Tour Add-On
✔ Half-Day with Stefanie: +$150
✔ Full-Day with Stefanie: +$200
Availability is limited! Contact us to book this one-of-a-kind marine science adventure.
Snorkeling for Seashells
When the water is calm and clear, we provide assorted snorkel gear for you to explore the shallow waters just off the beaches. This is one of the best ways to discover seashells, sand dollars, and other marine treasures often overlooked by beachgoers.
Important Snorkeling Details:
✔ Shallow-Water Snorkeling – Less than 5 feet deep, making it ideal for all skill levels.
✔ Weather Dependent – Snorkeling is only possible in calm conditions; strong winds may prevent access.
✔ Fins Not Required – Enjoy a relaxed snorkeling experience without the need for fins.
✔ Seasonal Activity – Snorkeling is typically available from April to November.
Respect Local Conservation Laws
⚠ It is illegal in Lee County, Florida, to collect live seashells (mollusks), sand dollars, and sea urchins (echinoderms). Please admire marine life responsibly!
Plan your trip with the possibility of snorkeling, but remember—Mother Nature has the final say!
Bald eagle on North Captiva Island
ANSWERING ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR CHARTER BOAT IN SANIBEL-Captiva, FLORIDA
General Information
✔ How many passengers can you accommodate?
Per U.S. Coast Guard regulations, we can take up to 6 passengers—no exceptions.
✔ We have 7 passengers, but one is an infant. Can we all come?
No. The 6-passenger limit applies to all souls on board, regardless of age.
✔ Do you have an age limit?
No, all ages are welcome!
✔ Where do you depart from?
We depart from Tween Waters Marina (15951 Captiva Drive).
✔ Where do you go?
We explore the undeveloped barrier islands of northern Pine Island Sound, home to stunning beaches, mangroves, and rich marine life.
✔ What will we see?
Expect to encounter bottlenose dolphins, manatees, seabirds, historical landmarks, and untouched island landscapes. We always observe wildlife responsibly—we never chase or harass animals, in accordance with the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) of 1972.
Shelling with New Wave
Onboard Experience
✔ Can I bring drinks and snacks?
Yes! We have a cooler with ice on board. We encourage guests to bring reusable water bottles to help reduce single-use plastics.
✔ Is there shade on the boat?
Yes!
✔ Is there a bathroom on board?
No, but we are never more than 10 minutes away from a restroom.
✔ Do you provide snorkel gear?
Yes! We provide snorkels and masks, but you’re welcome to bring your own. Snorkeling is available April–November, in shallow water where fins are not needed.
✔ Are your rates per person?
No, our pricing is per private trip, whether you have 1 or 6 passengers.
✔ Do you offer military, senior, or kids discounts?
No, as our guest count is limited by law, all passengers are considered equal.
✔ What type of payment do you accept?
We accept cash or credit card.
A sand dollar as large as your head
Booking & Cancellation
✔ What is your cancellation policy?
A deposit is required to reserve your tour.
Deposits are non-refundable, unless the Captain cancels due to bad weather or unforeseen boat issues.
If weather cancels your trip, we will reschedule if possible or fully refund your deposit.
Cancellations within one week of departure or no-shows forfeit the entire charter amount.
✔ Are you licensed and insured?
Yes! We are U.S. Coast Guard licensed and fully insured.
Ready for an unforgettable Gulf Coast adventure? Contact us today to book your Sanibel-Captiva private charter tour!
Captain Steve Plein
A native to Southwest Florida, Stephen fell in love with the water at an early age. From exploring the mangroves behind his childhood house to swimming in the Gulf waters he developed a deep understanding and appreciation for his surrounding marine environment. It was with this foundation that he formed his dream of sharing the importance of the recognition and conservation of local marine species and their ongoing protection.
After completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Miami, Plein led private kayak excursions on the islands of Captiva and Maui, where he honed his craft as an ocean guide.
Captain Steve holds a masters merchant marine credential and is a certified PADI rescue diver.
Stefanie Plein, M.S.
Marine Biologist
Stefanie draws from an extensive education and research in the marine biology field. She earned a Master of Science degree in Biology from Western Illinois University while studying the home range use patterns of resident bottlenose dolphin in the Adriatic Sea (Croatia). She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Ecology, Evolution, and Animal Behavior from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. Stefanie has studied manatee with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission and has volunteered for nine years with Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s sea turtle nesting program and FWC’s SWFL marine mammal stranding program.
Plein enjoys marine science education and has taught 3.5 years of Marine Biology to undergraduates at Florida Gulf Coast University.
Her love of photography has led her to becoming a two-time award winning international sea turtle photo contest winner for the Sea Turtle Conservancy ‘s Turtle Scenes Calendar
Plein is a certified PADI rescue diver.
Follow Stefanie’s adventures on instagram @stefsea
Dawson & Rackham, Retired First Mates
Dawson & his younger potcake brother Rackie love exploring endless white sandy beaches, playing with coconuts, and searching for seashells. They are both rescues - Dawson coming from the Miami shelter and Rackie from the streets of Turks and Caicos Islands. While they used to enjoy coming out on our eco tours, they are now both enjoying their retirement.
New Wave Official Merch Store
Our custom “Respect the Locals“ of Captiva Island vision has been brought to life!
Follow the adventure ON INSTAGRAM @CaptivaEcotours
Let’s get in touch!
Media
Comeback couple: Husband, wife lost home and business after Ian. Not their dreams
The Washington Post x Washington Post Creative Group x Visit Florida - Secrets of Florida
Matador Network x Visit Florida x Crocs x The Hambrick Family - A sweet stay in Sanibel
Wanderlust Travel Magazine - The ultimate guide to the wildlife of Florida
Wanderlust Travel Magazine - Florida: The wildlife destination you didn’t know existed
Wanderlust Travel Magazine - The best outdoor experiences in Fort Myers
Wanderlust Travel Magazine - Secret Florida: Rediscovering the Sunshine State
Island Sun Newspaper - UK Magazine to Feature Captiva Eco Business
Times of the Islands - Captiva's New Wave Eco Charters Aims To Navigate Waters As 'Stewards Of The Sea'
FlightNetwork - The 42 Absolute Best Eco-Adventures in the United States This Year
Sanibel-Captiva Islander Stephen Plein leads by example
Sugar and Soul - What to do in Fort Myers Beach, Florida
Prior to co-founding New Wave Eco Charters with her husband, Stefanie Plein (née Wolf) spent 3.5 years working as a Marine Naturalist for the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum. She was featured in the below publications.
Huffington Post - The Art of Shelling: Shellcationing in Sanibel and Captiva
Charleston Gazette-Mail WV Travel Team: Lessons about seashells on Sanibel Island
Sanibel-Captiva Islander Marine biologist’s travels led to dream job on Sanibel
Hire us for your next creative project!
We are able to act as talent, mode of local transportation, local guides, photographers, videographers, and content creators. Please contact us with your specific requests.
As Featured in Latitudes and Attitudes Magazine
Captain Steve rescued 3 sick/injured sea turtles in the span of 5 weeks. They were transported by SCCF and rehabilitated at Crow Clinic on Sanibel.
See the news link here.
Support Ocean Conservation
We’re excited to partner with Waterlust, an ocean conservation-driven apparel brand dedicated to protecting marine life. For over seven years, Stefanie has loved their whale shark leggings, praising their high-quality, eco-friendly design and commitment to giving back to marine conservation.
Founded by ocean science graduates from the University of Miami—Captain Steve’s alma mater—Waterlust combines science, sustainability, and style. Their apparel features unique, marine-inspired prints designed to raise awareness and support the conservation of endangered species and fragile ecosystems.
Why Choose Waterlust?
✔ 10% of profits support marine science research & education
✔ Eco-friendly fabrics: Made from recycled materials, resistant to chlorine, saltwater, and sunscreen
✔ UPF 50+ sun protection for outdoor adventures
✔ Quick-dry, ultra-soft, and durable performance gear
Whether you’re scuba diving, free-diving, hiking, kayaking, sailing, surfing, practicing yoga, or exploring nature, Waterlust apparel is designed for you.
