CAPTIVA ECO Tours
Discover the Best of Our Islands on a Private Eco Tour
Spend a full day exploring pristine beaches and fascinating marine life. Snorkel over shallow grass flats, search for seashells along unspoiled shorelines, and watch wildlife in its natural habitat. Hands-on and immersive, this tour is perfect for all ages.
What’s Included
✔ Private boat tour with a knowledgeable local captain
✔ Snorkeling, shelling, and wildlife viewing
✔ Stops at hidden beaches and sandbars
✔ Lunch at a waterfront island restaurant (full-day charters)
✔ Chances to spot bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, and shorebirds
Lunch Options – Island Dining Experience
Cabbage Key – A Remote Island Retreat
A secluded 100-acre island. Reachable only by boat, Cabbage Key delivers Old Florida charm, shaded nature trails, and sweeping views of Cayo Costa and the Gulf of Mexico from its historic water tower.
The famous Cabbage Key Inn. Order a classic island lunch of fresh Gulf shrimp or a juicy cheeseburger in paradise.
Wildlife and history. Wander quiet trails, look for native gopher tortoises, and explore an ancient Calusa shell midden, the historic foundation of the Inn.
Tarpon Lodge – A Hidden Old Florida Gem
Old Florida charm. Set on Pine Island’s western shore, this historic waterfront lodge offers peaceful, crowd-free dining with beautiful bay views.
Fresh, locally sourced seafood. Enjoy the best of the Gulf Coast at a family-owned restaurant with deep local roots.
Randell Research Center. After lunch, visit another ancient Calusa shell midden, one of the highest natural points in Lee County, and learn about the people who built it.
Why Choose Our Eco Tours?
✔ Early morning departure to beat the crowds and the heat
✔ Customizable itinerary so you set the pace
✔ Expert local guides who share the area’s history and ecology
✔ Swimming & snorkeling in the warmer months
✔ Hands-on exploration of marine life, hidden beaches, and unique ecosystems
✔ Small group, private tours for a personal, crowd-free adventure
✔ Unforgettable encounters with dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and more
Full-Day Eco Charter – 6-Hour Private Boat Tour
$950 per private boat (up to 6 passengers)
Daily, 8 AM to 2 PM
Prefer a Shorter Adventure? Try Our Half-Day Eco Tour!
Morning tour: 8 AM to 12 PM
Afternoon tour: 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM
$650 per boat (up to 6 passengers)
Lunch stop not included on half-day tours
“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?
Hands-on, immersive tours. We go beyond sightseeing, with real exploration of Captiva and Sanibel’s marine life, secluded beaches, and diverse ecosystems.
Expert local captains. Our guides share insight into the area’s wildlife, conservation, and history, so you leave knowing more than when you stepped aboard.
Hidden gems, off the beaten path. We take you to remote shelling spots and mangrove islands that most visitors never see.
Private and personal. Small, crowd-free charters tailored to your interests, whether that’s snorkeling, dolphin watching, or a relaxed day on the water.
Flexible itineraries. Choose a full-day adventure or our shorter half-day trip, and we’ll shape it around your interests, pace, and group size.
Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters Watch dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds in their natural habitat on a trip that’s different every time.
Ready to get out on the water? Book your private eco tour today and see the best of Southwest Florida’s natural beauty.
What to Expect
Our tours are always private, with a maximum of 6 passengers as set by the US Coast Guard.
Get ready for a day immersed in nature. Our private tours take you on a scenic journey through Southwest Florida’s pristine waters, with wildlife encounters around every bend.
Your Adventure Includes
✔ Wildlife spotting. Search for dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, sharks, rays, large sea snails, and coastal birds as we cruise along the mangroves and nearshore waters. No two tours are the same.
✔ Barrier island beaches. Head north to secluded barrier island beaches, covering roughly 30 nautical miles on a full-day tour.
✔ Seasonal snorkeling (April to November). In the warmer months, explore the grass flats and beaches, search for beautiful shells, and watch marine life up close.
✔ Waterfront lunch stop (full-day tour). Enjoy a meal at the iconic Cabbage Key or Tarpon Lodge, with island views all around.
Mobility & Accessibility
Our tours are active and require a moderate level of mobility to keep everyone safe and comfortable. Please note:
✔ Boarding and exiting. You’ll use a ladder (with assistance) to get on and off the boat.
✔ Walking through water. Expect to wade through knee- to thigh-deep water to reach the beach.
✔ Getting wet. Come prepared to get wet! Water shoes are recommended but not required.
We welcome guests of all ages. If you have any mobility limitations or special needs, please let us know in advance so we can do our best to accommodate you and plan a safe, enjoyable day.
Snorkeling for Seashells
When the water is calm and clear, we provide a variety of snorkel gear so you can explore the shallows just off the beaches. It’s one of the best ways to spot seashells, sand dollars, and other marine treasures that most beachgoers walk right past.
Snorkeling Details
✔ Shallow water. Less than 5 feet deep, ideal for all skill levels.
✔ Weather dependent. Snorkeling is only possible in calm conditions, and strong winds may limit access.
✔ Fins not required. Enjoy a relaxed snorkel without the extra gear.
✔ Seasonal. Snorkeling is typically available from April to November.
Respect Local Conservation Laws
⚠ It is illegal in Lee County, Florida, to collect live shells (mollusks), sand dollars, or sea urchins (echinoderms). Please look, admire, and leave live marine life where you found it.
Snorkeling is a bonus when conditions allow, and Mother Nature makes the final call.
Bald eagle on North Captiva Island
General Information
✔ How many passengers can you accommodate?
Up to 6 passengers, per U.S. Coast Guard regulations. This limit is firm.
✔ We have 7 passengers, but one is an infant. Can we all come?
Unfortunately, no. The 6-passenger limit includes everyone on board, regardless of age.
✔ Do you have an age limit?
No, all ages are welcome!
✔ Where do you depart from?
We depart from a few different locations on Captiva Island. Your departure point will be confirmed when you book.
✔ Where do you go?
We explore the undeveloped barrier islands of northern Pine Island Sound, home to beautiful beaches, mangroves, and rich marine life.
✔ What will we see?
Bottlenose dolphins, manatees, seabirds, historic landmarks, and wild island scenery. We always observe wildlife responsibly and never chase or harass animals, in keeping with the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972.
Shelling with New Wave
Onboard Experience
✔ Can I bring drinks and snacks?
Yes! We have a cooler with ice on board. Reusable water bottles are encouraged to help cut down on single-use plastic.
✔ Is there shade on the boat?
Yes, the boat has shade.
✔ Is there a bathroom on board?
No, but we are never more than 10 minutes from a restroom.
✔ Do you provide snorkel gear?
Yes! We provide masks and snorkels, and you’re welcome to bring your own. Snorkeling is available April to November in shallow water, and fins are not needed.
✔ Are your rates per person?
No. Pricing is per private trip, whether you have 1 or 6 passengers.
✔ What types of payment do you accept?
We accept cash and major credit cards.
A sand dollar as large as your head
Booking and Cancellation
✔ What is your cancellation policy?
A $200 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 made within one week of departure, and no-shows, are charged the full charter amount.
✔ Are you licensed and insured?
Yes! Our captains are U.S. Coast Guard licensed, and we are fully insured.
Ready to get out on the water? Contact us today to book your private Sanibel-Captiva charter.
New Wave Official Merch Store
Our custom “Respect the Locals“ of Captiva Island vision has been brought to life!
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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
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.
We’re proud to partner with Waterlust, an apparel brand dedicated to protecting marine life. Stefanie has worn their whale shark leggings for more than seven years and loves the quality, the eco-friendly design, and the way the brand gives back to ocean conservation.
Waterlust was founded by ocean science graduates from the University of Miami, Captain Steve’s alma mater. Their marine-inspired prints are designed to raise awareness and support the protection of endangered species and fragile ecosystems.
Why We Love Waterlust
✔ Gives back. 10% of profits support marine science research and education.
✔ Made from recycled materials. Fabrics resist chlorine, saltwater, and sunscreen.
✔ Sun protection. UPF 50+ for long days outdoors.
✔ Built to perform. Quick-dry, ultra-soft, and durable.
Whether you’re diving, hiking, kayaking, sailing, surfing, or practicing yoga, Waterlust is made to move with you.
Shop Waterlust
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