Naples & Marco Island: Catamaran Sunset Sail with Drinks

4.85

(608 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

We were already slipping past the mangroves when I realized how quiet it gets out there—just the soft slap of water against the hull and someone’s laugh drifting over from the bow. Captain Kelly (she grew up around here) pointed out a pair of dolphins weaving alongside us, like they were showing off for our little group. It’s funny how quickly you forget about your phone when there’s salt in the air and pelicans overhead. The sun was still high but you could feel that late-afternoon warmth starting to settle in.

I didn’t expect to actually get in the water, but after we anchored near what looked like a deserted beach, everyone just sort of slid overboard—so I followed. The sand was cool underfoot and I found this perfect spiral shell (no idea what it’s called). A couple of kids were chasing tiny crabs while someone else tried to spot manatees, though I think we just saw more birds. There was a moment where everything went quiet except for the wind and that low hum from the boat’s radio—kind of peaceful, honestly.

On the way back, they brought out cold beer and white wine—nothing fancy but it hit right after swimming. If you’re doing the sunset cruise instead (I heard it’s shorter), they hand out champagne as soon as the sky starts going pink over Rookery Bay. I tried to get a photo but ended up just watching instead. Our group toasted with plastic cups while Captain Kelly told us about growing up fishing these waters—she made it sound like home. Still think about that light on the water sometimes, you know?