Sharkeys Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour in Sarasota

Sharkey’s Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour in Sarasota offers an immersive, after-dark exploration of the city’s vibrant waterways. Gliding through mangroves and grass flats in illuminated kayaks, participants can observe a diverse array of marine life while interacting with local fish. As the tour unfolds against the backdrop of the iconic Ringling Causeway Bridge and Sarasota skyline, the experience promises to be both captivating and memorable. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique adventure, this tour provides a remarkable opportunity to connect with Sarasota’s aquatic ecosystem in a whole new light.

Key Points

• Unique glass-bottom kayak tour in Sarasota, allowing visitors to explore the waterways and observe diverse marine life at night.
• Opportunity to feed fish and spot crabs, stingrays, and shrimp while paddling through mangroves and grass flats.
• Stunning views of the Ringling Causeway Bridge and Sarasota skyline, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.
• Maximum of 18 travelers for a 1-hour 15-minute immersive experience, with USCG certified life vests and LED-equipped kayaks.
• Convenient pickup location at the Ken Thompson Boat Ramp near the Mote Marine Aquarium.

Overview of the Tour

This nighttime glass-bottom kayak tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Sarasota’s picturesque waterways and discover its diverse marine life under the illumination of LED lights.

Paddling through mangroves and grass flats, participants can spot crabs, stingrays, shrimp, and even feed fish.

The tour also provides stunning views of the Ringling Causeway Bridge and the Sarasota skyline.

With a maximum of 18 travelers, this 1-hour 15-minute experience allows guests to enjoy the beauty of Sarasota’s natural wonders.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this LED night tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Unique Tour Features

The glass-bottom kayaks outfitted with LED lights set this nighttime tour apart, allowing participants to peer into the underwater world of Sarasota’s waterways after dark.

As kayakers paddle through the mangroves and grass flats, they’ll spot an array of marine life, including crabs, stingrays, and shrimp. The tour also provides fish food, giving guests the unique opportunity to feed the local fish population and watch them swarm the kayaks.

The illuminated nighttime setting creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, with the Ringling Causeway Bridge and Sarasota skyline providing a stunning backdrop. These one-of-a-kind features make this tour a truly immersive and memorable experience for nature enthusiasts exploring the region’s waterways.

Exploring Sarasota’s Waterways

Sarasota’s waterways offer a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and marine life.

During the Sharkeys Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour, guests can paddle through the mangroves and grass flats in glass-bottom kayaks. This allows them to observe an array of fascinating creatures, including crabs, stingrays, and shrimp, as well as spot the iconic Ringling Causeway Bridge and Sarasota skyline.

The LED lights in the kayaks create a mesmerizing glow, enhancing the nighttime experience. As participants feed the fish, they’ll witness firsthand the vibrant underwater ecosystem teeming with life.

This unique tour offers an unforgettable way to explore Sarasota’s captivating waterways and discover the diversity of its marine habitats.

Sighting Marine Life

One of the highlights of the Sharkeys Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour is the opportunity to spot a variety of captivating marine life as participants paddle through the serene waterways.

Guests can expect to see crabs, stingrays, and shrimp scurrying about, as well as schools of fish that eagerly approach the kayaks to feed.

The glass-bottom design of the kayaks allows for exceptional visibility, enabling travelers to peer into the underwater world and observe the vibrant plant life flourishing in the grass flats and mangroves.

This unique tour provides an immersive and educational experience, allowing visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for Sarasota’s diverse aquatic ecosystem.

Encountering the Ringling Causeway

As participants glide through the serene waters, the iconic Ringling Causeway Bridge comes into view, illuminating the Sarasota skyline with its striking architectural design. The bridge, spanning 1.06 miles, serves as a prominent landmark, connecting the mainland to Lido Key and offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding waterways.

Feature	Description
Length	1.06 miles
Construction	Opened in 1926, it underwent a major renovation in 2003
Architecture	Featuring a distinctive Mediterranean Revival style
Illumination	Illuminated at night, creating a captivating display
Views	Offers panoramic views of Sarasota Bay and the city skyline

The kayakers are treated to a unique perspective of this iconic structure, as they paddle beneath its majestic arches and bask in the glow of the city’s nighttime splendor.

What’s Included in the Tour

The tour package comes equipped with USCG certified life vests, complete with whistles, allowing participants to stay safe and adhere to boating regulations. Plus, the tour provides fish food, enabling guests to engage with the marine life up close, as well as bottled water to keep them hydrated throughout the experience.

Double-seated kayaks for a shared experience with a partner.

LED lights mounted on the glass-bottom kayaks, illuminating the waterways for a unique night-time adventure.

Access to the mangroves and grass flats, where visitors can spot crabs, stingrays, shrimp, and other fascinating marine life.

Stunning views of the Ringling Causeway Bridge and the Sarasota skyline, creating a picturesque backdrop for the tour.

Meeting and Pickup Location

The tour departs from the Ken Thompson Boat Ramp, located at 1708 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236, which is conveniently situated near the Mote Marine Aquarium.

This meeting location is easy to find and provides ample parking for participants. The boat ramp offers direct access to the waterways, allowing a seamless start to the adventure.

Guests can arrive at the designated meeting point and check-in with the tour operators before embarking on the guided excursion.

The proximity to the Mote Marine Aquarium also makes this an ideal starting point, as visitors can easily combine the tour with a visit to the renowned marine research and education institution.

Additional Tour Details

Kayaks used on the tour are double-seated and may prove unstable for combined weight exceeding 400 lbs. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation and is stroller accessible.

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, providing ample time to explore Sarasota’s waterways and witness the stunning sunset and illuminated night scenery.

A maximum of 18 travelers can participate in the tour, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

USCG certified life vests with whistles are provided, ensuring the safety of all participants.

Bottled water and fish food are included, allowing you to stay hydrated and interact with the marine life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no specific age restrictions for this tour. However, children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for all ages, though younger participants may require additional assistance.

Can I Bring My Own Kayak or Equipment?

You can’t bring your own kayak or equipment on this tour. The tour provides all the necessary gear, including double-seated kayaks, life vests, and fish food. Participants must use the equipment provided by the tour operator.

What Happens if It Rains During the Tour?

If it rains during the tour, the company will likely continue the tour as planned. They have experience operating in various weather conditions and provide rain ponchos for participants if needed to keep them dry and comfortable throughout the experience.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Fish Food?

The tour provides fish food for guests to feed the fish, but there are no specific dietary restrictions. Participants should be aware that the fish food may not be suitable for individuals with certain allergies or dietary needs.

Can I Take Pictures or Videos During the Tour?

Participants can take pictures and videos during the tour. The tour operators encourage capturing the scenic views and unique wildlife encounters. However, flash photography may disturb the animals, so it’s best to use natural light when possible.

Recap

Sarasota’s captivating glass-bottom kayak tour offers an unforgettable adventure.

Paddling through the city’s vibrant waterways, participants can observe an array of marine life while the kayaks are illuminated by mesmerizing LED lights.

The tour provides the unique opportunity to feed local fish, immersing guests in the diverse aquatic ecosystem.

Set against the iconic Ringling Causeway Bridge, this tour promises an unparalleled experience under the Sarasota skyline.