A must-see tour for locals and tourists alike, Banana Bay Tour Company in beautiful Cape Coral, Florida, delivers an unforgettable experience.
With exceptional tours led by passionate staff, this attraction is perfect for anyone eager to explore the region's stunning natural beauty and luxurious waterfront lifestyle.
Here's a detailed review of my recent experience with them.
Getting Started
The tour begins with parking conveniently in the large parking garage near Rumrunners.
From there, you walk over to the dock area behind Rumrunners, where the boat is clearly visible.
You should arrive 15 minutes prior to departure so that everyone is checked-in and ready to depart.
Arriving before this doesn’t mean that you get a front row seat. They often have a seating plan to ensure all groups can be seated together.
That being said, I was able to get a front row seat.
The Tour Experience
Dual Tour: Homes and Dolphins
I opted for the Homes Tour, which also included a Dolphin Tour for that specific day—a delightful bonus. The Dolphin Tour was cancelled that day so that tour was added to the Homes Harbour and Nature tour.
The journey began with a smooth ride toward the Sanibel Bridge, where the beauty of the Gulf area unfolded.
The captain and tour guide were extremely knowledgeable and provided fascinating insights about the dolphins and the surrounding area.
A Dolphin Lover’s Paradise
The dolphin sightings were the highlight of the trip.
We saw numerous groups of dolphins, some leaping high out of the water and others chasing wake of boats passing by. The dolphins often went under our boat while we were still.
It was incredible to watch these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
The captain and guide shared valuable information about dolphin behavior, which added an educational element to the experience.
Scenic Mangroves and Bird Watching
The tour also included a serene journey through the mangrove forest.
The calm waters and abundant birdlife created a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
The guides were eager to point out various bird species and answer any questions about the local ecosystem.
Exploring Extravagant Homes
After the nature portion, we turned our attention to Cape Coral's luxury homes.
The guide provided detailed stories about some of the most extravagant properties, including those with waterfalls and unique architectural designs. This part of the tour offered a glimpse into the upscale lifestyle of the area.
Helpful Tips
- Arrive Early: To get the best seats in the front, arrive at least 15-20 minutes before boarding.
- Dress Appropriately: The day was a bit windy, and the guides recommended bringing a jacket, which was a helpful tip. It's colder out on the water than on land.
- Amenities: The boat is equipped with a bathroom, making the journey comfortable.
- What To Bring: Bring a camera and binoculars to check out all the wildlife.
- Alcohol Policy: You can bring your own alcohol such as beer. You cannot bring red wine or hard liquor.
- Tipping: It's encouraged to give gratuity if you had a good experience. In Cape Coral that is 15%, in cash.
Exceptional Service
The captain and guide were outstanding. Their passion for the area and its wildlife was evident in their detailed explanations and willingness to answer every question.
Their enthusiasm enhanced the experience, making it both informative and enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Banana Bay Tour Company exceeded my expectations by delivering a comprehensive and memorable tour.
From the breathtaking dolphin encounters to the serene mangroves and luxurious home views, every moment was filled with awe and excitement.
Returning through and docking in Cape Harbour was a perfect way to end the journey.
The tour was punctual, offered incredible value, and left me with a newfound appreciation for Cape Coral's natural beauty and upscale lifestyle.
I highly recommend this tour for families, couples, and anyone looking for a unique way to explore the area.
Book Your Tour
Banana Bay Tour Company offers several different tour options, including:
- Dolphin Half Day Ecological Cruise
- Rumrunners Dolphin & Sunset Cruise
- Dolphin Nature Search
- Homes & Harbour Tour
Book you tour with Banana Bay Tour Company now!
