Cape Coral private pontoon tour

Question

Hi all. Can you give me info on a 4 to 6 hour private boat or pontoon tour to islands and dolphins that can accommodate 6 adults plus 2 children

Coming late March. Thanks you

Answer

Great question — there are several very good private boat or pontoon-style tour options out of Cape Coral (or nearby) that run for 4-6 hours (and even longer) which are well-suited to a family of 6 adults + 2 children. Here are some top picks and what you can expect, plus tips for booking and planning.

Beach Buddy Tours – 4-Hour Private Boat Tour to Sanibel/Islands
This tour leaves from Cape Coral via their location on Del Prado Blvd. It cruises through Cape Coral canals, the Caloosahatchee River, and into the Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve. You’ll visit points around Sanibel Island (including the Sanibel Lighthouse) and often see dolphins and native birds. There’s also a swim-stop for shelling on a Sanibel beach.

Capacity & suitability: Their “4-hour private boat” version is listed for up to 6 people, so you might need to double-check with them whether they can accommodate 8 (or break your group into two smaller tours).
Beach Buddy Tours – 3-Hour Island & Dolphin Tour
If you prefer a shorter option, they also run a 3-hour tour that includes dolphin-watching, nature cruising, and a stop at the Sanibel Lighthouse area.

Capacity & suitability: This one is also for up to 6 people, so similar capacity constraints apply.
Cape Coral / FMS Florida Boat Tours – Half-Day Private Dolphin Watching Tour
This is a 5-hour tour (their “Half Day Boat Tour including Dolphin watching”), run by FMS Florida Boat Tours (captain Alex Feix). You’ll likely cruise through islands like North Captiva or around Sanibel, watch for dolphins, and potentially stop for lunch or beach time.

Capacity & cost: Private tours are for up to 6 people, includes captain, fuel, and soft drinks for the 5-hr version.
Dolphin Boat Tours (Captain Martin)
These are very customizable private boat tours. Options include “Dolphin & Sightseeing Day Boat Tour,” an “Exclusive Sand Bar Full Day Tour,” island adventures, and more.

Capacity & notes: Because the tours are private and designed for your group, you’ll need to ask Captain Martin what size of boat he’ll assign for 8 people (6 adults + 2 kids). He’s very familiar with local waters (shallow spots, mangroves, etc.), which is great for a relaxed and safe ride.
Banana Bay Tour Company – Dolphin Ecological & Island Tour
This company offers eco-oriented tours that combine dolphin watching with a visit to remote islands accessible only by boat. Their “Dolphin Half Day Ecological Cruise” takes you into mangrove creeks and around Sanibel, with possible stops for shelling or swimming.

Capacity & style: These are typically group or semi-private, but you can often work with them to reserve a private boat depending on demand. Their focus is on nature, wildlife education, and low-impact cruising.
Coastal Friends LLC – Private Hidden-Beach & Dolphin Tour
This is a very “laid-back” private boat ride where you can explore hidden beaches, look for dolphins, paddleboard, or just relax in the sun.

Capacity & features: Their boat holds up to 6 people per trip. They provide shade, beach gear, and even paddleboards for stops.
RBNB Charters – 4-Hour Private Charter
RBNB Charters offers 4-hour private charters (e.g., their 30-ft Scarab center console) for cruising, dolphin spotting, or island hopping.

Capacity: Their 30-ft Scarab is suitable for smaller groups, but because you have 8 people, it's important to call and confirm how many they can safely accommodate depending on age/size of children.

Things to Consider & Tips:

Group Size: Many of these tour operators list a maximum of 6 people for their standard “private” tours. Since you have 8 people, you will need to reach out to them in advance to confirm whether they can accommodate the extra passengers or if they’ll charge for a larger boat or “extra seat.”
Duration: For a 4–6 hour window, the 4-hour Beach Buddy tour or the 5-hour FMS half-day tour are likely your best fits. If you’re okay extending a little, some providers may do 6-hour custom tours. Ask them if they can adjust the itinerary.
What to Bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, snorkel gear (optional), towels, light snacks, and water are all good to bring. For beach stops, bring shoes safe for walking on shells.
Wildlife & Dolphin Sightings: While most tours have a good chance of seeing dolphins, sightings are never guaranteed. Tours that focus on nature and quieter areas (like Eco-tours) can increase your chances.
Weather: Late March is generally good boating weather in SW Florida, but always check the forecast close to your tour date. Calm mornings tend to be better for wildlife viewing.
Booking: Because spring break season can be busy, it’s wise to book your boat tour ahead of time so you can reserve a private boat and ensure space for all 8 people.

In summary: There are several very solid private boating options out of Cape Coral that offer island-hopping, dolphin watching, and leisurely cruising. If you call ahead to clarify capacity (since you’re 8 people), one of these tours should give you the perfect 4–6 hour day on the water.

Cape Coral private pontoon tour

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