After living in Marco Island for years, I finally took the plunge and did something I’ve wanted to experience for so long—the Rookery Bay ‘Essence of the Estuary’ nature cruise. This is a special experience I’ve heard about countless times, but for some reason, I never quite got around to it. Today, that all changes, and I couldn’t be more excited!
I set out from Marco Island to Isle of Capri under clear, sunny skies—ideal weather for immersing myself in Florida’s wild beauty. The Rookery Bay Nature Center, our meeting point, was my first stop. Right away, I loved the peaceful, welcoming atmosphere and the sense of purpose here. Rookery Bay is dedicated to protecting Florida’s coastal waters, which makes it the perfect gateway to understanding and experiencing the estuary’s unique ecosystem.
Upon arrival, I met Winston, our tour guide and a scientist with the reserve. Winston’s passion and depth of knowledge about the estuary and its importance were immediately clear. He’s dedicated to educating visitors and connecting us with this delicate ecosystem, and his enthusiasm was contagious. When you come on this tour, be sure to ask for him! As someone who’s always loved nature but hasn’t had many guided experiences like this, I knew I was in for a treat.
Once we boarded the boat, we set sail into the calm, reflective waters of the estuary. The serenity around us was incredible—it felt as though we were worlds away from the busy mainland. Winston began sharing insights into the estuary’s ecosystem, from the role of the surrounding mangroves to the different species of plants and animals that thrive here. This wasn’t just a scenic ride; it was a full educational experience, and it gave me a new perspective on the interconnectedness of the natural world around us.
And then, as if on cue, nature put on a show for us. A pod of dolphins appeared nearby, playfully darting through the water! Watching them in their natural habitat, so close to the boat, was surreal. Out guide then pointed out an eagle soaring high above us, completing the picture of pristine Florida wilderness. Moments like these remind me of just how precious these ecosystems are and how fortunate we are to have access to them. It’s easy to forget about the magic of these places when they’re just in your backyard, but today was a powerful reminder.
Eventually, we arrived at Keewayden Island. I’ve seen my share of beautiful places, but Keewayden has an untouched quality that’s truly unique. Sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and a sense of isolation make it feel like a hidden paradise. Winston shared some fascinating details about the island’s plant life and wildlife, showing us how much care and respect go into preserving this natural habitat. By the time we left, I felt a renewed appreciation for Florida’s coastline and the people working to keep it as unspoiled as possible.
After our incredible journey, I returned to Marco Island feeling energized—and more than ready for lunch. My next stop was Lee Be Fish, a casual spot in the Shops of Old Marco with some of the best seafood in town. I ordered a fish taco, and it did not disappoint. It was huge, fresh, and packed with flavor—the perfect end to a day of adventure.
Looking back, the Rookery Bay ‘Essence of the Estuary’ tour was everything I’d hoped for and more. I’m grateful for the experience and to Winston for sharing his expertise. This journey through one of look Florida’s most beautiful ecosystems has been unforgettable, and I hope it encourages others to explore and appreciate this remarkable area.
Thank you for joining me on this adventure!
Let’s connect:
Book your SWFL eco tour https://rookerybay.org
Watch the full length vlog with lots of scenic nature footage here
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