Business Details
8 Years
experience
Unforgettable Private Boat Tours in Venice, Florida
Seas the Day Charters, founded in 2018, is a premier boat tour service based in Nokomis, Florida. Led by U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captain John Gerhardt, the company combines decades of maritime expertise with personalized service to create unforgettable experiences. Captain Johns lifelong connection to Floridas coastal waters, spanning over 30 years of boating and sailing, ensures deep local knowledge and exceptional guidance. The companys flagship vessel, The Manta, a 26-foot custom catamaran, offers stability, comfort, and advanced safety features for up to six passengers. Services include sunset cruises, dolphin watching, and fully customizable private tours tailored to guest preferences. With a perfect 5-star rating across platforms and over 150 reviews, the business prioritizes customer satisfaction through attention to detail, complimentary photography, and seamless logistics.The teams commitment to safety is underscored by Coast Guard-certified equipment and a veteran captains expertise. Each tour emphasizes immersive exploration of Floridas marine ecosystems, historic sites, and hidden gems. The companys dedication to creating lasting memories is reflected in its flexible booking options, last-minute availability, and personalized amenities like onboard coolers and Bluetooth audio. This combination of experience, service excellence, and unique offerings has established Seas the Day Charters as a trusted leader in Southwest Floridas tourism industry.
Services
Sunset Cruises
Dolphin Watching
Custom Boat Tours
Tiki Bar Visits
Wildlife Exploration
Details
- Year established: 2018
Highlights and features
- Perfect 5-star rating with over 150 reviews across platforms
- Certified master captain with 30+ years of boating experience
- Fully customizable tours tailored to guest preferences
- Complimentary professional photography and video documentation
- Coast Guard-certified safety equipment on all vessels
Associations and certifications
- U.S. Coast Guard
What people say
Amazing experience
BEST time
10/10 recommend
Knowledgeable and fun
Memorable adventure
Services
Sunset Cruises
Experience breathtaking sunset cruises along Floridas Gulf Coast aboard The Manta catamaran. These 2-3 hour tours combine scenic beauty with personalized service, featuring prime sunset viewing locations, onboard music systems, and professional photography. Passengers consistently praise the romantic atmosphere, smooth ride, and unique opportunities to witness phenomena like the 'Green Flash' sunset.
Dolphin Watching
Join expert-led dolphin watching excursions that leverage Captain Johns intimate knowledge of local marine habitats. These tours guarantee dolphin sightings through strategic route planning while also offering encounters with manatees, sea turtles, and exotic bird species. The stable catamaran design allows for clear viewing and safe wildlife interaction opportunities in their natural environment.
Custom Boat Tours
Design your ideal water adventure with fully customizable private charters. Options range from 2-hour quick trips to full-day excursions combining multiple activities like shelling, snorkeling, tiki bar hopping, and historic site visits. The flexible itineraries accommodate special occasions including birthdays, anniversaries, and family reunions with themed decorations and amenities.
Tiki Bar Tours
Explore Southwest Floridas iconic tiki bar scene via scenic water routes connecting popular destinations like the historic Pops Restaurant. These tours combine cultural experiences with natural beauty, featuring stops at waterside establishments accessible only by boat. Guests enjoy seamless transitions between sightseeing and socializing with onboard refreshments and expert navigation.
Wildlife Exploration
Discover Floridas diverse ecosystems through guided nature tours showcasing marine life, coastal birds, and unique geological formations. The Mantas specialized design enables access to protected areas like bird rookeries and mangrove forests while maintaining environmental responsibility. Educational commentary enhances the experience with insights about local ecology and conservation efforts.
People
Captain John Gerhardt
Owner & Master Captain
A U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captain with 30+ years of maritime experience, John combines lifelong Florida coastal knowledge with professional expertise. Former hospital chaplain background brings compassionate service approach to tourism. Personal passion for water-based healing experiences drives the companys customer-centric philosophy.
Wendy Gerhardt
First Mate
Captain Johns wife and partner of 37 years, Wendy serves as onboard hostess with extensive boating experience. Provides guest support, photography assistance, and hospitality services during tours. Her familiarity with the vessel and routes enhances passenger comfort and safety.
Questions
What types of tours does Seas the Day Charters offer?
We offer sunset cruises, dolphin watching excursions, tiki bar tours, and fully customizable private charters ranging from 2 hours to full-day adventures.
Can I customize my boat tour itinerary?
Yes! All private tours are fully customizable. Captain John works with guests to create personalized itineraries combining wildlife viewing, historic sites, and recreational activities.
What safety measures are in place?
The Manta catamaran has Coast Guard-certified safety equipment, including life jackets for all passengers and emergency communication devices. Captain John holds a 50 GRT Coastal Master license.
Are photos and videos included?
Yes! Captain John provides complimentary professional photography and video documentation throughout your tour, with digital files shared post-experience.
What should I bring on the boat tour?
Recommended items include sunscreen, hats, polarized sunglasses, swimwear, and reef-safe sunblock. We provide coolers with water, ice, and charging facilities.
How many passengers can join?
The Manta catamaran accommodates up to six passengers per U.S. Coast Guard regulations, ensuring personalized attention and optimal comfort.
Videos