Business Details
40 Years
experience
Your Premier Boat Tour Experience in Captiva Island
Since 1986, McCarthy's Marina & Cottages has provided premium maritime experiences along Florida's Gulf Coast. Our family-owned operation maintains docks at McCarthys Marina and South Seas Island Resort, offering access to historic waterways and natural attractions. We specialize in curated excursions to Cabbage Key, Useppa Island, and Cayo Costa State Park, with specialized dolphin-watching, shelling, and sunset cruises. Private charter services accommodate weddings, reunions, and corporate events with personalized itineraries. Our marina facility provides 12 boat slips with daily and annual rental options, complemented by a full-service gift shop and provisioning center. With over three decades of local expertise, we combine operational excellence with environmental stewardship to protect the region's natural heritage.Our team maintains active community involvement through conservation initiatives and historical preservation efforts. The current ownership has dedicated more than 20 years to maintaining our reputation as a trusted local maritime partner. Our docks serve as a gateway to Captiva Island's cultural and ecological treasures, supported by partnerships with local businesses and accommodations. Through strategic investments in fleet maintenance and staff training, we ensure safe, educational, and memorable experiences for every guest.
Services
Dolphin & Wildlife Cruises
Beach & Shelling Excursions
Sunset Cruises
Private Charters
Boat Docking Services
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1986 with deep local knowledge
- Specialized eco-heritage tours to protected destinations
- Full-service marina with convenient docking options
- Experienced crew with 20+ years average tenure
- Strategic partnerships with island accommodations and businesses
Services
Dolphin & Wildlife Cruises
Our guided wildlife cruises explore Florida's coastal ecosystems with expert commentary on marine life and habitats. Guests observe dolphins in their natural environment while learning about local conservation efforts. The 2-hour excursions depart from McCarthys Marina with guaranteed sightings or a complimentary return trip.
Private Charters
Custom private charters accommodate special events from intimate weddings to corporate outings with personalized itineraries. Our vessels feature onboard amenities and professional crew for occasions requiring exclusive use of our maritime resources.
Boat Docking Services
McCarthys Marina provides secure docking for vessels up to 25 feet with daily and annual slip options. Our historic facility includes 12 wet slips and proximity to island attractions while maintaining strict no-liveaboard policies.
Sunset Cruises
Daily sunset cruises showcase Florida's renowned coastal vistas with educational narration about local history and ecology. These 1.5-hour voyages include complimentary refreshments and photography opportunities of the Gulf Coast's natural beauty.
Beach & Shelling Excursions
Guided beach excursions visit protected shorelines with exceptional shell collecting opportunities and marine life observation. Naturalist-led tours explain coastal geology while ensuring environmentally responsible exploration of designated state park areas.
People
Paul McCarthy
Founder
Established McCarthy's Marina & Cottages in 1986 after acquiring Andys Fishing Pier. Active in local conservation organizations, he transformed the marina into a community hub while preserving its historical legacy for over two decades.
Andy Rosse
Historical Proprietor
Purchased City Dock in 1940, establishing the waterfront saloon that became McCarthys Marina. Hosted notable figures like J.N. Ding Darling and maintained the islands vital supply connections until the Sanibel Causeway opened.
Questions
What types of cruises does Captiva Cruises offer?
We offer dolphin & wildlife cruises, beach & shelling excursions, sunset cruises, and private charters for special events.
Can I dock my personal boat at McCarthys Marina?
Yes, we have 12 boat slips available for daily or annual rental with vessel size restrictions up to 25 feet.
Are fishing charters available through Captiva Cruises?
We provide recommendations for licensed local fishing guides who operate independently from our marina facilities.
What historical significance does McCarthys Marina hold?
Established in the 1920s, our marina has served as a community hub since the 1940s and maintains original structures from Andy Rosse's original waterfront saloon.
What amenities are available at McCarthys Marina?
Our gift shop offers boating essentials, souvenirs, ice, beverages, and sunscreen with convenient access to nearby restaurants and accommodations.
How do I reserve a boat slip at McCarthys Marina?
Call 239-472-5200 directly for slip reservations, as 90% of our wet slips are available on a first-come basis.
