Fort Myers Beach: Adults only BYOB Tiki Pub Daytime Cruise

Imagine floating along calm waters with good friends, your favorite drinks in hand, and the chance to spot playful dolphins—all in just two hours. That’s essentially what the Fort Myers Beach BYOB Tiki Pub Cruise offers. This lively, social outing is designed for adults who enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, scenic views, and a bit of sunshine. It’s not a fancy luxury cruise, but rather a fun, budget-friendly way to connect with others and enjoy Fort Myers’ waterways.

What we love about this experience are the casual, friendly vibe and the opportunity for memorable photos with dolphins and the stunning scenery. A big plus is the bring-your-own-beverage policy, which adds a layer of laid-back flexibility. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that there’s a parking fee—which isn’t always clearly disclosed upfront—something that can leave a sour taste for some travelers.

This cruise is well-suited for groups of friends, couples looking for a low-key adventure, or anyone who enjoys socializing on the water without breaking the bank. If you’re after a lively, informal outing with a chance to take in the sights and snap some photos, this tour might just be your cup of (cold) beverage.

Key Points

Casual social vibe perfect for groups and friends
Bring your own beverages for a personalized experience
Dolphin sightings and scenic back bays
Two-hour duration offers a quick, fun escape
Parking fee may catch you off guard
Limited amenities; focus on the fun and views

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Fort Myers Beach BYOB Tiki Pub Daytime Cruise is a straightforward, social boat tour that emphasizes fun, sun, and companionship. Starting from the Excursions Marina, the tour offers a relaxed setting where you can gather with friends or meet new ones. The boat itself is equipped with life jackets and an ice-filled cooler, so you can stock up on whatever refreshments you prefer—beer, wine, seltzers, or ciders are all welcome. Just remember, hard liquor is not permitted, so plan your drinks accordingly.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Once aboard, the crew will take you along the back bays of Fort Myers Beach—a relatively calm, beautiful stretch of water. The main highlight here is the chance to see dolphins up close, a feature that many reviews praise. One reviewer noted, “Captains Mark was amazing, we saw dolphins and manatees,” emphasizing how memorable these sightings can be, especially with a knowledgeable crew at the helm.

The cruise lasts about two hours, which is just enough time to enjoy sunbathing, snapping photos, and playing casual games. The scenery is described as breathtaking, and the views are ideal for Instagram-worthy shots. Since the boat moves at a low speed, the experience is laid-back; you can relax, chat, or soak up the sunshine.

The Social Atmosphere and Group Size

The tour is a shared experience, so don’t expect a private charter. This lends a communal vibe, making it perfect for meeting other travelers. Several reviews mention how the crew fosters a friendly environment—”Lance and Cody were great! so much fun!”—which helps keep the mood lively and engaging.

The View and Photography Opportunities

Considering the scenic waterways, you’ll enjoy views that are both vibrant and peaceful. The water reflects the sky brightly, and the natural surroundings provide excellent backdrops for photos. Many guests find this cruise a fun way to capture memorable moments with friends or loved ones.

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Safety and Practical Details

The tour is conducted by an experienced crew, ensuring smooth sailing and safety. Life jackets are provided, and the boat moves at a gentle pace, making it suitable for most adults. However, wheelchair users are not accommodated, so if mobility is a concern, it’s worth considering.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your ticket covers the boat cruise, life jackets, and the ice-filled cooler for your BYOB. However, alcohol and snacks are not included, giving you the flexibility to bring what you like but also requiring you to supply your own refreshments.

Meeting Point and Check-In

All tours begin and end at Excursions Marina. The staff will assist with parking, which is by payment of $10, a point that caught some guests off guard, as it’s not clearly marked online or on-site. After parking, you’ll check in at the Tiki Pub desk with your ID and waiver. It’s a straightforward process, but arriving a few minutes early helps ensure a smooth start.

Cost and Value

At $65 per person, the cruise is relatively affordable, especially considering the scenic value, dolphin sightings, and social fun. That said, some reviewers feel it’s overpriced and hyped, particularly given the parking fee and the limited amenities. It’s best seen as a casual, social outing rather than a luxury experience.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

One reviewer from July 2024 expressed frustration, noting, “This boat ride was mid at best,” and criticizing the unadvertised parking fee and social media photo policies. Conversely, others praised the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful dolphin sightings, describing the crew as “amazing” and the views as “breathtaking.” This mix highlights that while the core experience can be enjoyable, it’s important to manage expectations and be aware of some logistical quirks.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for groups of friends looking for a laid-back day on the water, couples wanting a social, informal outing, or even solo travelers eager to meet new people. It’s suitable for those who value scenic views, dolphin encounters, and casual fun over luxury. However, it’s not for guests requiring wheelchair access or seeking a more private, upscale experience.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For the price, the Fort Myers Beach BYOB Tiki Pub Cruise offers a relaxed, friendly way to enjoy the area’s waterways. You’ll love the unfiltered views and the chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat, all while bringing your favorite drinks. It’s a simple yet lively outing that captures the fun, unpretentious spirit of Fort Myers Beach.

That said, the experience’s value depends heavily on your expectations. If you’re after a more exclusive or polished cruise, you might find this a bit rough around the edges. However, if you’re open to a social, budget-friendly outing with scenic moments and a laid-back vibe, it’s worth considering.

This tour is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want to mingle, relax in the sun, and enjoy some natural beauty without fuss. Keep in mind the parking fee and the limited amenities, but don’t let that deter you from enjoying a carefree afternoon on the water.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
No, it’s a shared experience with other guests, fostering a social and lively atmosphere.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you are encouraged to bring your favorite beverages, as it’s a BYOB tour—beer, wine, seltzers, and ciders are permitted.

Is hard liquor allowed?
No, hard liquor is not permitted on the tour.

Where does the tour start and end?
All tours begin and end at Excursions Marina, with staff available to assist you with parking.

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours.

Are life jackets provided?
Yes, life jackets are included and available for all passengers.

What about parking fees?
There is a $10 parking fee that isn’t clearly advertised online, so plan to budget for it.

Is this tour family-friendly?
No, it’s an adults-only experience designed for a relaxed social atmosphere.

Can I expect to see dolphins?
Many guests report dolphin sightings, and the crew is experienced in spotting and sharing these moments.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for sunbathing and being on the water. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses.

Whether you’re looking for a fun, affordable way to enjoy Fort Myers Beach’s waters or hoping to meet new friends while spotting dolphins, this cruise offers a laid-back, memorable experience. Just be aware of the parking fee and set your expectations for a lively, casual outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: