CAPT. CHUCK'S SAIL CRUISES & ECO TOURS
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Good Times & smooth sailin' at Sea or Relaxing River Trips |
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swampdad@juno.com
Call 866-592-0097 toll free or 352-597-1220 evenings
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Good Times & smooth sailin' at Sea or Relaxing River Trips |
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See the Nature Coast from the comfort of a 26 ft MacGregor sailboat. We'll depart from RIVER POINT LANDING at the headwaters of the Mudd River and make our way out to the Gulf of Mexico. Keep an eye out for Eagles, Osprey, in the air as well as Wood Storks,Herons and Egrets along the marsh edge. They're waiting for baitfish driven by snook, redfish and even dolphins to happen by. About half way to the Gulf we join the Weeki Wachee River, a spring fed river only 8 miles long, which is home to many manatees and countless fish & birds. As we glide past Bayport there will likely be fishermen trying their luck from the pier. Bayport was Hernando County's only port in the days of sailing ships. Vessels would stop to trade provisions and take on water from the Weeki Wachee Spring Not much is left of Bayport except a few houses and the Bayport Inn, one of the best restaurants in the coastal area.
We continue to seaward, taking care to avoid the numerous piles of rocks which litter the flats. The Gulf of the Nature Coast is very shallow, increasing in depth only a foot per mile offshore. Some of these rocks are the ballast of sailing vessels long forgotten; others are natural, but all can do dammage if they are struck. Soon we turn the motor off and enjoy the quite peacefulness of sailing. Let your mind drift back to a time when we weren't bogged down in the hurry up 21st. century lifestyle.
The guests determine the order of the day; fish if you wish or keep watch for dolphins. Occasionally a tarpon will leap into the air, just to let you know he's there. Flying fish can often be seen skipping over the waves away from the boat. Take a look over the side and see what is below in the clear water, maybe a reef, a stingray or a sunken boat.
Tax time has passed -- and the flats are warming up. It's possible to see large tarpon leaping into the air for no apparent reason at all. Bring sunscreen as the sun is quite intense and prevention is better than a burn. It's warm, but not too hot yet so plan to make a trip.
Rates are reasonable at $25.00 per person for half day and sunset cruises; or $50 per person for a full day. 2 person mininum and as on most sailboats under 40 ft. 4 is a practical maximum. Most folks opt for the half day which is generally just over 5 hours.
AVAILABLE NOW! -- Eco-Tours of the Weeki Wachee and Mudd River ecosystems on a Legacy deckboat. We'll show you the river systems, take you fishing or tour the Coast; it's up to you. Bring your camera and binoculars so you can observe the wildlife.
Enjoy a relaxing trip on the Weeki Wachee and Mudd Rivers, cruise through the salt marsh watching for the varied forms of wildlife, especially the manatees. Yes, there is a swim ladder if you feel you want to swim with them; but remember we do not allow anyone to harass them. If a manatee comes to you that's OK, but chasing after them is a big NO!
Beautiful Sunsets are the norm
Moonrise over the Weeki wachee
Is this one big enough?
Yes, and you may fish if you wish.
Weather fronts make for unusual sunsets.
This boat can move under power.
Dump the water ballast and take off.
Chill out on a river trip
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