I decided to take this tour on a recommendation, but was a bit leery with a few of the reviews stating how poor the biologist information was, but figured that being a former biology major I could get by. I was pleasantly surprised as our Biologist Lauren was excellent and did a wonderful job relaying relevant information to every education... More

This trip was a major letdown. The first hour was more of a "lifestyle of the rich and famous" tour. I suppose some folks have a burning desire to hear about rich people that own property they hardly ever visit on Bird Key...but Mote should let you know this is the focus so that you don't assume a research aquarium... More

Being Mote Members we feel as if this company doesn't represent Mote in the best light. Girl at ticket counter sounded as if she had a cold. Wasn't very friendly or enthusiastic. Was glad to see that she was not on the tour. Marine Biologist was very friendly and knowledgeable but Captain Mike was a little grumpy and didn't want... More

We really wanted to do the Nature Safari, but it wasn't scheduled for the days we were in Sarasota, so we took the Sea Life Encounter cruise instead. Although the trip was advertised for 1 3/4 hours, we were out for over two hours with our marine biologist and boat captain. Both did an excellent job. The boat provides snacks... More

It is a nice relaxing boat ride, the boat is covered so you don't get sunburned and you get an nice breeze. They throw a net overboad and pull up several fish, including a seahorse, puffer fish,sea urchin and sponges. The guide was a marine biologist who knew a lot about the different fish, animals and birds and explains everything.... More

Bought as a combo with Mote Aquarium...great 2 hours on the bay looking for manatee...dolphin..all sorts. With onboard Mote marine biologist you learn all about the life of the bay and see all kinds if animals that live there. Great for small kids...touch and see all the animals pulled from the bay in actrawl. Dobt worry everything goes back in... More

Before scheduling a tour with Sarasota Bay Explorers, ask yourself what you are looking to do. Do you want a crowded boat ride with some random facts announced by a "marine biologist"? If so, then this is for you! We found the "facts" to be basic common knowledge and less than informative. Maybe if my children were 3 and 5... More

We have been on this trip twice now and both times we've all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, even the none boat lover amongst us! We've seen pods of the local dolphins playing out in Sarasota bay, manatees swimming around the inlets of bird key and loads of native birds roosting out on the little islands, not to mention some wonderful homes... More

A must-do family-friendly activity if you're on vacation near Sarasota. My toddler was not crazy about sitting on the boat for two hours and a little bored by the marine biologist, but my 5 year old loved it! The best parts were the stop at the uninhibited island and dredging for sea critters. The kids were able to touch fish,... More