Afternoon Guided Tour

A relaxed 1:00 PM cruise through the history and ecology of the Manatee River, perfect for vacation schedules and cooler months.

The Midday Cruise

Step Through the Doors of Time

Made for those who are not in any particular hurry, or who plan to sleep in on their Florida vacation, our 1:00 PM guided tour is a pleasant, easygoing way to spend two hours on the water. It is especially popular during the cooler months of the year, when the midday sun feels just right on the river.

Like our morning tour, the afternoon cruise is loaded with the history and ecology of the Manatee River and the surrounding area. Step with us through the doors of time as we travel back to the days when living along the river was simple, and hustle and bustle was something that only happened in big cities. Our crew makes it come alive with stories you will not find in any guidebook.

Families are welcome, coolers are welcome, and the pace is unhurried. Bring lunch and your favorite drinks aboard, we have complimentary ice and water, padded seating, tables, and a restroom with running water.

What to Expect

Afternoons on the River Skipper II

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Living History

Hear how Palmetto, Bradenton, and the Manatee River shaped each other, told with warmth and a sense of humor.

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River Wildlife

Dolphins, manatees, ospreys, and wading birds make regular appearances along the route.

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Vacation Pace

No early alarm required. Sleep in, have a slow morning, and still get a full tiki boat experience.

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BYOB Lunch Cruise

Pack a picnic and drinks. Tables, padded seats, free ice and water, and a real restroom onboard.

Good to Know

Trip Details

Departure Time: 1:00 PM daily. Please arrive early enough to board before departure.
Duration: 2 hours.
Pricing: $50 per adult, $40 per child.
Departure Point: Regatta Pointe Marina, 1005 Riverside Dr, Palmetto, FL 34221. See our Regatta Pointe departure page for parking and directions.
Pickup Options: Group pickups also available at the Bradenton Riverwalk and Anna Maria Island. Confirm your pickup location when booking.
Food & Drinks: BYOB, bring your own food and beverages. Coolers welcome. Complimentary water and ice onboard.
Footwear: Please wear flat, soft-soled shoes aboard the River Skipper II.
Onboard Comfort: Restroom with running water, padded seating, and plenty of tables arranged for a sociable cruise.
Accessibility: We can accommodate wheelchairs and walkers.
Safety: The River Skipper II is a 45-foot commercial vessel, US Coast Guard inspected annually.
Booking: Reservations are strongly suggested. Book online below or call us. Last-minute walk-ons are accepted when seats remain.

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the afternoon tour depart?

1:00 PM daily from Regatta Pointe Marina, 1005 Riverside Dr, Palmetto. Please arrive a few minutes early to board.

Is the afternoon tour the same as the morning tour?

Same guided experience, same route, same crew. The afternoon departure is simply a later start time, which works better for guests who want to sleep in or spend the morning at the beach.

What wildlife can we see in the afternoon?

Dolphins and manatees are active throughout the day. The afternoon is also a great window for bird activity and calmer water after any morning boat traffic settles.

Can we bring food and drinks?

Yes. Fully BYOB. Bring snacks, drinks, and a cooler. We provide complimentary water and ice on board.

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are strongly suggested. Walk-ons are accepted when seats remain. Book online or call (941) 209-0203.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes. The River Skipper II has an on-board restroom with running water.