provided to The Santiva Chronicle
As ‘in-season’ approaches us on the islands, businesses are eager to greet guests, many of which will be visiting for the first time post Hurricane Ian. Signs of progress and recovery can be seen throughout the island. Shopping plazas are taking back tennants, more restaurants have opened or are on the cusp, and some accommodations can see the light at the end of the recovery tunnel.
“Though the recovery is slow, it is steady,” says Adam Sauerland, General Manager of Tarpon Bay Explorers. “Numbers are telling us that things are heading in the right direction and that businesses are still forging ahead to get back to their normal selves,” explained Sauerland.
Tarpon Bay Explorers is no exception. The concession to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife will be expanding their tour availabilities for the upcoming season.
Currently, Kayak Trail Tours and Tram Tours are offered just twice a week. Starting mid-February, Kayak Trail Tours will be offered Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. The typical start time for Kayak Trail Tours is 10 a.m., but can vary depending on tides. Tram Tours will be offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Reservations are recommended for both of these guided tours.
Reservations can be made online here or by calling 239-472-8900 on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
“We have another trip that we haven’t offered since the storm and will add in March and are very excited to announce in the upcoming month, so stayed tuned for that,” mentioned Sauerland
Tarpon Bay Explorers offers recreation activities including guided tours and paddlecraft rentals for the Refuge. Kayak and Paddleboard rentals are available on a first come, first serve basis between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., returning by 4:45 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
For Guided Kayak and Tram Tours, reservations are recommended. Reservations and more information can be made on their website here. Reservations for Hobie Fishing Kayaks can be made by calling the gift shop at 239-472-8900. Tarpon Bay Explorers is located at 900 Tarpon Bay Rd (as far north down Tarpon Bay road as you can go) and hosts a wonderful nature-themed gift shop that includes items such as home decor, t-shirts, children’s clothes, cook books and fishing tackle.
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