Recently, Captiva Cruises has added a number of new excursions, led by longtime educator and naturalist Richard Finkel. They include:

Shoreline Discovery 101

Aboard our 24-passenger sailing catamaran we will go to a secluded beach managed by Cayo Costa State Park. We will disembark in very shallow water to explore the shoreline and discuss the forces that have and still are shaping the barrier islands along Florida’s southwest coastline, as well as the fascinating inhabitants that live on the beaches and within the tidal zone. Hard soled water shoes are necessary for wading in shallow water or exposed mudflats and sea grass beds where we will discover why these habitats are so important. Cruises sail on Thursdays from 2 to 5 p.m.

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

Travel in our 12 passenger air-conditioned van for a guided tour of Wildlife Drive at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Learn about the ecology of the Back Bay Estuary and Mangrove Swamp food webs along with the cultural history of Sanibel and Captiva. We will identify and view wildlife along the way and stop at advantageous spots such as the Red Mangrove Overlook and the Observation Tower. Tours are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Sailing Under The Stars

Watch the sunset and experience day turning into night aboard our 24-passenger sailing catamaran. We will observe and learn about wildlife in the twilight. As we sail under the stars you will be introduced to some of the highlights of the night sky along with features of our Milky Way Galaxy. This program will be offered every other week on the full moon and the new moon of each month. Call for details.

Captiva Cruises also offers Crusies to Cayo Costa for Beach and Shelling, Cabbage Key, Useppa Island and Boca Grande, Dolphin Watch and Wildlife Adventures as well as Sunset Sailing and Sunset Serenade Cruises.

Additional information and reservations for all of the Captiva Cruises tours and programs may be obtained by calling 472-5300 or visiting their Web site at www.captivacruises.com.