TBE adds to pontoon fleet, resumes sunset paddle
Tarpon Bay Explorers (TBE) on Sanibel — the official concession to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge — has added two more pontoons to its fleet and resumed its Sunset Rookery Paddle.
“There’s light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to recovery,” General Manager Adam Sauerland said. “We’re excited for the holidays and excited for the in-season.”
The paddle is currently running on Wednesdays and Fridays and is subject to change; start times vary in conjunction with sunset times. Experienced naturalists lead the paddle and discuss the local flora and fauna of Tarpon Bay. In the middle of the bay, the Rookery Islands are an evening hangout for over a dozen species of birds, including brown pelicans, egrets, herons, ibis and cormorants. The paddle is bird-oriented, but it travels through the open waters of the bay, so it gives participants a chance to see dolphins and manatees. All participants must have kayaking experience. Reservations are required.
Pontoon rentals are available for half and full day slots and can accommodate up to eight people. All pontoons stay within the 950 acres of the bay, so there is no chance of getting lost. Fishing equipment is available to rent and tackle is available for sale; a saltwater fishing license is required for ages 16 and older. TBE also offers fishing charters. Reservations are recommended for both rentals and charters.
In addition, TBE offers tram tours of the refuge’s Wildlife Drive, kayak tours and rentals, bike rentals, stand-up paddleboard rentals (SUP) and Hobie fishing kayak rentals, plus a nature-themed gift shop.
TBE is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with rentals ending at 3 p.m.
For reservations or more information, visit www.tarponbayexplorers.com or call 239-472-8900.
Tarpon Bay Explorers is at 900 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel.