Tarpon Bay Explorers is excited to announce that they have resumed some fan favorite
options: Pontoon Rentals and the Sunset Rookery Paddle. Just in time for season, the
concession for “Ding” Darling is climbing closer and closer to their pre-Ian offerings. “It’s a slow
climb,” says Adam Sauerland, General Manager of Tarpon Bay Explorers. “We all are learning a
new version of patience. But, days like these are the good ones where we can finally check a
major box off our list that gets us one step closer to full recovery,” explained Sauerland.
Pontoon rentals are available for half and full day slots and can accommodate up to 8
people. Visitors are able to either cruise around looking for wildlife like birds, dolphins and
manatees or they can test their angling skills in search of trout, redfish, snook, snapper and
more. All pontoons stay within the 950 acres of Tarpon Bay, so there is no chance of getting lost.
Fishing equipment is also available to rent and tackle is available for sale. Persons 16 years and
older need to purchase a saltwater fishing license beforehand.
The Sunset Rookery Paddle is running on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Start
times vary in conjunction with sunset times. This paddle is a truly unique experience. The
Rookery Islands in the middle of Tarpon Bay provide an evening hangout for over a dozen
different species of birds including: brown pelicans, egrets, herons, ibis, and cormorants. An
experienced naturalist leads the way and discusses local flora and fauna of Tarpon Bay. The
excursion is bird-oriented, but the paddle travels through the open waters of Tarpon Bay so it
also gives paddlers a good chance to see dolphins and/or manatees. The return of the birds
along with Sanibel’s famous sunset makes this tour a highlight of anyone’s visit to the area. All
participants must have kayaking experience. Reservations are required and can be made
through Tarpon Bay’s website www.tarponbayexplorers.com or by calling the gift shop at
239-472-8900.
Also note that for the busy spring season, the Explorers’ nature gift shop and rentals of
kayaks, SUPs, Hobie fishing kayaks, bicycles and pontoon boats are available seven days a
week from 8am-5pm now through the end of April. The Tarpon Bay Explorers’ family is excited
to see new and familiar faces this upcoming season. Any questions people may have or
reservations that anyone may want to make can be directed to their gift shop by calling
239-472-8900.