Our group of 50 adults all enjoyed this very relaxing lunch cruise. We boarded the boat docked at the Sailfish Marina in Stuart around 10 am. By 10:30 we were on our way touring the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterways of the Treasure Coast. We traveled from the Manatee Pocket to St. Lucie River then along the Indian River through Hobe Sound & Jupiter Sound. The boat turned around at the Jupiter Lighthouse.
When we boarded, we chose to sit in the enclosed air conditioned lower dining deck; others in our group chose to sit on the upper open air deck. It was a beautiful sunny day and wherever you sat, you had great views along the river. We passed Sandsprit Park, bird sanctuaries, nature preserves, St Lucie State Park, Jonathan Dickenson State Park and a Wildlife Refuge. We saw mangrove trees, million dollar mansions and Sandpointe Bay Condominiums. One of the mansions had a For Sale Sign if you are interested. It was fun passing under bridges and waving to other boats and jet skiers. We even saw a small group out in kayaks. Some families were out on a long sandbar enjoyed the water & sunshine. Captain Bob Miller did a very interesting and thorough running commentary all the way to Jupiter Lighthouse. He pointed out two manatees, a large turtle, many varieties of wild birds and an osprey nest. Guests are free to moved around the boat at will. Although we passed right by Tiger Wood's mansion, he wasn't out mowing his lawn. In fact, his home was barely visible through the luscious foliage. Most of the mansions were unoccupied by their owners because it is summertime.
On the return trip, we dined on a boxed deli lunch prepared & served by the staff. It included a ham, turkey & cheese sandwich, a large pickle wedge, fresh cut-up fruit and an oatmeal raisin cookie. Our group received a ticket for a non-alcoholic drink. Complimentary pastries and coffee were available during the cruise. Reasonably priced alcoholic drinks are served at the two bars - one on each deck. Clean restrooms are on both decks. The atmosphere on board is very laid back with bare tables and chairs that can be moved. The boat is also available for more formal events such as wedding charters, corporate events and scheduled evening cruises with different menu options.
The staff is very professional and most courteous. They assist guests in every way possible. One woman in our group experienced a minor fall and the staff was quick to respond with wrapped ice and assistance. If you take this day cruise you will be well cared for. I highly recommend the cruise. Call for a current schedule and a reservation.