90 Minutes Across Florida Bay Aboard the Bald Eagle II

HOMESTEAD BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

90 Minutes Across Florida Bay Aboard the Bald Eagle II

A 90-minute, naturalist-led catamaran cruise from Flamingo Marina that delivers close wildlife viewing—manatees, dolphins and seabirds—across the wide flats of Florida Bay.

Check availabilitySee guide details

90 Minutes Across Florida Bay Aboard the Bald Eagle II.

Duration
1 Hour and 30 Minutes
Location
Homestead
Operator
Flamingo Adventures - Everglades National Park
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Departing from Flamingo Marina in Homestead, the Florida Bay Boat Tour takes passengers aboard the single-deck catamaran Bald Eagle II for a 90-minute naturalist-led passage across the shallow, sunlit expanse of Florida Bay. The guide points out birds and sea life while offering the history of Flamingo and the surrounding keys; no two trips are the same and sightings can include osprey, wading birds, manatees, sea turtles and dolphins, with the occasional spectacular sunset.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE WILDLIFE

Close encounters with bay creatures

The tour regularly presents sightings of manatees, dolphins, sea turtles and an array of birds — osprey and wading species among them — as the naturalist interprets the marine and avian life of the bay.

THE VESSEL

Bald Eagle II: single‑deck catamaran viewing

Bald Eagle II is a single‑deck catamaran that provides expansive sightlines for guests, designed to let the naturalist and passengers scan the shallow flats and keys for wildlife and scenery.

THE STORY

A guided telling of Flamingo and the surrounding keys

Alongside wildlife interpretation, the naturalist weaves history of Flamingo and its surrounding keys into the trip, giving context to the landscapes and species you see.

What the day feels like

What the trip feels like

You board at Flamingo Marina and spend 90 minutes on the Bald Eagle II as a naturalist points out birds and marine life while narrating the human and natural history of the area. The single‑deck layout opens wide views across the bay; every departure is different depending on light and animal activity, and at certain times of year the cruise can finish with a gorgeous sunset.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip works for — and restrictions to note.

1
Families with snacksNot ideal for bringing onboard food—no food is permitted on the tour boat—so plan accordingly.
2
Pet ownersPets are not permitted on tour boats; however, service animals as defined by the ADA are allowed.
3
Guests requiring assistanceService animals are permitted under ADA definitions; contact the operator for any additional accessibility questions.
4
Groups planning onboard mealsThis tour does not allow food onboard, so groups that rely on in‑boat dining should adjust plans; beverages can be purchased at the marina store.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The tour is 90 minutes long; departures operate on a scheduled daily timetable during the season.

What to Bring

Bring rain gear, sun protection, bug spray and sunglasses.

Meeting Point

Meet at 1 Flamingo Lodge Hwy, Homestead, FL — the Flamingo Marina departure point.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Florida Bay Boat Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Where do we meet for the tour?

The departure point is Flamingo Marina at 1 Flamingo Lodge Hwy, Homestead, FL.

Can I bring food or a picnic on board?

No — food is not permitted onboard the tour boat.

Are pets allowed on the boat?

Pets are not permitted on tour boats; service animals as defined by the ADA are permitted.

Is there a guide or narrator on the cruise?

Yes — a naturalist accompanies the tour and highlights birds, sea life and the history of Flamingo and the surrounding keys.

Can I purchase drinks during my visit?

Yes — you are welcome to purchase drinks at the marina store.