CraigCat Boat Tour from Fernandina Beach

Discover Fernandina Beach from the Water with a CraigCat Boat Tour

Imagine cruising along the waterways of Amelia Island in your own small, zippy boat that feels like a go-cart on water. For around two and a half hours, you’ll explore Fernandina Beach, Cumberland Island, and beyond, guided by friendly, knowledgeable hosts. The tour costs $145 per person and is perfect for those who love being on the water, wildlife spotting, and a touch of adventure.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience: first, the personalized feel of driving your own CraigCat—it’s not just a sightseeing cruise, but an active part of the journey. Second, the variety of wildlife sightings, especially dolphins and wild horses, makes every trip feel like a mini safari on water.

One consideration to keep in mind is that getting a little wet is part of the fun—so packing water shoes and waterproof gear is wise. This tour suits travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and are comfortable with a relaxed, small-group atmosphere. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and curious explorers will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Unique Watercraft: Drive your own CraigCat boat, adding an element of fun and control.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see dolphins, wild horses, and a variety of shorebirds.
• Historical Highlights: Pass by Fernandina Beach, Fort Clinch State Park, and Cumberland Island’s Dungeness Ruins.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their local knowledge, humor, and patience.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 8 travelers, the experience feels intimate and relaxed.
• Value for Money: The tour combines wildlife, scenery, and history, offering a rich experience for the price.

An In-Depth Look at the CraigCat Boat Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure kicks off at the Windward at Amelia Island Marina, an accessible spot in Fernandina Beach. From there, you’ll hop into your CraigCat, a boat that’s easy to operate but also lively enough to keep things exciting. The total tour lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving you enough time to see multiple sights without feeling rushed.

What to Expect on the Itinerary

Fernandina Beach and Historic Overview:
Right at the outset, you’ll cruise past the charming Historic Fernandina Beach, receiving a quick primer on its history from your guide. This sets the tone for a trip that’s as educational as it is fun, connecting you to the local story.

Fort Clinch State Park:
The tour includes a stop near 19th-century Fort Clinch, where you can admire the preserved historic structure and imagine how life was during its heyday. It’s a great photo op and a taste of local history.

Cumberland Island and Wildlife:
Arguably the highlight for many, the trip takes you to Cumberland Island, renowned for its wild horses and abundant wildlife. One reviewer raved about seeing “a dozen wild horses, many of which came close to us,” and noted the experience as “super fun and exciting for our family including teens.”
Dolphin sightings are frequent, and some guides might even spot sea turtles or a jellyfish or two. The guides’ local knowledge shines here—they’ll point out birds, marine life, and the ruins of Dungeness, adding layers of context to your wildlife viewing.

Wildlife and Nature Encounters

Most travelers report dolphins swimming near your boats—sometimes feeding or just frolicking close enough to feel like they’re part of your crew. Several reviews mention wild horses grazing on Cumberland Island’s shores, a rare and memorable sight. Some guides, like Nathan and Kyle, are praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, making the wildlife encounters even more enriching.

The Driving Experience

One of the best parts? You get to operate your own CraigCat during the guided journey. Reviews frequently mention how “easy to operate,” “a blast,” and “so much fun,” this aspect adds a hands-on element that makes the tour stand out. It’s perfect for those who like a bit of control and adventure rather than just sitting back and watching.

A little splash is inevitable, especially if the wind picks up or the water is rough, so waterproof shoes and sunscreen are recommended. This isn’t a luxury cruise—think of it more as getting your feet wet on a family picnic, but with the thrill of being on a small boat with your friends or family.

Stops and Landmarks

Besides Cumberland Island’s wild horses and the Dungeness Ruins, you’ll pass by scenic Estuaries and Shorebirds, which are as beautiful as they are teeming with life. The tour’s pace allows for some memorable photo opportunities, especially when wildlife is close and curious.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Up to 8 travelers share this experience, which keeps the atmosphere friendly, relaxed, and personal. Many reviews highlight how guides like Brandon and Zach go out of their way to make everyone feel comfortable and informed. Families with children as young as 8, couples, or solo travelers all find this setup ideal for a fun, engaging day on the water.

Price and Value

At $145 per person, the tour offers excellent value. You’re not just paying for a boat ride—you’re gaining access to wildlife sightings, local history, and the thrill of driving your own boat. Many reviewers mention how the experience exceeded their expectations, especially considering the variety of wildlife and scenic views you get in just a couple of hours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers who enjoy being active and hands-on. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with family, especially if your kids are comfortable on the water, or if you simply want a different way to see Fernandina Beach’s natural beauty. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the dolphin and wild horse sightings, and history buffs will appreciate the stops at Fort Clinch and Cumberland Island’s ruins.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic cruise with minimal effort, this might not be the right fit, as some splashing and water exposure are part of the fun. But for those looking for an engaging, small-group, wildlife-focused adventure, this CraigCat tour offers a memorable and authentic experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need experience to drive the CraigCat?
Most travelers find the CraigCat very easy to operate, even if it’s their first time. The guides are helpful and patient, ensuring you feel comfortable before heading out.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, which includes sightseeing, wildlife viewing, and stops.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Dolphins are common and often swim near the boats. You might also see wild horses on Cumberland Island, along with shorebirds, sea turtles, and sometimes jellyfish.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers, keeping things intimate and manageable.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers your boat rental, guide services, and wildlife viewing. The tour is booked with a mobile ticket for convenience.

Are water shoes necessary?
While not mandatory, reviews recommend wearing water shoes or waterproof footwear since you will get splashed and need to walk on uneven terrain occasionally.

Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers, including families with kids as young as 8, enjoy this tour. The guides tailor the experience to ensure everyone feels safe and engaged.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book?
Most bookings are made at least 10 days in advance through the provider’s website or booking platforms like Viator.

Final Thoughts

The CraigCat Boat Tour from Fernandina Beach offers a lively, engaging way to see the natural beauty and wildlife of Amelia Island. With guides who are knowledgeable and friendly, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to witness dolphins, wild horses, and local landmarks—all from the control of your own boat. The experience balances fun with education, making it ideal for families, wildlife lovers, and anyone wanting a memorable day on the water.

While getting a little wet is part of the charm, it’s a small price to pay for the thrill of zipping around in your own CraigCat and stopping at scenic, wildlife-filled spots. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for creating lasting memories.

If you’re seeking an active, authentic, and scenic adventure that combines wildlife, history, and a touch of fun, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who value guides’ local knowledge and enjoy a bit of hands-on participation in their excursions.

We highly recommend booking ahead, especially if you’re traveling in peak season, to secure your spot on this lively, wildlife-rich water adventure.