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Caloosahatchee Oxbow & Riverlore Cruise


The monthly Caloosahatchee Oxbow and Riverlore Cruises have returned for the 2011-2012 season! If you have family in town or are looking for a scenic and relaxing adventure, please plan to join us to experience the historic river. oxbow

This guided monthly cruise explores the meanders of the historic upriver Caloosahatchee. We follow the river back to a time when a waterfall served as the headwaters of the Caloosahatchee and settlers braved living amongst the wilderness.

The 2.5 hour adventure begins by locking through the W.P. Franklin Lock in Olga. Heading east toward Alva, we enter the historic bends of the river and revisit the activities of the pioneers who traveled the same river to find paradise. Stories of the early settlers and their adventures are blended with an understanding of the river’s oxbows, the wild creatures that call it home and the challenges the river faces.

The tour is guided by Rae Ann Wessel, a river researcher, long-time swingriver advocate, historian and SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) Natural Resource Policy Director. Our vessel is the stable and spacious 47-passenger Manatee Rover pontoon boat that features daily Manatee tours. All seats have a great view for photographs and bird watching.

Cruises depart 1 at p.m. from the W.P. Franklin Lock & Dam off SR 80 in Olga. Cruise dates for the season are Friday, November 26 (the day after Thanksgiving) and then they are offered one Sunday afternoon a month from December through Mothers Day. turtles

Cruise dates for the 2011/2012 season are: Sunday, December 10, 2011, January 22, 2012, February 12, February 26, March 11, April 15, and Mothers Day, May 13.  Click here for a printable flyer.

Cruises depart at 1 p.m. and return by 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $40 per person with advance reservations required by calling SCCF at 472-2329. Space is limited. We look forward to taking you back in time.