Florida’s Nature Coast offers a wealth of natural, unspoiled coastline areas. It’s teeming with wildlife like deer, wild pigs, roseate spoonbills, fish, alligators, snakes, Great Blue herons, egrets, turtles and a host of other endangered species.
One of the best ways to experience this abundance of wildlife and beautiful scenery along its coastline is to take a riverboat tour.
Meet Bayport River Safari Captain Gary Strickland.
Capt. Gary is a Florida native, originally from St. Petersburg, who enjoys sharing his knowledge of the rivers, their history, and abundant wildlife.
As a seasoned angler, Capt. Gary has been fishing and exploring Florida’s Nature Coast for the past 16 years and his love of water and surrounding wildlife drove him and his wife, Samantha, 27, to explore opening up their own business offering river tours and safaris.
“I obtained my U.S.C.G. Issued captain’s license in 2012 and two years later, I completed the Master’s Upgrade that now allows me to captain a vessel up to 25 tons,” he said.
“My wife and I contacted Ruby Turner who works for the county at the Weeki Wachee Tourism Information center and got a ton of advice and information on local tourism,” he said, “and because of that support and help, we decided to go ahead and buy our own vessel.”
Capt. Gary said he completely refurbished the 14-passenger 30-foot pontoon vessel and acquired all the necessary United States Coast Guard inspection certification. Two months ago, he and his wife launched their business Bayport River Safari offering daily river tours, sightseeing safaris and sunset cruises departing daily from Bayport Park boat ramp in Hernando Beach.
“We call our 30-foot pontoon vessel “River Tale,” he said proudly.
“She’s got brand new comfortable seating, has passed all the safety requirements and even has a small restroom on board,” he said.
Capt. Gary’s tours explore deep into the Weeki Wachee estuary, the pristine waters of the Weeki Wachee River and the natural beauty of the Mud River. 
“We value the importance of conservation and wildlife,” said Capt. Gary’s wife, Samantha Strickland.
“It’s the perfect tour for nature lovers, family picnics, photographers, birdwatchers or just relaxation,” she said. “Daily, we come across dolphins, alligators, turtles, manatees and lots of beautiful birds.”
All cruises depart from Bayport Park boat ramp located at 4140 Cortez Blvd, Bayport. Tours last approximately 90 minutes.
The River Tale is perfect for celebrations too. Bayport River Safaris can customize trips for birthdays, family reunions or other gatherings.
“May 28, we recently hosted a wedding ceremony and after-party on board,” said Capt. Gary. “After boarding all the passengers, equipment and refreshments, we sailed out to the shallows where the couple were married and then the wedding guests celebrated the union with cake and champagne,” he said.
“Everybody had a great time on the water and surrounded by beautiful scenery, said Capt. Gary.
Bayport River Safaris also offers sunset sailings. These trips depart one hour before sunset and venture through inland coastal waters to experience the unrivaled beauty of Florida sunsets.
“It’s great for a family trip, an evening out with friends or a romantic rendezvous,” he said. “Alcoholic beverages are welcome to be brought along, but no glass please.”
All Safaris and Tours depart from the Bayport Park Boat Ramp located in Spring Hill. Parking is provided via the Boat Ramp parking lot. Be sure to arrive 20 minutes prior to your trip for Check-In and Boarding. Restrooms are available at the boat ramp location.
Bring your camera because there are great pictures to be taken and memories to be made.
Visit bayportriversafari.com for more information.
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IF YOU GO:
Reservations at (352) 606-2070 or (352) 575-6791
Morning River Safari
Please arrive 15 minutes before departure
11 a.m. $14 – $22 – Wed-Sun
Afternoon River Safari
Please arrive 15 minutes before departure
1:30 p.m. $14 – $22 – Wed-Sun
Sunset Cruise
$14 – $22 – Saturday and Sunday
Departure 1 Hour before Sunset.
WHAT TO BRING
Our trips traverse thru the beautiful Nature Coast of Florida, therefore, we encourage you to bring along a few simple items.
• Camera
• Sun Glasses
• Hats
• 10 Quart Beverage Cooler with your favorite refreshments
• Sunscreen
• Binoculars
• Appropriate Dress for weather conditions