Sharkey’s Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour in Clearwater

Exploring the waters of Clearwater after dark takes on a new dimension with Sharkey’s Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour. Priced at $62 per person, this 1 hour 15 minute tour offers an engaging way to see the local wildlife illuminated by LED lights while paddling in stable, clear kayaks. Meeting at the County of Pinellas Boat Ramp, the tour guides you through mangrove shores and calm canals where fish, crabs, shrimp, and sometimes dolphins or manatees await. It’s a lively, family-friendly activity that balances fun with education, and stands out for its feeding fish experience.

While some reviews mention issues like water visibility and LED brightness, the overall experience remains popular for its unique nighttime kayaking and wildlife encounters. This tour suits those eager to enjoy a personalized wildlife adventure under the stars, especially families, groups, or couples looking for an engaging, active outing. It’s a great choice for anyone seeking a different perspective on Clearwater’s natural beauty at night.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-timed: At $62, this tour runs for about 75 minutes, with most bookings made 12 days in advance.
• Unique LED kayaking experience: The clear kayaks with underwater LED lights allow for a fascinating view of marine life at night.
• Wildlife feeding fun: The fish food included in the tour makes for an interactive and memorable activity.
• Guided and safe: USCG-certified life jackets and a local guide ensure safety and insight throughout the trip.
• Wildlife encounters: Expect to see dolphins, manatees, and various birds, along with crabs and shrimp, often close enough to touch.
• Group size: The tour is limited to 20 travelers, maintaining a personal atmosphere.

Clearwater Canals and Mangroves in the Dark

The tour starts at the County of Pinellas Boat Ramp on Gulf Blvd in Indian Rocks Beach. From this point, the local guides lead paddlers through shallow, calm waters along mangrove shorelines. The low tide conditions sometimes prevent access to more secluded areas, but the focus remains on the illuminated waters teeming with fish and other sea-life. The guides use high-powered LED underwater lights to highlight the environment, creating a luminous scene beneath the kayaks.

Participants paddle stable, canoe-like kayaks with full clothing recommended for comfort. The LED lights on the kayaks are positioned at the front, casting a glow that attracts fish and animals. The lighting is a key feature, though some reviews mention that the brightness could be improved to enhance visibility further. Still, the fish feeding remains a standout element, with fish following the kayaks closely, sometimes so near they can be touched.

The Fish Feeding Experience at Night

Feeding the fish is what many find most captivating about this tour. The fish food provided by the guides encourages schools of fish to gather around the kayaks. The feeding activity allows for an up-close view of numerous fish species, primarily catfish, as observed in some reviews. The interaction with the fish draws applause and smiles, especially for younger participants or those new to kayaking.

The activity offers a fun and interactive way to observe marine life in a calm, nighttime setting. Some reviews describe the experience as scary yet exciting, especially when the fish approach so closely. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the feeding even more enjoyable by sharing insights about the local wildlife.

Navigating the Mangroves and Shorelines

Traveling into the mangrove-lined canals introduces a quieter, more secluded aspect of the tour. The guides lead paddlers through shallow waters where the underwater lights reveal crabs, shrimp, and other small creatures scuttling along the seabed. Bird watching is also part of the journey, with seabirds and shorebirds visible along the mangroves.

While some reviews mention flat tires or minor delays, the guides’ timely arrival and calm attitude help keep the experience smooth. It’s recommended to wear full clothing for warmth, especially in winter, as the water remains calm and gentle. The stability of the kayaks adds an extra layer of comfort, making the activity accessible even for first-time paddlers.

Wildlife Sightings: Dolphins, Manatees, and More

Beyond the fish, the tour occasionally offers sightings of dolphins and manatees, which are highlights for many participants. The guides’ local knowledge often helps in spotting these gentle giants in the distance, especially during calmer parts of the tour. Birdlife is abundant, with seabirds and shorebirds adding to the scenic beauty.

However, some reviews note that dolphins and manatees are not guaranteed at every trip, and the visibility of wildlife can vary depending on tide and weather conditions. The chance to observe marine animals in their natural nighttime habitat is viewed as a notable advantage of this tour.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

This LED night kayaking tour begins at the County of Pinellas Boat Ramp, a location accessible near public transportation options. The tour group is limited to 20 participants, which helps maintain a personalized experience and allows guides to better engage with each paddler. The group size and small tour nature contribute to a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Participants are advised to arrive early to get fitted with safety equipment like USCG-certified life jackets and to prepare for the paddling adventure. The meeting and ending point are the same, simplifying logistics and ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Paddling in the kayaks requires a basic level of mobility, but the stability of the boats makes the activity suitable for most participants. The kayaks resemble canoes, with no water entry through vent holes, allowing full clothing and shoes to be worn comfortably in both summer and winter. Despite the calm waters, some physical exertion is involved, making it ideal for those able to paddle for about an hour and a quarter.

Because the kayaks are stable, even first-timers or those with limited paddling experience tend to find the activity manageable. It is also a family-friendly activity, with many reviews highlighting the enjoyment of children and adults alike.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Water Experiences

While similar tours in Clearwater may focus on daytime dolphin watching or sunset cruises, Sharkey’s LED Fish Feeding Night Tour offers a completely different perspective with its nighttime illumination and interactive fish feeding. The glow of the LED lights creates an enchanting environment unavailable during daylight.

Some reviews indicate that lighting brightness could be improved, and water visibility is sometimes less than perfect, but the wildlife encounters and personal guide attention compensate for these issues. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a more active and engaging experience, rather than a passive boat ride.

Final Thoughts on the LED Night Kayaking Adventure

This $62 guided tour provides an excellent value for those eager to explore Clearwater’s waterways after dark. The combination of stability, wildlife viewing, and the interactive fish feeding activity makes it a memorable outing suited to families, friends, and couples alike. The personal guidance and small group size foster an inviting atmosphere, while the illuminated waters and natural scenery offer a unique look at the local environment.

That said, some consider the LED brightness and water visibility as areas for improvement, and weather conditions can influence animal sightings. Still, most participants find the tour delights and surprises, creating lasting memories of Clearwater’s nighttime wildlife. It’s a fun, active, and different way to experience the area’s natural beauty under the stars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for most ages, especially since the kayaks are stable and guides are attentive.

What should I wear during the tour?
Participants are encouraged to wear full clothing appropriate for the weather, as the kayaks don’t allow water entry. It’s advisable to bring a jacket or jeans for warmth in cooler months.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
Wildlife sightings, including dolphins and manatees, depend on weather and tide conditions. While common, they are not guaranteed on every trip.

How bright are the LED lights?
Some reviews mention that the lights could be brighter to improve underwater visibility and fish attraction.

Is paddling experience required?
No prior paddling experience is necessary. The kayaks are stable and suitable for beginners, with guides providing instruction.

What is included in the tour?
The tour provides safety equipment, including USCG-certified life jackets, and fish food for feeding the fish.

How many people are in each tour?
The group size is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins and ends at County of Pinellas Boat Ramp on Gulf Blvd in Indian Rocks Beach.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather and may be canceled or rescheduled in case of poor conditions, with options for a different date or full refund.