| Water Taxi Service
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| Enjoy a leisurely cruise through the scenic bayous, down the Anclote River and out onto the Gulf of Mexico.
Once we reach the Gulf, we can explore whatever you'd like. A few miles to the north, we can head up the 'Cotee' River into Port Richey and stop at Hooter's or Catches waterside restaurants. To the south, there is Clearwater, home of Frenchy's and several other waterside restaurants. Or you can explore the local waters, it's your choice!
The Anclote River is part of a tidal estuary that includes several bayous as well as the river itself. The bayous start off with Spring Bayou, site of the world famous celebration of Greek Orthodox Epiphany. Next there's Minetta Bayou, then after going under the bascule bridge on Riverside Drive, there's Tarpon Bayou and the Anclote River.
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Upriver from Marker 29, the Anclote is a No-Wake zone, so you'll have a chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of the river as we make our way downriver.
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We'll follow the channel as it bends northwest just past Sunset Key and again at Firnell Island. Once past Firnell Island we'll be heading due west, out the Anclote channel. Heading out the channel we'll cross the northern edge of St Joseph's Sound and you will be able to see many small islets as well as Anclote Key, Anclote Light, 3 Rooker Bar and parts of Clearwater. Dolphins are native to this area and it isn't unusual to see them.
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Approaching the vicinity of Anclote Key we will make a left turn and you will have an excellent opportunity to get some great photos of the Anclote Lighthouse. Shifting sands on the windward side of Anclote Key filled in all but a small section on the leeward side of the island.
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The Florida Administrative Code, Rule 62D-2.014(8)(e) states: Passenger launches or excursion boats from outside the parks that are for rent or hire or carrying passengers for money shall land or anchor or tie up in any park. Pursuant to this rule, if we take you to the vicinity of any island that is part of the Florida state system, including, but not limited to Anclote Key, we will NOT land or anchor or tie up. You may get off the boat and walk ashore if you desire. If you choose to get off the vessel, you WILL get wet. We strongly recommend that you wear appropriate beach shoes. Should you choose to walk ashore at Anclote Key, you can take the boardwalk/brick path to the base of Anclote Light. It's about 1800 ft from the beach to the lighthouse. Anclote Light is not normally open to the public. You are free to explore the area, but the lighthouse itself is in a fenced in area for security purposes. Once a year, on Lighthouse Day, the light is open to the public. Please check with the park ranger for more information.
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There is a dock at the south end of Anclote Key, however, it is only for "Official Use" (ie - by the park ranger, marine police, US Coast Guard, etc). I can not tie up to, or discharge passengers onto, the dock without incurring a fine, so please don't ask me to violate the law.
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