Drive Your Own 2-Seat Catamaran Around Marco Island’s 10,000 Islands
Pilot your own two-seat Go Cat through mangrove tunnels, hunt for dolphins and manatees, then hit 30 mph on the Gulf before beaching a private shelling island. This 2.5-hour outing pairs easy boat handling with expert local guiding—perfect for first-time skippers who want a fast, scenic introduction to the 10,000 Islands.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early for instruction
Plan to arrive 30 minutes before departure so you can complete the short driving and safety orientation and get comfortable at the controls.
Check Florida boater-license rules
If you were born after Jan 1988 you must complete the short online Florida boater safety test and show proof before your trip; confirm current state requirements ahead of time.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag
Sun is strong on the water and phones/cameras need protection—bring reef-safe sunscreen and a small dry bag for valuables.
Bring footwear for shelling
The private island has shells and patches of seagrass—water shoes or sandals protect your feet during beach stops.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle quieter north channels off Goodland early morning for reflective water and birdlife
- •Explore the smaller backwater coves where seagrass beds attract manatees at low tide
Wildlife
- •West Indian manatee
- •Bottlenose dolphin
Conservation Note
Mangroves and seagrass beds are critical nursery habitat; stay in marked channels, avoid shallow seagrass, and use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce impact.
The Calusa people were the region’s earliest maritime inhabitants; later the islands became a patchwork of fishing camps and tiny settlements that relied on small-boat navigation through the mangrove maze.
Photographer's Notes
- • Aft of the cabin looking forward to capture the bow wake and dolphins
- • Inside a mangrove tunnel to frame twisted roots and reflections
- • At the private island shoreline during the beach stop for shells and shorebirds
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and local sea life from harmful chemicals while you’re exposed on the water.
Dry bag (small)Essential
Keeps phone, wallet, and camera safe from spray during the ride and at beach stops.
Water shoes or sandalsEssential
Useful for walking the shell-strewn private island and protecting feet in shallow water.
Light wind shell or long-sleeve sun shirt
Blocks wind and sun on cooler mornings or breezy afternoons on the Gulf
Common Questions
Do I need boating experience to drive the Go Cat?
No prior experience is required; the operator gives hands-on instruction and the boats are designed to be easy to handle for first-time skippers.
Where do trips depart from?
Trips depart from Goodland (210 Harbor Place North) on Marco Island—arrive 30 minutes early for check-in and briefing.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes, life jackets are provided and must be worn when required by the crew; children will be fitted with appropriate sizes.
What if the weather is bad?
Trips are canceled for severe weather; the operator offers full refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours ahead or if the trip is canceled due to conditions.
Can children ride and drive?
Children age five and older may ride; drivers must be at least 18. Younger people born after Jan 1988 may need to show a Florida boater safety certificate—verify current rules.
What should I bring for the beach stop?
Bring swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and a waterproof camera—snacks may be limited, but bottled water is provided.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Goodland, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Basic mobility and ability to climb into/out of a low boat; suitable for most fitness levels
Ready to Explore Goodland?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now