Pure Florida invites guests aboard the M/V Edison Explorer to Discover Matlacha Island during a special cruise to Pine Island on Saturday, March 5, from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. The day begins with a narrated cruise along the Caloosahatchee River and includes a guided tour of Matlacha Island. An old Florida fishing village, Matlacha Island is considered a “hidden gem” and is home to bright-colored art galleries, island boutiques, seafood restaurants and more.
During the Discover Matlacha Island Cruise excursion, guests will have the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Southwest Florida along the Caloosahatchee River and on the island of Matlacha. Upon arriving to the island, guests will be taken on a Taste of Matlacha Walking Tour, guided by True Tours, learning about the island’s unique history and enjoying a sampling of signature delicacies. Upon conclusion of the tour, guests may enjoy lunch at their leisure and visit the nearby shops and galleries. Local attractions include the Lovegrove Gallery & Gardens, where guests can tour the whimsical gardens and meet well-known Matlacha Island artist, Leoma Lovegrove. Following exploration, passengers can enjoy a peaceful return cruise on the M/V Edison Explorer.
Discover Matlacha Island Cruise tours are guided by Coast Guard-certified captains, also master naturalists, and highlight the history of the Caloosahatchee River and Matlacha Island. Registration for the tour is $64 per person. Lunch can be included for an additional charge of $12 per person. The M/V Edison Explorer departs from The Marina at Edison Ford, located at 2360 W. First St. in Fort Myers.
A complimentary bottle of water will be provided, and additional refreshments are available for purchase. Passengers are welcome to bring snacks aboard. Reservations are required. For more information, or to book your ticket, call 239-919-2965, email FortMyers@PureFL.com or visit the Pure Florida website at www.PureFL.com.
About Pure Florida
In 2009, father-and-son duo Captains Lance and Harry Julian acquired the Naples-based Double Sunshine and Lady Brett fishing vessel, and have grown the company to include 19 vessels and two locations providing a variety of unique eco-excursions for its visitors that incorporate maritime history, tourism, sightseeing and entertainment. With locations in Naples and Fort Myers, the water attraction company offers sunset and specialty cruises as well as boat and Jet Ski rentals, fishing charters, group events and educational field trips for schools and students. In addition to Pure Florida, the founders are also partners in Marine Team International and Pure Image Productions, providing professional marine consulting, television and video production and photography services. With a long history in maritime productions, Lance and Harry Julian have helped to create some of the most memorable water scenes in film production, with credits including “Titanic” and “Waterworld,” and television credits such as the reality show, “Survivor.” As the fifth and sixth generation working within the maritime industry, Lance and Harry Julian enjoy sharing their passion and expertise with fellow adventurers in the Southwest Florida area. For more information, visit www.PureFL.com or call its Naples location at 239-263-4949 or its Fort Myers location at 239-919-2965.
